Soooo, its the blog that you all should have seen coming....its definitely the blog I knew I would be writing eventually.
However, putting it off only made me put the realization off...until now that is.
I have come to the realization that I am leaving Ecuador...leaving Ecuador for good (or at least for an extended amount of time with no idea when I will return). I could have sworn that I knew this realization months ago, like months and months ago when I decided to leave but I was wrong...first time for everything? right? ;)
So, Why today you may ask? or you may not but if you did, go ahead, keep reading, if you didn't, well....to each their own.
Back to the question: Why today? Well, I wouldn't say today was the first day but I would definitely say it hit me hard today and I am guessing ( knowing my pattern of emotionalness) it won't be the last but today it was not just the realization that I am leaving...a new realization came about (and maybe that is why it hit me so hard).
The realization of "things coming to an end" I have always hated it in my life. Seriously, I hated the end of high school---I, unlike most people, loved high school. I hated the end of college. and now this...I hate the "End of Ecuador."
No my friends, I am not one that fears change. I actual thrive on change because I hate monotony (which I know I have talked about before here-- probably more than once). I just don't like when things have to end and they seem to end so abruptly and even though there ARE warnings--calendars, reminders, countdowns, people, etc. Whether you know its going to happen or not it doesn't change how FAST it happens.
Seriously though....things that are stopping abruptly in my life today/this week that have made me realize this:
1. My TA, Jenna, comes everyday except Thursdays at 9:30. That ends on Friday. Like what?!
2. We have a ladies workout group at a friends house--the last one was TODAY. What?
3. Wendy's last day to join me and my first graders during PE time is Friday....
4. My PE classes end.
5. Chapels ended for me LAST week.
6. LAST roomie dinner---next week. 1 more. WHAT??>!
**AND this is just to name a few.
But, the point to this blog is so so much more than pouring out my tears via blogpost.
The point is to reminisce on the things I LOVE about ECUADOR, these PEOPLE, the SCHOOL, and LIFE here. To give you a list (if you know me, you know I LOVE list!! :)) of things that I will miss NOT being here:
--No, these are in no certain order--my brain isn't that organized.
1. FRUIT--the unique fruit and the price of fruit.
2. Mountains--surrounding me.
3. Constant Fall/Spring weather.
4. Tiendas--gotta love convenience.
5. Manicures
6. Alliance Academy International
7. Carolina Park---the long runs and fruit stands.
8. Magic Bean breakfast
9. Starting random TV shows with the roomies as a nightly activity
10. School plays and concerts to go and see.
11. My Dentist. :)
12. Workin out with Kat.
13. Street Performers
14. Mandarinas
15. Significantly cheaper movie tickets
16. Sweet n Coffee
17. Grocery trips and Taxi rides
18. Naomi---and to think that our friendship all started with her nose! :) haha love you for it!
19. Jenna--BEST TA ever! ;) and so much more!
20. Courtney
21. Alisa
22. Wendy
23. The Coes!...Bobby! (however we will be reunited in the good ole south)
24. Buying DVDS
25. Guitig--aka--carbonated water.
26. Candied Peanuts.
27. Avacado (in abundance)
28. Chifles
29. Christmas Community Sing-a-long
30. The Trole---Okay, not really. ;)
31. Scarves
32. Workouts at Jens
33. Making Juice
34. Walking everywhere
35. Our Roof
36. Sunday Walks
37. Crepes and Waffles Marroqui Salad
38. Leading songs in Chapel
39. Paul Coka- I could probably list student after student but I chose Paul because...well...its Paul...as much as he loves to joke on me and as much as I love to act like I hate it...I am grateful for our love/hate relationship.
40. Lunches in the sunshine with Jess
41. Lock- Ins-- haha but probably not.
42. My "ecua-mom" Sylvie
43. Hugs from Aiden Tuten
44. Speaking Spanish (or at least trying)
45. Scorekeeping basketball games
46. La Ronda and Canelazo
47. Preschool kids- Micah Becker--we've come a long way since day one when he ran away from PE class and hid. Abby girl--I can't wait to see who this girl will grow up and be--no rush--but its going to be pretty awesome! Rafael--Rafa--ahhhh!! cutest kid ever. enough said. Anahi- wow. love that diva. ;) and thats only to name a few. haha
48. Roomie Dinner Nights. --Wednesdays sometimes could not come soon enough.
49. Kat!!!!--if I begin to write I won't stop and it would practically be a blog within a blog so I will refrain but as now one of my BEST friends and one day BRIDESMAID ;) she will definitely be missed.
50. Looking out my and saying to myself..."This is my life..." "This is where I live..." Because this will no longer be my life or be where I live and that is a sad realization.
I now will STOP being so depressing and CHOOSE joy! I choose joy and thank God for the opportunities I have had over the past two years. I Choose joy in the fact that I have lived in a foreign country (and can now cross that and so many other things off my bucket list) I choose joy and am thankful for the people i have met and the people I now call friends from all different walks of life.
I leave Ecuador in 48 hours but as a glass half full kind of girl I am choosing joy and praising God for each and every moment, memory and person!
-I love YALL and will miss YALL so very much!
-Until next time,
Choose joy,
Saved by grace,
Kb
Tuesday, July 1, 2014
Sunday, June 15, 2014
Choosing Joy: and Working on my Fitness!
Soo. This past weekend I climbed the mountain, Pichincha, here in Ecuador, for the 3rd and probably last time. The first time I conquered the mountain ALL the way to the top, 2nd time I was a bit sick and not able to, so this third time I just knew I was going to summit again but the weather disagreed with this little plan of mine.
My body was not physically tired; my lungs were still inhaling and exhaling, my legs: still moving, my heart: still pumping.
My mind was not mentally blocked (yet).
Nature was our biggest enemy this time and our barrier between us and the summit. We got really close today but as reached we closer and closer our vision became a useless sense as the clouds rolled in with chilling winds.
So, thank you Mother Nature. Its good to know it wasn't me! ;)
But really, I will elaborate at this point on the fact that this third time around might have been my best time yet. Now, don't get me wrong...the first two times were great--obviously summiting a14,000 ft mountain is one for the books but this one was different in that I never felt so good going up.
At the start of the climb at 9,000 feet the altitude in and of itself is enough to tell you to turn around and as you hike and hike to a greater altitude you question your sanity altogether and if you are someone who likes to exercise and workout you question your physical ability and you wonder what you've been doing at the gym this whole time.
Me, being the avid runner and exercise enthusiast that I am have questioned my decisions in the past two hikes and my physical fitness altogether but like I said this time was different.
I never felt so in shape. I did NOT lack physically and I don't say that to brag I say that to show hard work at the gym does pay off! ( a little encouragement for those of you out there who might need it).
I also say this to remind myself and you all with abled bodies to be thankful we can hike a mountain if we wanted to and get out there and do it! Okay Okay, I will be a realist--I don't expect you all to go out and hike a mountain and I expect some of you to get offended but this whole point in general but really get out there and move: step away from Netflix, step away from your desk, step away from your checklist (or add exercise to it) and get out there and move. I can almost guarantee you (after the soreness) you will be glad you did.
Now now, for the plug. ;) I don't just push exercise because of my own love for it. I push it because I have recently become AFAA PERSONAL FITNESS TRAINER CERTIFIED. And, yep, I am pretty proud. After the lectures, the notes, and the hours of studying and the 2 tests I had to pass for this certification you'd be pretty proud too. haha
I do love that feeling of accomplishment especially since this is something I have been wanting for a while now and I am so passionate about it---therefore I am really glad to pursue a career in something that the Lord has given me passions for.
With all of this being said: I will be returning back to the states in July and want to hit the ground running with pursuing this career. I am open to whatever that may look like and all the different ways it may look for different people. So, if you are at all interested in a personal trainer, know someone who is, need someone to teach classes, know someone who does or have any ideas for me to move this career along please feel free to contact me with any information or questions that you might have! :)
Okay, I stop my promotion there but stay tuned for more Training and Nutrition coming your way via this blog site.
So, if you have made it this far...past the many paragraphs and self-promotion...CONGRATS! Here are some pictures to describe everything I just tried to write down in words. Pictures may do it better! For your sake and mine I will stop typing now and you can just sit back and enjoy the view (via photographs).
Thanks for stopping by!
But first...let me take a SELFIE!
And I guess this is the kind of crazy stuff personal trainers do after hiking up a mountain:
a little workout of course!
Until Next time,
Choose Joy,
Saved by grace,
Kb.
Sunday, May 11, 2014
Choosing Joy: and Randomly updating.
Hi All,
Here is a random update from yours truly! ;)
No, but really, I realize it has been a while since I last updated and I also realize that the last time I updated was when I had just gotten held up at gun point on the street so some of you may have thought I got busy and some of you may have thought something happened.....
Well, I'm here to say I am still alive and just wanted to give an update of the last couple of months of my life here in Ecuador (pictures included) and give you a little glimpse of what is ahead.
Are you ready?!
