Before all the "let's pass out, ER visit, stitches, concussion ramifications" came about it was time for a scheduled blog update. But now all the head trauma has superseded any other details of my life I was going to share. Can I blame the concussion for plaguing me with loss of memory? Don't tell me the answer...I am going to go with YES.
Like a show that teases the big, cliff-hanging moment until the last few moments of the show, I am going to make you wait to hear all the juicy details for a few more thoughts...
My kids are doing well! Spiritual Emphasis Week was a great time. They learned new songs, heard the Truth, and ran around like little kids like to do. One of my students is learning all this Jesus stuff for the first time. The other day he said he didn't love Jesus. All the kids gasped and turned to me to see what my expression/response was going to be. I was choosing to listen to the student instead of force any thoughts/beliefs. He went on to say, "I like Jesus. I just don't love Him." I found that moment quite encouraging. I want my students to experience Christ not feelings. I don't want them to be wrapped up in the Christian bubble around them that they miss out on personally knowing Christ. Our relationship with Christ is has to be more than emotion. Can you imagine if our friendships were like that? What a rollercoaster! So...continue to pray with me that my students would grow in their knowledge of who Christ is so that they may want to have a relationship with him.
ICSL showcased a variety of talents at the school's Talent Show. It was awesome to see shy students bust out of their shell to see their gifts. It was great to actually watch and not feel the need to perform for once. In other school news, we are looking at a piece of property to move the school to. It would require building which requires MONEY, but God is working some details out. Pray for God's guidance and sensitivity to His leading through all decisions (big and small) that have to be made.
Last time I mentioned the church debacle I was feeling. I have decided to attend La Cuidad. I am excited to see my Lima community in a new way. There are many opportunities to serve - it will be matter of what is the Lord telling me to do. :)
Now...the headlining story... I have changed to color to blue to show the details my roommates shared with me.
Last Sunday (the 30th), I woke up feeling nauseous and hugged the toilet much of the morning. By the afternoon I was feeling feverish and into the evening with chills/aches. My roomies and I were watching Harry Potter (we are working through the series!) when I went upstairs to get Tylenol for my pain. All I remember is looking at the pill bottle to see how many mg were each capsule. I tried to grab the sink (I think) but I passed out. I thought I hit the door with my head but apparently I hit the wood floor. In my roommates' version they heard me say "Oh no" and then heard me fall. When they got to me, my eyes were open and I was shaking. They went into medical mode. When I came to, I was having difficulty breathing and sweating like none other. My head kind of hurt but I didn't know why. I remember there was yelling (due to the intensity of the situation). From there I don't remember much until I got an IV at the hospital. Mrs. Havill picked me up and took me the hospital. My head was in Gabi's lap and she wanted to sing a song. I just kept telling her it had too many verses in it. I guess they were trying to keep me lucid. Our school nurse/good friend, Lindsey, met us at the hospital. The roommates said I was pale, blue-lipped because of the lack of water in my body. After the IV I was getting color back. I had a CT scan and I remember seeing blood all over my pillow. I thought, something is not right here. Thankfully the scan came back normal. When I got back to the room, they took blood to check for a parasite and gave me a tetanus shot. They asked me the last time I had a tetanus shot. I couldn't remember but I couldn't even remember what day it was! All I could remember was that one time in college we went snipe hunting and I was wondering then when was the last time I had had a tetanus shot after falling over a barbed wire fence. Anyway...they started cleaning my head up and gave me 5 stitches for my 4cm cut. I held real tight to Missy's hand as Linds made sure all the medical precautions were taken. Missy definitely got a picture/video, but I have yet to see it. I think we are waiting till this event is past us to look back with fond memories. After being stitched up, I went home and got to bed about 2am.
The next few days, I was at home resting. I had some minor dizziness, but nothing too crippling. I no longer felt flu-like. I was ready to go to work. I returned on Thursday to the chaos. While it was a warm welcome, it was chaotic. I had to figure out what had happened while I was gone and not to mention wrap up the end of the quarter. It was insane. I came to work Friday EXHAUSTED. I wanted to cry. I was barely functioning. I may have slept the night before but I didn't feel rested. Honestly, I am still fighting that battle. I may get 7-8 hours of sleep at night but I don't feel rested when I wake up. I just want to sleep more. I miss my everyday activities. It is extremely frustrating. I feel like I can control this or I should be able to do this, but I can't. I went back this past Sunday to get my stitches taken out and he wanted a couple more days. Of course I want my brain to get the rest and healing it needs, but I don't want to be considered lazy or make excuses for myself either.
Fast forward a few more days and I FINALLY got the stitches out! After waiting a little over an hour the whole scenario cost 4.60s (so a little over a $1) to get them out. The big shenanigan cost a lot more than that but I am grateful for insurance! I am beyond grateful for all of the care and concern I have encountered the past few weeks.
Next post: the spring break staycation. I can't believe we only have 37 school days left. I am not sure where this year has gone.
Have a fabulous week!
Megan :)
Prayer requests:
*Please continue to pray for guidance as funding/building sites and permits for the new building will be provided
* Pray for La Cuidad. We are moving to a new location for Easter Sunday. We will be meeting in a theater. Details for the children's ministry are still being worked out.
Friday, April 18, 2014
Saturday, March 15, 2014
"Jesus Didn't Have Scissors"
Hey Hey! I am enjoying the sun's bright light on this hot, summer day. How about y'all? Apparently "fall" starts next week. I have mixed emotions about the cooler temps - no more sweaty hugs but playing freeze out isn't fun either. Bygones.... Here is a glimpse into my world recently...
