Abby Road

No grinder necessary

2012-01-30T03:04:00.004-05:00

I keep thinking I'm going to wake up and have a rough day... or be sad. It's kind of like being pregnant and knowing you have to give birth and although it will be really painful, it will be worth it? Well... not for sure when this labor will come but I'm going to make the good times last as long as possible!

Throughout the day I try to hold onto interesting/or maybe not so interesting happenings that I think people would want to know.

First of all, I have yet to take a hot shower. Somewhat by choice and somewhat by the fact that we don't have a hot water heater. ha. Honestly, I look forward to my long, cold shower. It's as if I see the steam coming off of my body!

Cambodia also adds a slowness to your life. A good slowness. Eating usually takes longer and I can't say that I mind it. Waiters and waitresses don't annoy you while you eat and they don't bring your check until you ask. Not only is eating slow, but just everything slows down. You might say we'll start something at 7:30 and everybody rolls in at 8:15. eh, it has its ups and downs.

And on a funny note, we were having a meeting at CG a few days ago and we heard this loud banging. I asked Julie what it was and she said, 'Oh, that's the cook chopping the meat. I bought them a grinder and they don't like it.' How great! So basically, if you come and order spaghetti, you will get to hear the extreme "chopping" of the meat all on your own. =)

This was my lunch today and it was glorious. =) Crispy apple chicken salad... yuummm.

One week down!

2012-01-27T22:49:00.006-05:00

I'm sure as time goes by my blogging will morph into something different, but right now... I want to show pictures so you can grasp an idea as to what I'm doing and what things look like. So... just a few photos and captions for you today. =)

We went on the Tonle Sap Thursday and this is the PCL barge. It has solar panels to help provide electricity and Matt and Catie Nelson (www.mattncatie.com) will be staying out here 2 nights a week to start up a ministry/education class.

Yesterday was Rachel's birthday-she turned 12. Julie celebrated by having her party at the skating rink! Yes! They have a new skating rink-on the roof. It's pretty snaz.

If you know me at all-you know that posting a picture of a dog is about the last thing I want to see on a blog. That's why this is funny-because I do not particularly care for animals. Usually ever. BUT-my new roommate does have a dog, and here he is. His name is Constantine and he's kind of cute. We are training him to stay out of my room and he's slowly learning. Dogs love to hover over me and sniff. I'm just irresistible!

Here are the children performing a welcome dance for us new PCL volunteers. I love the vibrant colors!

And lastly, Sreilem at the Children's Home did my hair. =)

Don't be jealous of my new phone

2012-01-25T08:43:00.003-05:00

We visited Takam village yesterday where Julie leads a service with some of the village people. It was a beautiful morning and a pleasant time in the shade. It took an hour and a half to get there because the roads have been washed out so badly because of the flooding. We decided that the boys who had to ride in the back of the truck need the underwear that has butt pads-yes, they sell those here in the market. =) Anyways... I like the "vibe" at Takam. Very gentle, patient, and open to new things. This is also where they have the integrated farm which includes chicken, pigs, and fish. It's really growing and starting to become self sufficient, which is great for the Khmer people.

This picture probably looks familiar to those of you who have visited Siem Reap... it's the wall at Dr. Feet. ahhhh... don't you want a foot massage now?

And lastly, my blast from the past Nokia phone! Sooo... this is how cell service works here: buy a phone (this was like $35 maybe?) and then you buy SIM cards and add minutes. I think my SIM has 2 dollars on it. I'm testing it out to see how long it lasts before I have to buy more minutes. I went to type a text on it and honestly couldn't remember how to T9. yikes!

Welcome to the heat!

2012-01-22T04:20:00.010-05:00

Welp. Leaving the States on Friday was about as fun as swallowing knives. I would not wish that feeling upon my worst enemy. It was truly the most helpless, loneliest feeling I've ever had, just thinking... "wow. none of my family is waiting for me on the other side of this trip... and I'm really not coming back soon." BUT...

Nevertheless... I am HERE and life will carry on!

After successfully sleeping on the first long flight of 14 1/2 hours (I didn't sleep the whole time-but a good amount), I rode another plane for about 5 1/2 hours which consisted of loud burping and stewardesses gallivanting about in a very hurriedly fashion. Did you know in some cultures that loud burping is totally acceptable? ...with no "excuse me's"? Well now you do. =)

I ventured out to see my new house-that I'm not yet staying in-and then we had a little Mexican at a new place in town called El Camino-which was delish... and of course, we had a Sunday massage at Dr. Feet. No, I won't be getting massages every day but everybody needs one after traveling for 25 hours. Right?

Things I will undoubtedly get used to... (the good and the... well... different)

...dirty feet all of the time

...sweat in every crevice

...awesome fruit

...the fact that I ate breakfast for $2.80

...random power outages

...and drinking water all of the time: lots of it

Pictures to come.

Expat

2012-01-20T00:22:00.004-05:00

Now would be a really appropriate time to have a super cool post.

But honestly... I'm tired. I'm overwhelmed... excited.... sad.... happy.... curious... and I think most of all: ready.