Since my ever memorial Valentine's day (not due to any man in my life) other than the two strange men in which we were attacked by, life has been moving pretty fast past here in Quito, Ecuador.
Since then here is a list of things/events that has happened:
SEW- Elementary Spiritual Emphasis week (round 2) for my Elementary kiddos and it was indeed a success!
FUSION- High School Girls retreat- Im so happy and feel so accomplished that this event happened! Yep, Kat and I were in charge on this one in which we organized a whole weekend retreat for our high school girls---and what a fun weekend it was. Thanks to an awesome team of adults our high school girls were able to have a fun, hopefully unforgettable weekend.
EASTER BREAK: Beach Trip! Need I say more? However, it wouldn't be my life if it didn't consist of a little adventure along the way---meaning--having to leave a day late because our rented van was put in the shop--THE day we were suppose to leave. But, we got there and it was well worth the wait and the trip. Our Easter beach getaway consisted of cabanas on an isolated peninsula--that you could only get to during low tide- and hammocks right on the water. Perfection! This trip was included with fresh seafood dishes, a fruit picnic on the beach and morning runs in the sand.
PAPALLACTA: Hot Springs!!! whoop whoop! Our bible study took a little day trip to the hot springs and enjoyed RELAXTION together--nothing says community and fellowship like lounging in our bathing suits right?
ASAA TOURNEMENT: This event was a school tournament that consisted of lots of soccer and basketball games among about 6 different schools--so whats this have to do with me? Well, first, being school spirited KB I would have been there to root on those teams with my red and black no matter what but I had the privilege of heading up a Pee Wee Cheer squad with my Preschool and Kindergartners. Talk about adventure!? This is totally one of those things that sounds good but once it happens you kind of question your sanity--okay, not kind of you---you totally question your sanity and decision making skills. haha but it was really fun and I totally got to relive those cheerleading glory days--not to the extent of home pom practices with Kenya and Friday pep rallies--but hey, it was as close as I could get. Also, Kat and I have become professional scorekeepers for basketball and we kept the score for the games which definitely kept us busy all weekend.
LA CASA DE RAFA: Kat, Jess and I took a day trip out to Tumbaco to eat at a restaurant--yep, what we will do for food. (foodies I guess you could say ;)) but this was not just any restaurant-- we ate in a completely pitch black cave and were served by the blind--Yep--you guessed it--I ate with my hands---it was my best option---this was a really cool experience, atmosphere and amazing food.
So, see, I wasn't lying about being busy--its been busy.
AND on top of all of this I am prepping to head back to the states ( for those of you who did NOT know- I will be moving back July 3rd to be exact) Happy Independence Day America! :)
**PS-very excited to be celebrating the 4th of July at home!
But, I do have a lot to do before I head back--here is a small list to keep you interested...(in case those of you that made it this far are getting a little bored)
1. Buy Souvenirs of course
2. Take my Personal Trainer tests (and become certified)--more on this one later.
3. Figure out what will go home and what will stay here AKA- Packing.
4. Apply to Substitute in Desoto County
5. Live it up here before I have to leave for a while. :/ ---i'll update you on all I get to do between now and July 3rd.
So- to elaborate- if you aren't someone I talk to on a regular basis then you're a bad friend...;) just kidding-- if that is the case for you then you may ONLY know 1 thing and that is that I am moving back but you may (or may not) be curious on what it is that I will be doing when I return.....
DRUM ROLL PLEASE...............
1. I am currently getting Personal Trainer certified ONLINE-- I take my practical and multiple choice tests in the next couple of weeks and will humbly admit that I am very nervous. If you know me this may NOT come as a surprise---if you don't know me then you may NOT know that I am kind of a health freak--love to run, work out, eat healthy food and learn more about what makes us humans healthy and on the contrary what does NOT. (PS- totally thought I was in pretty good shape until I started this program) However, I find myself trying even harder to be the healthiest I can be and take care of this body and life that I have been given. Because quite frankly that is my goal for when I DO become a personal trainer---I want to encourage people to do the same and can I just say---I AM SOOO OOOOO OOOO EXCITED! I wish that I could express my emotion via blog post but it just doesn't show via internet but I will say it again I AM SOOOOO SOOOOO OOOOO EXCITED! This has been a dream of mine for a really long time and I am so proud that I 1. made a decision 2. get to check this off my bucket list and 3. get to do something that I love.
2. I will be applying to substitute teach in the Desoto county area--yep, moving home with mom and dad AKA-- my roomies. (they're gonna love that one) But I figured this is something I can always have in my back pocket when I may need it.
3. For those of you that know me really well and were with me last year in my decision making process--then you may remember my goal of getting my Masters--well, that is still on my lists of things to do...stay tuned!
Well, I have given you a small recap on the past couple of months and given you a glimpse of things to come but now I want to share a few of the things I have learned along the way (still praying for that teachable spirit)
1. Patience, Patience, Patience--this has been a common struggle in all aspects of my life--patience with my kids, patience with people, patience with the Lord's plan, patience with my time remaining here and time when I move back.
2. I NEED the LORD--like every, single, minute of every day! and I all too often forget that. I actually forget that too often. (unfortunately) but I do think that my will power, healthy food, exercise and checklists can get me through the day...NOT.
3. Contentment---what do I mean by that? Good question! I need contentment in my life--the life the Lord has given me--yep, I have said this before I am sure and I regret to inform you that I will probably say it again a time or two in my life--get use to it followers--but I am reminded to be content here, where I'm at, no matter how much I NOW KNOW that I do NOT wanna be a teacher and NO matter how sure I am of whats next--I need to be content on being here. I also know that I will need to be content in the career path the Lord has guided me in--NO, I may not be a big money making banker or surgeon but I pray to choose joy in the work of the Lord--even on the bad days--I am smart enough to know that no matter how much I am excited about my new life decisions and career I know there will be bad days so I pray to be content in those! :)
Well, there is a few to start......
and I will be kind enough to end the rambling here with some pictures but I hope you enjoyed the random update---stay tuned for more!
Here is a random update from yours truly! ;)
No, but really, I realize it has been a while since I last updated and I also realize that the last time I updated was when I had just gotten held up at gun point on the street so some of you may have thought I got busy and some of you may have thought something happened.....
Well, I'm here to say I am still alive and just wanted to give an update of the last couple of months of my life here in Ecuador (pictures included) and give you a little glimpse of what is ahead.
Are you ready?!
Since my ever memorial Valentine's day (not due to any man in my life) other than the two strange men in which we were attacked by, life has been moving pretty fast past here in Quito, Ecuador.
Since then here is a list of things/events that has happened:
SEW- Elementary Spiritual Emphasis week (round 2) for my Elementary kiddos and it was indeed a success!
FUSION- High School Girls retreat- Im so happy and feel so accomplished that this event happened! Yep, Kat and I were in charge on this one in which we organized a whole weekend retreat for our high school girls---and what a fun weekend it was. Thanks to an awesome team of adults our high school girls were able to have a fun, hopefully unforgettable weekend.
EASTER BREAK: Beach Trip! Need I say more? However, it wouldn't be my life if it didn't consist of a little adventure along the way---meaning--having to leave a day late because our rented van was put in the shop--THE day we were suppose to leave. But, we got there and it was well worth the wait and the trip. Our Easter beach getaway consisted of cabanas on an isolated peninsula--that you could only get to during low tide- and hammocks right on the water. Perfection! This trip was included with fresh seafood dishes, a fruit picnic on the beach and morning runs in the sand.
PAPALLACTA: Hot Springs!!! whoop whoop! Our bible study took a little day trip to the hot springs and enjoyed RELAXTION together--nothing says community and fellowship like lounging in our bathing suits right?
ASAA TOURNEMENT: This event was a school tournament that consisted of lots of soccer and basketball games among about 6 different schools--so whats this have to do with me? Well, first, being school spirited KB I would have been there to root on those teams with my red and black no matter what but I had the privilege of heading up a Pee Wee Cheer squad with my Preschool and Kindergartners. Talk about adventure!? This is totally one of those things that sounds good but once it happens you kind of question your sanity--okay, not kind of you---you totally question your sanity and decision making skills. haha but it was really fun and I totally got to relive those cheerleading glory days--not to the extent of home pom practices with Kenya and Friday pep rallies--but hey, it was as close as I could get. Also, Kat and I have become professional scorekeepers for basketball and we kept the score for the games which definitely kept us busy all weekend.
LA CASA DE RAFA: Kat, Jess and I took a day trip out to Tumbaco to eat at a restaurant--yep, what we will do for food. (foodies I guess you could say ;)) but this was not just any restaurant-- we ate in a completely pitch black cave and were served by the blind--Yep--you guessed it--I ate with my hands---it was my best option---this was a really cool experience, atmosphere and amazing food.
So, see, I wasn't lying about being busy--its been busy.
