Can you believe it's Christmas?! I can't. Time has flown and it boggles my mind.
Part of the reason it snuck (sneaked?) up so quickly is because, to me, it doesn't feel like Christmas. I miss the snow, the cold, the bundling up, the scarves (of course), the traditions, and the family and friends. The feeling of the season is hard to catch when it's always +20, sunny, and there are palm trees everywhere. Regardless, we have had plenty of fun enjoying a different kind of Christmas. Different is good! It's hard sometimes. But if you just embrace it for what it is, it will surprise you in a wonderful way :)
My Christmas Eve started off quite eventful with.... drumroll.... laundry! Fun eh? Better then doing it tomorrow though. After that, I decided to take advantage of the nice weather by going for a quick run. It was a great way to start the day.
When Aisling was volunteering in Tacloban after the typhoon, she met a couple who are staying there to help for the foreseeable future and convinced them to pop up to Tabuk to spend Christmas with us. It's fun to have two more Americano's around. We spent the afternoon strolling the market for the ingredients to make some tasty food and then went back to Georgia's house (who is in Canada for the holidays) to prepare and devour. And that we did. After dinner we came back to the clinic bearing cookies, cake, eggnog, and fudge to enjoy with the girls here.
Tomorrow will bring more fun time with friends, more wonderful food, and a new and different experience. And while I will miss home, I will be completely thankful for it.
I want to take some time in this blog to thank everyone who has supported me over this past year. I am blown away when I look back and see all the things God provided so that I could be here. Thank you for being so generous in your giving. For believing in where God has called me to in this time. For praying for me and supporting me while I am here. I can never come up with adequate words to express how grateful I really am. I would not be able to be here without your help! Not a day goes by that I don't thank God for all the people he has put in my life who would give so freely and wholeheartedly to see this work accomplished and these women being cared for. Thank you!!!
I pray that you all have a wonderful Christmas. I pray you enjoy time with the people you love, that you see God's blessings in this season, and that you get to enjoy some of your favorite foods ;)
Much love to you all!!!
Merry Christmas!
A
p.s. We are planning on putting together a video tour of the clinic and area in the next couple weeks so that you all can get a better idea of what it is like here, the work we do, why it's worth supporting, AND how great it is ;)
It you have anything specific that you would like to see or know, please let me know so we can include it!
Tuesday, December 24, 2013
Friday, December 6, 2013
Happily Present
Hellooo!
At long last, I have turned on the Christmas tunes (Celine Dion to be exact.. don't judge) and settled down with some coffee to write this post. I'm imagining it's snowing outside. Ah, my happy place!
November seems to have flown by and left me in the dust. It was a month that left this country in devastation after the typhoon hit the central islands. We still see daily reports of progress on the news and it never becomes easier to watch. My friend and fellow midwife-to-be (in her second year of studies), Aisling, left two weeks ago to help on a medical team. She comes back in a couple days but has kept us posted with some pretty crazy stories. She says that although the devastation is heartbreaking, there is such a spirit of hope present. It's amazing how, in the midst of these horrible circumstances, hope prevails.
Last month was super busy for the clinic and there were lots of cute babies born! This month is gearing up to be a busy one as well with over 50 women due. Please keep these mom's in your prayers as they prepare to bring a new life into their families. Pray for health of both the mom and the baby, and a smooth delivery.
I'm well into my 4th month here and still loving it. It's not always wonderful. There are hard days. There are homesick days. But those happen anywhere, and a new day always comes. We are learning so much, so quickly. I often feel as though the more I learn, the less I know. Can anyone relate? There is SO much to learn. I often look at the midwives who supervise me and think "Will I ever get to that place?". It seems like it is so far off. And it is, really, but I know I will get there in time.
I find myself to be a bit of a dreamer lately(or always?). A dreamer with a slight dose of pessimism. I dream a lot about what the future will hold. Where this life will take me. What God has in store. I dream about and look forward to going home in the summer and seeing my friends and family. I can't wait to hold my new niece or nephew. To meet the babies my friends have given birth to over the past year. To stand with a best friend as she marries the man of her dreams. There is SO much to look forward too. However, God has been challenging me a lot lately about what it means to be present. To dream for the right now.
Something I'm sure we can all relate to is that life goes by so quickly. Often though, I wonder if that has to do with how much we wish away. I don't want to wish, or dream, away the moments here. I know that I am called to be here in this time and I don't want to take that for granted. Another day comes before we know it, but how much more fully could we live our lives if we took the time to focus on what God has for us today. To wake up in anticipation of what the next few hours hold, not the next few years. To be present and to focus on the women he has put me with to show his love too.
That has been my challenge this past month... and let me tell you, I'm not good at it yet. But I am trying. All I know is that while dreaming isn't bad, God has each of us in the place we are at for a reason. Live in that reason. Learn the lessons put in front of you. They prepare you for what's to come. Commit to where you are... before you know it, it will be where you were.
Anyhoo, it's about time to continue tackling my current assignment and maybe move onto the nsync Christmas album (I know I know... you are all judging my music choices right now. At least I know my dear sisters would be loving this right along with me). I'll leave you with some prayer requests...
1. For the upcoming Christmas party with the patients from the past year. That there would be a good turn-out and that we would all have a great time celebrating Christmas with the wonderful women who give us reason to be here doing what we do.
2. Continued prayer for the victims of the Typhoon. (Check out the Red Cross Philippines if you are interested in donating).
3. Wisdom, patience, and trust as I begin to fund raise again in the new year.
You are never far from my mind, friends. Thanks for reading!
Much love,
Al
At long last, I have turned on the Christmas tunes (Celine Dion to be exact.. don't judge) and settled down with some coffee to write this post. I'm imagining it's snowing outside. Ah, my happy place!
November seems to have flown by and left me in the dust. It was a month that left this country in devastation after the typhoon hit the central islands. We still see daily reports of progress on the news and it never becomes easier to watch. My friend and fellow midwife-to-be (in her second year of studies), Aisling, left two weeks ago to help on a medical team. She comes back in a couple days but has kept us posted with some pretty crazy stories. She says that although the devastation is heartbreaking, there is such a spirit of hope present. It's amazing how, in the midst of these horrible circumstances, hope prevails.
Last month was super busy for the clinic and there were lots of cute babies born! This month is gearing up to be a busy one as well with over 50 women due. Please keep these mom's in your prayers as they prepare to bring a new life into their families. Pray for health of both the mom and the baby, and a smooth delivery.