I'm ready to finally take a leap of faith and just go for it. I feel like I attended my own funeral tonight. Lots of laughing but a little bit of denial as well. eh, we did the best we could.

I'm going to try to sleep these next 5 hours and plan to blog next time... from Asia. My new home.

T - 3 days

2012-01-16T23:36:00.002-05:00

Have no fear my friends! My postings are about to get A LOT more interesting.

It has been a whirlwind the past week. Moving out of my house... moving what is left into my mom's... spending time with friends and family... having a wonderful send off party.... etc. etc.

This post would also be way cooler with pictures but honestly, the fact that I found a few random pieces of clothing today to slap on was rather monumental.

I'm not quite sure what I'm supposed to be feeling this week. I'm actually not that emotional... yet. It's more like the phrase, "This is a joke... right? Like... I'm not really moving there? right?"

HA!

Yup! Jokes all on me... cause it's fo real!

I could share about all the different emotions but what I told my mom today sums it up best, (I can at least focus on this one "emotion" today anyways.) and let me try to explain it as best as I can...

Ya see, I try to find all uncomfortable, awkward, or even difficult moments funny. When I'm with my favorite girlfriends, we laugh entirely too much because somehow... in the end.... we just make it all a joke. Not to disguise our uncomfortableness or lack of being honest with one another, but rather.... we just love to laugh! And I was thinking of all those weird, not normal moments I'm going to have in Cambodia... and I'm not going to have my best friends there with me to laugh with. (*tear...) I'm not going to have anyone to make Friends references to... and I'm not going to have anyone to make fun of when they mess up their words and botch a phrase... and for all those times I will be terrified riding a moto or attempting to learn the language or eat some crazy food that probably makes me sick... I'm going to have to Skype and explain the story... or attempt to write about it on here... but it just won't be the same. I want those close to me to understand the culture, and the people, and how everything works because that's what makes it so much fun!

So my openly exposed hope now is that for my time in Cambodia I can find a "new" normal that will give me comfort and peace of mind in the friendships I create. And when I come home to visit, I hope no one has changed. Because everyone is perfect... just the way they are.

(cue: sappy Bruno Mars song)

Yes, please

2012-01-06T22:07:00.002-05:00

Infinity Pool in Singapore

Floating Lanterns in Thailand

It is what it is

2012-01-05T23:17:00.003-05:00

If there was ever a time to mix great waves of emotion with some concrete business-like activity, now is the time.

My days consist of going back and forth between calling my mortgage company to set up automatic withdraws and then spending time with my best friend(s) and kind of ignoring the inevitable.

Or... packing boxes, paying bills, getting shots, selling my car and then realizing I am going to be so ridiculously far away from some precious babies being born this year.

I mean... it is what it is. I don't even know what you call it. I have so many loose ends to tie up but I would rather be with friends and family and all the beautiful children in my life. But I also don't want to forget what I'm about to do and the passion that is maybe laying dormant at the moment for the future... only dormant because I'm so overwhelmed by the realization of a completely new life. Not because it's not still there, but because I'm in a small state of mourning.

I leave 2 weeks from tomorrow and I fear the night before will be the most tumultuous, exciting, breath-taking, anxious night of my life. Lets just pray that the next 2 weeks are filled with great joy, fun, preparation, and a little bit of silliness.... ok... a whole lot of silliness. =) That's what keeps things fun.

Just a reminder...

2012-01-01T23:41:00.002-05:00

Thank you thank you to all of you wonderful people who are giving online!!! Just a reminder- once you click on the donate link above, please be sure to put my name-Abby Fletcher- in the memo box. This goes straight through PCLs website. THANK YOU!!!!!!

Christmas Eve Morning

2012-01-01T12:56:00.003-05:00

Here is our little family on Christmas Eve morning. =)

Bucket List, second round

2011-12-30T10:17:00.000-05:00

I assure you, this will happen.

Check. In LA.

Check. Thank you Lisa Turner.

Ahhh.... this is an absolutely pointless dream. But it would be a blast.

Still on the list.

Check. I've seen 4 out of my 5 nephews/niece come into this world. It was a-w-e-soooooommeeeeee.

Ok. This is so teeny bopper. But I've never done it. =)

Dying to.

T-22 days.

Oh how I wish.

Bucket List

2011-12-29T12:00:00.001-05:00

I suppose we should make our lives worthwhile and reach some honorable goals... and maybe even do some fun stuff on the side. I've already "accomplished" a few, but the others are still attainable-I hope. Do you know which is which for mwah?

(all Courtesy of "Perfect Bucket List" website)

"Cambodia Check List"

2011-12-28T23:35:00.003-05:00

For your viewing pleasure... my fellow teacher on my team had the students write good-byes and then she put them all in a photo album. Super cute gift. =) These are just a few that I received. Sorry they're kind of hard to read.

Stuff I do after Christmas...

2011-12-27T22:26:00.002-05:00

It seems I've gotten into quite a pattern of doing some of the same things each year after Christmas. There really is no rhyme or reason, rather just a sense of change I suppose with the new year. I LOVE New Year's by the way-one of my most favorite holidays, maybe because I always have high hopes of things to come in the new year.... especially this year.