La Ciudad. This week I attended a meeting about becoming a partner in this church plant. The heart of the church is to be a "place" where believers meet to worship and serve Christ along with one another and the city. The name of the church actually translates to The City. While some personal preferences don't match up, I remind myself that worship isn't really about me is it? I am still praying about joining the team, but it is exciting to be a part of something small and watch what God can do with it. A verse on my mirror that I keep reciting to myself in MANY circumstances I encounter is Ephesians 3:20, "God is able through His mighty power at work within us, to accomplish infinitely more than we might ask or think." Blow me away, Jesus.
Talent Show Judge. I put on my Mariah Carey/Paul Abdul/JLo hat to judge different acts for our school's upcoming talent show. It was great to witness all the talents that our kids have. I definitely heard a couple "Frozen" songs - some movies/trends cross cultural barriers. A little kindergartner definitely whipped his violin out. His look alone had to give him a cute point! :) Teachers can enter acts into the show. It was SO MUCH fun last year in Suriname and being backup singers for our P-Dawg at Hasty, so I might have to work something up. The stage is my home away from home - kinda.
Burrito Bar. We had a guest this week in Lima. Missy's boyfriend, Josh, came down from the States and brought GIRL SCOUT cookies! I might have to steal a roll when Miss isn't looking. Anyway, it was fun to show him the city that has become home for us. We went to the Burrito Bar - DELICIOUS. It is like Moe's of Peru. I mean you don't have the forced, friendly greeting that Moe's offers up when you enter through the door, but the food is amazing and CHEAP! With full bellies and Starbucks in our hands, we walked down to a bridge that overlooks the ocean. We went all the way down to the ocean when we had the Amazing Race (at the start of the school year). But we decided to enjoy the view from the bridge this time because those stairs are worse than a stairmaster. You can't help but be winded just by looking at them! Gab and I were soaking up the fact that this beauty is in our backyard. What a creative God! It takes on a different tune to the Hillsong song "Oceans" when you are staring at it.
SEW. This upcoming week we are our Spiritual Emphasis Week (SEW) with the whole school. One of my student's dad's is sharing the Word - Wes Yoakum. Pray for him as he shares with various audiences on various topics that God's Word would be shared and understood in a clear way. My kids really enjoy Bible time and hearing "stories." I just pray they take it from stories in a cool book to a love story that God wrote for them. I have some tender hearts and I know other teachers do, too. Pray for God to work in a way that only be recognized as His handiwork.
Kid's Quotes. They really do say the darnedest things, don't they? Here are few cute quotes. (I know it would be 10x better if you HEARD them say it or even if you KNEW them, but for now this will have to suffice.)
Sarah to me: "Yeah, I wake up every morning and say ' I'm beautiful' "(while she flips her hair). This girl is a hoot!
Bryce to Donna: "You know Jesus had long hair because he didn't have scissors back then."
Jakob overhears said conversation and puts in his two cents: "No, it's because back then having long hair was a mark of being baptized." (I don't know the history or theology on that yet...any insights?)
Lucas to Oliver: "If Jesus was in our class, all of our clips would be moved to red (severely bad behavior) and his clip would go to orange (super great behavior) every day." Something tells him his idea of Jesus' perfect life and our sinfulness is something Lucas grasps.
I love this group of kids. They have my heart.
Have a great week!
You are loved,
Megan
La Ciudad. This week I attended a meeting about becoming a partner in this church plant. The heart of the church is to be a "place" where believers meet to worship and serve Christ along with one another and the city. The name of the church actually translates to The City. While some personal preferences don't match up, I remind myself that worship isn't really about me is it? I am still praying about joining the team, but it is exciting to be a part of something small and watch what God can do with it. A verse on my mirror that I keep reciting to myself in MANY circumstances I encounter is Ephesians 3:20, "God is able through His mighty power at work within us, to accomplish infinitely more than we might ask or think." Blow me away, Jesus.
Talent Show Judge. I put on my Mariah Carey/Paul Abdul/JLo hat to judge different acts for our school's upcoming talent show. It was great to witness all the talents that our kids have. I definitely heard a couple "Frozen" songs - some movies/trends cross cultural barriers. A little kindergartner definitely whipped his violin out. His look alone had to give him a cute point! :) Teachers can enter acts into the show. It was SO MUCH fun last year in Suriname and being backup singers for our P-Dawg at Hasty, so I might have to work something up. The stage is my home away from home - kinda.
Burrito Bar. We had a guest this week in Lima. Missy's boyfriend, Josh, came down from the States and brought GIRL SCOUT cookies! I might have to steal a roll when Miss isn't looking. Anyway, it was fun to show him the city that has become home for us. We went to the Burrito Bar - DELICIOUS. It is like Moe's of Peru. I mean you don't have the forced, friendly greeting that Moe's offers up when you enter through the door, but the food is amazing and CHEAP! With full bellies and Starbucks in our hands, we walked down to a bridge that overlooks the ocean. We went all the way down to the ocean when we had the Amazing Race (at the start of the school year). But we decided to enjoy the view from the bridge this time because those stairs are worse than a stairmaster. You can't help but be winded just by looking at them! Gab and I were soaking up the fact that this beauty is in our backyard. What a creative God! It takes on a different tune to the Hillsong song "Oceans" when you are staring at it.
SEW. This upcoming week we are our Spiritual Emphasis Week (SEW) with the whole school. One of my student's dad's is sharing the Word - Wes Yoakum. Pray for him as he shares with various audiences on various topics that God's Word would be shared and understood in a clear way. My kids really enjoy Bible time and hearing "stories." I just pray they take it from stories in a cool book to a love story that God wrote for them. I have some tender hearts and I know other teachers do, too. Pray for God to work in a way that only be recognized as His handiwork.