I'm well into my 4th month here and still loving it. It's not always wonderful. There are hard days. There are homesick days. But those happen anywhere, and a new day always comes. We are learning so much, so quickly. I often feel as though the more I learn, the less I know. Can anyone relate? There is SO much to learn. I often look at the midwives who supervise me and think "Will I ever get to that place?". It seems like it is so far off. And it is, really, but I know I will get there in time.
I find myself to be a bit of a dreamer lately(or always?). A dreamer with a slight dose of pessimism. I dream a lot about what the future will hold. Where this life will take me. What God has in store. I dream about and look forward to going home in the summer and seeing my friends and family. I can't wait to hold my new niece or nephew. To meet the babies my friends have given birth to over the past year. To stand with a best friend as she marries the man of her dreams. There is SO much to look forward too. However, God has been challenging me a lot lately about what it means to be present. To dream for the right now.
Something I'm sure we can all relate to is that life goes by so quickly. Often though, I wonder if that has to do with how much we wish away. I don't want to wish, or dream, away the moments here. I know that I am called to be here in this time and I don't want to take that for granted. Another day comes before we know it, but how much more fully could we live our lives if we took the time to focus on what God has for us today. To wake up in anticipation of what the next few hours hold, not the next few years. To be present and to focus on the women he has put me with to show his love too.
That has been my challenge this past month... and let me tell you, I'm not good at it yet. But I am trying. All I know is that while dreaming isn't bad, God has each of us in the place we are at for a reason. Live in that reason. Learn the lessons put in front of you. They prepare you for what's to come. Commit to where you are... before you know it, it will be where you were.
Anyhoo, it's about time to continue tackling my current assignment and maybe move onto the nsync Christmas album (I know I know... you are all judging my music choices right now. At least I know my dear sisters would be loving this right along with me). I'll leave you with some prayer requests...
1. For the upcoming Christmas party with the patients from the past year. That there would be a good turn-out and that we would all have a great time celebrating Christmas with the wonderful women who give us reason to be here doing what we do.
2. Continued prayer for the victims of the Typhoon. (Check out the Red Cross Philippines if you are interested in donating).
3. Wisdom, patience, and trust as I begin to fund raise again in the new year.
You are never far from my mind, friends. Thanks for reading!
Much love,
Al
Had the complete privilege of helping this little guy come into the world.
He had is three week check yesterday and he has somehow gotten even cuter!!
Friday, November 1, 2013
Happy 1st Birthday Red Beard!
It's a special day today. I may be rather far away, but I cannot let this day pass without a huge shout-out to one of my most favourite places - Red Beard Coffeehouse - and the amazing people who are a part of it.
To Nate and Dani (Red Beard and Mrs. Redbeard):
Congrats on this first year! You guys are fantastic. Not a day goes by that I am not thankful for the time I had working at Red Beard. Catching babies is pretty darn awesome, but if I could figure out how to be a barista for you and do this, I would in a heartbeat!
Your hard work and passion for what you do has been such an encouragement and inspiration to me. Thanks for allowing me to be a part of Red Beard's first year... I'm so grateful!
Psalm 27:13 is my prayer for the year ahead...
To the beardlings:
You guys are the best. Seriously. And I miss you all!
To the customers:
Thanks for making 'work' so enjoyable... I'm sure the staff now would say the same! Keep supporting some of the best people I know :) Miss you!
Praying for many more years for my favourite coffeehouse! You are never to far from my mind.
To Nate and Dani (Red Beard and Mrs. Redbeard):
Congrats on this first year! You guys are fantastic. Not a day goes by that I am not thankful for the time I had working at Red Beard. Catching babies is pretty darn awesome, but if I could figure out how to be a barista for you and do this, I would in a heartbeat!
Your hard work and passion for what you do has been such an encouragement and inspiration to me. Thanks for allowing me to be a part of Red Beard's first year... I'm so grateful!
Psalm 27:13 is my prayer for the year ahead...
To the beardlings:
You guys are the best. Seriously. And I miss you all!
To the customers:
Thanks for making 'work' so enjoyable... I'm sure the staff now would say the same! Keep supporting some of the best people I know :) Miss you!
Praying for many more years for my favourite coffeehouse! You are never to far from my mind.
Sunday, October 27, 2013
My first catch!
Hey friends,
Update
Its been an exciting and busy past couple weeks here in Tabuk. We had two girls come up from the clinic in Davao to hang out and volunteer with us for two weeks. It was so fun to have them here and I miss them already.
I finally managed to find a computer! :) Through a true God plan, we happened to run into a previous patient and her husband as we were all studying at the gas station(café). Aisling chatted with them and somehow discovered that the husband runs a computer shop and probably had something for me. Georgia and I went to see him two days later, and two days after that I had a computer. Not just a computer actually, but also a super duper case(see picture below), and a super deal of about 3,000 pesos less then I had been able to find anywhere else. I'm very thankful!(sometimes I have to remember that when trying to learn how to use a PC again, not gonna lie!)
The change of seasons back home has been making me a bit homesick... or a lot homesick some days. There are many times that I wish I could be home enjoying the beautiful fall colors and the first snowfall, but there will be a time for that again and until then, I will happily embrace the life that I love here.
My First Catch
The girls visiting and finding a computer finally were both very awesome things... but I must say, the true highlight of this past week was my FIRST catch!!! About two weeks ago, my supervisors decided that I was ready to start catching. It was exciting to hear that, yet also nerve wracking. I can barely catch a ball, yet somehow I'm expected to help a slippery little baby come into this world? Thankfully they don't fly at you like a ball ;) In the first few days after told I would be able to catch I had two different labors that I helped with... neither went the way we would have expected. The first one we ended up transporting to the hospital and the second our director and midwife extraordinaire here, Georgia was called upon to step in. Both moms and babies are doing great, and while those labors had their challenges, I'm so thankful for them! Each held many, many lessons for me and I wouldn't trade that. When my labor came in on Thursday and we discovered her blood pressure was a bit elevated I started to get nervous and didn't want to get too excited that today could be the day. As I began to labor watch with this mom, I really felt like we had a good connection. For me, I feel like that's something that can be hard to establish considering the language barrier and culture differences. Something was different about this one though. She was clearly nervous and needed support. We began trying different methods to bring her blood pressure down, but it was taking a while for success. I decided we needed to try something a bit stronger... prayer. I sat down on the bed with her and asked if she would like me to pray for her. The relief on her face almost brought me to tears. We prayed for a couple minutes and she thanked me profusely when we were done. A short time later and after a couple different things, her blood pressure came down. God is good! She labored well and it wasn't long before we welcomed her little son to this world. She burst into tears when she saw him which, of course, made others including me tear up a bit too. It was an amazing moment that I will remember forever. I'm so blessed to have such amazing people around me who not only helped support the mother, but supported and congratulated me as well. It seemed like all the midwives were in the room shortly after to see how things had gone and give me a big smile. It was a great night :)
Financial Update
As I have said before, the past month has held some unexpected expenses. Having to purchase a new computer was not something that I had planned on. On top of that, my immigration expenses to stay here for two years has also been more then planned... and both things have come at the same time. While I do not want finances to always be a focus, it is a reality that they are. I am in a place of constantly trusting God to provide for these things. I'm not going to lie and say it's easy. It's probably one of the hardest parts about being here. Yet I know that He has called me to be in this place right now, and that he will provide. I have no doubt in that. But it also means that I have to be open and honest about my needs. So, this is where I am at. The computer cost and extra visa expenses have put me at almost $1000 over budget. I am trusting and praying that God will provide, and I'm asking you to do that with me as well. If you feel that you would like to support me financially to help with this, I would be so grateful. If you are not in that place, but can join me in trusting and praying then I would be so grateful for that as well!
