Greetings from Gulu, Uganda!!
It has been a week since I have been in Gulu now & I wanted to get out a quick hello to all of my friends & family!
It is hard for me to even begin to put my experience into words to tell you, but in short, my time here has been absolutely, 100%, totally & completely WONDERFUL & AMAZING!!!!
I arrived in Gulu on Thursday, July 29th. I spent the first night in a hotel in town as the Mama’s at the orphanage needed a bit more time to prepare for my arrival. On Friday morning, I went to the school that 98% of the children attend and greeted all of the classrooms before I arrived at Home of Love Orphanage.
From the first minute that I arrived at Home of Love, I felt at home, at peace & a happiness that can only be experienced when you feel that your heart is complete. The children have warmed up to me far quicker than I thought, I have adjusted to my surroundings better than I anticipated and over all, my time here has been one of the happiest weeks I have ever had in my entire life!
When I came here, I “thought” I would have electricity…I was incorrect in this thought. :) I’m living with no running water, no electricity, taking bucket baths (with COLD water from the bore hole), waking up to cockroaches, dead lizards in the water barrel & flying fruit bats, squeaking animals waking me up in the middle of the night and loving it all!! The Mama’s & Auntie’s (the adults that run Home of Love) have taken me in as their daughter, the children have welcomed me as their sister/Auntie. I truly cannot express my full heart and love I feel for these children!!
As many of you remember from my last trip, I was able to connect with a girl named Sarah at Home of Love that I had been praying for, for a year before I arrived in Gulu. Sarah has been praying for me and drawing pictures for me over the last year, she has been my closest little friend and such a true gem that the Lord has put on this earth. Our bond has grown stronger and developed into a true friendship that I cherish deeply. We eat dinner together every night, she makes sure I have everything I need, she helps translate for me & makes me laugh unlike anybody else.
I could go on & on about my love for the children here, for the joy I feel and the happiness I feel, but I will leave you with this thought...It is because of all of YOU that I am able to be here. It is because of YOU that I am feeling this intense sense of strength, joy & love. I am humbled by your love & support for myself and Mikaelyn. I truly could not have done this without all of your support…it means more to me than I could ever express.
Please continue to pray for me as I have only 1 more week with my children (I’ve been told not to call them kids, as I would be calling them baby goats :)), please pray for my health and safety and that the Lord will continue to fill my heart and allow me to give everything I have for these wonderful little ones that deserve the world!! Please also pray for the children and staff at Home of Love as we have several that are suffering from Malaria at this time. It is the start of the rainy season, so the mosquito’s are very bad at this time.
Thank you again for all that you have given to me, for your support, your love & your continued prayers! Again, I am humbled by your graciousness!
Sending love & big hugs to all!!
Sarah Jean
PS – I was able to Skype with Mikaelyn on Tuesday and she is doing very well with my parents. Mikaelyn, thank you for being such a good girl!! Mama is SO proud of you & I can’t wait to see you & tell you all about our Ugandan friends!! They love you & pray for you every single day!! Mom & Daddy, thank you for giving of yourselves so unselfishly & loving Mikaelyn with such great care!! I love you & miss you!! Bugaboo…Je t’aime!! xoxo
Friday, August 6, 2010
Wednesday, July 28, 2010
Greetings From Uganda!
Yes, you read that correctly, I MADE IT!!
I finally arrived yesterday (Wednesday) about 8am and am quickly settling into what life is like here. My friend Ivan was gracious enough to come pick me up at the airport, get me settled into a hotel room and then take me for some coffee, do a little shopping and then dinner later. It’s great to see him again and feels like it was just last week that I was here with my whole team from Westminster.
Security is EXTREMELY high right now which has been a bit more challenging (or shall I say annoying) at times, but I think it’s good that they’re actually protecting those that are here as much as they can. Many of you heard about the bombings that happened in Kampala a few weeks back while so many were watching the World Cup, which started all the extra security, but then they also just finished the African Summit here in Kampala as well, with leader & dictators from all over Africa coming together to discuss how to help the woman & children of Africa. I saw several large, nice (a relative term here) cars with flags on them and police escorts screaming down the street, which to say the least was interesting.
It is almost 4am here & I just happened to wake up and look at my computer and saw that I had an internet connection, so I jumped on as quick as possible to send a quick update and check my emails and things. I’ll go back to sleep in a bit & then I’ll have some breakfast here at the hotel & then Ivan is picking me up & we will head up to Gulu about 10am. Since I am now on “African time”…this could mean we leave anywhere between 10am (HIGHLY unlikely) and 1pm…ahh, it’s so calm here…everything moves much slower (other than cars on the road)! :)
My hotel is very nice with a gorgeous view overlooking the hilltop! We came home from dinner last night to find a bunny hopping around in the yard. Apparently it lives here. It’s the same type as my rabbit at home, just black, so it makes me feel at home here with that extra touch.
I want to thank you all again for your prayers & support! I am thrilled to be back “home” and look forward to seeing all of the children at Home of Love orphanage in a few short hours!! I still can’t believe that this is real!
I’ll do my best to update as I’m able. Please be praying for a safe drive to Gulu (about 3 ½ hours) and then for health and safety for me while I’m in Gulu and of course, that of the children that live there. Pray that the Lord will use me for what He has brought me to do here & that it will be abundantly clear what my roll will be here on this trip & as I look towards the future!
Blessings to all of you from Kampala, Uganda!!
Love, Sarah Jean
To Mikaelyn: I love you sweetie & pray for you every time I think about you…which is a lot!! Everybody sends their love to you & they can’t wait until you can come to Uganda and meet them all too! Be a good girl for your Grandma & Papa & pray for me every day!! Love you Bugaboo!
I finally arrived yesterday (Wednesday) about 8am and am quickly settling into what life is like here. My friend Ivan was gracious enough to come pick me up at the airport, get me settled into a hotel room and then take me for some coffee, do a little shopping and then dinner later. It’s great to see him again and feels like it was just last week that I was here with my whole team from Westminster.
Security is EXTREMELY high right now which has been a bit more challenging (or shall I say annoying) at times, but I think it’s good that they’re actually protecting those that are here as much as they can. Many of you heard about the bombings that happened in Kampala a few weeks back while so many were watching the World Cup, which started all the extra security, but then they also just finished the African Summit here in Kampala as well, with leader & dictators from all over Africa coming together to discuss how to help the woman & children of Africa. I saw several large, nice (a relative term here) cars with flags on them and police escorts screaming down the street, which to say the least was interesting.
It is almost 4am here & I just happened to wake up and look at my computer and saw that I had an internet connection, so I jumped on as quick as possible to send a quick update and check my emails and things. I’ll go back to sleep in a bit & then I’ll have some breakfast here at the hotel & then Ivan is picking me up & we will head up to Gulu about 10am. Since I am now on “African time”…this could mean we leave anywhere between 10am (HIGHLY unlikely) and 1pm…ahh, it’s so calm here…everything moves much slower (other than cars on the road)! :)
My hotel is very nice with a gorgeous view overlooking the hilltop! We came home from dinner last night to find a bunny hopping around in the yard. Apparently it lives here. It’s the same type as my rabbit at home, just black, so it makes me feel at home here with that extra touch.
I want to thank you all again for your prayers & support! I am thrilled to be back “home” and look forward to seeing all of the children at Home of Love orphanage in a few short hours!! I still can’t believe that this is real!