-I always buy a lot of new music. This might come with me getting several iTunes gift cards, but either way, it's a great time to pack out a new playlist. Please feel free to suggest some new music or artists.

-I watch lots of movies. There are so many that come on TV... and I have the time to actually rent from red box or maybe even hit up the theatre. I just set my DVR to record like 6 movies this week. yay. =)

-Some type of new hair do always seems to come around the new year as well. I got my hair cut last Friday and don't be alarmed, it's nothing drastic. BUT-I did have a little color fun tonight and I put red and blue on my tips! AHHHHHH!!!! I barely know how to use a hair color box. It has turned out rather cute, I might add.

-I went a little nutso on the book hunt this week. I ordered like 8 books from amazon today. whoops...

It's obvious none of this has much depth but it's still a fun change for the new year. I've also completed "physical activity" two days in a row, so that's always a step in the right direction. ha.

Do Not Pass Go, Do Not Collect $200

2011-12-19T15:42:00.003-05:00

It seems the shower is where I do a lot of my thinking. I know. Sounds... "odd" .... or rather "risqué" I suppose. But it seems I am "showered" (ha-corny pun) with lots of thoughts. Most of my blogging epiphanies happen then.

Consider this a smorgasbord of my brain.

First of all... for all of you ladies- don't you hate some, or maybe most, of the female curses? Like when you know you're being completely irrational and nothing in your brain makes sense? And you literally have to talk to yourself and say, "calm down... you're not thinking straight... why is this upsetting you... everything is ok." All over some nonsensical reason? And those of you lucky enough to actually have a husband, he might end up being the one that literally grabs a hold of you and says, "snap out of it!" (And bless their souls for having to put up with us) I say all of this because I just gave myself a 2 minute pep talk for some reason unbeknownst to me.

Next... if you work in sales or something of the sort and you want a sure fire way to lose costumers, talk to them like their idiots. I mean, really people? YOU might be the one with all of the knowledge (hence why people ask you about a certain something) but don't make the person on the other line feel like an idiot. WE DON'T KNOW! THAT'S WHY WE'RE ASKING YOU! That's why people love Chick-Fil-A so much: they're kind, patient, always there to serve you, and don't make you feel stupid if you ask for more Polynesian sauce. So if I call the health department and ask about vaccinations for Asia, don't make me feel like a fool that I didn't know you didn't do this when other people said you did!!!! I mean... not that this really happened or anything...

Which leads to another thought: I believe one of the greatest downfalls of a leader is making someone else feel stupid. Although this type of behavior often coincides with extreme arrogance, I actually think it reveals just the opposite. That you have to put other people down or make them feel stupid to fuel your own ego therefore, I think this is the exact antithesis of what a leader's behavior should be. Leaders encourage, serve, provide vision, support, and ultimately: create other leaders. How can you do those things when you're so busy fueling your own insecurities? Sorry, but most people won't respond to that type of behavior. They'll just avoid you. =) and they surely won't respect you.

And lastly, the true reason behind such complaints.... I've been spending more time playing Monopoly on my new, awesome, totally rocks my world, iPad (that I received as a very surprising gift!) rather than reading my usual devotions. and THIS ladies and gentlemen is what causes me to spin out of control. It's my usual litmus test for detecting why I start getting so easily annoyed-I lose complete perspective on life. I'm making this statement for accountability purposes.

Ok. I'm off. To go wrap presents... and read... and NOT play monopoly.

(although I must confess, the things I've learned in the past 3 days about mortgages and being "sent to jail" are truly irreplaceable)

This is not a joke.

2011-12-12T22:03:00.004-05:00

If you've been wondering what I've been doing recently... this is it. And no, none of these are mine. But they sure are all beautiful and belong to ALLLLLL of my good friends! There are even a few more to come in the next few months.
(not in correct birth order at all)

baby Malachi

baby Lucy

baby Evie

baby Brennan (who I'm waiting to meet!)

baby Samuel

baby Cooper

baby Emma Claire

I blame it on the cold weather last year. ;)

Wings like Eagles

2011-11-30T22:18:00.003-05:00

Everything seems to be hovering... and floating... and waiting... and at a quasi stand still.

I'll talk to old friends and people ask me "whats going on these days?!" and I just say... "uhhhh.... ohhh.... nothing honestly."

Ask me about my job? eh, I'm leaving it.

Ask me about my house? eh, I need a renter.

Ask me about my family? Oh! They're fabulous-as usual!

Ask me about a man? Eh, not up for a long distance relationship.

Ask me about Cambodia? Well-I need more money to actually live there.

And that's about it. It's like everything on this side of the world is about to freeze and then I'll carry on somewhere else. I know this is apart of the story but it hasn't really felt like it's started. I'm just shifting out of here, to elsewhere.

Through it all though, I have to be careful to not let this attitude seep into my personal walk with the Lord. Even now, it seems I just sit... and wait... and don't even know what I'm listening for or reading about. It's kind of like an extreme sense of peace.

Eh, me and God. We're just hanging out. Waiting.

"they that wait upon the Lord, shall renew their strength...."