Prayer requests
- For my first catch and his wonderful Mom. Blessing and health for them both :)
- For all our patients; healthy pregnancies, no complications in labor, and healthy babies
- For financial provision. For strength to continue in this fundraising journey.
- For health. I've been sick off and on for the past couple weeks.
Thanks for reading this rather long-winded post!!
Much love to ya!
Update
Its been an exciting and busy past couple weeks here in Tabuk. We had two girls come up from the clinic in Davao to hang out and volunteer with us for two weeks. It was so fun to have them here and I miss them already.
I finally managed to find a computer! :) Through a true God plan, we happened to run into a previous patient and her husband as we were all studying at the gas station(café). Aisling chatted with them and somehow discovered that the husband runs a computer shop and probably had something for me. Georgia and I went to see him two days later, and two days after that I had a computer. Not just a computer actually, but also a super duper case(see picture below), and a super deal of about 3,000 pesos less then I had been able to find anywhere else. I'm very thankful!(sometimes I have to remember that when trying to learn how to use a PC again, not gonna lie!)
Edol and I LOVE my computer case.
The change of seasons back home has been making me a bit homesick... or a lot homesick some days. There are many times that I wish I could be home enjoying the beautiful fall colors and the first snowfall, but there will be a time for that again and until then, I will happily embrace the life that I love here.
My First Catch
The girls visiting and finding a computer finally were both very awesome things... but I must say, the true highlight of this past week was my FIRST catch!!! About two weeks ago, my supervisors decided that I was ready to start catching. It was exciting to hear that, yet also nerve wracking. I can barely catch a ball, yet somehow I'm expected to help a slippery little baby come into this world? Thankfully they don't fly at you like a ball ;) In the first few days after told I would be able to catch I had two different labors that I helped with... neither went the way we would have expected. The first one we ended up transporting to the hospital and the second our director and midwife extraordinaire here, Georgia was called upon to step in. Both moms and babies are doing great, and while those labors had their challenges, I'm so thankful for them! Each held many, many lessons for me and I wouldn't trade that. When my labor came in on Thursday and we discovered her blood pressure was a bit elevated I started to get nervous and didn't want to get too excited that today could be the day. As I began to labor watch with this mom, I really felt like we had a good connection. For me, I feel like that's something that can be hard to establish considering the language barrier and culture differences. Something was different about this one though. She was clearly nervous and needed support. We began trying different methods to bring her blood pressure down, but it was taking a while for success. I decided we needed to try something a bit stronger... prayer. I sat down on the bed with her and asked if she would like me to pray for her. The relief on her face almost brought me to tears. We prayed for a couple minutes and she thanked me profusely when we were done. A short time later and after a couple different things, her blood pressure came down. God is good! She labored well and it wasn't long before we welcomed her little son to this world. She burst into tears when she saw him which, of course, made others including me tear up a bit too. It was an amazing moment that I will remember forever. I'm so blessed to have such amazing people around me who not only helped support the mother, but supported and congratulated me as well. It seemed like all the midwives were in the room shortly after to see how things had gone and give me a big smile. It was a great night :)
Adorable little footprints!
Financial Update
As I have said before, the past month has held some unexpected expenses. Having to purchase a new computer was not something that I had planned on. On top of that, my immigration expenses to stay here for two years has also been more then planned... and both things have come at the same time. While I do not want finances to always be a focus, it is a reality that they are. I am in a place of constantly trusting God to provide for these things. I'm not going to lie and say it's easy. It's probably one of the hardest parts about being here. Yet I know that He has called me to be in this place right now, and that he will provide. I have no doubt in that. But it also means that I have to be open and honest about my needs. So, this is where I am at. The computer cost and extra visa expenses have put me at almost $1000 over budget. I am trusting and praying that God will provide, and I'm asking you to do that with me as well. If you feel that you would like to support me financially to help with this, I would be so grateful. If you are not in that place, but can join me in trusting and praying then I would be so grateful for that as well!
Prayer requests
- For my first catch and his wonderful Mom. Blessing and health for them both :)
- For all our patients; healthy pregnancies, no complications in labor, and healthy babies
- For financial provision. For strength to continue in this fundraising journey.
- For health. I've been sick off and on for the past couple weeks.
Thanks for reading this rather long-winded post!!
Much love to ya!
Friday, October 11, 2013
Rainy day thoughts...
Hi friends,
It's a very stormy evening here in Tabuk and I am happily curled up with tea and some thoughts to share.
I often find it hard to write blogs, or updates of any sort really. It sometimes difficult to explain the intricacies of life here. I want to be as honest and transparent as I can, yet often lack the words that will make sense. Yet, I want it to make sense. I want you all to be able to understand a bit of what God is doing here and the things that I am experiencing... So please bear with me :)
I remember when I was preparing to come here. Way back when I was first sending my application. I remember sending it off and thinking 'phew! The hard part is over'. Then came the waiting for an answer, another hard part. Then the acceptance and figuring out how this was going to work... Hard part. Then the fundraising, you guessed it... VERY hard part. It just continued like that. I remember venting to a friend about wishing all the hard parts would be done and I could just enjoy it. I also still remember the look she gave me and I'm sure she was thinking 'she thinks THIS is the hard part?! She's in for a treat'. At least that's what the facial expression said.
It honestly just gets harder... Yet more enjoyable at the same time so don't start worrying about me :)
It's hard to be in an unfamiliar place around people (who are awesome!!) who you are just getting to know.
It's hard to live in a place where you are the outsider. Where you don't speak the language (though we are learning).
It's hard to learn to love and communicate with mothers who you don't understand and who don't understand you.