I’ll do my best to update as I’m able. Please be praying for a safe drive to Gulu (about 3 ½ hours) and then for health and safety for me while I’m in Gulu and of course, that of the children that live there. Pray that the Lord will use me for what He has brought me to do here & that it will be abundantly clear what my roll will be here on this trip & as I look towards the future!
Blessings to all of you from Kampala, Uganda!!
Love, Sarah Jean
To Mikaelyn: I love you sweetie & pray for you every time I think about you…which is a lot!! Everybody sends their love to you & they can’t wait until you can come to Uganda and meet them all too! Be a good girl for your Grandma & Papa & pray for me every day!! Love you Bugaboo!
Monday, July 26, 2010
Don't Praise Me
As I am sitting here at the airport, awaiting my flight to London & then on to Entebbe, Uganda, I am thinking about all the wonderful people that have supported my efforts in getting back to the children at Home of Love Orphanage in Gulu, Uganda. It is overwhelming to think of all of the love & support I have received from people from all walks of my life! People that have known me for just a few months, to people that have known my family my entire life.
Over the past few weeks, over & over I have had people tell me how brave I am, what an incredible thing I am doing, how wonderful I am to give of myself to help others etc. etc... Now, let me start by saying, of course I am GRATEFUL for all of the nice comments, they really do mean a lot to me.
But, here is where I struggle...
This was not a choice for me. I do not deserve any praise for what I am doing. I have been called to help and all I am doing is answering that call.
Everybody has a different calling. Sometimes it's to another country, while other times, it is to the person down the street who needs you. It is up to each of us to listen to our hearts to figure out what our "calling" is individually. It is our responsibility to ANSWER that call. I knew from the moment I started learning about Uganda, that it was no accident that it touched my heart.
I have been blessed and honored to have been able to travel there once and now, I return. Why? Because it is the right thing to do. Because I can open up the eyes & hearts of those around me and educate them on what is going on in another part of the world. Not because I want to receive adoration or praises, but simply because it is my duty!!
Thank you does not begin to express all that I am feeling right now, and yet, this is all I have to give. Again, I am humbled by the support I have received and wish there was some way to show all of my gratitude.
For now, though, I leave you with this verse, my favorite!
Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding. In all your ways, acknowledge Him & He will direct your paths! Proverbs 3:5-6
Please keep me in your thoughts & prayers for safe travel, health and that this one tiny person (me) can make some sort of impact on those that I am fighting for!!
Thank you again, I am truly honored to have all of you as a part of my journey!!
Love, Sarah Jean
PS...please also pray for my parents as they are caring for Mikaelyn. And pray for Mikaelyn as she is away from both Mama & Daddy for almost a month. She is happy and healthy, and I am thankful that she is with my parents who love her (almost) as much as I do!!!
Over the past few weeks, over & over I have had people tell me how brave I am, what an incredible thing I am doing, how wonderful I am to give of myself to help others etc. etc... Now, let me start by saying, of course I am GRATEFUL for all of the nice comments, they really do mean a lot to me.
But, here is where I struggle...
This was not a choice for me. I do not deserve any praise for what I am doing. I have been called to help and all I am doing is answering that call.
Everybody has a different calling. Sometimes it's to another country, while other times, it is to the person down the street who needs you. It is up to each of us to listen to our hearts to figure out what our "calling" is individually. It is our responsibility to ANSWER that call. I knew from the moment I started learning about Uganda, that it was no accident that it touched my heart.
I have been blessed and honored to have been able to travel there once and now, I return. Why? Because it is the right thing to do. Because I can open up the eyes & hearts of those around me and educate them on what is going on in another part of the world. Not because I want to receive adoration or praises, but simply because it is my duty!!
Thank you does not begin to express all that I am feeling right now, and yet, this is all I have to give. Again, I am humbled by the support I have received and wish there was some way to show all of my gratitude.
For now, though, I leave you with this verse, my favorite!
Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding. In all your ways, acknowledge Him & He will direct your paths! Proverbs 3:5-6
Please keep me in your thoughts & prayers for safe travel, health and that this one tiny person (me) can make some sort of impact on those that I am fighting for!!
Thank you again, I am truly honored to have all of you as a part of my journey!!
Love, Sarah Jean
PS...please also pray for my parents as they are caring for Mikaelyn. And pray for Mikaelyn as she is away from both Mama & Daddy for almost a month. She is happy and healthy, and I am thankful that she is with my parents who love her (almost) as much as I do!!!
Wednesday, July 21, 2010
Less than 1 Week Until Uganda!
Hello Friends!
What an incredible journey this has been and yet, it has only just begun! I leave for Uganda in 5 days & I have to be honest in telling you, I am getting VERY anxious…but extremely excited!
Here’s a brief update of how things are going…
Mikaelyn is flying to Michigan (actually she’s flying into Chicago & then driving to Michigan) and being picked up by my parents this afternoon. This is a big change of plans, but she is very excited about flying by herself. I’m a nervous wreck today, but I know that she will be just fine and will THRIVE off of the extra attention she’ll receive by the flight attendants… she IS my child after all! :)
I have the next few days to get myself organized and finalize all of the supplies I need to bring over to the kids at Home of Love Orphanage. They have been told that I AM going to be there & from what I’ve heard, they’re very excited for my arrival. Just thinking about pulling up to the gate of the orphanage makes my heart race with excitement!
I have been blown away by the generosity of my friends and family in supporting this trip both financially and emotionally for me. I was able to purchase t-shirts for all of the kids at the orphanage and the money has already been wired to Gulu & they are printing the shirts right now. I’ll have the opportunity to pass out the shirts to all of the children while I’m there…what an honor!
Several people have asked if there is a still a financial need…Here is what I can say: there is ALWAYS a need!! I have been blessed to have raised support for my entire trip and for that I am overwhelmingly grateful. However, my original hope was to be able to purchase some sporting supplies in-country to bring to the kids in Gulu and I have not been able to raise enough funds for those items. If this is something that you may be interested in, there is still time to send money before I leave.
If you would like to send support for supplies, send a tax deductible check made payable to:
ACTION International Ministries
Mail it to me at:
Sarah Jean Groenink
PO BOX 313
Kirkland, WA 98083
My hope is that I will be able to send out periodic emails while I’m away, but I’m not sure how much internet connection I’ll have. I will however be updating my Facebook every so often from my Blackberry, so if you don’t have me on Facebook, you can add me: www.facebook.com/sjgroenink.
I want to thank you all again for your love, support & faith in me as I continue this journey to where my passion lies! I truly would not have been able to do this without you!!
Humbly,
Sarah Jean
(206) 432-1466
sjgroenink@att.net
What an incredible journey this has been and yet, it has only just begun! I leave for Uganda in 5 days & I have to be honest in telling you, I am getting VERY anxious…but extremely excited!
Here’s a brief update of how things are going…
Mikaelyn is flying to Michigan (actually she’s flying into Chicago & then driving to Michigan) and being picked up by my parents this afternoon. This is a big change of plans, but she is very excited about flying by herself. I’m a nervous wreck today, but I know that she will be just fine and will THRIVE off of the extra attention she’ll receive by the flight attendants… she IS my child after all! :)
I have the next few days to get myself organized and finalize all of the supplies I need to bring over to the kids at Home of Love Orphanage. They have been told that I AM going to be there & from what I’ve heard, they’re very excited for my arrival. Just thinking about pulling up to the gate of the orphanage makes my heart race with excitement!