Kid's Quotes. They really do say the darnedest things, don't they? Here are few cute quotes. (I know it would be 10x better if you HEARD them say it or even if you KNEW them, but for now this will have to suffice.)
Sarah to me: "Yeah, I wake up every morning and say ' I'm beautiful' "(while she flips her hair). This girl is a hoot!
Bryce to Donna: "You know Jesus had long hair because he didn't have scissors back then."
Jakob overhears said conversation and puts in his two cents: "No, it's because back then having long hair was a mark of being baptized." (I don't know the history or theology on that yet...any insights?)
Lucas to Oliver: "If Jesus was in our class, all of our clips would be moved to red (severely bad behavior) and his clip would go to orange (super great behavior) every day." Something tells him his idea of Jesus' perfect life and our sinfulness is something Lucas grasps.
I love this group of kids. They have my heart.
Have a great week!
You are loved,
Megan
Sunday, March 2, 2014
February 28th: Time for Fall
Hello there!!! Friday marked a darker day in Lima. The sun starts playing hide-n-seek until about November. ????? Ok...so maybe those aren't the EXACT dates, but we won't be seeing the sun and all it's heated glory as often as we did in early February. I know my freezing family members and friends in the US have been a bit envious of the sun's rays I have experienced while they are playing freeze out, but I am a bit ready for cooler (NOT cold) temperatures. I am sure I have no pity. :) Life in Lima has been pretty good! Here are some of the highlights of the last couple of weeks:
*Pray for Dohyeok as he transitions to a new school/language/friendships. I can only imagine how overwhelming it would be!
*Pray for me as I continue to seek after where the Lord would have me attend church. Give me a desire to keep pursuing that community even when I am tired from the work of a "missionary." I don't want to forget the reason I am here. I want to be fed the Word in order to minister to others.
Until we "meet" again - Happy trails to you!
Later gator,
Megan
- Hello, My name is Dohyeok. Dohyeok is my new student. He is from Korea. He knows little English and is learning school manners. He makes constant noise and has smile that can melt this teacher's heart. I think it is safe to say he is making progress with the routine. I hope he absorbs so much - so much GOOD. At first I was having "oh no he did not" moments, but I am praying for an understanding and nurturing heart as Dohyeok and I try to figure one another out. The class is extending an olive branch of help and friendship. The boys are stoked to have another one of them. If you are keeping track, that makes 15. We make it work. :)
- Church Update. I attended La Ciudad Lima this morning. It is a church plant that was started by my student's family. The service is in English and translated to Spanish. However, the worship (singing) is done as a mix of English and Spanish within one song. It was pretty cool! Right now they are meeting once a month, but plan on going weekly starting April 6th. The church meets in a hotel building (El Polo) which is across from the large and in charge US Embassy. (Side note - I thought the hotel was El Pollo which would be the chicken. I can confirm it is not El Pollo). La Ciudad has solid Bible-believing teaching and friendly people. It would be easy to get plugged in. I am still seeking the Lord on where I should attend. No church will ever be like the ones I was lucky to attend in the States, but new isn't always bad. It is just sometimes not enjoyable to be stretched.
- Happy Hands Club. Tressa (our high school science and math teacher) and I teach Sign Language to K-2 students on Monday afternoons. Teachers are required to do one club a year - either first or second semester. Tressa and I are tackling this project together. I have been super impressed at how sponge-like these kids have been. They are picking stuff up pretty fast! Coolest part: we taught them John 3:16 last week. Not only are they repeatedly speaking/translating the verse, but they are sharing the Word with their family members and friends. Praying God's Word soaks in everyone's minds and hearts. :)
- Oh Kids. While teaching some of God’s commands from Exodus 20 (the 10 commandments) why is that the children always get stuck on the number 7 – being faithful to your mate? It is kinda awkward to try to explain to delicate ears, in a way that they would understand, without raising more questions than needed. I need to start writing on down all the cute/awkward/funny things they say. I am sure I could write a book!
- Tour Guide. I am having my first visitors to Peru. They bought their tickets! I get to be tour guide to Nikki (and her friend) in May. It will be exciting to show off my city/world to them. Not to mention the American treasures they can pack in their suitcases for me!
*Pray for Dohyeok as he transitions to a new school/language/friendships. I can only imagine how overwhelming it would be!
*Pray for me as I continue to seek after where the Lord would have me attend church. Give me a desire to keep pursuing that community even when I am tired from the work of a "missionary." I don't want to forget the reason I am here. I want to be fed the Word in order to minister to others.
Until we "meet" again - Happy trails to you!
Later gator,
Megan
Sunday, February 16, 2014
Birthday Bliss
Dear Diary....wait...no that is not right....HEY EVERYONE OUT THERE!!! :)
This week has been insane. It was one of the best birthday weeks I ever had. I was spoiled day after day. I will try not to brag, but there are no guarantees. It comes down to being overwhelmingly blessed by those near and dear to me. I have to give a shout-out to some of the highlights of this week.