It's hard to continually trust that God is going to provide finances to make this all possible... Especially when emergencies come up (like broken computers and immigration bills all at the same time. Gotta love it!).
It's hard to be here when things are happening with people I love that break my heart and I feel powerless.
It's hard to miss things happening in the lives of people I love.
But, with all that being said, I wouldn't trade it for anything. I know that things aren't always easy, but I serve a God who wants to carry my burdens(Psalm 55:22). I serve a God who is sovereign(Psalm 103:19). Who knows the plan when I loose sight(Jeremiah 29:11). A God who is strength in my weakness(2 Corinthians 12:9-10). Who is faithful even when I am faithless(2 Timothy 2:13). A God whos promises endure forever(Psalm 100:5). And I am so thankful for the journey that he has me on... Even when it's hard.
There is a song that's been on my mind all day and has been such a great reminder to me. It's called Sovereign Over Us by Aaron Keys and I'll post it below for you just in case you need the reminder too :)
So, those are my thoughts for tonight. Thanks for reading!
I hope you are well... And that you have a Happy Thanksgiving! Eat an extra piece of pumpkin pie for me.
Much love,
A
Prayer requests:
- for the health of the women and babies we see.
- traveling safety for a couple students that are headed up here from Davao (there are Typhoon warnings).
- for continued financial provision... And maybe that there would be a stellar deal on a computer that will work for me here :) I go tomorrow to look.
Click this for the song:
http://m.youtube.com/watch?v=EufaligPigU
It's a very stormy evening here in Tabuk and I am happily curled up with tea and some thoughts to share.
I often find it hard to write blogs, or updates of any sort really. It sometimes difficult to explain the intricacies of life here. I want to be as honest and transparent as I can, yet often lack the words that will make sense. Yet, I want it to make sense. I want you all to be able to understand a bit of what God is doing here and the things that I am experiencing... So please bear with me :)
I remember when I was preparing to come here. Way back when I was first sending my application. I remember sending it off and thinking 'phew! The hard part is over'. Then came the waiting for an answer, another hard part. Then the acceptance and figuring out how this was going to work... Hard part. Then the fundraising, you guessed it... VERY hard part. It just continued like that. I remember venting to a friend about wishing all the hard parts would be done and I could just enjoy it. I also still remember the look she gave me and I'm sure she was thinking 'she thinks THIS is the hard part?! She's in for a treat'. At least that's what the facial expression said.
It honestly just gets harder... Yet more enjoyable at the same time so don't start worrying about me :)
It's hard to be in an unfamiliar place around people (who are awesome!!) who you are just getting to know.
It's hard to live in a place where you are the outsider. Where you don't speak the language (though we are learning).
It's hard to learn to love and communicate with mothers who you don't understand and who don't understand you.
It's hard to continually trust that God is going to provide finances to make this all possible... Especially when emergencies come up (like broken computers and immigration bills all at the same time. Gotta love it!).
It's hard to be here when things are happening with people I love that break my heart and I feel powerless.
It's hard to miss things happening in the lives of people I love.
But, with all that being said, I wouldn't trade it for anything. I know that things aren't always easy, but I serve a God who wants to carry my burdens(Psalm 55:22). I serve a God who is sovereign(Psalm 103:19). Who knows the plan when I loose sight(Jeremiah 29:11). A God who is strength in my weakness(2 Corinthians 12:9-10). Who is faithful even when I am faithless(2 Timothy 2:13). A God whos promises endure forever(Psalm 100:5). And I am so thankful for the journey that he has me on... Even when it's hard.
There is a song that's been on my mind all day and has been such a great reminder to me. It's called Sovereign Over Us by Aaron Keys and I'll post it below for you just in case you need the reminder too :)
So, those are my thoughts for tonight. Thanks for reading!
I hope you are well... And that you have a Happy Thanksgiving! Eat an extra piece of pumpkin pie for me.
Much love,
A
Prayer requests:
- for the health of the women and babies we see.
- traveling safety for a couple students that are headed up here from Davao (there are Typhoon warnings).
- for continued financial provision... And maybe that there would be a stellar deal on a computer that will work for me here :) I go tomorrow to look.
Click this for the song:
http://m.youtube.com/watch?v=EufaligPigU
Saturday, October 5, 2013
'fall' in the Philippines, more births, and dead computers :(
The days fly by quickly here and before I realize it it's been almost two weeks since my last blog. I'm sorry... I know you're all hanging on the edge of your seats for a new post ;-) (hehe).
I'm happy to report that the weather is starting to get a little bit cooler here. I can almost pretend it's fall. All the beautiful pictures posted from home of fall colours and pumpkin this and that have really helped strengthen my character. Specifically when it comes to jealousy and envy... So thanks for that :)
I have now seen 12 births in my time here with each being beautiful in their own right.
One of my favorite moments happened the other night when I was woken up at 3am to assist a birth even though I wasn't on shift. There were two midwives on that night, which is usually enough for that shift, however we ended up having two labour's who started pushing at the same time. As you can imagine, extra hands were needed and I was able to fill some of that need. Both the births went well and delivered within minutes of each other, but it's not so much the births that made it a favourite moment. It was the feeling of being a part of something amazing right along side some pretty spectacular midwives. In the wee hours of the morning, two new lives entered the world and while everyone was asleep in their beds, we got to witness first breaths, first cries, first sneezes, and lovely moments of a parents first look at their child. It's truly a beautiful thing and I feel so blessed to be a little part of it.
On to a less lovely note... My week did include some disappointment and slight frustration. My Mac died. Some of you may feel my pain and some may wonder why this is significant at all. For those of you who feel my pain, thank you for making me feel less crazy.
While I am very thankful to have a working phone that still allows me to keep in touch, it doesn't help much when it comes to writing rather long assignments, researching, and doing a large portion of what I am here for: learning. We do not have the luxury of a computer lab or library with which I could make due with those computers for the time being. I have weighed the pros, cons, and prices in trying to figure out what to do. It seems my best option is to get an inexpensive PC here. As you can imagine, this is not something I planned or budgeted for. People often ask me what I need, and quite honestly, this is it. I need the financial provision to purchase a computer for my time here. I would be so thankful if you would prayerfully consider helping me out in this. If that is praying and believing with me that provision will come, that is great! If you would like to support financially, thank you!! Just use the PayPal button on the right side of the page. Or, if you happen to have a computer lying around (or know of anyone who does), and feel like sending it on a trip across the ocean, I would be so grateful!! If you have any questions, or need an alternate way to support besides PayPal please contact me.
Thank you for reading my little bits about life here. And for the prayers. And for the messages, comments on posts, and mail that has been sent. It always brightens my day and makes me feel a little bit closer to home.