I have been blown away by the generosity of my friends and family in supporting this trip both financially and emotionally for me. I was able to purchase t-shirts for all of the kids at the orphanage and the money has already been wired to Gulu & they are printing the shirts right now. I’ll have the opportunity to pass out the shirts to all of the children while I’m there…what an honor!
Several people have asked if there is a still a financial need…Here is what I can say: there is ALWAYS a need!! I have been blessed to have raised support for my entire trip and for that I am overwhelmingly grateful. However, my original hope was to be able to purchase some sporting supplies in-country to bring to the kids in Gulu and I have not been able to raise enough funds for those items. If this is something that you may be interested in, there is still time to send money before I leave.
If you would like to send support for supplies, send a tax deductible check made payable to:
ACTION International Ministries
Mail it to me at:
Sarah Jean Groenink
PO BOX 313
Kirkland, WA 98083
My hope is that I will be able to send out periodic emails while I’m away, but I’m not sure how much internet connection I’ll have. I will however be updating my Facebook every so often from my Blackberry, so if you don’t have me on Facebook, you can add me: www.facebook.com/sjgroenink.
I want to thank you all again for your love, support & faith in me as I continue this journey to where my passion lies! I truly would not have been able to do this without you!!
Humbly,
Sarah Jean
(206) 432-1466
sjgroenink@att.net
Tuesday, June 1, 2010
Updated on Uganda In-Country Fundraising!
Hello Friends!
Blessed doesn’t even begin to describe how I feel right now, thinking of all of you that are supporting me in my efforts in Gulu, Uganda! It is indescribable and I am truly humbled.
I wanted to give you a quick update on my upcoming trip, which is just 8 weeks away now!! Thank you to so many of you that are supporting me financially, giving me the ability to pay for my plane ticket, I was able to purchase it a few weeks ago…so it’s all very real now! I leave Seattle Monday July 26, and fly out of Uganda Monday August 16, spending 24 hours in London with my best friend and returning to Seattle on Tuesday August 17, the day before Mikaelyn’s birthday! Mikaelyn will be flying to Michigan to spend several weeks with my parents…we’re still working on the details, but we will have someone (possibly my little brother) fly her there and then my Mom will return with her…details, details…
For those of you that are still interested in donating and supporting my trip, there is still time!! I am now raising funds for all of my in-country expenses including, food, room/board/hotels (3 nights), in-country transport (the drive from the Capitol, where I arrive, to Gulu is approx. 4 hours each way), as well as the projects that I will be working on with the children. Some of the projects include:
Beads for their bracelets/necklaces that they make and sell
Sporting equipment (purchased in-country) i.e. soccer balls, tennis balls, jump ropes etc.
Origami art
Tye-dye T-shirts (or we may do fabric markers for the kids to design their own shirt)
Christmas cards (this is my MAIN project)
Postage for Christmas cards
Supplies such as chalk, glitter, glue sticks, paper, scissors etc.
The more funds I am able to raise, the more supplies I am able to bring with me and purchase more sporting equipment in Kampala (Capitol).
I am so deeply grateful for all of you standing beside me on this journey and am looking forward to these next few weeks of planning, organizing and preparing! If you’re interested in seeing a breakdown of my costs, I would be happy to forward that on to you. I know that wonderful things are going to come from this & the children will have so much fun.
Thank you again for your continued support and ask that you continue to pray for these next few weeks to run smoothly. I know the Lord will provide and I am again, so grateful for all of you and your generosity!!
Afoyo Matek (Thank you very much in Lewl)
Sarah Jean
Blessed doesn’t even begin to describe how I feel right now, thinking of all of you that are supporting me in my efforts in Gulu, Uganda! It is indescribable and I am truly humbled.
I wanted to give you a quick update on my upcoming trip, which is just 8 weeks away now!! Thank you to so many of you that are supporting me financially, giving me the ability to pay for my plane ticket, I was able to purchase it a few weeks ago…so it’s all very real now! I leave Seattle Monday July 26, and fly out of Uganda Monday August 16, spending 24 hours in London with my best friend and returning to Seattle on Tuesday August 17, the day before Mikaelyn’s birthday! Mikaelyn will be flying to Michigan to spend several weeks with my parents…we’re still working on the details, but we will have someone (possibly my little brother) fly her there and then my Mom will return with her…details, details…
For those of you that are still interested in donating and supporting my trip, there is still time!! I am now raising funds for all of my in-country expenses including, food, room/board/hotels (3 nights), in-country transport (the drive from the Capitol, where I arrive, to Gulu is approx. 4 hours each way), as well as the projects that I will be working on with the children. Some of the projects include:
Beads for their bracelets/necklaces that they make and sell
Sporting equipment (purchased in-country) i.e. soccer balls, tennis balls, jump ropes etc.
Origami art
Tye-dye T-shirts (or we may do fabric markers for the kids to design their own shirt)
Christmas cards (this is my MAIN project)
Postage for Christmas cards
Supplies such as chalk, glitter, glue sticks, paper, scissors etc.
The more funds I am able to raise, the more supplies I am able to bring with me and purchase more sporting equipment in Kampala (Capitol).
I am so deeply grateful for all of you standing beside me on this journey and am looking forward to these next few weeks of planning, organizing and preparing! If you’re interested in seeing a breakdown of my costs, I would be happy to forward that on to you. I know that wonderful things are going to come from this & the children will have so much fun.
Thank you again for your continued support and ask that you continue to pray for these next few weeks to run smoothly. I know the Lord will provide and I am again, so grateful for all of you and your generosity!!
Afoyo Matek (Thank you very much in Lewl)
Sarah Jean
Monday, April 12, 2010
An Update on my Uganda Trip!
Hello my friends,
I want to start by saying thank you to all of those that have sent prayers, letters, emails, phone calls/texts and financial support for my upcoming Uganda trip in July!
I wanted to give a quick update to let you all know how things are progressing…
I am still in need of approximately $1,100 in order to purchase my plane ticket ($2,410) and am hoping to do so by April 30th or I will lose my reservation. Due to the World Cup and Summertime, airfare is quite pricey and space is limited. If you’re interested in supporting me financially, I would greatly appreciate your help in these coming weeks as this is the first and largest task that I need to accomplish.
I have priced out all of the sporting equipment for the children and I’m working on raising the money for these items as well.
I have been in touch with ACTION International in Gulu and have heard that the children are excited for my return and eager to show me the electricity they had connected last month! I can hardly wait to get my arms around those sweet kids!
I pray daily that the Lord will use me to do HIS work and that the children will have open hearts and minds to the work that I look forward to helping with.
Again, I appreciate all of your support as I continue following my passion on this journey! Thank you!!
I have attached a response card for your convenience if you feel led to support me in this way.
In His hands,
Sarah Jean Groenink
sjgroenink@att.net
I want to start by saying thank you to all of those that have sent prayers, letters, emails, phone calls/texts and financial support for my upcoming Uganda trip in July!
I wanted to give a quick update to let you all know how things are progressing…
I am still in need of approximately $1,100 in order to purchase my plane ticket ($2,410) and am hoping to do so by April 30th or I will lose my reservation. Due to the World Cup and Summertime, airfare is quite pricey and space is limited. If you’re interested in supporting me financially, I would greatly appreciate your help in these coming weeks as this is the first and largest task that I need to accomplish.
I have priced out all of the sporting equipment for the children and I’m working on raising the money for these items as well.
I have been in touch with ACTION International in Gulu and have heard that the children are excited for my return and eager to show me the electricity they had connected last month! I can hardly wait to get my arms around those sweet kids!