Ahhh... so that's what's going on...

Book Worm update

2011-11-27T21:29:00.003-05:00

I have finished several books and am in the thick of a few others. I have a compulsive problem with not being able to read just one book at a time. I don't know why I do that!

I try to keep my Shelfari list updated on the left hand column so you can follow what I'm reading-not that you probably really care. =) I will gladly take suggestions, so feel free to comment with book ideas anytime!

I am currently reading this one... it's good so far. If you have never read "Same Kind of Different as Me"-do it RIGHT AWAY! It was the first book written by these two men and it's absolutely fabulous! Grab some tissues though.

A Wrinkle in Time is a Newberry Award Winner from many moons ago, but it's definitely a classic. For some reason, it wasn't AT ALL what I expected. It was a little more far fetched than I had imagined, which is fine, but I had created some pre-conceived plot for some reason. It was good. Not my favorite Newberry, but still somewhat riveting.

Now as far as Tuck Everlasting... I did thoroughly enjoy. I can't believe I had never read this! It was just enough of a time piece mixed with fantasy that it kept my interest. It's basically about a family who has found the "fountain of youth": hence... "everlasting". Although I don't like this cover particularly because I don't think it's as fitting as it could be. But that's just my opinion.

I read Sold in an entire day-on an airplane ride home. I bought it on Amazon and read it all on my phone. I think it's written extremely well, and is actually geared towards middle school girls. It's about a little girl who gets sold into sex-trafficking. The journey Patricia McCormick creates is extremely vivid without being overly inappropriate. It's very honest, transparent, yet purposefully afflicting due to the nature of the topic. Excellent book.

Oh my my my.... Kisses from Katie was also a book I read in just a few days because I couldn't put it down. Katie Davis appeared at Catalyst this year, and this is where I heard about her first (from people that went, not me actually being there). So I decided to look her up. Um-whoah! She is maybe 23? now... she lives in Uganda... and is the parent to 16 little girls. Yes. She has completely adopted all of them and is their one and only mother. There is no need to divulge more information because you just have to read it. I needed to read this because of my future adventures, and at times, I felt like she had crept into my brain and written down exactly what I wanted to say.

Now-totally switching gears. ha. My mom got this book for me because she knew I would appreciate it, I'm sure! It's all about being most effective with your time and tasks throughout the day. Eat That Frog! comes from identifying the biggest and most daunting task aka "frog" of the day, and getting that done first. It had some great tips in it.

Catching Fire is the 2nd book in the Hunger Games series. It's SO good. I think these books start slow, but they are always worth it. I am about to start the third-Mockingjay. The Hunger Games movie comes out in March and we are all already anticipating the day! What I like about these books is that there is not one large divisive piece that will prevent people from wanting to watch it (i.e. witches and wizards or vampires). Violence might be the only thing considering it is about a war over districts fighting for food and survival. I CAN'T WAIT!

If you want to GIVE, this is how!

2011-11-21T23:28:00.004-05:00

The countdown has begun, and I am approximately two months away from my departure to Cambodia. I have 16 days of teaching, in the states, left until I am officially done here.

My house is being shown now and I am starting to work out logistics of money, insurance, and cancelling bills etc.

People tell me they're proud of me, and honestly, I haven't done anything to be proud of. All I've done is make a decision. A decision I haven't officially started yet, but I suppose that might be the biggest step. I don't feel as if I owe anyone anything, but I do feel the weight and concern of being a good steward of people's money since everyone else is making this happen!

I am receiving monetary gifts now regularly and am headed towards my goal, but I'm not there YET! I am AMAZED at people's benevolence and cheerfulness in doing so! It is humbling and overwhelming and exciting-all at the same time!

SOOOOO..... I want to encourage you to give if you can! I want to be very clear in HOW you can give:

1. Write a check! Or bring in cash! If this is best for you, you may give whatever amount you feel appropriate. You can mail checks to-
People for Care and Learning
4235 TL Rogers Street NE
Cleveland, TN 37312.
Make checks out to PCL and put my name in the memo line. Or you may drop it by the office if you live in Cleveland. You may do this monthly as well if you would like to support my mission in that capacity.

2. Paypal. The link at the top of this blog will take you to the PayPal options. They will go through PCL. You may choose whatever amount you like. Put ABBY FLETCHER in the memo/information box. You may set it up to pull out of your checking account monthly (so you don't have to think about it!), or do a one time online donation.

I am grateful for ALL and ANY support! Whatever you choose to do, I just ask that you do it prayerfully and CHEERFULLY! Be sure to visit www.peopleforcare.org.

In honor of...

2011-11-16T21:50:00.003-05:00

Just wanted to take a moment and give honor to my great uncle, Gene Huff, who was a Kentucky state senator for approximately 23? years. Glad to have such stronge "genes" (get it?!, ha!) in my family. And you wonder why I'm a Kentucky fan! All my family has really come from there!

I hope to visit uncle Gene in the hospital this weekend as I pass through Kentucky. He has been a leading patriarch symbol in our family and I appreciate him.