Love and prayers,
A
I'm happy to report that the weather is starting to get a little bit cooler here. I can almost pretend it's fall. All the beautiful pictures posted from home of fall colours and pumpkin this and that have really helped strengthen my character. Specifically when it comes to jealousy and envy... So thanks for that :)
I have now seen 12 births in my time here with each being beautiful in their own right.
One of my favorite moments happened the other night when I was woken up at 3am to assist a birth even though I wasn't on shift. There were two midwives on that night, which is usually enough for that shift, however we ended up having two labour's who started pushing at the same time. As you can imagine, extra hands were needed and I was able to fill some of that need. Both the births went well and delivered within minutes of each other, but it's not so much the births that made it a favourite moment. It was the feeling of being a part of something amazing right along side some pretty spectacular midwives. In the wee hours of the morning, two new lives entered the world and while everyone was asleep in their beds, we got to witness first breaths, first cries, first sneezes, and lovely moments of a parents first look at their child. It's truly a beautiful thing and I feel so blessed to be a little part of it.
On to a less lovely note... My week did include some disappointment and slight frustration. My Mac died. Some of you may feel my pain and some may wonder why this is significant at all. For those of you who feel my pain, thank you for making me feel less crazy.
While I am very thankful to have a working phone that still allows me to keep in touch, it doesn't help much when it comes to writing rather long assignments, researching, and doing a large portion of what I am here for: learning. We do not have the luxury of a computer lab or library with which I could make due with those computers for the time being. I have weighed the pros, cons, and prices in trying to figure out what to do. It seems my best option is to get an inexpensive PC here. As you can imagine, this is not something I planned or budgeted for. People often ask me what I need, and quite honestly, this is it. I need the financial provision to purchase a computer for my time here. I would be so thankful if you would prayerfully consider helping me out in this. If that is praying and believing with me that provision will come, that is great! If you would like to support financially, thank you!! Just use the PayPal button on the right side of the page. Or, if you happen to have a computer lying around (or know of anyone who does), and feel like sending it on a trip across the ocean, I would be so grateful!! If you have any questions, or need an alternate way to support besides PayPal please contact me.
Thank you for reading my little bits about life here. And for the prayers. And for the messages, comments on posts, and mail that has been sent. It always brightens my day and makes me feel a little bit closer to home.
Love and prayers,
A
Monday, September 23, 2013
10 Things...
In honour of observing my 10th birth, I've decided it would be fun (for me anyway!) to put together a list of 10 things I have learned in my time here so far.
I find I keep a mental list of such information going at all times, so here are a few of my favourite or most useful lessons.
Enjoy!
1. While gecko's are cute, they are not cuddly. They are squishy and sticky. They are not ideal bed mates, and when they decide to be, it results in sleeping with the light on for the rest of the night. They also randomly fall from the ceiling and splat on the floor. It's like they forget they are hanging upside down.
2. It's best not to look up when showering. Chances are you don't want to know who's(what's) in there with you.
3. There is always a pot of rice. Always. Anytime.
4. People will stare, laugh, point, and in general make you feel like you always have something in your teeth or your clothes are on backwards.
5. An americano is no longer just my favourite drink at Red Beard... It's my identity. Any white person is an americano. Not Canadian, not Irish, not Aussie.. Americano. It's all one in the same. Needless to say, every time I hear someone say it (which is usually while walking past a bunch of kids who giggle uncontrollably over the fact that they saw an americano), I crave my favourite coffee!
6. Mutual respect bridges the cultural gap. As does a good laugh.
7. The world's best peanut butter is made here!! I kid you not. It tastes exactly like the inside of a Resses Pieces cup.
8. The Voice: Philippines is SO GOOD!! Crazy talent. If only it had Blake and Adam as coaches...
9. Cherish the moments when you need more then a top sheet to sleep cause you are 'cold'... and the moments when you just might need a long sleeve shirt! (it's only happened once).
10. If ever you're homesick, head on over to the gas station for some A/C, comfy couches, and gossip mags that are over a year old.
I find it hard to believe I have been here for almost a month. It has flown by, and I am sure will continue to do so. The days are full of constant learning, new adventures, or relaxing with new friends. I have favourite memories already, and look forward to the many that are to come.
While I love it here, Canada is never far from my mind...
Missing you friends!
Al
Prayer requests:
- For all the women we have the privilege to care for. For healthy pregnancies, safe deliveries, and healthy babies.
I find I keep a mental list of such information going at all times, so here are a few of my favourite or most useful lessons.
Enjoy!
1. While gecko's are cute, they are not cuddly. They are squishy and sticky. They are not ideal bed mates, and when they decide to be, it results in sleeping with the light on for the rest of the night. They also randomly fall from the ceiling and splat on the floor. It's like they forget they are hanging upside down.
2. It's best not to look up when showering. Chances are you don't want to know who's(what's) in there with you.
3. There is always a pot of rice. Always. Anytime.
4. People will stare, laugh, point, and in general make you feel like you always have something in your teeth or your clothes are on backwards.
5. An americano is no longer just my favourite drink at Red Beard... It's my identity. Any white person is an americano. Not Canadian, not Irish, not Aussie.. Americano. It's all one in the same. Needless to say, every time I hear someone say it (which is usually while walking past a bunch of kids who giggle uncontrollably over the fact that they saw an americano), I crave my favourite coffee!
6. Mutual respect bridges the cultural gap. As does a good laugh.
7. The world's best peanut butter is made here!! I kid you not. It tastes exactly like the inside of a Resses Pieces cup.
8. The Voice: Philippines is SO GOOD!! Crazy talent. If only it had Blake and Adam as coaches...
9. Cherish the moments when you need more then a top sheet to sleep cause you are 'cold'... and the moments when you just might need a long sleeve shirt! (it's only happened once).
10. If ever you're homesick, head on over to the gas station for some A/C, comfy couches, and gossip mags that are over a year old.
I find it hard to believe I have been here for almost a month. It has flown by, and I am sure will continue to do so. The days are full of constant learning, new adventures, or relaxing with new friends. I have favourite memories already, and look forward to the many that are to come.
While I love it here, Canada is never far from my mind...
Missing you friends!
Al
Prayer requests:
- For all the women we have the privilege to care for. For healthy pregnancies, safe deliveries, and healthy babies.
I love the sunsets here!
Monday, September 9, 2013
A weekend getaway..
Hi friends..
I have just returned from a wonderful couple days in the village of Bugnay. It was nice to disconnect a bit and to experience a place that people here have spoken so fondly of. I see now why they love it so much.