I pray daily that the Lord will use me to do HIS work and that the children will have open hearts and minds to the work that I look forward to helping with.
Again, I appreciate all of your support as I continue following my passion on this journey! Thank you!!
I have attached a response card for your convenience if you feel led to support me in this way.
In His hands,
Sarah Jean Groenink
sjgroenink@att.net
Monday, March 15, 2010
Yes, I'm still here...
It has been ages since I've posted, I know, I know!
I won't get into the why of it all, but I can honestly say, the past few months have been some of my best ever! Here are just a few of the highlights:
1) I am working from home FULL TIME now...yes, I know, I'm lucky! I love every minute of it.
2) Mikaelyn is doing FABULOUS in school!
3) I'm back in the gym 4 days a week for an hour at a time...LOVE IT!
4) I bought myself a new mattress and am thoroughly enjoying sleep again
5) I am planning my next trip to Uganda...BY MYSELF, in July and I can hardly wait!
6) Mikaelyn continues to grow physically, mentally & spritually and I am deeply proud of my little girl!
Although a lot of transition has happened in the last 6 months, I feel completely blessed and know that I am in such a good place right now! I have been shown so much grace and I am so grateful for all the Lord has and continues to provide for myself and my family!
Here are just a few snap shots of the past few months:
I won't get into the why of it all, but I can honestly say, the past few months have been some of my best ever! Here are just a few of the highlights:
1) I am working from home FULL TIME now...yes, I know, I'm lucky! I love every minute of it.
2) Mikaelyn is doing FABULOUS in school!
3) I'm back in the gym 4 days a week for an hour at a time...LOVE IT!
4) I bought myself a new mattress and am thoroughly enjoying sleep again
5) I am planning my next trip to Uganda...BY MYSELF, in July and I can hardly wait!
6) Mikaelyn continues to grow physically, mentally & spritually and I am deeply proud of my little girl!
Although a lot of transition has happened in the last 6 months, I feel completely blessed and know that I am in such a good place right now! I have been shown so much grace and I am so grateful for all the Lord has and continues to provide for myself and my family!
Here are just a few snap shots of the past few months:
Mikaelyn & I headed out to an 80's Roller Skating Party
Roller Skating at Skate King!
Mikaelyn & Michelle Skating!
Mikaelyn, Michelle & I
Mikaelyn making her new Build-A-Bear Unicorn
Chance (Jenni's son) making his Build-A-Bear Monkey
The "fluffing" machine
Kaiser, Ilona, Christian, Mikaelyn and Eva (behind the tree)
My nephews & nieces (missing one niece - still in the womb) and Mikaelyn together at the zoo
2 of our babies, Kota & Rayla cuddling...as usual!
Uganda Support Letter
Dear Friends,
It is with great excitement that I write to tell you of my plan to return to Gulu, Uganda! It has been almost a year since I returned and from the day I stepped off of that plane, I have been praying, planning and preparing for my next adventure to where I left a large piece of my heart.
In late 2009, Angie Lauer, the Supervisor for Home of Love Orphanage with ACTION International in Gulu, where I worked last year, came home to the Seattle area on furlough. As we met together, Angie shared the need for assistance at the orphanage with organizing the database as well as streamlining and maintaining the Child Sponsorship program. At the same time I have been praying about how to use my God-given skills for a higher purpose. It seems as if this opportunity has been gently placed in my lap as an answer to my prayers.
The plan has evolved and here I am writing to my friends and family to ask for your prayers and support as I plan to travel back to Gulu, Uganda July 26 - August 16, 2010 to do work for the Orphanage and immerse myself in the culture and with the children at Home of Love. I ask that you pray for me as I continue to plan and organize this trip, for my safety and health, for Mikaelyn's comfort while I'm away and for my Mom as she cares for an energetic 5 1/2 year old. I also ask that you pray that the Lord will guide me in these weeks before and during my trip and above all, that everything I do with glorify Him! This is His trip and I am grateful for the opportunity that He has provided for me.
Because I am traveling alone, I am solely responsible for raising the support for my travel expenses, transport while in country, food and projects I work on with the children, one of which will be providing supplies and postage for the children's Christmas cards. The total cost of this trip is approximately $4,000. If you would like to be a part of this journey with me, please return the response card, noting prayer and/or financial contribution. Please notate my name on the tax deductible check made payable to: ACTION International Ministries.
I am deeply honored to have been offered this volunteer position of Child Sponsorship Assistant to Home of Love. If this is something that touches your heart, I would love to have you partner with me. Thank you for your prayer, financial support and the love that you have offered to me!
In his hands,
Sarah Jean
Wednesday, October 21, 2009
Who is YOUR BFF??
This is something that I have wrestled with practically all my life! Here is a list of my BFF's since I was born...in order of when they received that "Title":
1) Jenifer
2) Heidi
3) Candy
4) Nicole
5) Kayleen
6) Abbey
7) Katie
8) Niki
9) Sabrina
10) John
11) Erin
12) Kristina
13) Sosha
14) Anthony
15) Kim
16) Heather
17) Nissa
Phew...I think that's about it...
I heard on the radio the other day, that children supposedly meet their "BFF" (Best Friend Forever) at the young age of 3! I can honestly say that ALMOST all of these people I am still friends with to this day and consider a very select few CLOSE friends of mine. So many have been through so much with me, both good and bad.
But here is where I struggle...to how many of them, am I their one TRUE best friend?? I'm not...I don't have that ONE person that I talk to or text EVERY single day, that I can talk to about anything, that knows me inside and out, that understands why I do the things I do. That ONE person that trusts me with their heart and soul and knows that NO MATTER WHAT, I will do anything to protect them. To be honest, I've never had that...ever.
Now, before I go on, let's just take #14 out of this...kind of. Anthony is the Father of my child and the man that I share my life with right now. Yes, he is there for me and I love him dearly...but even he doesn't give me everything I need in a BFF. Yes, he is the 1st person I call if there is any issue with our daughter, or if something is going on with work and vice versa...but it is just different. What I'm talking about is someone OUTSIDE of 'family' that I can go to and trust with everything.
I have struggled with this all my life. I have tried to do anything I can to find a REAL BFF, but can't seem to find the 'right' person to fill the position. Over the years I have fought with, cried with and loved dearly all the people in the above list and have very special memories with all of them individually, and am blessed to continue my relationship with many of them, but I long for that ONE person. Every time I consider someone my BFF...they always have ANOTHER BFF. Now don't get me wrong. I don't expect to be the ONLY friend, I mean seriously, that's just silly. But there is something about that 'title', that to me, means more, and feel like there should be that ONE person.
Several friends have been MY best friend, but I have not been THEIR best friend. And I don't really know why? I have lost sleep over this, wondering if it's something wrong with me? Why am I not good enough to be THEIR best friend? I'm still trying to figure this all out and hope that someday things will become clearer.
My friend Jenni and I got together over this past weekend in the Portland area where she lives and talked about the "olden days"...holy crap, am I OLD ENOUGH to even say that?! Anyway, we talked about our MAJOR insecurities in High School, the ways we felt, the things we remembered...and many things that we didn't remember, but the other person did. It's amazing to me how everybody seems to think that I had it all together in H.S. I mean, here I was a cheerleader 3 years, 2 of them being all-american, good grades, a car (not like it's anything to write about, but I DID have a vehicle), everybody knew who I was, my Senior year I was dating one of the best looking and nicest guys in school, and was overall pretty well liked (I think).