AND on top of all of this I am prepping to head back to the states ( for those of you who did NOT know- I will be moving back July 3rd to be exact) Happy Independence Day America! :)
**PS-very excited to be celebrating the 4th of July at home!
But, I do have a lot to do before I head back--here is a small list to keep you interested...(in case those of you that made it this far are getting a little bored)
1. Buy Souvenirs of course
2. Take my Personal Trainer tests (and become certified)--more on this one later.
3. Figure out what will go home and what will stay here AKA- Packing.
4. Apply to Substitute in Desoto County
5. Live it up here before I have to leave for a while. :/ ---i'll update you on all I get to do between now and July 3rd.
So- to elaborate- if you aren't someone I talk to on a regular basis then you're a bad friend...;) just kidding-- if that is the case for you then you may ONLY know 1 thing and that is that I am moving back but you may (or may not) be curious on what it is that I will be doing when I return.....
DRUM ROLL PLEASE...............
1. I am currently getting Personal Trainer certified ONLINE-- I take my practical and multiple choice tests in the next couple of weeks and will humbly admit that I am very nervous. If you know me this may NOT come as a surprise---if you don't know me then you may NOT know that I am kind of a health freak--love to run, work out, eat healthy food and learn more about what makes us humans healthy and on the contrary what does NOT. (PS- totally thought I was in pretty good shape until I started this program) However, I find myself trying even harder to be the healthiest I can be and take care of this body and life that I have been given. Because quite frankly that is my goal for when I DO become a personal trainer---I want to encourage people to do the same and can I just say---I AM SOOO OOOOO OOOO EXCITED! I wish that I could express my emotion via blog post but it just doesn't show via internet but I will say it again I AM SOOOOO SOOOOO OOOOO EXCITED! This has been a dream of mine for a really long time and I am so proud that I 1. made a decision 2. get to check this off my bucket list and 3. get to do something that I love.
2. I will be applying to substitute teach in the Desoto county area--yep, moving home with mom and dad AKA-- my roomies. (they're gonna love that one) But I figured this is something I can always have in my back pocket when I may need it.
3. For those of you that know me really well and were with me last year in my decision making process--then you may remember my goal of getting my Masters--well, that is still on my lists of things to do...stay tuned!
Well, I have given you a small recap on the past couple of months and given you a glimpse of things to come but now I want to share a few of the things I have learned along the way (still praying for that teachable spirit)
1. Patience, Patience, Patience--this has been a common struggle in all aspects of my life--patience with my kids, patience with people, patience with the Lord's plan, patience with my time remaining here and time when I move back.
2. I NEED the LORD--like every, single, minute of every day! and I all too often forget that. I actually forget that too often. (unfortunately) but I do think that my will power, healthy food, exercise and checklists can get me through the day...NOT.
3. Contentment---what do I mean by that? Good question! I need contentment in my life--the life the Lord has given me--yep, I have said this before I am sure and I regret to inform you that I will probably say it again a time or two in my life--get use to it followers--but I am reminded to be content here, where I'm at, no matter how much I NOW KNOW that I do NOT wanna be a teacher and NO matter how sure I am of whats next--I need to be content on being here. I also know that I will need to be content in the career path the Lord has guided me in--NO, I may not be a big money making banker or surgeon but I pray to choose joy in the work of the Lord--even on the bad days--I am smart enough to know that no matter how much I am excited about my new life decisions and career I know there will be bad days so I pray to be content in those! :)
Well, there is a few to start......
and I will be kind enough to end the rambling here with some pictures but I hope you enjoyed the random update---stay tuned for more!
 |
| Birthday! |
 |
| 24! |
 |
| Birthday FUN! |
 |
| BEACH! |
 |
| Girls Retreat. |
 |
| Group PIC. |
 |
 |
| Fearless Leaders! |
 |
| Its ONLY fun if you get a little messy! |
 |
| and one more for the fun of it! |
 |
| The Girls at the Beach! |
Monday, March 3, 2014
Choosing Joy: and dealing with LIFE
Hi All,
Let me go ahead and tell all you glass half full people (like myself) that this blog has real potential to be sad/depressing...bear with me!
I want to inform all you followers and brothers and sisters in Christ about some serious struggles I have been facing here in Ecuador.
Yes, Im a positive (glass half full) kind of person but Im happy to say that this post is reality of real life.
Real life is being held up at gunpoint on a Friday evening walk home---Let me explain. Some of you may know but my guess is MOST of you do NOT so I will give a little detail to explain that, to some of you, scary sentence.
It was Valentines Day and I was on my usual walk home from school with my roommate, Kat. Normal friday evening for us to walk home after school-- around 5:30. We got to the top of the hill where we turn to the final stretch home when two guys came at us--hoping to corner us and trap us against the wall--fortunately their plan did NOT work...
Play by Play: One guy--smaller---with gun came at Kat first--I became quickly in shock but she shouted NO and screamed in a note very few soprano music teachers could hit. I look away for one second and see the other guy coming at me---no gun just his hands ready to grab me or my stuff--still haven't determined that one. I became very thankful for my sweet students in that moment as my instincts told me to swing and I hit him in the face with a bouquet of roses---catching him off guard, I was able to run---yall know me--im a runner--I ran into the street hoping to draw attention and it worked because the two guys cowardly ran off, hopped in their car and were on their way.
It was OVER...Yay! I will go ahead and say Praise the Lord we were NOT hurt...Praise the Lord that NOTHING was stolen but I will also say that the after math of an incident like this is mentally draining.
So no, mentally, this is NOT over. I was always thankful for my photographic memory in college---it got me through those 4 years with a pretty good GPA but in that moment it is one characteristic I could have lived without.
I can replay it over and over like a broken record and I have--not only for myself but for all who ask--including the police.
So, now that you know what happened---here's the after math for you:
What did I learn on February 14th...
1. It is a valentines day I will never forget---SORRY Boys/Future husband.
2. Im tough, Im smart, Im RESOURCEFUL, Im now experienced.
3. I feel sorry for ignorant people. Let me be clear---I DO NOT hate Ecuador because of this experience--I HATE Ignorance.
4. I also HATE, yes, HATE, that they looked at us and even more specific me and thought weak, helpless- I'm anything but these things. I am an only child (I'm sure some of you are wondering--where is she going with this) because yes that can go 1 of 2 ways but for myself it means---im very determined, independent and strong-willed. I get things done and usually by myself. Another one of my pet peeves (maybe a struggle to some of you--because my pride plays a huge role in this) but it is being seen as weak/wimp/inadequate/NOT capable--
5. I also have had my moments when I'm just down right ANGRY!
6. BUT, I also learned---I can be wherever--my hometown of small town, USA, a big city in the states or a foreign country and I can NOT escape the fate of this world. Evil exist here just as much as it exists in your neighborhood---in your life.
**I know I know, most people wouldn't tell this story. AND I don't tell you so you will feel sorry for me. I don't tell you so that YOU will hate Ecuador.
--I tell you for your prayers--for myself, for this place, and for this world.
--and to let you know/remind you--just in case you forgot that we live in a dark place--I don't mean Ecuador ONLY--I mean this world and by the looks of it---its ONLY getting darker.
BE a light.
Until next time,
Choose Joy,
Saved by grace,
Kb.
Let me go ahead and tell all you glass half full people (like myself) that this blog has real potential to be sad/depressing...bear with me!
I want to inform all you followers and brothers and sisters in Christ about some serious struggles I have been facing here in Ecuador.
Yes, Im a positive (glass half full) kind of person but Im happy to say that this post is reality of real life.
Real life is being held up at gunpoint on a Friday evening walk home---Let me explain. Some of you may know but my guess is MOST of you do NOT so I will give a little detail to explain that, to some of you, scary sentence.
It was Valentines Day and I was on my usual walk home from school with my roommate, Kat. Normal friday evening for us to walk home after school-- around 5:30. We got to the top of the hill where we turn to the final stretch home when two guys came at us--hoping to corner us and trap us against the wall--fortunately their plan did NOT work...
Play by Play: One guy--smaller---with gun came at Kat first--I became quickly in shock but she shouted NO and screamed in a note very few soprano music teachers could hit. I look away for one second and see the other guy coming at me---no gun just his hands ready to grab me or my stuff--still haven't determined that one. I became very thankful for my sweet students in that moment as my instincts told me to swing and I hit him in the face with a bouquet of roses---catching him off guard, I was able to run---yall know me--im a runner--I ran into the street hoping to draw attention and it worked because the two guys cowardly ran off, hopped in their car and were on their way.
It was OVER...Yay! I will go ahead and say Praise the Lord we were NOT hurt...Praise the Lord that NOTHING was stolen but I will also say that the after math of an incident like this is mentally draining.
So no, mentally, this is NOT over. I was always thankful for my photographic memory in college---it got me through those 4 years with a pretty good GPA but in that moment it is one characteristic I could have lived without.
I can replay it over and over like a broken record and I have--not only for myself but for all who ask--including the police.
So, now that you know what happened---here's the after math for you:
What did I learn on February 14th...