Our trip started out well. I was so excited to ride top load for the first time in my life. Thank goodness I'm not afraid of heights. The view from on top of the bus was absolutely amazing and entirely worth every frightful moment.. and there were a ton! Trust me. I was told it's a good idea to make sure you are right with God before you take a trip like that. We all survived, thoroughly enjoyed the trip, but were so grateful to arrive at the clinic in Bugnay(as were our tailbones). The clinic is an awesome little place clinging to the side of a mountain. It is an extension of Abudant Grace of God Maternity(where I serve here in Tabuk), but really cannot be compared. It is different and amazing all in it's own right. We were greeted by some of the village there, as well as Crystal, the midwife who runs the Bugnay clinic. After a quick little rest and orientation, we hiked down the mountain, over the bridge, and up into the village.
People keep asking me if I am experiencing culture shock being here, and honestly, I feel like it's more culture awe. These people amaze me! They inspire me. They encourage me. And they probably don't even realize they have that effect. I could have sat in the village for hours upon hours just watching how they live and interact. We toured the village a bit, visited a tree with a creepy history, and enjoyed some coffee. Shortly before dark, we trekked back across the bridge and up(WAY up) to the clinic for some supper, relax time, and a much needed sleep.
The following morning was church in the village. That is one of my favourite memories of this trip. This service was so beautiful that it brought Aisling and I to tears. I couldn't understand a word that they were saying, but the way they worship is so genuine and humble. It was a bunch of the youth leading and man, I just wanted to bring them back to Canada so other people could experience this. It's hard to put it into words.. all I can say is that even though I didn't know what the words were, I knew what they were saying.
After church we had lunch in the village, went down to the river to swim(or soak sun burnt legs), then headed back to the clinic for the rest of the time. Crystal was such a great hostess to us and I loved getting to know her a bit. She has become an honourary Canadian.
This morning we hopped back on top of a moving vehicle to head home, but this time it was a jeepny instead of a bus which meant it was a bit lower and didn't involve us having to duck to get under power lines. Ah the little blessings!
I am now happily home. Yes, home. In my comfy bed. Feeling thankful. Very thankful. The things I am getting to experience here have brought about a lot of new perspective, but also help me live in a more continuously thankful mindset. I am thankful for the people here and I'm thankful for my life and friends in Canada. I'm thankful for the different culture here, and I'm thankful for the comforts at home. I'm thankful that I have many places that are near and dear to my heart, that I call home, and that this place has quickly been added to that.
God is good friends.. He is so good. I truly hope and pray that you see that in your day ahead. Take some time to just be thankful.. for where you are, for what you have, for who you love.. and then drink some good coffee for me cause I darn well miss it!!
Sending some love from way over here...
A
p.s. For those of you letter writers, or care-package senders.. here is some useful info for you :)
Alexandra Pagnucco
C/O Abundant Grace of God Maternity
Magsaysay
Tabuk, Kalinga 3800
Philippines
I have just returned from a wonderful couple days in the village of Bugnay. It was nice to disconnect a bit and to experience a place that people here have spoken so fondly of. I see now why they love it so much.
Our trip started out well. I was so excited to ride top load for the first time in my life. Thank goodness I'm not afraid of heights. The view from on top of the bus was absolutely amazing and entirely worth every frightful moment.. and there were a ton! Trust me. I was told it's a good idea to make sure you are right with God before you take a trip like that. We all survived, thoroughly enjoyed the trip, but were so grateful to arrive at the clinic in Bugnay(as were our tailbones). The clinic is an awesome little place clinging to the side of a mountain. It is an extension of Abudant Grace of God Maternity(where I serve here in Tabuk), but really cannot be compared. It is different and amazing all in it's own right. We were greeted by some of the village there, as well as Crystal, the midwife who runs the Bugnay clinic. After a quick little rest and orientation, we hiked down the mountain, over the bridge, and up into the village.
People keep asking me if I am experiencing culture shock being here, and honestly, I feel like it's more culture awe. These people amaze me! They inspire me. They encourage me. And they probably don't even realize they have that effect. I could have sat in the village for hours upon hours just watching how they live and interact. We toured the village a bit, visited a tree with a creepy history, and enjoyed some coffee. Shortly before dark, we trekked back across the bridge and up(WAY up) to the clinic for some supper, relax time, and a much needed sleep.
The following morning was church in the village. That is one of my favourite memories of this trip. This service was so beautiful that it brought Aisling and I to tears. I couldn't understand a word that they were saying, but the way they worship is so genuine and humble. It was a bunch of the youth leading and man, I just wanted to bring them back to Canada so other people could experience this. It's hard to put it into words.. all I can say is that even though I didn't know what the words were, I knew what they were saying.
After church we had lunch in the village, went down to the river to swim(or soak sun burnt legs), then headed back to the clinic for the rest of the time. Crystal was such a great hostess to us and I loved getting to know her a bit. She has become an honourary Canadian.
This morning we hopped back on top of a moving vehicle to head home, but this time it was a jeepny instead of a bus which meant it was a bit lower and didn't involve us having to duck to get under power lines. Ah the little blessings!
I am now happily home. Yes, home. In my comfy bed. Feeling thankful. Very thankful. The things I am getting to experience here have brought about a lot of new perspective, but also help me live in a more continuously thankful mindset. I am thankful for the people here and I'm thankful for my life and friends in Canada. I'm thankful for the different culture here, and I'm thankful for the comforts at home. I'm thankful that I have many places that are near and dear to my heart, that I call home, and that this place has quickly been added to that.
God is good friends.. He is so good. I truly hope and pray that you see that in your day ahead. Take some time to just be thankful.. for where you are, for what you have, for who you love.. and then drink some good coffee for me cause I darn well miss it!!
Sending some love from way over here...
A
p.s. For those of you letter writers, or care-package senders.. here is some useful info for you :)
Alexandra Pagnucco
C/O Abundant Grace of God Maternity
Magsaysay
Tabuk, Kalinga 3800
Philippines
Tuesday, August 27, 2013
Hello from my new home..
I'm here!!!
It is so good to sit here and write this to all you wonderful friends. It's been a long time coming.
The travel here was long and exhausting, but was well worth it once I stepped off the bus and saw such welcoming faces. I have settled into my room as much as one can in an afternoon and am looking forward to making it more like home in the coming weeks. I am so blessed to have a corner room with two big windows and amazing views.
I'd be lying if I said that writing this didn't make me a little bit homesick. It's strange sitting here knowing that everyone reading this is so far away and that these are stories and experiences that I won't be able to share in person for a while. With that being said, I am truly happy to be here and am looking forward to jumping into things... and jumping quickly considering we have started classes today and will have an assignment due and exam next week. Yikes!