What most people DIDN'T see was the indescribable insecurities and hurt I had in my heart! Very few saw what I did to my body when I was anorexic and bulimic. The way I turned to "bad" things instead of turning to a real person for help. The way my heart broke when I was left out, or the MANY tears I cried because I didn't have any REAL friends! My younger years, although in hindsight were MUCH easier than they are now...were VERY painful and difficult for me.
Jenni & I met with one of our fellow Cheerleaders, Carole on Sunday for lunch and discussed these very things. Carole said something that was SO true...how she wished that someone would have put ALL the girls in one room and said, look around, ALL of you are feeling the SAME thing, the SAME insecurities and the SAME discomfort in life! I think I 'looked' like I had it 'together' because that's what I portrayed, but if only I knew that SO many, including Jenni & Carole were feeling the exact same way, it could have all been different, not only for me, but for so many others.
So, now that I'm older, and a mother with a career, I still question WHO is my BFF?? Well, in the physical world, I don't really have a BFF...I have a select few CLOSE friends. But even without my ONE TRUE BFF, I know that I have people that would be there for me in a heartbeat if anything happened, or if I really needed them. Jenni is one of those people on that short list. After 13 years of only seeing each other probably once or twice, we have rekindled, or rather, re-started a new friendship, based on Christ, love and trust. The Lord has put us back in touch for a reason and I believe that it has been His perfect timing that brought us together!
BUT, even though I don't have a physical BFF, I DO have a BFF!!! Jesus Christ is my BFF!! This may sound cliche to you, but it is the truth. HE is the One that I call out to when I'm hurt. HE is the One that I feel comfort from. HE is the One that has saved me. HE is the One that trust with my heart 120%+!! And HE is the One that LOVES me no matter whether I'm happy or sad, busy or lonely, annoying and loud or quiet and reserved, HE LOVES ME!!
So, I ask you this question: Who is YOUR BFF? Can you say that Christ is? If not, then you're missing out on the best and most fruitful and loving relationship possible!! I may have a long way to go in life, with my friends and family, but I KNOW that the Lord will be by my side loving me unconditionally like only He can...and for that I can feel comfort.
1) Jenifer
2) Heidi
3) Candy
4) Nicole
5) Kayleen
6) Abbey
7) Katie
8) Niki
9) Sabrina
10) John
11) Erin
12) Kristina
13) Sosha
14) Anthony
15) Kim
16) Heather
17) Nissa
Phew...I think that's about it...
I heard on the radio the other day, that children supposedly meet their "BFF" (Best Friend Forever) at the young age of 3! I can honestly say that ALMOST all of these people I am still friends with to this day and consider a very select few CLOSE friends of mine. So many have been through so much with me, both good and bad.
But here is where I struggle...to how many of them, am I their one TRUE best friend?? I'm not...I don't have that ONE person that I talk to or text EVERY single day, that I can talk to about anything, that knows me inside and out, that understands why I do the things I do. That ONE person that trusts me with their heart and soul and knows that NO MATTER WHAT, I will do anything to protect them. To be honest, I've never had that...ever.
Now, before I go on, let's just take #14 out of this...kind of. Anthony is the Father of my child and the man that I share my life with right now. Yes, he is there for me and I love him dearly...but even he doesn't give me everything I need in a BFF. Yes, he is the 1st person I call if there is any issue with our daughter, or if something is going on with work and vice versa...but it is just different. What I'm talking about is someone OUTSIDE of 'family' that I can go to and trust with everything.
I have struggled with this all my life. I have tried to do anything I can to find a REAL BFF, but can't seem to find the 'right' person to fill the position. Over the years I have fought with, cried with and loved dearly all the people in the above list and have very special memories with all of them individually, and am blessed to continue my relationship with many of them, but I long for that ONE person. Every time I consider someone my BFF...they always have ANOTHER BFF. Now don't get me wrong. I don't expect to be the ONLY friend, I mean seriously, that's just silly. But there is something about that 'title', that to me, means more, and feel like there should be that ONE person.
Several friends have been MY best friend, but I have not been THEIR best friend. And I don't really know why? I have lost sleep over this, wondering if it's something wrong with me? Why am I not good enough to be THEIR best friend? I'm still trying to figure this all out and hope that someday things will become clearer.
My friend Jenni and I got together over this past weekend in the Portland area where she lives and talked about the "olden days"...holy crap, am I OLD ENOUGH to even say that?! Anyway, we talked about our MAJOR insecurities in High School, the ways we felt, the things we remembered...and many things that we didn't remember, but the other person did. It's amazing to me how everybody seems to think that I had it all together in H.S. I mean, here I was a cheerleader 3 years, 2 of them being all-american, good grades, a car (not like it's anything to write about, but I DID have a vehicle), everybody knew who I was, my Senior year I was dating one of the best looking and nicest guys in school, and was overall pretty well liked (I think).
What most people DIDN'T see was the indescribable insecurities and hurt I had in my heart! Very few saw what I did to my body when I was anorexic and bulimic. The way I turned to "bad" things instead of turning to a real person for help. The way my heart broke when I was left out, or the MANY tears I cried because I didn't have any REAL friends! My younger years, although in hindsight were MUCH easier than they are now...were VERY painful and difficult for me.
Jenni & I met with one of our fellow Cheerleaders, Carole on Sunday for lunch and discussed these very things. Carole said something that was SO true...how she wished that someone would have put ALL the girls in one room and said, look around, ALL of you are feeling the SAME thing, the SAME insecurities and the SAME discomfort in life! I think I 'looked' like I had it 'together' because that's what I portrayed, but if only I knew that SO many, including Jenni & Carole were feeling the exact same way, it could have all been different, not only for me, but for so many others.
So, now that I'm older, and a mother with a career, I still question WHO is my BFF?? Well, in the physical world, I don't really have a BFF...I have a select few CLOSE friends. But even without my ONE TRUE BFF, I know that I have people that would be there for me in a heartbeat if anything happened, or if I really needed them. Jenni is one of those people on that short list. After 13 years of only seeing each other probably once or twice, we have rekindled, or rather, re-started a new friendship, based on Christ, love and trust. The Lord has put us back in touch for a reason and I believe that it has been His perfect timing that brought us together!
BUT, even though I don't have a physical BFF, I DO have a BFF!!! Jesus Christ is my BFF!! This may sound cliche to you, but it is the truth. HE is the One that I call out to when I'm hurt. HE is the One that I feel comfort from. HE is the One that has saved me. HE is the One that trust with my heart 120%+!! And HE is the One that LOVES me no matter whether I'm happy or sad, busy or lonely, annoying and loud or quiet and reserved, HE LOVES ME!!
So, I ask you this question: Who is YOUR BFF? Can you say that Christ is? If not, then you're missing out on the best and most fruitful and loving relationship possible!! I may have a long way to go in life, with my friends and family, but I KNOW that the Lord will be by my side loving me unconditionally like only He can...and for that I can feel comfort.
Wednesday, September 30, 2009
Some Mikaelyn Pictures
My friend Mandie needed some photos for her Portfolio and asked if Mikaelyn wanted to do a shoot. The timing worked out perfectly since it was Mikaelyn's 5th birthday coming up, so we just made it a birthday shoot! Althought at the beginning she wasn't REAL excited about pictures (no matter HOW much you prepare a 5 year old, you just NEVER know what kind of attitude you'll actually get), but the end, she was a happy girl and eager to get LOTS of good shots on the swings!
Thanks Mandie for doing this for us!
Monday, September 28, 2009
Change is Coming...