My kids. During our morning devo time, the kids were mentioning my upcoming birthday as a praise for a week and a half before the event. They were stoked which in turn made me super excited. One of the students prayed this past week and thanked God for my upcoming birthday and after she said "amen" the kids were getting so upset she said something about my birthday. To which she replied, "I didn't say anything guys!" I just tried to act like I had selective hearing at the moment and avoid that awkward moment. Well on the big day, my sweet aide (Gisela) organized a surprise party. The kids each gave me a flower, balloon, and sweet note. They read them aloud. I was a mess. It was too sweet. Then they say Happy Birthday in English and Spanish. (A great plug for working at an international school!) We had my favorite kind of cake - it is like a milky way in cake form. Mrs. Gisela prayed for me (even my spouse wherever he may be) and said some kind words. My students' parents blessed me with a mani/pedi from a nice salon down the street from my school. Yay for getting pampered!
My roommates. I awoke Thursday morning to a trail of coke zero, water bottles, coffee, and Sublime candy bars from my room to the kitchen table downstairs where there was a bouquet of beautiful flowers. There were 30 candy bars to be exact! :) Then after school, we went to a lovely Italian dinner at this chic restaurant in Larco Mar. After dinner it was desert at Chili's for a molten lava cake. That cake was gone in 1 minute. Literally. SOOOOOO good!
Megan No. 30. The week ended with a Chanel No. 5 themed party with all the attendees in pink, black, and white attire. My roommates decorated the house with awesome CoCo Chanel sayings and played awesome jazz music. We grubbed on some awesome Mexican food (my favorite) and battled in Just Dance until the sweat got the best of us. NOT TO MENTION, that I got to sing Glee karaoke. I put on a mini concert. It was so many dreams fulfilled in one night. :) A shout out to my sweet friend, Terri, who was the decoy girl. She took me out get pedicures and keep me gone as long as it was needed. I know that role can be a bit stressful. :)
In summary, I have to state how blessed I am. I don't even know if I could articulate everything I feel. I welcome 30 into my life because as I look back at the past 29 years/11 months/364 days leading up to this moment I know how deeply loved I am. I have learned some incredible (some painful) lessons over the past 3 decades. I have been connected to some life-changing people that have encouraged me to be me and trust God in all things. I have traveled and lived in parts of the world that different than my own home country. I may not have a ring on "that" finger or have a couple kids that call me mom, but God has given me a purpose of loving and knowing Him along this journey. I am so excited to see where God takes me in this life He has given me. To all the birthday cards, phone calls, facebook posts that were written you have moved me with your kind words. I will treasure your words in my heart for years to come.
But hold on...there is more!!! We had to celebrate Valentine's day AND the 100th day of school on Friday. So I went to bed as a 30 year old and came to school dressed as a 100 year old. The kids were invited to dress up as 100 year olds and the teachers had to lead by example, of course! One of my students said, "You look more creepy than old." Thanks man! :) We had fun celebrating love and each other with exchanging our valentines.
Our new student, Mateo, is doing well adjusting. He is opening up more with the other students. We are doing some science experiments so that could always use prayer. The kids may not remember a lot of what I tell them, but they remember what I do! Ever since the rubbing alcohol bottle exploded on my face in QUARTER ONE, the kids have brought it up 3 times this past week. Such sweethearts! A group of us are signing up for a Color run (5k). I have always wanted to do one and I think it is pretty cool that my first one will be in Lima.
Prayer Requests:
- that I will be mindful of why I am here and not get wrapped up in this international experience
- our school has Spiritual Emphasis Week coming up next month. Either a team has to come down or the teachers will be leading. Pray for plans as they are being made and for students' hearts to be sensitive to what God will want to share with them that week.
Enough rambling for now!
You are loved,
Megan
(This cake is SOOOO good! It's a Peruvian thing!)
(We are 100...can't you tell?)
(We love hashtags at our house.)
(My sweet card!)
(She is the mastermind behind the surprise! Love youuuu!!!)
(We may be old, but we are cute.)
This week has been insane. It was one of the best birthday weeks I ever had. I was spoiled day after day. I will try not to brag, but there are no guarantees. It comes down to being overwhelmingly blessed by those near and dear to me. I have to give a shout-out to some of the highlights of this week.
My kids. During our morning devo time, the kids were mentioning my upcoming birthday as a praise for a week and a half before the event. They were stoked which in turn made me super excited. One of the students prayed this past week and thanked God for my upcoming birthday and after she said "amen" the kids were getting so upset she said something about my birthday. To which she replied, "I didn't say anything guys!" I just tried to act like I had selective hearing at the moment and avoid that awkward moment. Well on the big day, my sweet aide (Gisela) organized a surprise party. The kids each gave me a flower, balloon, and sweet note. They read them aloud. I was a mess. It was too sweet. Then they say Happy Birthday in English and Spanish. (A great plug for working at an international school!) We had my favorite kind of cake - it is like a milky way in cake form. Mrs. Gisela prayed for me (even my spouse wherever he may be) and said some kind words. My students' parents blessed me with a mani/pedi from a nice salon down the street from my school. Yay for getting pampered!
My roommates. I awoke Thursday morning to a trail of coke zero, water bottles, coffee, and Sublime candy bars from my room to the kitchen table downstairs where there was a bouquet of beautiful flowers. There were 30 candy bars to be exact! :) Then after school, we went to a lovely Italian dinner at this chic restaurant in Larco Mar. After dinner it was desert at Chili's for a molten lava cake. That cake was gone in 1 minute. Literally. SOOOOOO good!