Life here is very different and I am certainly having moments of culture shock. I am very thankful for the gas station/cafe around the corner from the clinic that has wi-fi, aircon, and yummy treats. We went there for our first 'class' this morning and ended up staying well after we were done. We may have enjoyed some french fries in that time too ;) Needless to say, it's making the transition much easier.
I had high hopes of getting over jet-lag in one day and considering my random travel schedule I thought it might work... however, at 4:30am I was wide awake and being serenaded by a little gecko outside my window. It made for a good time to catch up with some friends since it was a normal time in lovely Canada.
The next few days will be filled with more class time, homework, hopefully a birth observation, an outreach to a nearby village on Saturday, and church at another nearby village on Sunday. I so look forward to settling in more each day and truly making this my home for the next two years.
Time for some reading and homework!
Much love,
Alex
Prayer requests:
*Health and protection over all the moms and babies that come into the clinic.
*Safety as we travel to the villages this weekend.
*In order to meet certain needs as they arise, as well as continue to save for upcoming clinic fees, I am praying for provision in the way of monthly support. If this is something you are interested in, please contact me.
It is so good to sit here and write this to all you wonderful friends. It's been a long time coming.
The travel here was long and exhausting, but was well worth it once I stepped off the bus and saw such welcoming faces. I have settled into my room as much as one can in an afternoon and am looking forward to making it more like home in the coming weeks. I am so blessed to have a corner room with two big windows and amazing views.
I'd be lying if I said that writing this didn't make me a little bit homesick. It's strange sitting here knowing that everyone reading this is so far away and that these are stories and experiences that I won't be able to share in person for a while. With that being said, I am truly happy to be here and am looking forward to jumping into things... and jumping quickly considering we have started classes today and will have an assignment due and exam next week. Yikes!
Life here is very different and I am certainly having moments of culture shock. I am very thankful for the gas station/cafe around the corner from the clinic that has wi-fi, aircon, and yummy treats. We went there for our first 'class' this morning and ended up staying well after we were done. We may have enjoyed some french fries in that time too ;) Needless to say, it's making the transition much easier.
I had high hopes of getting over jet-lag in one day and considering my random travel schedule I thought it might work... however, at 4:30am I was wide awake and being serenaded by a little gecko outside my window. It made for a good time to catch up with some friends since it was a normal time in lovely Canada.
The next few days will be filled with more class time, homework, hopefully a birth observation, an outreach to a nearby village on Saturday, and church at another nearby village on Sunday. I so look forward to settling in more each day and truly making this my home for the next two years.
Time for some reading and homework!
Much love,
Alex
Prayer requests:
*Health and protection over all the moms and babies that come into the clinic.
*Safety as we travel to the villages this weekend.
*In order to meet certain needs as they arise, as well as continue to save for upcoming clinic fees, I am praying for provision in the way of monthly support. If this is something you are interested in, please contact me.
Happy to be back near mountains... I can look out the window and almost pretend it's BC! :)
Friday, August 9, 2013
My travels so far..
Thought it might be about time for a quick update :)
It has been a very full, wonderful week since leaving Kamloops(not that I don't miss all you great people there!). There are days that I wake up and can't believe I am in the time that I have been planning for so long.
This past Saturday the first year students of Newlife gathered just outside of Portland for a couple days of orientation. It was so fun to get to know everyone! We had a relaxing time of hiking, seeing the ocean(or skipping it for Costco instead), relaxing by a pool, and eating a lot of delicious food. It was a much needed time of rest after the very busy lead-up to leaving that most of us had experienced.
Edolbina(the other student that I will be with in Tabuk) and I clicked right away and it already feels like I have known her for ages. It's going to be an exciting and hilarious couple years with her and her husband Andrew. I am so thankful that I will already have a friend there.
The other students are all wonderful in their own right and I had such a blast with them. It was hard to send them off at the airport knowing it will be months before I see most of them, but I am so excited to walk through this with them from afar.
I am now happily spending a week and a bit in my hometown of Sault Ste Marie. It's always a joy to come 'home'. I'm thankful that I can be here to spend time with my friends, family, and to celebrate my sisters wedding before heading overseas. After this, I will be going to St. Catharines to spend time with some wonderful people there and then flying to the Philippines on Aug 25th.
My next post will probably be from my new home in Tabuk, so until then, be blessed!
Kamloops friends - I miss you a ton! Please visit RedBeard LOTS for me.. someone needs to drink my share of coffee ;)
Much love,
Alex
- Prayer requests -
*That traveling would go smoothly when I head overseas
*For the students already there - that they would settle in well and stay in good health
It has been a very full, wonderful week since leaving Kamloops(not that I don't miss all you great people there!). There are days that I wake up and can't believe I am in the time that I have been planning for so long.
This past Saturday the first year students of Newlife gathered just outside of Portland for a couple days of orientation. It was so fun to get to know everyone! We had a relaxing time of hiking, seeing the ocean(or skipping it for Costco instead), relaxing by a pool, and eating a lot of delicious food. It was a much needed time of rest after the very busy lead-up to leaving that most of us had experienced.
Edolbina(the other student that I will be with in Tabuk) and I clicked right away and it already feels like I have known her for ages. It's going to be an exciting and hilarious couple years with her and her husband Andrew. I am so thankful that I will already have a friend there.
The other students are all wonderful in their own right and I had such a blast with them. It was hard to send them off at the airport knowing it will be months before I see most of them, but I am so excited to walk through this with them from afar.
I am now happily spending a week and a bit in my hometown of Sault Ste Marie. It's always a joy to come 'home'. I'm thankful that I can be here to spend time with my friends, family, and to celebrate my sisters wedding before heading overseas. After this, I will be going to St. Catharines to spend time with some wonderful people there and then flying to the Philippines on Aug 25th.
My next post will probably be from my new home in Tabuk, so until then, be blessed!
Kamloops friends - I miss you a ton! Please visit RedBeard LOTS for me.. someone needs to drink my share of coffee ;)
Much love,
Alex
- Prayer requests -
*That traveling would go smoothly when I head overseas
*For the students already there - that they would settle in well and stay in good health
NISM class of 2015 (minus a few) hiking on the Oregon coast.
The Tabuk Crew!
Myself, Edolbina, and her husband Andrew.
Wednesday, July 31, 2013
Blessings and Provision
It's always best to start the morning off with good news, right?
In that case, I am so thrilled to tell you all that I am now FULLY funded for my clinic fees this year!!!! Can you believe it?! I am still in awe.