...and I'm really not sure I'm 'ready' for it...but I also don't really have control over it.
The Lord is working in my life and I am doing my best to follow His lead. It is hard to understand why God chooses certain things for each of us to go through and it's even more difficult to try to explain that to a 5 year old. I've been thinking about buying a journal and writing in all of her questions about the Lord. they are such SIMPLE questions that I can't seem to answer in a way that she will actually understand, or maybe even that I understand. So I think it's time to start writing them down and researching so that I can give her the best opportunity at learning more about the Lord and all that He has in store for us.
I'm not sure how I'm going to get through all of this change, or how I'm going to cope with the adjustments, but I know that the Lord is on my side and am doing my best to "give it to God", even though I really don't know HOW to do that...I'm trying.
I suppose I ask for prayer during these next few days and weeks ahead that I imagine will be very difficult for me, and for Mikaelyn. We know that God is love and that if we put our trust in Him, He will care for us...so that's what we're trying to do!
I am SO blessed to have this little girl that gives me a reason to wake up every morning, a reason to keep going and a reason to love! I am so proud of the little lady that she is!!
Saturday, September 26, 2009
What is YOUR greatest fear?
The past few weeks have been a whirlwind to say the least. I have been very busy at work, which in and of itself is such a blessing! Mikaelyn is in full-blown Fall mode with Dance on Mondays, all-day Kindergarten Tuesday through Friday and Awana started this week on Wednesdays. Somehow, I have this feeling that this little girl is going to keep us VERY busy when she gets older! :o)
This past month has been a bit challenging emotionally for me in several ways and I am still trying to figure out who I am, what I want, what Mikaelyn NEEDS and where I want to be in life, in love and in the Lord. I am being challenged in positive ways that are leading me to the Cross and praying for strength, positive attitude and happiness. Still working on all of that, but I know that the Lord is Faithful and He will bring me to where I need to be as long as I keep my eyes focused on Him!
With all of that being said, a conversation came up the other day that I have thought about very often, especially as of late, but have never verbalized it...
If someone were to ask you, "What's your greatest fear?", what would you say??
My greatest fear?? DEATH!!
As a Christian, we are told that when we die, since we have received Christ into our hearts, we will go to Heaven and we should not fear death as we will then live with Jesus for eternity! Great, right!?! Absolutely, that's amazing!
But here's MY reality...Death itself, TERRIFIES me!! It keeps me awake at night, it's my greatest fear as a mother, a companion, a sister, a niece, a cousin and a daughter!!
The past few months, there has been A LOT of death surrounding me and my friends and people at arms length that I have a connection with on some level. My heart literally ACHES for them and the pain that they must feel losing a son, a brother, a husband, a child, a friend. Death to me is confusing, complicated and hurtful, to say the least. I don't understand death, I don't like it and it scares me!!
If something were to happen to me, I wonder if people would REALLY know who I am, if they would know what I would want to be done with my daughter, who I would want to care for her, and HOW I would want her to grow up? Would they know what to do with my things? Who would comfort them better than I could, but now I'm not there to make them feel better. How would this affect Mikaelyn as she grows older? I NEVER want her to feel the pain of losing someone and DO NOT want her to grow up without a Mother! I question myself if I have given myself to Mikaelyn and Anthony in a way that they deserve and desire so that I would actually leave them with ONLY positive memories of me? Does my family, immediate and extended KNOW how deeply I love them, even if I don't always show it? Do my friends know how MUCH they mean to me? Have I given of myself enough to be remembered for the GOOD and not for the "drama"?
This may all seem so silly and 'morbid', but given the last few months, watching several friends go through such devastating loss', it brings me to a crossroads of what I want MY life to be now and in the future. I want SO much more...I want to be happy, so that if something does happen to me, EVERYBODY will know, how HAPPY and GRATEFUL I am for my life. I fear that right now, I'm not in that place. I put on a good front (I think) on the social sites and at work, but at home the reality is, I am not in a very happy place. I have SO much that I want to do with my life and for my daughter and I feel like I am left in limbo and don't really know which way to turn. I feel like I do not have control over my destiny right now and that is literally driving me crazy! I run from those that challenge me because I don't "feel" like dealing with the things they're telling me and I put on a front like life is GREAT so that I look like I have it all together.
This past week, a friend of mine Jenni, has told her story of what the Lord has done in her life and the bondage that she has been able to get out of with help from her husband, children, friends and more than anything the mercy and forgiveness of the Lord. She has shown me, that in the depths of despair, there IS a way out...there is a way to find happiness. It's not always easy, it can often be painful, and you will most likely have to do things that you don't "want" to do, but there is a way out. She has shown, courage & strength in sharing her story. She has a LONG way to go, as we all do, but she has STARTED her journey to restoration and has been forgiven by the One who REALLY matters, the Lord!
So, I'm being vulnerable right now, sharing my deepest fear and the struggles that are my reality. Where does this lead me? I have no idea...but it's been on my heart and I needed to get it down in writing...for me, that's a release. I don't know where I'm going, or what I'm doing, but I hope that if something does happen to me, that at least my daughter will know how DEEPLY and PASSIONATELY I LOVE HER!!! Regardless of how I may react to her at times, my love for her is only surpassed by the Lord's love for her!
I challenge you to look into your heart and figure out what YOUR greatest fear is and start working through it...you never know what tomorrow holds as the Lord does not promise tomorrow. I have learned this FAR too deeply in recent days. Be HONEST with yourself and start the path towards restoration. It will not be finished today, or tomorrow...it may take the rest of your life, but we HAVE to be honest with ourselves in order to be honest with others!
This past month has been a bit challenging emotionally for me in several ways and I am still trying to figure out who I am, what I want, what Mikaelyn NEEDS and where I want to be in life, in love and in the Lord. I am being challenged in positive ways that are leading me to the Cross and praying for strength, positive attitude and happiness. Still working on all of that, but I know that the Lord is Faithful and He will bring me to where I need to be as long as I keep my eyes focused on Him!
With all of that being said, a conversation came up the other day that I have thought about very often, especially as of late, but have never verbalized it...
If someone were to ask you, "What's your greatest fear?", what would you say??
My greatest fear?? DEATH!!
As a Christian, we are told that when we die, since we have received Christ into our hearts, we will go to Heaven and we should not fear death as we will then live with Jesus for eternity! Great, right!?! Absolutely, that's amazing!
But here's MY reality...Death itself, TERRIFIES me!! It keeps me awake at night, it's my greatest fear as a mother, a companion, a sister, a niece, a cousin and a daughter!!
The past few months, there has been A LOT of death surrounding me and my friends and people at arms length that I have a connection with on some level. My heart literally ACHES for them and the pain that they must feel losing a son, a brother, a husband, a child, a friend. Death to me is confusing, complicated and hurtful, to say the least. I don't understand death, I don't like it and it scares me!!
If something were to happen to me, I wonder if people would REALLY know who I am, if they would know what I would want to be done with my daughter, who I would want to care for her, and HOW I would want her to grow up? Would they know what to do with my things? Who would comfort them better than I could, but now I'm not there to make them feel better. How would this affect Mikaelyn as she grows older? I NEVER want her to feel the pain of losing someone and DO NOT want her to grow up without a Mother! I question myself if I have given myself to Mikaelyn and Anthony in a way that they deserve and desire so that I would actually leave them with ONLY positive memories of me? Does my family, immediate and extended KNOW how deeply I love them, even if I don't always show it? Do my friends know how MUCH they mean to me? Have I given of myself enough to be remembered for the GOOD and not for the "drama"?