1. It is a valentines day I will never forget---SORRY Boys/Future husband.
2. Im tough, Im smart, Im RESOURCEFUL, Im now experienced.
3. I feel sorry for ignorant people. Let me be clear---I DO NOT hate Ecuador because of this experience--I HATE Ignorance.
4. I also HATE, yes, HATE, that they looked at us and even more specific me and thought weak, helpless- I'm anything but these things. I am an only child (I'm sure some of you are wondering--where is she going with this) because yes that can go 1 of 2 ways but for myself it means---im very determined, independent and strong-willed. I get things done and usually by myself. Another one of my pet peeves (maybe a struggle to some of you--because my pride plays a huge role in this) but it is being seen as weak/wimp/inadequate/NOT capable--
5. I also have had my moments when I'm just down right ANGRY!
6. BUT, I also learned---I can be wherever--my hometown of small town, USA, a big city in the states or a foreign country and I can NOT escape the fate of this world. Evil exist here just as much as it exists in your neighborhood---in your life.
**I know I know, most people wouldn't tell this story. AND I don't tell you so you will feel sorry for me. I don't tell you so that YOU will hate Ecuador.
--I tell you for your prayers--for myself, for this place, and for this world.
--and to let you know/remind you--just in case you forgot that we live in a dark place--I don't mean Ecuador ONLY--I mean this world and by the looks of it---its ONLY getting darker.
BE a light.
Until next time,
Choose Joy,
Saved by grace,
Kb.
Saturday, February 15, 2014
Choosing Joy: and throwing it back to an awesome trip.
Soooo....I am a pretty random/spontaneous person.
I like adventure and I find myself living from adventure to adventure alot of times. Good and bad characteristic I suppose.
With all that being said I went on a little adventure last week. How?!!
Well, I got on a plane in Quito on Wednesday morning, layover in Miami, and landed in Orlando at about 3:30 that afternoon. My mom and grandmother picked me up at the airport and we were back to our Disney Resort at about 5:00.
After a rough Christmas break for my grandmother she needed a good vacation---a what better place than THE HAPPIEST place on earth! :)
My mom surprised her with a trip to Disney and my grandmother paid it forward to me as an early birthday present! :)
So YES, getting a break from school was nice, getting to spend a few days at DISNEY WORLD, so awesome, but getting to do it with two other generations of women in my life--- was THE best part.
The trip in and of itself was AWESOME- I am a kid so I LOVE Disney World!!
But getting to make some great memories with both my grandmother and mother happen to be the best part.
But getting to make some great memories with both my grandmother and mother happen to be the best part.
Like I said before, I was truly blessed to 1. get the time off and 2. get to spend time with both my mom and grandmother and 3. get to make memories at Disney World with them.
I was blessed by good food (of course) good company (new and old) and great memories.
I don't write this blog to brag about my random trip to Disney World.
I write it to 1. keep you all updated 2. make sure that I document this awesome trip and 3. remind myself and you all of the blessings we have in our lives.
No, we all didn't get to go to Disney World last week and I can tell you there are probably things you all are getting to do right now or have done that I may never get to do but I hope and pray you are counting those as blessings--the big things and the small things.
No, we all didn't get to go to Disney World last week and I can tell you there are probably things you all are getting to do right now or have done that I may never get to do but I hope and pray you are counting those as blessings--the big things and the small things.
I don't write this blog to preach either. Like I said this is a reminder to myself as well to count my blessings so as I look back over the month of January I have thought of many blessings that I want to share with you all. (including pictures)
1. A Happy New Year (Here's to 2014)
2. Safe Travels (to and from Ecuador)
3. Relationships/Friendships (near, far, new, old)
4. My legs- In Ecuador we walk...alot and in the states I actually missed that so I am thankful to be able to do that.
5. Taking Adventures
6. Praise the Lord I have a speaker for our Spiritual Emphasis Week in February. (please keep my kiddos in your prayers and my speaker)
7. Good food!- Im a foodie, I won't lie- I enjoy sitting down to a good meal- I know I have said before in previous post that my favorite way to spend time with people is around a table---well---still is and good food is a plus.
8. BEST FRIENDS- you have your coworkers, acquaintances and friends but you also have your best friends- and I have been blessed with some awesome BEST friends- some I have known for more than 10 years and some just a couple of years.
9. Cheap Dental Care. Just being honest.
10. my supporters- both financial and spiritual
11. my German roomie- Julia, who lives next week- that part- not so thankful for.
And these are a few of my favorite things:
 |
| Magic Band Ready |
 |
| 3 Generations |
 |
| my favorite. |
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| As close as I am going to get to my birthplace for a while. |
 |
| Classic |
*Check out Facebook for all of the pictures.
Until next time,
Choose Joy
Kb.
Saturday, January 4, 2014
Choosing Joy: and going HOME for the Holidays.
I use the term HOME lightly here because I will admit Grande Centeno in Quito, Ecuador has become my home away from home.
However, I did have the opportunity to come "HOME" to the good ole U.S. of A for our school's Christmas break! (for 3 weeks might I add)
I learned a lot can be done in 3 weeks (a lot can't be done in 3 weeks) but a lot CAN be done in this amount a time and thats what I want to share in this blog.
Since, I am very fond of Instagram (kaybee450) I can say I have done a good job at keeping my followers updated over the holidays....from my arrival at the ATL airport---first stop Chick Fil A, then our family "shopping" trip to Nashville with the aded bonus of The Christmas Spectacular featuring The Rockettes to NYE with my high school girlfriends (yup--over 10 years with some of them and still going strong)
BUT like I was saying since I am prone to Instagram I won't ramble about all the trips taken, memories made, things purchased, and Christmas traditions had.
Not too too much anyway. ;)
But if you are willing to give me some of your time, I would like to tell you what I figured out while being home after being away, overseas, in Ecuador for 6 months.
1. (my mom will laugh at this one- especially it being number 1)
Hate me if you want but I HATE Wal-Mart. I do and I am not scared to admit it. Wal-Mart does nothing for me. I don't enjoy going, I don't find satisfaction with the items I receive from Wal-Mart, and I don't leave the place feeling like a better person.
2. New Years resolutions are not always overrated. I have never been one to make a New Years resolution or should I say I have never been one to stick to a New Years resolution. I have always found them pretty cheesy and pretty "overrated" but that could be my way of justifying my lack of follow through or lack of made resolutions. However, this year, New Years was enjoyable for me, I am excited about the year 2014 and I even made a few resolutions...stay tuned and I might share.
3. I have awesome parents. #justsaying. They really are though. They have taken care of me in more ways than I can list right now for 23 years and they still continue to love me and take care of me. I don't have stick in the mud parents, stuck in their ways parents, divorced parents, workaholic parents, unhappy parents...Im not trying to rub this in anyone's face so I pray that no one is offended (however--side note- another thing I learned in the states- everyone gets offended about everything- easily offensive people have become a new pet peeve of mine--just a side note though) but anyways--all offense aside I have really happy, God-seeking, loving, successful, hard working, caring, in love, parents! and I had so much fun in the 3 weeks I had with them.
4. I might just have an addiction to running.... I ran everyday while I was home (thats 3 weeks, 21 days) and thats ALOT of miles. However, Im not a very pleasant or sane person without it. Hints, why I think I might just be addicted. But, I also felt the affects of that addiction this time...the bad knee definitely did not agree with the addiction and action of running everyday. I guess I can rest it when I get back to Ecuador. Yeah, right?!!!
5. I want to continue my education. What?!! Kirsten (KB) wants to do more school. weird right? Most of you may not know I have a Bachelor's degree in Kinesiology (Exercise Science). In college (for at least two out of four years) I was on the track to go to PT school. I lost motivation for that career path pretty quickly and the Lord drastically changed my route to south.....america. But now, after my year and a half over seas I have come to know a lot about who I am, what I like, what I don't like, and what I want to do with my life: Do I still want to own a coffee shop? YES. Do I still love health and fitness? YES. I do, and still want that a part of my everyday life. Do I really want one job, for the rest of my life? well, NO, but Im taking it a step at a time, year at a time, and next year I will be back in the states pursuing my Masters degree in Marriage and Family Therapy and I am so excited about school....YES, but also about pursing things I am passionate about and seeking after the Lord's plan for my life. I am excited to see what all He has in store for me in the next 6 months in Ecuador and when I return to the States in July.
a few other little things:
- I love going out for breakfast (brunch is even better)
-Memphis has a really cool area called Midtown--who knew?
-I don't like cold weather.
- I have become a pro at packing (thats saying a lot when you're talking a foreign country for 6 months)
- I have awesome friends (near and far)
- I loved/have missed the TODAY show.
-Bowl Games! :)
-Growing up isn't all its cracked up to be most of the time...but it has its moments.
Until Next Time,
Choose Joy.
Saved by grace,
Kb
However, I did have the opportunity to come "HOME" to the good ole U.S. of A for our school's Christmas break! (for 3 weeks might I add)
I learned a lot can be done in 3 weeks (a lot can't be done in 3 weeks) but a lot CAN be done in this amount a time and thats what I want to share in this blog.