When I started this process of raising funds three months ago there were many times where I thought I was crazy. $15,000 in 90 days seemed like an impossible task. Completely unattainable. It was impossible.. for me. But with God, nothing is impossible. He promised me that he would provide, and he did. I cannot express enough how thankful I am to everyone who has prayed, encouraged, and supported. This truly is just the start of things. I can promise you more of those things will be needed in the days to come, but I just want to ensure you all know how thankful I am for everything.
If you were planning on donating or offering monthly support but hadn't had a chance to yet, don't worry, you still can! Anything received from now on will be saved to go towards next years fees. Why not get a head start on it, eh? : )
Thank you friends!!!!
Much love,
A
"And my God shall supply all your needs according to His riches in glory" - Phil 4:19
In that case, I am so thrilled to tell you all that I am now FULLY funded for my clinic fees this year!!!! Can you believe it?! I am still in awe.
When I started this process of raising funds three months ago there were many times where I thought I was crazy. $15,000 in 90 days seemed like an impossible task. Completely unattainable. It was impossible.. for me. But with God, nothing is impossible. He promised me that he would provide, and he did. I cannot express enough how thankful I am to everyone who has prayed, encouraged, and supported. This truly is just the start of things. I can promise you more of those things will be needed in the days to come, but I just want to ensure you all know how thankful I am for everything.
If you were planning on donating or offering monthly support but hadn't had a chance to yet, don't worry, you still can! Anything received from now on will be saved to go towards next years fees. Why not get a head start on it, eh? : )
Thank you friends!!!!
Much love,
A
"And my God shall supply all your needs according to His riches in glory" - Phil 4:19
Monday, July 29, 2013
The days become few.. literally
Hi Friends,
Just wanted to give you a quick update before the craziness of the next week takes over my time.. and in all honesty, I want to procrastinate packing for a little bit longer.
It has been amazing to see how things have continued to come together over the last couple weeks. There are many big and little details involved in this and seeing them fall into place slowly, but surely, has been so encouraging. The goodbyes have started and it makes everything seem a bit more real. I am so thankful for the time I have had in Kamloops, the people I have met, and the connections I have built. I already look forward to visiting next summer!
The next big hurdle of this process is, of course, paying for my first year clinic fees. As stated in my posts on Facebook, these fees go directly towards funding the clinic that I will be training and working at. These funds ensure that the clinic can continue to provide this vital care to pregnant moms and new babies in Tabuk City and surrounding villages.
My fees are due on Aug 1st and I have $2,060 left to raise. If you are interested in supporting this, whether through a one-time donation, monthly donation, or personal loan, simply click the Donate button on this page or contact me personally for other options. I would love to have you partner with me in this journey.
Thanks for reading!
Alex
pagnucco.alexandra@gmail.com
Just wanted to give you a quick update before the craziness of the next week takes over my time.. and in all honesty, I want to procrastinate packing for a little bit longer.
It has been amazing to see how things have continued to come together over the last couple weeks. There are many big and little details involved in this and seeing them fall into place slowly, but surely, has been so encouraging. The goodbyes have started and it makes everything seem a bit more real. I am so thankful for the time I have had in Kamloops, the people I have met, and the connections I have built. I already look forward to visiting next summer!
The next big hurdle of this process is, of course, paying for my first year clinic fees. As stated in my posts on Facebook, these fees go directly towards funding the clinic that I will be training and working at. These funds ensure that the clinic can continue to provide this vital care to pregnant moms and new babies in Tabuk City and surrounding villages.
My fees are due on Aug 1st and I have $2,060 left to raise. If you are interested in supporting this, whether through a one-time donation, monthly donation, or personal loan, simply click the Donate button on this page or contact me personally for other options. I would love to have you partner with me in this journey.
Thanks for reading!
Alex
pagnucco.alexandra@gmail.com
Monday, July 22, 2013
Welcome
Hi Friends,
I'm so excited to welcome you to my blog. This will be the best way to keep updated on everything happening while I am in the Philippines. I will be posting as often as I can so check back lots.. OR sign up to receive an e-mail when I put up a new post. The facebook page will be kept as well, but will be used primarily to post scarves and crafty things being sold to raise money.
The days are flying by and my to-do list seems to be getting longer, but I am confident that everything will come together in the right timing. God's timing. I still have $6300 to raise before Aug 1st so if you are interested in supporting this journey in any way, please contact me or click the lovely donate button to the right of this post.
I'd like to take a couple seconds and focus more on monthly support. This is something I have mentioned briefly in other posts, but if you bear with me, I'm going to expand on that a little bit more. As most of you know, the clinic fees don't stop at $15,000 for this first year. I will need to raise that amount again for next year. Monthly support, whether $15 - $150, will allow me to begin to save for the next chunk of clinic fees as well as being able to meet needs that I am sure will come up as I begin to work with the women in the Philippines. If this is something that you would like to be a part of, please let me know and we can find the most convenient way to set that up for you.
Before I get back to tackling the list, I'll just leave you with a verse that God has kept reminding me of in the past couple weeks. Discouragement can creep in so quickly and works to deter any of us from the walk that we are on, but the verse Deuteronomy 31:8 that God spoke to my heart when I first started this process has helped me to continually look above the craziness and trust that He is right here walking with me.
"The Lord himself goes before you and will be with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged."
Enjoy the day!
A
I'm so excited to welcome you to my blog. This will be the best way to keep updated on everything happening while I am in the Philippines. I will be posting as often as I can so check back lots.. OR sign up to receive an e-mail when I put up a new post. The facebook page will be kept as well, but will be used primarily to post scarves and crafty things being sold to raise money.
The days are flying by and my to-do list seems to be getting longer, but I am confident that everything will come together in the right timing. God's timing. I still have $6300 to raise before Aug 1st so if you are interested in supporting this journey in any way, please contact me or click the lovely donate button to the right of this post.
I'd like to take a couple seconds and focus more on monthly support. This is something I have mentioned briefly in other posts, but if you bear with me, I'm going to expand on that a little bit more. As most of you know, the clinic fees don't stop at $15,000 for this first year. I will need to raise that amount again for next year. Monthly support, whether $15 - $150, will allow me to begin to save for the next chunk of clinic fees as well as being able to meet needs that I am sure will come up as I begin to work with the women in the Philippines. If this is something that you would like to be a part of, please let me know and we can find the most convenient way to set that up for you.
Before I get back to tackling the list, I'll just leave you with a verse that God has kept reminding me of in the past couple weeks. Discouragement can creep in so quickly and works to deter any of us from the walk that we are on, but the verse Deuteronomy 31:8 that God spoke to my heart when I first started this process has helped me to continually look above the craziness and trust that He is right here walking with me.
"The Lord himself goes before you and will be with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged."
Enjoy the day!
A
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