This may all seem so silly and 'morbid', but given the last few months, watching several friends go through such devastating loss', it brings me to a crossroads of what I want MY life to be now and in the future. I want SO much more...I want to be happy, so that if something does happen to me, EVERYBODY will know, how HAPPY and GRATEFUL I am for my life. I fear that right now, I'm not in that place. I put on a good front (I think) on the social sites and at work, but at home the reality is, I am not in a very happy place. I have SO much that I want to do with my life and for my daughter and I feel like I am left in limbo and don't really know which way to turn. I feel like I do not have control over my destiny right now and that is literally driving me crazy! I run from those that challenge me because I don't "feel" like dealing with the things they're telling me and I put on a front like life is GREAT so that I look like I have it all together.
This past week, a friend of mine Jenni, has told her story of what the Lord has done in her life and the bondage that she has been able to get out of with help from her husband, children, friends and more than anything the mercy and forgiveness of the Lord. She has shown me, that in the depths of despair, there IS a way out...there is a way to find happiness. It's not always easy, it can often be painful, and you will most likely have to do things that you don't "want" to do, but there is a way out. She has shown, courage & strength in sharing her story. She has a LONG way to go, as we all do, but she has STARTED her journey to restoration and has been forgiven by the One who REALLY matters, the Lord!
So, I'm being vulnerable right now, sharing my deepest fear and the struggles that are my reality. Where does this lead me? I have no idea...but it's been on my heart and I needed to get it down in writing...for me, that's a release. I don't know where I'm going, or what I'm doing, but I hope that if something does happen to me, that at least my daughter will know how DEEPLY and PASSIONATELY I LOVE HER!!! Regardless of how I may react to her at times, my love for her is only surpassed by the Lord's love for her!
I challenge you to look into your heart and figure out what YOUR greatest fear is and start working through it...you never know what tomorrow holds as the Lord does not promise tomorrow. I have learned this FAR too deeply in recent days. Be HONEST with yourself and start the path towards restoration. It will not be finished today, or tomorrow...it may take the rest of your life, but we HAVE to be honest with ourselves in order to be honest with others!
Thursday, September 3, 2009
Another Sad Day
I just got word (via blog) that my friend Shannon (Anderson) Nelson and her husband and their two older sons, Kaden & Jonas, lost their sweet son/brother Lucas, 8 months old to cancer last night. My heart is aching for my old friend! No mother should ever have to go through the pain of losing a child. There are no words to begin to express my sadness for their family, but I know the Lord will comfort them during this tragic time! 
Shannon, I love you, even though I haven't seen you for FAR too many years. You are such an inspiration to so many women and mothers and I'm proud of you for the brave face, strong mind and unconditionally loving heart that you gave to Lucas! My prayers are with you, Aaron, your boys and all of your extended family and friends! May the Lord give you peace, comfort and understanding in the days and years to come!
Wednesday, September 2, 2009
A Break from Blogging??
Each day I come to my blog to read about my friends and their families, their struggles and their joys. But I haven't been able to actually write down my thoughts and share my joys in the past few weeks. This summer has been one of the most difficult that I can remember, in so many ways. I have several friends that are going through the most difficult times of their lives, lost family members, illness, you name it! Here's just a few that weigh heavily on my heart each day:
The Robertson Family - Lost their son/brother Ryan, age 21 earlier in July to a drug overdose. After several days in a coma, and some pretty incredible miracles that the Lord provided them with Ryan acknowledging them, talking to them, and kissing them, the Lord took him home.
The Lam Family - Lost their son/brother Granger, age 30 to cardiac arrests. After a few days in a coma, Granger was taken off life support and passed very soon after. Granger is the father to a beautiful little girl, almost 5 named Jesslynne.
The Hammrich Family - Lost their son/brother Kenny, age 24 in a car accident. After a few days in a come, Kenny was taken off life support and passed soon after.
The Nelson Family - Found out not too long ago that their son, Lucas, 8 months old has cancer. A few days ago, the Doctor's told them that the cancer had spread to his brain and there was nothing they could do for him, but keep him comfortable. On Sunday 8/30, Lucas slipped into a coma...I have not heard an update since Monday 8/31 as to how he is doing.
Melissa Waller - A friend of mine since Elementary School was diagnosed with Stage 4 lung cancer back in February. She has been in and out of the hospital (mostly in) for the past several months in excruciating pain and while dealing with this, lost one of her friends that she met in the hospital, who also had cancer. She is only 31 years old.
The McDowell Family - Lost their father/husband to cancer the end of July. One of my best friends Heather, his daughter, was able to be with him when he passed and I am so thankful she had the opportunity to say her goodbyes and I love you's.
This is just a few of the people that are hurting right now, this doesn't even touch on the friends that are connected to these people, the extended family that loves them and is suffering along with them. This is heart breaking to me!!
I am very much like my Father in that I always try to take peoples pain away...I don't want them to feel the pain, I would rather take if FOR them...this is not possible in these situations, and therefore, I feel helpless. I can't understand all of this pain, the anguish, the death...it makes no sense to me. And I keep asking my friends WHY in the world is all of this happening? Why is there so much death?! Almost all of the 6 people above are under 31 years old!! WHAT?!?! I thought this stuff only happened to OLD people...you know, like my Grandparents and their friends! But this is reality. And I'll be honest, the reality where it is right now...I'm not too happy about it!
I am SO thankful that I have my faith in the Lord, that I KNOW, that I KNOW, that I KNOW He has a special and specific plan for everyone in this world. This brings me comfort and honestly, it is what keeps me sane! I have been feeling so much grief, sadness, loss and helplessness it is almost unbearable! And then I stop and think, this isn't MY pain!! I have GOT to learn to turn it over to the Lord! He is the only one that can get me through all of this! I can not do it on my own!
I pray, every moment of every day that the families, friends and those connect to the people above and all the others that have passed or are sick or hurting for any reason, that they will realize that there is NO way to get through the pain and the agony of these difficult times, without the Lord Jesus Christ! I pray that they will know the Lord's comfort, His peace, His kindness and His forgiveness! He will be the one to take away their pain, NOT me...I need to keep reminding myself of that!
So, I sit here, tears in my eyes, aching for those that I care for that are hurting. And I say, it's yours Lord, I give it to you! Take away my pain and the pain that all these people feel! Heal their hearts and comfort them during these trying times, because you are the ONLY one that can do such a thing!
The Robertson Family - Lost their son/brother Ryan, age 21 earlier in July to a drug overdose. After several days in a coma, and some pretty incredible miracles that the Lord provided them with Ryan acknowledging them, talking to them, and kissing them, the Lord took him home.
The Lam Family - Lost their son/brother Granger, age 30 to cardiac arrests. After a few days in a coma, Granger was taken off life support and passed very soon after. Granger is the father to a beautiful little girl, almost 5 named Jesslynne.
The Hammrich Family - Lost their son/brother Kenny, age 24 in a car accident. After a few days in a come, Kenny was taken off life support and passed soon after.
The Nelson Family - Found out not too long ago that their son, Lucas, 8 months old has cancer. A few days ago, the Doctor's told them that the cancer had spread to his brain and there was nothing they could do for him, but keep him comfortable. On Sunday 8/30, Lucas slipped into a coma...I have not heard an update since Monday 8/31 as to how he is doing.
Melissa Waller - A friend of mine since Elementary School was diagnosed with Stage 4 lung cancer back in February. She has been in and out of the hospital (mostly in) for the past several months in excruciating pain and while dealing with this, lost one of her friends that she met in the hospital, who also had cancer. She is only 31 years old.