Since, I am very fond of Instagram (kaybee450) I can say I have done a good job at keeping my followers updated over the holidays....from my arrival at the ATL airport---first stop Chick Fil A, then our family "shopping" trip to Nashville with the aded bonus of The Christmas Spectacular featuring The Rockettes to NYE with my high school girlfriends (yup--over 10 years with some of them and still going strong)
BUT like I was saying since I am prone to Instagram I won't ramble about all the trips taken, memories made, things purchased, and Christmas traditions had.
Not too too much anyway. ;)
But if you are willing to give me some of your time, I would like to tell you what I figured out while being home after being away, overseas, in Ecuador for 6 months.
1. (my mom will laugh at this one- especially it being number 1)
Hate me if you want but I HATE Wal-Mart. I do and I am not scared to admit it. Wal-Mart does nothing for me. I don't enjoy going, I don't find satisfaction with the items I receive from Wal-Mart, and I don't leave the place feeling like a better person.
2. New Years resolutions are not always overrated. I have never been one to make a New Years resolution or should I say I have never been one to stick to a New Years resolution. I have always found them pretty cheesy and pretty "overrated" but that could be my way of justifying my lack of follow through or lack of made resolutions. However, this year, New Years was enjoyable for me, I am excited about the year 2014 and I even made a few resolutions...stay tuned and I might share.
3. I have awesome parents. #justsaying. They really are though. They have taken care of me in more ways than I can list right now for 23 years and they still continue to love me and take care of me. I don't have stick in the mud parents, stuck in their ways parents, divorced parents, workaholic parents, unhappy parents...Im not trying to rub this in anyone's face so I pray that no one is offended (however--side note- another thing I learned in the states- everyone gets offended about everything- easily offensive people have become a new pet peeve of mine--just a side note though) but anyways--all offense aside I have really happy, God-seeking, loving, successful, hard working, caring, in love, parents! and I had so much fun in the 3 weeks I had with them.
4. I might just have an addiction to running.... I ran everyday while I was home (thats 3 weeks, 21 days) and thats ALOT of miles. However, Im not a very pleasant or sane person without it. Hints, why I think I might just be addicted. But, I also felt the affects of that addiction this time...the bad knee definitely did not agree with the addiction and action of running everyday. I guess I can rest it when I get back to Ecuador. Yeah, right?!!!
5. I want to continue my education. What?!! Kirsten (KB) wants to do more school. weird right? Most of you may not know I have a Bachelor's degree in Kinesiology (Exercise Science). In college (for at least two out of four years) I was on the track to go to PT school. I lost motivation for that career path pretty quickly and the Lord drastically changed my route to south.....america. But now, after my year and a half over seas I have come to know a lot about who I am, what I like, what I don't like, and what I want to do with my life: Do I still want to own a coffee shop? YES. Do I still love health and fitness? YES. I do, and still want that a part of my everyday life. Do I really want one job, for the rest of my life? well, NO, but Im taking it a step at a time, year at a time, and next year I will be back in the states pursuing my Masters degree in Marriage and Family Therapy and I am so excited about school....YES, but also about pursing things I am passionate about and seeking after the Lord's plan for my life. I am excited to see what all He has in store for me in the next 6 months in Ecuador and when I return to the States in July.
a few other little things:
- I love going out for breakfast (brunch is even better)
-Memphis has a really cool area called Midtown--who knew?
-I don't like cold weather.
- I have become a pro at packing (thats saying a lot when you're talking a foreign country for 6 months)
- I have awesome friends (near and far)
- I loved/have missed the TODAY show.
-Bowl Games! :)
-Growing up isn't all its cracked up to be most of the time...but it has its moments.
Until Next Time,
Choose Joy.
Saved by grace,
Kb
Monday, December 2, 2013
Choosing Joy: and Being Thankful.
Its my favorite time of year: FALL.
Which means its really hard for me to not be home in the states.
I miss watching the leaves change colors, I miss wearing boots and sweaters and scarves, I miss decorating for fall, I miss the preparation for Christmas during this time, I miss football....I just miss life during the fall season.
However, I do realize I have a lot to be thankful for so I caved and decided to do the month of gratitude (but I decided to not do this via Facebook)- not hatin on anyone who did but I just really didn't have the time or discipline to make sure I updated my status daily…i don't update my status as it is so it wouldn't have worked for me.
A blog post dedicated to the very thing was the way to go for me.
Soo, over the past 30 days, throughout the month of November, I have had to reflect each day on what I was thankful for in that day. Some days were hard, some days were easy but at the end I realized I have much to be thankful for! :)
So here are some things I have been thankful for over the past month (plus many more) and some things you might be thankful for as well.
Day 1. Kids Laughter- When weeks have bad days its nice to let myself take a step back and enjoy my time with the kids in PE class. Its nice to play their games with them and even better than that is hearing their laughter and joining in.
Day 2. Dancing- We gringos of course decided to have a halloween costume party. The fact of dressing up and being something you're not for a night is so much fun anyway but then you add a DJ and dancing and you have yourself a fun stress relieving night. I love to release stress through the art of dance…lets be honest, I just love to dance and I am thankful for the ability, the opportunity, the music and the friends to do it with!
Day 3. Photos- I grew up in a house with a mom who documented every part of my life….literally. How many times have I made fun of her for it?! more than I can count I am sure but I spent a good portion of my time on this Sunday afternoon looking through old pictures from the past year (Pictures I took by the way) and realize how thankful that some of my favorite memories are documented on camera! and I am thankful I am following in my mother's footsteps.
Day 4. Salad- Yep, I am thankful for what most of you would call grass or leaves off of a tree but a nice good/big salad is one of my favorite meals and I am happy to say I found a cool salad place here and that is rare but I am pumped. I will also admit that I have eaten there twice in less than a week. OOPS. Im super thankful for healthy food and I am even more thankful that I like it. I have always been this way but thanks to college and the friends there (melissa) my taste buds were introduced to a whole new palate.
Day 5. Sunshine- We have officially entered rainy season here in Quito, Ecuador but today was an exception and we had a nice little taste of what sunshine felt for a little while again and my friends it was good to the soul today.
Day 6. Roomie Dinner Night- Wednesdays are hard...Wednesdays are long...but Wednesdays are also Roomie Dinner Nights. Every Wednesday we sit down as roomies and eat a meal prepared by one of the four of us. One of my favorite ways to fellowship with people is around a table...whether thats a meal, a cup of coffee, glass of wine, dessert or whatever It's such a fun way to hang out with someone. When you're sitting around a table you are usually forced to talk so therefore you share about your day: the good and the bad, you share your struggles and your successes and sometimes even your secrets. Its a fun way to get to know other people and its a fun way to enjoy time with my roommates. This particular Wednesday was my week and being the southern girl I am...I fixed good ole chicken and dumplings and I did it successfully too!
Something I have eaten so many times before but have never made but I took on the tasks because it was really fun to share this part of me with a few northerners and a German! :) I love the blessing that my roomies have been to me and the times we have shared together.
Day 7. Biblical Truth- Specifically the teaching of biblical truth and even more specifically the teaching of biblical truth in my elementary chapels.
Day 8. Reaching a goal- More often than not people refrain from setting goals because if we don't set goals we have a lesser chance of failing but I decided to set a goal. As most of you know I am a runner…a long distance runner so therefore I like to run for longer amounts of time vs. a really fast time but I signed up for the NIKE 10K here in Quito and I decided to set the goal of finishing in an under an hour. (some or most of you may be saying..Oh, thats easy) but for someone who runs half marathons I usually have the mindset of just finishing however I risked it and set a goal and thankfully reached that goal of finishing in 57 minutes. woo hoo! Now, to set a new one. (yes this thankful post is a little out of order but oh well--most of you probably wouldn't have known that if I didn't say anything)
Day 9. Long Lasting Friendships- I had a free saturday afternoon yesterday and it worked out that a friend of mine from home did too. However, not just any friend. I got to Skype with my best friend from the 4th grade. THE 4TH GRADE people! As we said our goodbyes my immediate thoughts when we hung up were WOW! Look at the journey our friendship has been on. Oh, how the Lord works and I am thankful that He does! Im thankful for Kayla and for so many more friends back home who keep me edified, hold me accountable, and pray for me and with me from miles and miles away.
Day 10. Accountability and Conviction- Brothers and Sisters in Christ…."HOLD ME ACCOUNTABLE!" ''CALL ME OUT!" -Thanks. I have been blessed with friends that do that…I have but I am positive I could use it more often…I am positive it is something we could all use more often. So, thanks friends that do! and thank the Lord for the conviction of my sins after I have been called out by a fellow believer. Its super tough to swallow…um…SUPER tough. Gotta be thankful for the tough stuff too.