Megan No. 30. The week ended with a Chanel No. 5 themed party with all the attendees in pink, black, and white attire. My roommates decorated the house with awesome CoCo Chanel sayings and played awesome jazz music. We grubbed on some awesome Mexican food (my favorite) and battled in Just Dance until the sweat got the best of us. NOT TO MENTION, that I got to sing Glee karaoke. I put on a mini concert. It was so many dreams fulfilled in one night. :) A shout out to my sweet friend, Terri, who was the decoy girl. She took me out get pedicures and keep me gone as long as it was needed. I know that role can be a bit stressful. :)
In summary, I have to state how blessed I am. I don't even know if I could articulate everything I feel. I welcome 30 into my life because as I look back at the past 29 years/11 months/364 days leading up to this moment I know how deeply loved I am. I have learned some incredible (some painful) lessons over the past 3 decades. I have been connected to some life-changing people that have encouraged me to be me and trust God in all things. I have traveled and lived in parts of the world that different than my own home country. I may not have a ring on "that" finger or have a couple kids that call me mom, but God has given me a purpose of loving and knowing Him along this journey. I am so excited to see where God takes me in this life He has given me. To all the birthday cards, phone calls, facebook posts that were written you have moved me with your kind words. I will treasure your words in my heart for years to come.
But hold on...there is more!!! We had to celebrate Valentine's day AND the 100th day of school on Friday. So I went to bed as a 30 year old and came to school dressed as a 100 year old. The kids were invited to dress up as 100 year olds and the teachers had to lead by example, of course! One of my students said, "You look more creepy than old." Thanks man! :) We had fun celebrating love and each other with exchanging our valentines.
Our new student, Mateo, is doing well adjusting. He is opening up more with the other students. We are doing some science experiments so that could always use prayer. The kids may not remember a lot of what I tell them, but they remember what I do! Ever since the rubbing alcohol bottle exploded on my face in QUARTER ONE, the kids have brought it up 3 times this past week. Such sweethearts! A group of us are signing up for a Color run (5k). I have always wanted to do one and I think it is pretty cool that my first one will be in Lima.
Prayer Requests:
- that I will be mindful of why I am here and not get wrapped up in this international experience
- our school has Spiritual Emphasis Week coming up next month. Either a team has to come down or the teachers will be leading. Pray for plans as they are being made and for students' hearts to be sensitive to what God will want to share with them that week.
Enough rambling for now!
You are loved,
Megan
(This cake is SOOOO good! It's a Peruvian thing!) (We are 100...can't you tell?) (We love hashtags at our house.) (My sweet card!) (She is the mastermind behind the surprise! Love youuuu!!!) (We may be old, but we are cute.)Saturday, February 1, 2014
Kawai that Rhymes with Hawaii
Hello! I hope this post finds you well. :) Here are some of my adventures as of late!
Staff Retreat. This past week our staff trekked out to Kawai to enjoy the beach, fellowship, and worship. We laid by the pool or beach (whichever was your pleasure) and played games till 1am. (I have learned this new game called Wizard. It's life changing. Support the Target franchise and go get it.) We had a bonfire one night and did Peru style s'mores. It has been several days and several showers later and I STILL smell smoke in my hair. :) I know I struggled leaving my wonderful family and friends over this break. But returning to such a great community has made it easier. I really enjoy doing life with these people. Through all the laughter (and tears) they care about all aspects of each other - especially spiritually. We were challenged in the Word by Josh Foliart. I actually teach his son, Lucas. He spoke about finding the vision God has called you to as well as the school's vision. Then he wanted us to think about how are we making or going to make that vision come to life. He also talked about the importance of discipleship. God has kind of laid a couple of circumstances before me so I am praying about all the details of it. :)
Civil Defense. While teachers and students were on break, ICSL has had some inspections done with the Ministry of Labor. We came back to mandated changes in our classroom set up. I had to rearrange my rabbit hole into a rule-following place of learning. And I am PROUD to say with the help of my teacher friends and aides, my room looks awesome. I feel like it is almost new school year. I am impressed with our creativity! Thanks be to God who kept me calm-minded. It all worked out and looks pretty fab I might add!
A Megan-ish story. This is a typical Megan story. I had a friend, SJ, over at my house the other night. While we were talking, she noticed a spark from the outlet that my power strip was plugged into. We unplugged everything and started to hear a clicking sound. We pulled the power strip away from the wall and heard the clicking coming towards the wall. We turned off the power at the breaker box and still heard the clicking sound. We moved the couch back to investigate and saw mold (typical Peru problem because of the climate). Then we start thinking there is an electrical short, water, and a fire is bound to happen! I called Jens (a teacher at our school who is SUPER handy - even runs the Handyman club). He came over and removed the outlet and searched for evidence of a problem, but couldn't find anything. He DID hear the clicking even after shutting down the breaker again. After searching with his flashlight he found the source: a spider that had caught it's dinner in it's web. The dinner was clicking. So basically all of that drama for a stupid spider. I was about to have to woo some Peruvian electrician with my limited Espanol skills. It was a great welcome back to Peru moment! Also, I have been informed by one of my students that she has seen my facebook pictures where I am acting crazy. When she told me this, I just laughed in awkwardness as I thought SUPER quick what do I have on FB that could be THAT incriminating?!?! I mean I am a missionary after all! ;) haha!
Prayer Requests:
1. Pray for our school as we fix the issues for the Civil Defenses' expectations. We eventually want to move to a new location so pray for funding and a building that will meet our expanding school's needs.
2. Pray for Mateo - my new student. I am anxious to meet him and have him find his niche.
Know and experience His love and grace in a new way this week.