The McDowell Family - Lost their father/husband to cancer the end of July. One of my best friends Heather, his daughter, was able to be with him when he passed and I am so thankful she had the opportunity to say her goodbyes and I love you's.
This is just a few of the people that are hurting right now, this doesn't even touch on the friends that are connected to these people, the extended family that loves them and is suffering along with them. This is heart breaking to me!!
I am very much like my Father in that I always try to take peoples pain away...I don't want them to feel the pain, I would rather take if FOR them...this is not possible in these situations, and therefore, I feel helpless. I can't understand all of this pain, the anguish, the death...it makes no sense to me. And I keep asking my friends WHY in the world is all of this happening? Why is there so much death?! Almost all of the 6 people above are under 31 years old!! WHAT?!?! I thought this stuff only happened to OLD people...you know, like my Grandparents and their friends! But this is reality. And I'll be honest, the reality where it is right now...I'm not too happy about it!
I am SO thankful that I have my faith in the Lord, that I KNOW, that I KNOW, that I KNOW He has a special and specific plan for everyone in this world. This brings me comfort and honestly, it is what keeps me sane! I have been feeling so much grief, sadness, loss and helplessness it is almost unbearable! And then I stop and think, this isn't MY pain!! I have GOT to learn to turn it over to the Lord! He is the only one that can get me through all of this! I can not do it on my own!
I pray, every moment of every day that the families, friends and those connect to the people above and all the others that have passed or are sick or hurting for any reason, that they will realize that there is NO way to get through the pain and the agony of these difficult times, without the Lord Jesus Christ! I pray that they will know the Lord's comfort, His peace, His kindness and His forgiveness! He will be the one to take away their pain, NOT me...I need to keep reminding myself of that!
So, I sit here, tears in my eyes, aching for those that I care for that are hurting. And I say, it's yours Lord, I give it to you! Take away my pain and the pain that all these people feel! Heal their hearts and comfort them during these trying times, because you are the ONLY one that can do such a thing!
First Day of Kindergarten!
She is READY to go, with her sharing (show-and-tell) and all!
Those eyes...oh man, those eyes!
She's got her bear, she's got her lunch, LET'S GO!!
She's telling her teacher about the Bison that we saw on her Birthday!It's official, my daughter is in Kindergarten! Seriously?! I remember MY Kindergarten class! I had Mrs. Scott, she was friends with my Grandmother...I also remember a boy in my class named Darin, he was a troublemaker. We were playing tug-of-war one day and he let go and I fell into the brick wall and got my first black eye...Oh man, I hope there's not bully's in her school like that...cause I'll beat 'em up!! ;o)
Open House for Kindergarten
Getting ready to go, lookin' all cute!
Gotta get some love from Mama!
She just melts my heart!
And a little smooch for Mama
And she's on her way!We decided to keep Mikaelyn in the Montessori school for Kindergarten. It's expensive, but we feel it's worth it to have a wonderful, stable place for her to go when sometimes things are a little chaotic around our house. We love them and they just adore Mikaelyn! They had an open house so the kids could come back and say hello, see the new stuff they got and make up their folders that they bring home each week with all of the assignments they completed for throughout the week! We're so happy she's back for one more year!!
Happy 5th Birthday to my Bugaboo!
Opening Presents...FINALLY!
She kept asking if THIS was her fish...
Then she walked in her room and saw the tank...with no fish!
And started dancing around...for about 5 minutes!
A quick picture with Mama
And of course, had to get one with Daddy...they take THE CUTEST pictures EVER!
Then off to buy her fish!!
Dinner at her favorite restaurant, Cafe Veloce...look at how Daddy looks at her!
Blowing out the 5 candles on her Sleeping Beauty cake
And a quick family photo...still can't figure out why Anthony & I are so shiny! ;o)August 18, 2004 @ 11:19pm, my wonderful, sweet, intelligent, BEAUTIFUL daughter Mikaeyn Joy was born, after 15+ hours of labor. Fast forward to August 18, 2009 and we celebrated her 5th birthday! It was a good day hanging with Daddy in the morning, then coming to work with Mommy for a little bit before getting ready for dinner as a family. We went minimal on presents this year as our child has everything she could want and doesn't really "need" anything else. Grandma & Papa got her a pink princess Bible (which you can see in the last picture, she insisted that she take it to dinner with her) which she was SO excited about, but it doesn't have any pictures! HA! She'll learn to read it very soon! We also got her a fish tank and 2 fish (which one has already died and we acquired 2 more, so now she has 3). She was so happy and is doing such a great job taking care of them. Right now we have Jewelry (grey), Arana (orange) and Rayla (orange and white)...all goldfish. We had a great dinner at our favorite restaurant, Cafe Veloce and Mikaelyn was a very happy birthday girl!
We are so blessed to have gotten this far and are so thankful for the Lord giving us this bright little girl! I don't know where I would be without her and I just can't believe she's already 5!!
Family Birthday Day
Her first Ferry ride
The llama CRACKED US UP! He was just passed out, asleep in the middle of the road! HA!
The highlight of my day, feeding and petting the zebras!
Mikaelyn feeding the fallow deer...she was so brave, and they were very sweet!
For Mikaelyn's 5th birthday, we decided not to do a party this year. She didn't really ask for one, and neither Anthony nor I felt like figuring out all the details and spending all the money for kids we don't really know. So, instead, I planned a whole day for the three of us...which in reality, Mikaelyn would love more than anything ANY day!
We surprised her by taking her to the Olympic Game Farm in Sequim, WA. We got up early, went and got breakfast from Starbucks while Daddy got ready, then picked him up and left by 9am to go to the ferry. We took the ferry to Bainbridge Island and then drove about an hour to the farm. You drive through and the animals just come up to your house and eat bread out of your hands! It's SO fun!! We fed llamas, ox, zebras, bison, bunnies, bears, birds, elk, different types of deer, goats, and of course Mikaelyn snuck some too.
After a few hours there, we headed to the Edgewater for dinner where we were blessed with the most beautiful sunset after an incredible day! We laughed harder and longer than we have in ages and thoroughly enjoyed every minute with each other! Mikaelyn was surprised, happy and took home a little bell as a souvenir, which QUICKLY got on our nerves...come to think of it...where is that bell?? Hmm...
I got this great shot of Mikaelyn and Anthony just before the sun went down. A beautiful end to a beautiful day!! We had SUCH a great time!!
Wednesday, August 12, 2009
The Start of Mikaelyn's 5th Birthday
All the crazy kids
She got a little "pouty" for a moment...or two
Opening her presents from her cousins...with help, of course!
My niece Ilona (7) and my sister Melissa, aka Mimi
From Left: Eva (4 7/8), Christian (3 7/8), Ilona (7), Kaiser (5) & Mikaelyn (5)We started Mikaelyn's, always LONG, birthday celebration with a visit with all of her cousins. My sister Melissa came up to Kirkland (from Eugene, OR) to do some work on their house in Bellevue and met us for some play time and dinner. My brother Jason & his wife Andrea, along with the girls came over from Seattle to meet us as well. We played at "Mikaelyn's park" aka Peter Kirk Park in Kirkland and then headed to dinner at TGIFridays, aka "Mara's Restaurant"...it was a bit chaotic, but fun to be with family and I appreciate my family making the effort to spend some time with us and celebrate my (then) almost 5 year old! I love my family!!
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