Day 11. ZUMBA Class !!! - If you know me at all you know that one of my biggest passions is dancing! and what better way to relieve stress on a Monday afternoon than doing ZUMBA with such a fun group of ladies. It is a bonding moment for sure and a super big THANKS to ANN COE...our fearless leader and my "mom" here in Ecuador. (My life just wouldn't be the same without her and her family...and her ZUMBA class ;) )
Day 12: For the GOOD days. Im thankful there are good days that overpower the bad days. Thankful for another day to choose joy, be a light, and enjoy life to the fullest. I am thankful that the Lord gives us bad days to learn but I am so so thankful that there are good and even GREAT days in the midst of bad days and maybe even bad weeks. I am thankful that the Lord blessed me with a lot of GOOD days here lately because I am reminded that there is GOOD in the BAD. Thanks Lord for Romans 8:28 .
Day 13: Bobby Coe- If you are a consistent follower of my blog you might be familiar with the Coe name. The Coe's have become my family here therefore making Bobby like my little brother…(and I thought I was an only child- haha) But, there are some advantages of having a "little brother" I must say. Its fun to joke around with him and pick on him and its even fun to ask him to do stuff but its even more fun when he is willing. Day 13 fell on a Wednesday, Wednesday is the day we have our CSO DEEPER and Bobby is one of the high schoolers involved in this CSO. And on most wednesdays he does a great job with the kids and on this particular wednesday he did a fantastic job at taking the lead and helping me out a great deal. Bobby helped lead the Big Group Game at the beginning which took a lot of energy and then after that he came in and practically led the 1st grade group because we were short adults so I was having to hop around from group to group and couldn't stay with the 1st graders the whole time (this isn't the first time either) Bobby has excelled in DEEPER week after week and I am so grateful for his willingness to serve in any way and his commitment to DEEPER whatever that might be. Thanks little brother!
Day 14: Talking Healthy- Most of you know that one of the things I am most passionate about is health and fitness. I love to exercise and I love to eat healthy. It is a huge part of my life. And now I am happy to share that part of my life with a high school friend- HAILEY! One of my bestest friends has jumped on the Healthy Bandwagon with me and is not looking back. I was able to Skype with her and we talked "healthy" talk and I loved every minute of it. (is it weird that Hailey, of all people, has become a health guru---YES--haha but thats okay-- I LOVE IT) We talked about her getting personal trainer certified--and how I can do that (it is a goal/dream of mine). She is also getting yoga certified--cool! We talked about eating healthy and working out together when I am at home for Christmas, we talked about workout gear- one of the perks of being an active person is the cool clothes of course, like I said..we talked healthy talk and I love being able to share that passion with people especially one my best friends.
Day 15: Magazines (in English) - Go ahead and laugh, look confused but I will proudly admit it. I love Magazines! Guilty pleasure? maybe! Im not really a big reader. I actually don't like to read for the most part so I have always resorted to magazines and here in Ecuador I don't have access to magazines (in English) so its just not the same. But tonight we had a classic girls night--food, movies, nail polish and MAGAZINES from the states. I was in a happy place. I will admit most of the stuff in magazines is garbage, trash, whatever you wanna call it but its a favorite pass time of mine and I was glad to get to remember that for a night as I read all about the latest movies, music, fashion, and of course gossip from my home country of the United States that I rarely hear about now living in Ecuador. So thanks Elisa Brown for bringing those back for Mandi so that she could share with us!
Day 16: Fellowship- Im a cheese ball when it comes to spending time with groups of friends and even hanging out and spending time with people not in my immediate friend group. It's a saturday and for the most part pretty relaxing but on saturday night our plans were to go out for sushi and then head to school (yes, the place we are at everyday) to attend the Harvest Festival put on by the Junior Class. Again, I say….Im a cheese ball. I love things like this; eating food, hanging out, playing with kids, sitting on hay, haunted houses (run by a bunch of students), auctions, fundraisers, cake, and people I love. Such a fun night that not only included great fellowship with friends and coworkers and families but also gave us a little glimpse of fall and that was the cherry on top of a good night.
Day 17: The Tassys- The Tassys are a family that became very close to Kat and I. A family we spent a lot of time with and looked to for help, guidance, encouragement, and support and cooking and baking tips during our first year here. This family is back in the states this year and with the help of technology we were able to Skype with them for about 3 hours on this Sunday afternoon. What a blessing.
Day 18: Rain Jackets- and remembering to bring it. (This one is for Melissa and Rachel)- We have enterered rainy season here in Quito and I have learned that I don't really like to be wet so I am very thankful that I have a rain jacket and that I remember to take it with me---like 7 out of 10 times. Those are really good odds if you knew me in college. I went to MS state in Starkville, MS and I think it rains more there than anywhere else but who never took their rain jacket?! yep, me! and who lived there for 4 years know it would probably rain and I would want my rain jacket around? yep, me! It took moving to Ecuador and experiencing rainy season for it to click but it has finally clicked! woo hoo for rain jackets and staying dry!
Day 19: Friends that know best (sometimes)-- Today, I was sick. I admit it. I hate being sick. I am pretty sure its a pride thing but that has not been proven. But today, I was sick and I tried to be at school, I tried to get work done, and I tried to check all the things off the list but by 10:00 am I was struggling to physically move and fight back the tears of defeat. So, Kat sent me home. Does she have that authority? No, but as my best friend here I took her advice and went home and I am thankful that I did. I am thankful that I had a friend that knew what was best for me today.
Day 20: Christmas Trees- Its another Wednesday and you know what that means: Roomie dinner night! :) and tonight the festivities included putting up the Christmas tree. Little early, you ask? Not to me and not here in Ecuador. Since there is no Thanksgiving--its straight to Christmas. I am not just thankful for the actual tree itself. .I am thankful for the Christmas lights that decorate the tree and light up the living room. I am thankful for the memories made putting up and decorating Christmas trees. . Putting up the Christmas tree means that Christmas is that much closer. (and I get to put up two trees this year--can't wait for the second one when I get home in blank days)
Day 21: Beautiful painted skies-- The Lord is super creative in the ways He blesses us with His beauty and all too often I forget to acknowledge them. I could have easily done it today…I could have easily been distracted by my aching tooth and could have continued to complain about the pain in my mouth but I was with someone who made sure to point out the beautiful sky and I am so glad they did.
Because what a blessing and good reminder of the Lord's goodness to us even in the pain.
Day 22: Our Neighbors- I must admit we have a family that lives in our apartment building that have been some pretty cool neighbors to have around.
They are an Alliance family and I teach their kids but I got the privilege with my roomies to babysit them last night and it was a pretty good time. This family not only blesses us with their company but their food is pretty great too! They have fed us dinner many a nights (including last night) and it never disappoints! EVER! So we are pretty blessed with hospitality and good fellowship on a daily basis.
Day 23: Canned Pumpkin- keep reading before you just get confused and judge me. Today we got to have an early Thanksgiving celebration with the girls and it was awesome---not only the food- but the time to hang out was great too! Back to the canned pumpkin though…pumpkin isn't really as abundant here as it is in the states so I planned ahead (i know, weird right) and brought back canned pumpkin for the fall season and for thanksgiving celebrations like the one today and I am glad I did. Fall is the hardest time for me to miss…i think I have said that enough... so to get to bake pumpkin oatmeal chocolate chip cookies was such a treat for me and even better to get to share them with ladies that I love so very much. Not to mention that we had sweet potato casserole, fried chicken, green beans, mash potatoes, and cornbread muffins to go along with it. That was pretty great too!
So, thank you Lord for uses of the aluminum can!
Day 24: Rainy Sunday afternoons. They're just GREAT! enough said right? But really there isn't much better than coming home on a Sunday afternoon and putting off a list of things to do so you can nap to the sound of the rain outside.
Day 25: Random lunch dates with Naomi- Naomi is a Senior at Alliance and has become one of my great friends here! love her and spending time with her. I also love when things aren't planned and just kind of happen. It makes it that much more special. Good times!
Day 26: Sports. Sports do a lot for people. Sports keep us in shape. Sports give us discipline. Sports challenge us. Sports give us something to do. Sports give us something to talk about. Sports bring us together (grant it, I know they tear some apart). Sports are just a cool thing to have around and I am thankful for the years that I spent playing sports and I am thankful the time and memories spent cheering for sports or watching sports.
Day 27: MOM and DAD. I just want to be cheesy and say I have really great parents. Its definitely understood that they are awesome, that I love them and they love me, and I am thankful for them but they need a shout out too! I really am thankful for the supportive parents I have. Parents that have my back on the things I do and the parents who have never left my side and never will. I am thankful for the example they are for me on a daily basis. So thank the Lord for my awesome MOM and DAD.
Day 28: Half days. Okay, so Thanksgiving doesn't really exist as a celebrated holiday here in Ecuador but we gringos still want the joy of eating turkey, watching football and getting out of school. So our school did a really good job of making that happen in the best way possible in our situation as they could. Good job Administration. We got a half day today and those are always fun. 1. because you get out of school early and can do all kind of activities you wouldn't be able to do on a normal day and 2. because usually on a half day the time you are at school (especially during a holiday) consists of school wide assemblies, parties, and practically no class. Its a win win situation!