You are loved,
Megan
Staff Retreat. This past week our staff trekked out to Kawai to enjoy the beach, fellowship, and worship. We laid by the pool or beach (whichever was your pleasure) and played games till 1am. (I have learned this new game called Wizard. It's life changing. Support the Target franchise and go get it.) We had a bonfire one night and did Peru style s'mores. It has been several days and several showers later and I STILL smell smoke in my hair. :) I know I struggled leaving my wonderful family and friends over this break. But returning to such a great community has made it easier. I really enjoy doing life with these people. Through all the laughter (and tears) they care about all aspects of each other - especially spiritually. We were challenged in the Word by Josh Foliart. I actually teach his son, Lucas. He spoke about finding the vision God has called you to as well as the school's vision. Then he wanted us to think about how are we making or going to make that vision come to life. He also talked about the importance of discipleship. God has kind of laid a couple of circumstances before me so I am praying about all the details of it. :)
Civil Defense. While teachers and students were on break, ICSL has had some inspections done with the Ministry of Labor. We came back to mandated changes in our classroom set up. I had to rearrange my rabbit hole into a rule-following place of learning. And I am PROUD to say with the help of my teacher friends and aides, my room looks awesome. I feel like it is almost new school year. I am impressed with our creativity! Thanks be to God who kept me calm-minded. It all worked out and looks pretty fab I might add!
A Megan-ish story. This is a typical Megan story. I had a friend, SJ, over at my house the other night. While we were talking, she noticed a spark from the outlet that my power strip was plugged into. We unplugged everything and started to hear a clicking sound. We pulled the power strip away from the wall and heard the clicking coming towards the wall. We turned off the power at the breaker box and still heard the clicking sound. We moved the couch back to investigate and saw mold (typical Peru problem because of the climate). Then we start thinking there is an electrical short, water, and a fire is bound to happen! I called Jens (a teacher at our school who is SUPER handy - even runs the Handyman club). He came over and removed the outlet and searched for evidence of a problem, but couldn't find anything. He DID hear the clicking even after shutting down the breaker again. After searching with his flashlight he found the source: a spider that had caught it's dinner in it's web. The dinner was clicking. So basically all of that drama for a stupid spider. I was about to have to woo some Peruvian electrician with my limited Espanol skills. It was a great welcome back to Peru moment! Also, I have been informed by one of my students that she has seen my facebook pictures where I am acting crazy. When she told me this, I just laughed in awkwardness as I thought SUPER quick what do I have on FB that could be THAT incriminating?!?! I mean I am a missionary after all! ;) haha!
Prayer Requests:
1. Pray for our school as we fix the issues for the Civil Defenses' expectations. We eventually want to move to a new location so pray for funding and a building that will meet our expanding school's needs.
2. Pray for Mateo - my new student. I am anxious to meet him and have him find his niche.
Know and experience His love and grace in a new way this week.
You are loved,
Megan
Wednesday, January 22, 2014
Remember Me???
Hello everyone! How are you guys doing? It's a new year, who knows, I could be better about blogging. It is one of my goals - notice it is NOT a resolution. But, I want others to see what's going on in my life at whatever rate I end up posting updates. So instead of attempting to share specific details of the past few months I am going to give you highlights!
Fall Festival/Cultures Day. Two amazing events our school put on this semester: fall festival and cultures day. The fall festival reminded me of when I used to dress up (as Mary - Jesus' mother) and walk from booth to booth playing games for candy. It was a great alternative to trick-or-treating. ICSL had live music, merchants selling awesome goods, and food from countries represented at in our school. Students could even put teacher or friends in jail - for a price! Cultures Day celebrated all the countries that are represented in our school by having students make presentations. One grade put on a play while others showed the different ways cultures date. My class did Christmas in their home country (since it was close to the holidays). My favorite part was the assembly with the parade of flags and singing worship songs simultaneously in three languages. It gave me chills. What an amazing experience! It was like a glimpse of heaven!
Thanksgiving. For about 5 days, a group of teachers hid away in the mountains of Peru. The town was only about an hour away from Lima, but was a perfect get-a-way spot. We had a traditional American feast, played games, and watched Christmas movies. It was a great time of relaxation. Of course, I can't forget about the pool that we were able to lounge in and around! We traded the parade and Black Friday shopping for sun tans and jumping on a trampoline. :)
Student Shuffle. At the end of the semester, Kianna withdrew from ICSL. She is a sweet girl with a adorable smile. Not to mention, her manners were top notch. She will still be in Peru so I hope to run into her at some point. Jakob is returning to ICSL when our second semester starts. YAY!!! And I got an email that there will be a new student added to my roster - Mateo! The boys will be thrilled to have a new friend! That makes my student count 14. Somehow we will squeeze everyone in that tiny space of a classroom!
Perks of Peru. I was sick with some sort of stomach bacterial infection the last week of school = NO FUN! I started taking all kinds of Peruvian medicine even parasite medicine. Unfortunately, nothing was working! So, my sweet friend Susan walked with me over to the pharmacy (insert cute Spanish word for pharmacy) and asked for an anti-biotic and I got one! So for $3 my problem was fixed without consulting a doctor! I haven't decided if this should alarm me or make me feel like I am winning with all the savings and ease!
Seasons Changed. I finally began to enjoy the summer sun and heat. I got my red Starbucks' holiday cup with my short and t-shirt! THEN I came back to ice and subfreezing temps in the States. :) (Thanks for the "warm" welcome 'Merica!) It is time to head back to the sun (and heat!). We have a staff retreat with ocean/pool swim breaks! Yes, please!