He was honored this morning by current Kentucky Senator, Mitch McConnell on C-Span. Start watching at 19:15. My strong pentecostal roots are made clear here. =)

http://www.c-spanvideo.org/program/SenateSession4950

Jamie the Very Worst Missionary

2011-11-13T21:12:00.002-05:00

I've been doing a little blog searching for several reasons... I want to find good examples of creative blogging, research new ideas, and even see what other "missionaries" out there blog about. So I found "Jamie The Very Worst Missionary" who seems to have quite a following considering she gets over 100 comments on one entry.

I can see why people like her. She's blunt, honest, yet genuine. This particular post I found was extremely enlightening and I think you should go read it. I didn't re-post it because I just feel bad pasting her whole blog on mine, so just go read it!

http://www.theveryworstmissionary.com/2011/09/using-your-poor-kid-to-teach-my-rich.html

“Grateful” should be learned at home and applied in the world, not the other way around. (from her post)

Down Under

2011-11-11T21:56:00.004-05:00

It's encouraging to know I'm not the only one taking on a new adventure in my life in January. My dear friend Holly, whom I have known since Lee, is taking a missionary stint in Australia all of next year. I just wanted to share her blog so you can visit her as well and follow her story. Holly lives in Nashville so our friendship grew even tighter when I lived there for 2 years.

Although Australia is still rather far from Cambodia, it will be great to know we can call each other up (or rather.... skype, I suppose) and share the good and the bad about all we've signed up for. I'm so excited for her and all that the Lord has in store for her life. Holly has always been so encouraging, stable, and devoted whole-heartedly to her walk with the Lord. I admire her greatly.

go visit! www.onhollyday.com

Bad Place

2011-11-10T21:11:00.003-05:00

(if you came for a Cambodia update-sorry-not that kind of post)

I'm in a bad place.

My mind.... is just in a bad place.

If Jesus would have walked into my classroom today I don't see how he could have been the least bit pleased with even the words coming out of my mouth. I'm just at my wits end. I have said "shut your mouth" more this year than all the previous year's combined. And a few "shut ups" even came out. Yes. Not teacher of the year here.

I know what you're thinking... "Abby, you only have like 5 weeks left!" Yes, this is true. But I still care... about my job and hoping my kids will still learn a little bit. I think some teachers tolerate so much because they honestly don't care.

And I can't help but wonder how different things will be in Cambodia and if I'll even have the same issues. I doubt it.

I like order. I like schedules. I like a pattern. It's how I get a lot accomplished. I also like for my students to at least have a pencil and pretend that they care. I honestly just don't have the answers... how do I get my kids to bring pencils and paper? I mean-do their parents not at least wonder why they get on the bus with nothing in hand??

I have no answer. I'm clearly terrible at this and I think they all despise me. I mean-honestly-I try to be positive and encouraging and down to earth with them but I'm also exhausted by 9:15 and am barely running off fumes the rest of the day. I will give a student instructions and they will blatantly disobey and just stare at me. I fear the future of my own children because I will threaten them severely if they ever mistreat a teacher because it's a TERRIBLE feeling. I did ask one boy this week if it was his goal in life to make me miserable. I think if he was honest, he would have said yes.

I just try to tell myself, "Abby, some of them actually turn out ok." Middle school is just not that time. If I return from Cambodia in two years and consider the teaching profession here in the States, please remind me of this feeling right now and I'll gladly go flip hamburgers.

5 and 5

2011-11-06T15:02:00.002-05:00

Cambodia progress is being made and instead of a logistical update... I thought I would share a few abstract concerns that are beginning to permeate my train of thought these days.

Of course I'm thrilled about this move, but I'm very nervous about several things.... and at the same time-very excited about a few as well. So I want to share my 5 biggest fears about moving to Cambodia, and my 5 biggest excitements!

Here we go.... lets get the ugly out of the way first.

1. Missing people. This is obviously the most difficult situation I'm facing and I do not know how I will handle it. I'm going to have some rough days, I know, but if I become sentimental or whiny through facebook or a blog or something... please do not say, "Well, you're the one who decided to do this!" yes. I'm very aware of that. But that does not help me at all, and I'm not bailng on this!

2. Gaining weight. I don't know why this is a fear, but I'm afraid that eating "easily" over there will translate into me gaining weight fast. When in doubt, I always eat rice which causes me to swell like a balloon! So, I'm just going to have to learn to cook with their stuff and stay on track. Just like always.

3. Extreme weather. The insane heat, or never-ending rain, or unbearable dust. Whatever it may be, it's just not going to be as comfortable and I have to get ready for that.

4. Not knowing the language. The comfort of having all English speakers around me will be sparse, and I'm going to have to really put forth the effort in learning Khmer.

5. Finances. I have to trust and believe in His provision and that I'll always be taken care of but that small speck of fear still creeps in at time. I'll find a way to live, even if it's on a minimal amount!

Onto the five excitements!!!

1. Not being here during the 2012 election. I LOVE that I won't have to see all of those terrible ads and the nonsensical propaganda. I still plan to vote, I'll just do the candidate research myself.