Day 29: All the things that come with the Thanksgiving Holiday: These include but not limited to: Turkey. Football. Games. Fellowship. Coffee. Dessert. Pumpkin. Family/Friend Gatherings. Laughter. Memories. Pictures.
These are only a few and depending on where you are in the world your list might look a bit different but this list describes in summary my thanksgiving this year in Ecuador. And I am so so thankful for my 2013 thanksgiving. I went out to the Davis Foundation Orphanage where the Coe's and Brock's live and hung out with them and several other families and friends in the Los Chillos Valley.
We left from Quito about 10:30am and spent the day on friday prepping for our Thanksgiving feast; Peeling potatoes, cutting apples, boiling eggs, ohh and playing a few intense games like SORRY, SPOONS, and FISHBOWL and a little AMERICAN FOOTBALL.
By dinner time everyone had arrived and all with an appetite. We all sat around the tables eating to make sure we got that I can't move, sick to my stomach full feeling just to go play some more FOOTBALL.
As the evening/night went on we played some more games, drank coffee, and laughed…ALOT.
Woke up on Saturday morning---with no use of an alarm…just the sunshine. Went for a quick run to come back and eat some pancakes for breakfast.
Pretty good Thanksgiving if I say so myself.
Soooo I am thankful for all the things that come with the Thanksgiving holiday even when I am leaving in a foreign country.
I am thankful for all the people I got to spend Thanksgiving with especially the Coe's and Brock's for hosting us! :)
Day 30: The Christmas Season. Im cheesy what can I say? I think I have said that quite a few times in this blog but I love that as December hits it will be time for Christmas music, Christmas movies, Christmas parties, Christmas food, Christmas presents, Christmas lights, Christmas trees, Christmas decorations and my favorite…..Christmas traditions. Im a sucker for traditions and I am also a stickler to them…so friends and family I get home in less than 2 weeks and Christmas traditions will be had. :)
Until Next Time,
Saved by grace,
Kb
Which means its really hard for me to not be home in the states.
I miss watching the leaves change colors, I miss wearing boots and sweaters and scarves, I miss decorating for fall, I miss the preparation for Christmas during this time, I miss football....I just miss life during the fall season.
However, I do realize I have a lot to be thankful for so I caved and decided to do the month of gratitude (but I decided to not do this via Facebook)- not hatin on anyone who did but I just really didn't have the time or discipline to make sure I updated my status daily…i don't update my status as it is so it wouldn't have worked for me.
A blog post dedicated to the very thing was the way to go for me.
Soo, over the past 30 days, throughout the month of November, I have had to reflect each day on what I was thankful for in that day. Some days were hard, some days were easy but at the end I realized I have much to be thankful for! :)
So here are some things I have been thankful for over the past month (plus many more) and some things you might be thankful for as well.
Day 1. Kids Laughter- When weeks have bad days its nice to let myself take a step back and enjoy my time with the kids in PE class. Its nice to play their games with them and even better than that is hearing their laughter and joining in.
Day 2. Dancing- We gringos of course decided to have a halloween costume party. The fact of dressing up and being something you're not for a night is so much fun anyway but then you add a DJ and dancing and you have yourself a fun stress relieving night. I love to release stress through the art of dance…lets be honest, I just love to dance and I am thankful for the ability, the opportunity, the music and the friends to do it with!
Day 3. Photos- I grew up in a house with a mom who documented every part of my life….literally. How many times have I made fun of her for it?! more than I can count I am sure but I spent a good portion of my time on this Sunday afternoon looking through old pictures from the past year (Pictures I took by the way) and realize how thankful that some of my favorite memories are documented on camera! and I am thankful I am following in my mother's footsteps.
Day 4. Salad- Yep, I am thankful for what most of you would call grass or leaves off of a tree but a nice good/big salad is one of my favorite meals and I am happy to say I found a cool salad place here and that is rare but I am pumped. I will also admit that I have eaten there twice in less than a week. OOPS. Im super thankful for healthy food and I am even more thankful that I like it. I have always been this way but thanks to college and the friends there (melissa) my taste buds were introduced to a whole new palate.
Day 5. Sunshine- We have officially entered rainy season here in Quito, Ecuador but today was an exception and we had a nice little taste of what sunshine felt for a little while again and my friends it was good to the soul today.
Day 6. Roomie Dinner Night- Wednesdays are hard...Wednesdays are long...but Wednesdays are also Roomie Dinner Nights. Every Wednesday we sit down as roomies and eat a meal prepared by one of the four of us. One of my favorite ways to fellowship with people is around a table...whether thats a meal, a cup of coffee, glass of wine, dessert or whatever It's such a fun way to hang out with someone. When you're sitting around a table you are usually forced to talk so therefore you share about your day: the good and the bad, you share your struggles and your successes and sometimes even your secrets. Its a fun way to get to know other people and its a fun way to enjoy time with my roommates. This particular Wednesday was my week and being the southern girl I am...I fixed good ole chicken and dumplings and I did it successfully too!
Something I have eaten so many times before but have never made but I took on the tasks because it was really fun to share this part of me with a few northerners and a German! :) I love the blessing that my roomies have been to me and the times we have shared together.
Day 7. Biblical Truth- Specifically the teaching of biblical truth and even more specifically the teaching of biblical truth in my elementary chapels.
Day 8. Reaching a goal- More often than not people refrain from setting goals because if we don't set goals we have a lesser chance of failing but I decided to set a goal. As most of you know I am a runner…a long distance runner so therefore I like to run for longer amounts of time vs. a really fast time but I signed up for the NIKE 10K here in Quito and I decided to set the goal of finishing in an under an hour. (some or most of you may be saying..Oh, thats easy) but for someone who runs half marathons I usually have the mindset of just finishing however I risked it and set a goal and thankfully reached that goal of finishing in 57 minutes. woo hoo! Now, to set a new one. (yes this thankful post is a little out of order but oh well--most of you probably wouldn't have known that if I didn't say anything)
Day 9. Long Lasting Friendships- I had a free saturday afternoon yesterday and it worked out that a friend of mine from home did too. However, not just any friend. I got to Skype with my best friend from the 4th grade. THE 4TH GRADE people! As we said our goodbyes my immediate thoughts when we hung up were WOW! Look at the journey our friendship has been on. Oh, how the Lord works and I am thankful that He does! Im thankful for Kayla and for so many more friends back home who keep me edified, hold me accountable, and pray for me and with me from miles and miles away.
THIS girl.
Day 10. Accountability and Conviction- Brothers and Sisters in Christ…."HOLD ME ACCOUNTABLE!" ''CALL ME OUT!" -Thanks. I have been blessed with friends that do that…I have but I am positive I could use it more often…I am positive it is something we could all use more often. So, thanks friends that do! and thank the Lord for the conviction of my sins after I have been called out by a fellow believer. Its super tough to swallow…um…SUPER tough. Gotta be thankful for the tough stuff too.
Day 11. ZUMBA Class !!! - If you know me at all you know that one of my biggest passions is dancing! and what better way to relieve stress on a Monday afternoon than doing ZUMBA with such a fun group of ladies. It is a bonding moment for sure and a super big THANKS to ANN COE...our fearless leader and my "mom" here in Ecuador. (My life just wouldn't be the same without her and her family...and her ZUMBA class ;) )
Day 12: For the GOOD days. Im thankful there are good days that overpower the bad days. Thankful for another day to choose joy, be a light, and enjoy life to the fullest. I am thankful that the Lord gives us bad days to learn but I am so so thankful that there are good and even GREAT days in the midst of bad days and maybe even bad weeks. I am thankful that the Lord blessed me with a lot of GOOD days here lately because I am reminded that there is GOOD in the BAD. Thanks Lord for Romans 8:28 .
Day 13: Bobby Coe- If you are a consistent follower of my blog you might be familiar with the Coe name. The Coe's have become my family here therefore making Bobby like my little brother…(and I thought I was an only child- haha) But, there are some advantages of having a "little brother" I must say. Its fun to joke around with him and pick on him and its even fun to ask him to do stuff but its even more fun when he is willing. Day 13 fell on a Wednesday, Wednesday is the day we have our CSO DEEPER and Bobby is one of the high schoolers involved in this CSO. And on most wednesdays he does a great job with the kids and on this particular wednesday he did a fantastic job at taking the lead and helping me out a great deal. Bobby helped lead the Big Group Game at the beginning which took a lot of energy and then after that he came in and practically led the 1st grade group because we were short adults so I was having to hop around from group to group and couldn't stay with the 1st graders the whole time (this isn't the first time either) Bobby has excelled in DEEPER week after week and I am so grateful for his willingness to serve in any way and his commitment to DEEPER whatever that might be. Thanks little brother!