Like Ripping a Bandaid. It is no lie that I love my family, friends, and comforts of America. I was THRILLED to flush toilet paper and drink from the tap. It was wonderful to drive around town instead of barter for a ride. It was awesome to not need a translator when ordering at a restaurant because I knew what was in my entrée. It was great to go to the store and not have to think "now how much USD is that costing me." It was splendid to taste all the foods I have missed. (side note: I didn't get to enjoy everything but tried my hardest to make a dent!) It was humbling to experience such acts of kindness from family and friends - the gifts, lunch/dinner dates, borrowing vehicles, driving out of your way to see me. I treasure you guys. That is why I have had such a hard time this go around. Sometimes my worlds seem so mixed up - my heart and head don't match up. Where I want to be and where I am are different. I hold so many great memories and friendships here. But I am excited to get back to a world that almost seems more comfortable than my home in America. I got an email from a student saying how much she missed school and hates that were are out for so long. She constantly tells me that I am the best teacher ever. Now whether that is true or not, it gives me such a sense of purpose in her life. These kids are my family. I have learned over the past year that Jesus is the only thing that matters. I can't take much more than 2 bags of belongings with me. Friends and friendships come and go. Money goes entirely too fast. But I have Jesus. And I am learning to embrace that as all I ever need. To know it and to live it is very different.
So as I cross the continents, know I miss you much but I am excited to see how God grows me.
Be in prayer over:
Megan :)
P.S. I have been scolded over my lack of pictures that I have posted. So...that is another "goal" :)
Fall Festival/Cultures Day. Two amazing events our school put on this semester: fall festival and cultures day. The fall festival reminded me of when I used to dress up (as Mary - Jesus' mother) and walk from booth to booth playing games for candy. It was a great alternative to trick-or-treating. ICSL had live music, merchants selling awesome goods, and food from countries represented at in our school. Students could even put teacher or friends in jail - for a price! Cultures Day celebrated all the countries that are represented in our school by having students make presentations. One grade put on a play while others showed the different ways cultures date. My class did Christmas in their home country (since it was close to the holidays). My favorite part was the assembly with the parade of flags and singing worship songs simultaneously in three languages. It gave me chills. What an amazing experience! It was like a glimpse of heaven!
Thanksgiving. For about 5 days, a group of teachers hid away in the mountains of Peru. The town was only about an hour away from Lima, but was a perfect get-a-way spot. We had a traditional American feast, played games, and watched Christmas movies. It was a great time of relaxation. Of course, I can't forget about the pool that we were able to lounge in and around! We traded the parade and Black Friday shopping for sun tans and jumping on a trampoline. :)
Student Shuffle. At the end of the semester, Kianna withdrew from ICSL. She is a sweet girl with a adorable smile. Not to mention, her manners were top notch. She will still be in Peru so I hope to run into her at some point. Jakob is returning to ICSL when our second semester starts. YAY!!! And I got an email that there will be a new student added to my roster - Mateo! The boys will be thrilled to have a new friend! That makes my student count 14. Somehow we will squeeze everyone in that tiny space of a classroom!
Perks of Peru. I was sick with some sort of stomach bacterial infection the last week of school = NO FUN! I started taking all kinds of Peruvian medicine even parasite medicine. Unfortunately, nothing was working! So, my sweet friend Susan walked with me over to the pharmacy (insert cute Spanish word for pharmacy) and asked for an anti-biotic and I got one! So for $3 my problem was fixed without consulting a doctor! I haven't decided if this should alarm me or make me feel like I am winning with all the savings and ease!
Seasons Changed. I finally began to enjoy the summer sun and heat. I got my red Starbucks' holiday cup with my short and t-shirt! THEN I came back to ice and subfreezing temps in the States. :) (Thanks for the "warm" welcome 'Merica!) It is time to head back to the sun (and heat!). We have a staff retreat with ocean/pool swim breaks! Yes, please!
Like Ripping a Bandaid. It is no lie that I love my family, friends, and comforts of America. I was THRILLED to flush toilet paper and drink from the tap. It was wonderful to drive around town instead of barter for a ride. It was awesome to not need a translator when ordering at a restaurant because I knew what was in my entrée. It was great to go to the store and not have to think "now how much USD is that costing me." It was splendid to taste all the foods I have missed. (side note: I didn't get to enjoy everything but tried my hardest to make a dent!) It was humbling to experience such acts of kindness from family and friends - the gifts, lunch/dinner dates, borrowing vehicles, driving out of your way to see me. I treasure you guys. That is why I have had such a hard time this go around. Sometimes my worlds seem so mixed up - my heart and head don't match up. Where I want to be and where I am are different. I hold so many great memories and friendships here. But I am excited to get back to a world that almost seems more comfortable than my home in America. I got an email from a student saying how much she missed school and hates that were are out for so long. She constantly tells me that I am the best teacher ever. Now whether that is true or not, it gives me such a sense of purpose in her life. These kids are my family. I have learned over the past year that Jesus is the only thing that matters. I can't take much more than 2 bags of belongings with me. Friends and friendships come and go. Money goes entirely too fast. But I have Jesus. And I am learning to embrace that as all I ever need. To know it and to live it is very different.
So as I cross the continents, know I miss you much but I am excited to see how God grows me.
Be in prayer over:
- safe travels back tomorrow - January 23rd
- staff retreat/settling back into the grove
- my new student - Mateo - and the other students as we adjust to school restarting
Megan :)
P.S. I have been scolded over my lack of pictures that I have posted. So...that is another "goal" :)
Sunday, September 22, 2013
"I See Skies of Blue and Clouds of White"
Hello Ev'rybody! The title of the blog is a tribute to the wanna-be-summer weather we have been experiencing in Lima lately. Don't get me wrong, I miss fall. I miss the colors, smells, and temperatures. Well sorta. I am getting excited about not freezing as much so the idea of summer does sound pretty nice. Lima is kind of in a spring-like season.