2. Living a slower paced life. I like that Cambodia moves a little slower and isn't so time orientated. Although I appreciate punctuality, it will be nice to not have to be some consumed with time.

3. Walking more. I don't think I'll have a choice but to walk more, so hopefully this will negate my fear of gaining weight. ha.

4. Learning their education system and helping their children grow and learn. It's going to be great to have such freedom in this field and still know I'm helping educating a child.

5. Doing all things PCL and meeting new Cambodian friends!! That's the whole purpose-right?!

recharged

2011-10-29T22:21:00.002-04:00

I was blessed to be apart of a worship workshop this morning with a very talented Christian musician who will be with us at FBC tomorrow.

In the midst of his knowledge and funny jokes, he did have excellent thoughts to share and was very well-versed in scripture and thoroughly understanding worship. I really appreciated that.

I clung to one analogy shared by him because it has been something brewing on my mind for a while, and how people look at church.

He talked about church being the place where you get re-charged. It's like a flashlight... you put new batteries in it or charge it NOT to just sit at home but to actually be used in the DARKNESS. duh. So church is our re-charging... what prepares us... what gets us going and thinking to actually be USED during the week. It's like we've turned the whole concept around. The week is when we do our shining, not in the pew on Sunday.

So my encouragement to you is to get up, get out of bed, and go to church on Sundays. And I realize there are situations that arise that sometimes prevent us, but I'm talking on a regular basis here people. I know people's jobs are tough... I know we're tired.... I know people have kids... but if church is so much work where you and yours in tow have to be dressed to the nines then maybe you oughta find a new church? I know serving in a church is a big push as well but if you're not at the point yet-then ok. That's fine. But at least go and listen, learn, and hopefully be provoked enough by the pastor that it will at least start a conversation or thought about how Christ fits in your life now. And I'm not talking about non-believers here, I'm talking about those who do believe and know truth. Church should never be a burden. Church is not a ticket into heaven but rather what feeds us and, I'll say it again, RECHARGES us. (and a side note-I do believe volunteering by choice in a church is also something else that truly recharges us, and should not burden us)

It's still top of my list for a spouse... if he goes to church, even by himself because honestly, there aren't too many out there! I know what it's like and how difficult it can be but that's why it's so important to me.

Go. Get recharged. And most of the time.... almost all.... you will never regret it. (You can call this a preachy post if you want but I don't really care... you'll just call it preachy if it bothers you.) ;)

CBS makes PCL video

2011-10-28T18:31:00.002-04:00

This is the most recent, professional PCL video that a director from CBS has shot. I know several of these people in the video! yay! Also, the orphanage shown is one of the places I will be assisting.

Watch the video while you sit in a sauna for a few hours and you'll pretty much think you're there. =)

Pretty much...

2011-10-27T18:45:00.000-04:00

this could not be more true.

Source: google.com via Abby on Pinterest

ha!

2011-10-24T21:14:00.001-04:00

Absolutely true.

Source: weheartit.com via Abby on Pinterest

That pit in your stomach... what a feeling!

10 years later

2011-10-22T23:47:00.002-04:00

I graduated 10 years ago in 2001, the first REAL class of the millennium. At least that's what we were always told. ha.

We had our reunion this weekend and it was blog worthy to say the least.

There was a little tail-gating last night before the big BCHS vs. CHS f'ball game which was aired on ESPNU by the way. We got a tour of the new high school which did not feel like my high school at all. I hope those kids know how good they have it! Beautiful cafeteria... brand new science building... an amphitheater to have classes outside... gorgeous athletic fields. But I will say there was a small moment when I could actually smell the same scent I smelled 10 years ago. Just an old, high school odor. Not for sure if that was good or bad.

Then tonight we had a meal with a band and bonfire at the Fillauer House, which is owned by one of our classmate's mom so that was actually kind of cool for us to have it there. But, it was just a weird feeling.

I haven't seen some of these people since the day I graduated, literally. And it's like-all of a sudden-we just are supposed to know how to pick up a conversation and figure out what everyone has done the past 10 years.

Let me tell you about our graduating class... we were a great class. We had like 7 4.0s so we didn't even have a Valedictorian... we brought back the school spirit of tail-gating and dressing up at ball games which seems to have continued 10 more years since I saw it all last night. And honestly, we were just a fun class. Yea, there were cliques but at the same time we all knew each other.

After tonight, we concluded that at least 50% of our class lives in Nashville. Like, the reunion might as well have been there. And multiple own their own businesses and could like, be my boss. Weird. And then some people look the EXACT same, as if they literally just walked out the front doors of CHS. I was amazed by that.

It was wonderful to see old faces... and it was even more grand to share stories about ridiculous events that occurred during those years.

I have no idea how I was truly perceived in HS. To me-I just floated from group to group and never really stood out, but somehow enjoyed all of my different friends. I know in HS people intimidated me and I felt insecure. But honestly, glad to say, I didn't feel like that at all tonight nor did it ever cross my mind that any of them were better than me... or have accomplished more than me... or are even doing anything that I wish I could be doing.

So I suppose that can be some sort of reassurance that I have chosen the right path the last ten years. Not quite sure if it was an epiphany or what, but my life only continues to get better and if that was all I got from the class of 2001 then I'll take it.