Day 14: Talking Healthy- Most of you know that one of the things I am most passionate about is health and fitness. I love to exercise and I love to eat healthy. It is a huge part of my life. And now I am happy to share that part of my life with a high school friend- HAILEY! One of my bestest friends has jumped on the Healthy Bandwagon with me and is not looking back. I was able to Skype with her and we talked "healthy" talk and I loved every minute of it. (is it weird that Hailey, of all people, has become a health guru---YES--haha but thats okay-- I LOVE IT) We talked about her getting personal trainer certified--and how I can do that (it is a goal/dream of mine). She is also getting yoga certified--cool! We talked about eating healthy and working out together when I am at home for Christmas, we talked about workout gear- one of the perks of being an active person is the cool clothes of course, like I said..we talked healthy talk and I love being able to share that passion with people especially one my best friends.
Day 15: Magazines (in English) - Go ahead and laugh, look confused but I will proudly admit it. I love Magazines! Guilty pleasure? maybe! Im not really a big reader. I actually don't like to read for the most part so I have always resorted to magazines and here in Ecuador I don't have access to magazines (in English) so its just not the same. But tonight we had a classic girls night--food, movies, nail polish and MAGAZINES from the states. I was in a happy place. I will admit most of the stuff in magazines is garbage, trash, whatever you wanna call it but its a favorite pass time of mine and I was glad to get to remember that for a night as I read all about the latest movies, music, fashion, and of course gossip from my home country of the United States that I rarely hear about now living in Ecuador. So thanks Elisa Brown for bringing those back for Mandi so that she could share with us!
Day 16: Fellowship- Im a cheese ball when it comes to spending time with groups of friends and even hanging out and spending time with people not in my immediate friend group. It's a saturday and for the most part pretty relaxing but on saturday night our plans were to go out for sushi and then head to school (yes, the place we are at everyday) to attend the Harvest Festival put on by the Junior Class. Again, I say….Im a cheese ball. I love things like this; eating food, hanging out, playing with kids, sitting on hay, haunted houses (run by a bunch of students), auctions, fundraisers, cake, and people I love. Such a fun night that not only included great fellowship with friends and coworkers and families but also gave us a little glimpse of fall and that was the cherry on top of a good night.
Day 17: The Tassys- The Tassys are a family that became very close to Kat and I. A family we spent a lot of time with and looked to for help, guidance, encouragement, and support and cooking and baking tips during our first year here. This family is back in the states this year and with the help of technology we were able to Skype with them for about 3 hours on this Sunday afternoon. What a blessing.
Day 18: Rain Jackets- and remembering to bring it. (This one is for Melissa and Rachel)- We have enterered rainy season here in Quito and I have learned that I don't really like to be wet so I am very thankful that I have a rain jacket and that I remember to take it with me---like 7 out of 10 times. Those are really good odds if you knew me in college. I went to MS state in Starkville, MS and I think it rains more there than anywhere else but who never took their rain jacket?! yep, me! and who lived there for 4 years know it would probably rain and I would want my rain jacket around? yep, me! It took moving to Ecuador and experiencing rainy season for it to click but it has finally clicked! woo hoo for rain jackets and staying dry!
Day 19: Friends that know best (sometimes)-- Today, I was sick. I admit it. I hate being sick. I am pretty sure its a pride thing but that has not been proven. But today, I was sick and I tried to be at school, I tried to get work done, and I tried to check all the things off the list but by 10:00 am I was struggling to physically move and fight back the tears of defeat. So, Kat sent me home. Does she have that authority? No, but as my best friend here I took her advice and went home and I am thankful that I did. I am thankful that I had a friend that knew what was best for me today.
Day 20: Christmas Trees- Its another Wednesday and you know what that means: Roomie dinner night! :) and tonight the festivities included putting up the Christmas tree. Little early, you ask? Not to me and not here in Ecuador. Since there is no Thanksgiving--its straight to Christmas. I am not just thankful for the actual tree itself. .I am thankful for the Christmas lights that decorate the tree and light up the living room. I am thankful for the memories made putting up and decorating Christmas trees. . Putting up the Christmas tree means that Christmas is that much closer. (and I get to put up two trees this year--can't wait for the second one when I get home in blank days)
Day 21: Beautiful painted skies-- The Lord is super creative in the ways He blesses us with His beauty and all too often I forget to acknowledge them. I could have easily done it today…I could have easily been distracted by my aching tooth and could have continued to complain about the pain in my mouth but I was with someone who made sure to point out the beautiful sky and I am so glad they did.
Because what a blessing and good reminder of the Lord's goodness to us even in the pain.
Day 22: Our Neighbors- I must admit we have a family that lives in our apartment building that have been some pretty cool neighbors to have around.
They are an Alliance family and I teach their kids but I got the privilege with my roomies to babysit them last night and it was a pretty good time. This family not only blesses us with their company but their food is pretty great too! They have fed us dinner many a nights (including last night) and it never disappoints! EVER! So we are pretty blessed with hospitality and good fellowship on a daily basis.
Day 23: Canned Pumpkin- keep reading before you just get confused and judge me. Today we got to have an early Thanksgiving celebration with the girls and it was awesome---not only the food- but the time to hang out was great too! Back to the canned pumpkin though…pumpkin isn't really as abundant here as it is in the states so I planned ahead (i know, weird right) and brought back canned pumpkin for the fall season and for thanksgiving celebrations like the one today and I am glad I did. Fall is the hardest time for me to miss…i think I have said that enough... so to get to bake pumpkin oatmeal chocolate chip cookies was such a treat for me and even better to get to share them with ladies that I love so very much. Not to mention that we had sweet potato casserole, fried chicken, green beans, mash potatoes, and cornbread muffins to go along with it. That was pretty great too!
So, thank you Lord for uses of the aluminum can!
Day 24: Rainy Sunday afternoons. They're just GREAT! enough said right? But really there isn't much better than coming home on a Sunday afternoon and putting off a list of things to do so you can nap to the sound of the rain outside.
Day 25: Random lunch dates with Naomi- Naomi is a Senior at Alliance and has become one of my great friends here! love her and spending time with her. I also love when things aren't planned and just kind of happen. It makes it that much more special. Good times!
Day 26: Sports. Sports do a lot for people. Sports keep us in shape. Sports give us discipline. Sports challenge us. Sports give us something to do. Sports give us something to talk about. Sports bring us together (grant it, I know they tear some apart). Sports are just a cool thing to have around and I am thankful for the years that I spent playing sports and I am thankful the time and memories spent cheering for sports or watching sports.
Day 27: MOM and DAD. I just want to be cheesy and say I have really great parents. Its definitely understood that they are awesome, that I love them and they love me, and I am thankful for them but they need a shout out too! I really am thankful for the supportive parents I have. Parents that have my back on the things I do and the parents who have never left my side and never will. I am thankful for the example they are for me on a daily basis. So thank the Lord for my awesome MOM and DAD.
Day 28: Half days. Okay, so Thanksgiving doesn't really exist as a celebrated holiday here in Ecuador but we gringos still want the joy of eating turkey, watching football and getting out of school. So our school did a really good job of making that happen in the best way possible in our situation as they could. Good job Administration. We got a half day today and those are always fun. 1. because you get out of school early and can do all kind of activities you wouldn't be able to do on a normal day and 2. because usually on a half day the time you are at school (especially during a holiday) consists of school wide assemblies, parties, and practically no class. Its a win win situation!
Day 29: All the things that come with the Thanksgiving Holiday: These include but not limited to: Turkey. Football. Games. Fellowship. Coffee. Dessert. Pumpkin. Family/Friend Gatherings. Laughter. Memories. Pictures.
These are only a few and depending on where you are in the world your list might look a bit different but this list describes in summary my thanksgiving this year in Ecuador. And I am so so thankful for my 2013 thanksgiving. I went out to the Davis Foundation Orphanage where the Coe's and Brock's live and hung out with them and several other families and friends in the Los Chillos Valley.
We left from Quito about 10:30am and spent the day on friday prepping for our Thanksgiving feast; Peeling potatoes, cutting apples, boiling eggs, ohh and playing a few intense games like SORRY, SPOONS, and FISHBOWL and a little AMERICAN FOOTBALL.
By dinner time everyone had arrived and all with an appetite. We all sat around the tables eating to make sure we got that I can't move, sick to my stomach full feeling just to go play some more FOOTBALL.
As the evening/night went on we played some more games, drank coffee, and laughed…ALOT.
Woke up on Saturday morning---with no use of an alarm…just the sunshine. Went for a quick run to come back and eat some pancakes for breakfast.
Pretty good Thanksgiving if I say so myself.
Soooo I am thankful for all the things that come with the Thanksgiving holiday even when I am leaving in a foreign country.
I am thankful for all the people I got to spend Thanksgiving with especially the Coe's and Brock's for hosting us! :)
Day 30: The Christmas Season. Im cheesy what can I say? I think I have said that quite a few times in this blog but I love that as December hits it will be time for Christmas music, Christmas movies, Christmas parties, Christmas food, Christmas presents, Christmas lights, Christmas trees, Christmas decorations and my favorite…..Christmas traditions. Im a sucker for traditions and I am also a stickler to them…so friends and family I get home in less than 2 weeks and Christmas traditions will be had. :)
Until Next Time,
Saved by grace,
Kb
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