This past week one of my sweet students, Jakob, was abruptly withdrawn. Jakob's brother, Silas, was born about a month premature and the doctor's discovered some intestinal problems. So the family headed home to the States to seek medical answers and treatment. We all hope this is not a permanent move, but Jakob and his family could be gone until next semester or not return at all. Please join me in praying for his family, especially Baby Silas. Jakob and his younger brother, Derek, will be enrolling in a school in Texas. Pray they can transition well...for however long their stay is. We miss Jakob already! He loved school and you could tell. He could tell me more information about animals than I thought possible. He always loved to share things about Scripture, too! Love and miss him!
Another adventure I had this past week was getting my eyebrows threaded! It was super painful and hard to explain in Spanish what my request was. If you know me, I have gone through many stages of brow looks - unibrow, too-thin brow, arch issues/over plucking brow - and now I am mildly happy with my brows. All in all, it was a good experience and only 20soles for brow and lip - about $7! Win for the pocketbook! And now I have a new place I can go to in the city!
This coming up week we have Spiritual Emphasis Week at school. A team from the US has come to serve by sharing Bible stories, crafts, and games. They even brought teacher treats. The word on the street is they are ready to spoil us! Please pray for the team as they minister and enjoy Lima. They will be kept very busy and you know Satan loves to complicate lives/hearts when glorifying God is at hand. Also, pray for the kids as they hear the Truth in many different capacities. I pray conversations between small groups or teachers/students will only spur the students on to know Him in a personal way.
A joy-spot for this week: My roommate, Jess, made real apple cider. Talk about hitting fall on the head. We enjoyed roommate bonding and fellowship. I really do feel so blessed to do life with these ladies. From sweet hugs (Gabbi) to New Girl/Jake Johnson marathons and TONS of quality time (Missy) to enjoying/discovering our new city together (Katelyn), and to teaching me all the ins and outs of the market (Jess) I love them all. They all bring so many different things out of me.
More joy-spots! My good friend, Sarah, got engaged!!! WOOHOOOOOO!!! And friends, Kristin and Van are adopting a baby girl! YAY!!!!!!!! I get so upset when I feel thousands of miles away from all the excitement in everyone's lives. I feel guilty of getting caught up and settled in my world that I have hard time releasing the tight grip I have to my Stateside life. I am figuring out balance.....slooowwwwlllyyyy. I have realized, though, that I am happy to be any part of your lives as God as ordained it even though I wish it were more. I feel like I should break out into Michael W. Smith's song "Friends," but I shan't. :) You're welcome.
After praise and worship tonight, you KNOW I am going to be sprintin' home to watch the Emmy's - the red carpet at least!
Go strong this week knowing YOU have a purpose! :)
Love love,
Megan :)
This past week one of my sweet students, Jakob, was abruptly withdrawn. Jakob's brother, Silas, was born about a month premature and the doctor's discovered some intestinal problems. So the family headed home to the States to seek medical answers and treatment. We all hope this is not a permanent move, but Jakob and his family could be gone until next semester or not return at all. Please join me in praying for his family, especially Baby Silas. Jakob and his younger brother, Derek, will be enrolling in a school in Texas. Pray they can transition well...for however long their stay is. We miss Jakob already! He loved school and you could tell. He could tell me more information about animals than I thought possible. He always loved to share things about Scripture, too! Love and miss him!
Another adventure I had this past week was getting my eyebrows threaded! It was super painful and hard to explain in Spanish what my request was. If you know me, I have gone through many stages of brow looks - unibrow, too-thin brow, arch issues/over plucking brow - and now I am mildly happy with my brows. All in all, it was a good experience and only 20soles for brow and lip - about $7! Win for the pocketbook! And now I have a new place I can go to in the city!
This coming up week we have Spiritual Emphasis Week at school. A team from the US has come to serve by sharing Bible stories, crafts, and games. They even brought teacher treats. The word on the street is they are ready to spoil us! Please pray for the team as they minister and enjoy Lima. They will be kept very busy and you know Satan loves to complicate lives/hearts when glorifying God is at hand. Also, pray for the kids as they hear the Truth in many different capacities. I pray conversations between small groups or teachers/students will only spur the students on to know Him in a personal way.
A joy-spot for this week: My roommate, Jess, made real apple cider. Talk about hitting fall on the head. We enjoyed roommate bonding and fellowship. I really do feel so blessed to do life with these ladies. From sweet hugs (Gabbi) to New Girl/Jake Johnson marathons and TONS of quality time (Missy) to enjoying/discovering our new city together (Katelyn), and to teaching me all the ins and outs of the market (Jess) I love them all. They all bring so many different things out of me.
More joy-spots! My good friend, Sarah, got engaged!!! WOOHOOOOOO!!! And friends, Kristin and Van are adopting a baby girl! YAY!!!!!!!! I get so upset when I feel thousands of miles away from all the excitement in everyone's lives. I feel guilty of getting caught up and settled in my world that I have hard time releasing the tight grip I have to my Stateside life. I am figuring out balance.....slooowwwwlllyyyy. I have realized, though, that I am happy to be any part of your lives as God as ordained it even though I wish it were more. I feel like I should break out into Michael W. Smith's song "Friends," but I shan't. :) You're welcome.
After praise and worship tonight, you KNOW I am going to be sprintin' home to watch the Emmy's - the red carpet at least!
Go strong this week knowing YOU have a purpose! :)
Love love,
Megan :)
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