And here's a shout out to my fellow classmate who told me he sporadically reads my blog and I had no idea. CM, Don't you miss those Renaissance days? =)

You know who you are

2011-10-21T14:49:00.002-04:00

Words cannot express how true this is!!!! Or if we all could at least live on the same street. Rotate cooking dinner... watch each other's kids. How fun. Ohhh... and I know I'm not the only that thinks this! We've somewhat discussed this option.

Source: sisterspock.tumblr.com via Abby on Pinterest

Sums it up

2011-10-20T16:19:00.001-04:00

I think I might cry. Or you might...

Source: wecutvinyl.com via Abby on Pinterest

Story

2011-10-19T14:23:00.003-04:00

I always try to remind myself of this whenever someone is hateful. Or when I want to be hateful to them. A random person in the grocery story, or a drive thru worker, or even a kid at school. We don't know everyone's story and sometimes it's not necessary that we do. Just be nice.

Saying images-Saying Photos-Sayings Pictures-Quotes - Part 8 (clipped to polyvore.com)

For real

2011-10-17T14:05:00.003-04:00

Source: artpixie.tumblr.com via Abby on Pinterest

Uhhhh.... this is so true. I swear-I feel like the 90s were just yesterday. And the funny thing is, I still think 90s stuff was hip but I'm sure it's not. We came to the realization the other day that our current sixth graders at LF were born in 2000. whoah!!! Seriously?! They don't remember anything about 9/11... and they definitely don't have a clue about Y2K. I wonder what will stick with the 00 decade? Probably all of the social networking internet wonders.

You know you're old when your students don't even know what Full House is or Saved by the Bell. How sad!

I need you to find a way

2011-10-16T16:30:00.000-04:00

We made it to the beach in Florida and glad to say that I accessed internet. So far, so good. It's fun just browsing the internet and not feeling pressure to do something else. I also finished a book today and I hope to finish another this week. THAT is what vacation is for, right?

This quote below is going to have to be my life the next two years. I'm nervous about being overseas and not having such an easy connection with the people I love, but honestly-this is what it's going to have to be.

I feel confident that I'll be good at communicating because I'm going to NEED it much more than everyone else would need me. But-it's also going to take some effort for those who want to stay connected to my life and not lose touch for that period of time. It has potential to be the most exciting years of my life and honestly, don't you want to be apart!?!?!? =)

Took the words right outta my mouth

2011-10-15T14:34:00.003-04:00

I'm sure a lot of you have heard about the site "Pinterest". Well I just love it. I think because it makes me feel creative when I'm really not. And although I will probably never spend the money, nor the time, to complete any of those ideas (well, except maybe the recipes) it's just so fun to look at! It can be a bit of a time sucker so I'm trying to use wisdom and not spend so much time on it.

Soo... I was wanting a creative blog idea and I thought that I would post relatable quotes on my blog and just write a little bit about it. (My intentions are NOT to take credit for these sayings so please know I got them ALL off of Pinterest and some even have the websites attached.) Some are funny.... serious... spiritual... inspiring... just whatever tickles my fancy. During fall break, I would love to do one each day but I'll have to check the status of internet at our beach house.

I put this up in honor of my friend Lisa... heehe... (and read below it)

haha!!! For some reason, I feel like this is something she totally does, AND... I do it also. Sometimes when I get fired up at school I start lecturing my kids about something and then I mess up my words and just laugh. Also, the other day I scolded a child for not paying attention and totally called him another kid's name... as to which that kid said, 'I AM writing it down!!" Can't say I don't blame him. =)

in yo face!

2011-10-10T21:40:00.002-04:00

ha. Sometimes I want to say that to my kids at school. Probably not the most appropriate response when I, yet again, tell them they never turned in their assignment and that it's really just lost in a sea of abyss called their backpack.

anyways... it's also probably what the Lord wanted to say to me this past week! Just when I go and make a big fuss on here, I totally get slapped in the face. Last week really felt like a big move towards Cambodia. I was rather discouraged as far as fundraising goes and things somewhat took off! yay!

First of all, my 1000 brochures came in and now I actually have something tangible to show people. It really helps!

I was able to talk to my faculty, very briefly... and rather nervously, about my new venture and they all received my brochure as well. They are all so supportive. My kids at school are starting to find out about me leaving and that's kind of weird.

I had a few people commit to me monthly which has added up to a few thousand dollars and that has literally moved me to tears! Wow! What a feeling to be at the expense of others, literally... and know they believe in me! It's a mix of emotions.

I also had a fellow colleague approach me about sharing at their church which would be an awesome opportunity.

Then, Friday evening I got a phone call that someone they knew wanted to anonymously give me $1500!!!! awesome!!!! I was blown away and so thankful! To whoever it is!!!

I've also had several people start asking about renting my house and I hope to get those logistics squared away asap.

ha. I told ya! The Lord totally took control and just showed me who was boss this week. It's so awesome. I look forward to going to Orlando next week for fall break. I'll get to spend time with my sister and kids and also my very best friends, the Hoods-and hopefully share a little at their church as well. He remains faithful.

If you would like a brochure mailed to you, please email me your address. snazzyabby@hotmail.com

"It's just one a them days..."

2011-10-04T21:21:00.004-04:00

(Please tell me someone remembers those lyrics from like the early 90s?)

There aren't many times where I feel comfortable admitting that I would like to have a man around.

Like when I need my gutters cleaned out... or my lawn mowed... or the trash taken out. Those are times where I wish I had a man in the same house. Not even necessarily a love interest, just the strength and knowledge of all that boyish stuff that girls don't have a clue about. Or that THIS girl doesn't have a clue about.

But this is the one emotional situation where I wish I had some male insight.... don't you hate when you know you're feeling extra emotional and sensitive and "cryey"???? And I promise, if I just had some male intuition to look me square in the face and say, "Abby, really? You're totally overreacting and freaking out. Think about something else." I would probably do just fine... I know it's true. I know it's right. It's like we need to gain a little perspective.

It's been one of those days (or a few days) where I seem to make up reasons to be emotional. These are the times where I can truly say I hate being a female!!! All of those stupid girly thoughts creep in and I swear they are the devil in disguise!! Honestly, I usually just suck it up, sleep on it a few nights, maybe even cry... but eventually it passes. I'm learning to catch it on the front end now so I suppose that's good. It's almost like I want to personally email each girlfriend and say, "are you mad at me?" How ridiculous is that!?!??! What is this-middle school?!??! I guess after 28 years you learn this about yourself and no matter how well you know it, it doesn't necessarily make it go away.

So cheers to you Ms. Extra Emotional "I think everyone is mad at me" Fellow Girlfriend... let me assure you... you are still the same, normal, life-loving girl that you have always been... except now you have to learn how to function in a normal job and keep a marriage and like.... raise kids and stuff. eh, no biggie. The older I get, the more I realize I can't do anything on my own. And Thank the Lord for that.

What I love

2011-10-01T14:07:00.003-04:00

Summer is my most favorite season but I love plenty of things about Fall! It's kind of like Skim Milk being my favorite milk... but I can find other things to enjoy about 2% and even Whole Milk. =)

When it comes to Fall, I love...

Football on the radio in the car.

Hoody combined with sandal weather.

Not running the heat or air.

Coffee in the mornings.

New shows on tv.

Leggings and scarves.

Caramel apples and chili.

Yard sales.

Haunted house billboards.

Fall festivals.

New candle scents.

Orange and brown.

The beginning of many parties for my family for the next 2 1/2 months... including my nephew's birthday!!! (who turns 10 this year. whoah.)

It's almost October!

2011-09-28T21:32:00.002-04:00

As you can tell, mission Cambodia is in full swing!! It's been a crazy September, yet fun and action packed.

My aunt took over my blog design and doesn't it look lovely? I love that it has a touch of both cultures.... American(o) and my future home, Cambodia! Also, you can go right to the button at the top and donate to my mission through that outlet. How great!

Also, my dear friend who is oh so talented at graphic design (I guess that's what you call it?) helped design my fundraising brochure and I hope to have that by the end of the week. I'll be doing a large mail out here soon. It will be nice to actually have something to pass out.

Last Saturday I had a fantastic yard sale with the help of family and friends! I took off work Friday to set up with my mom all day and I'm sure glad I did that considering it took ALLLLLL day to set up! My sister offered her home which is a superb location and some close friends helped transfer furniture Thursday as well. I am VERY grateful and made around $1200!!!! It's definitely a start!

Two Sundays ago I was able to attend North Cleveland COG with my uncle where he spoke about PCL and their work in Cambodia. He mentioned me from the pulpit to rally the troops for support and I was able to make several hundred dollars that day just off of the Cambodian made necklaces. It was really good to be back at the church I grew up in.

I was also able to share with my Sunday School class a few weeks ago and tell my testimony of how I came to this decision about Cambodia. It was really great to talk to a small group of ladies and tell them my personal story. I'm grateful that they let me share.

And most recently, I was able to go on the radio this morning with our local station, WCLE-Steve Hartline!!! It was so much fun and I'm pretty sure that was my radio debut! Big Thanks to Steve for asking me to come on the air and I might get to go back and talk about Cambodia again. Hopefully some support will come from that too.

As far as Cambodia, those are the most recent happenings.

As far as life... well, I thought somehow it would slow down but it hasn't felt like it! My very best friend Katie delivered her precious little baby, Lucy Hope, last Wednesday and I just love her to pieces! She is SO beautiful and perfect. I told Katie she looks just like my niece in my opinion... ha... which is the best compliment I can give considering I think my niece is flawless! (I can say that because I'm the aunt... not the mom!) I have weaseled my way over to Katie's almost every day, just to hold that little munchkin. And Katie is doing fabulous, might I add.

I told myself that this year, in regards to school, I was not going to stay past 4 o'clock or bring home tons of papers. yeaa..... somehow that still hasn't happened. I always think each year it will get easier but that's definitely not the case this year. I have my second observation tomorrow and then I'M DONE!!! woohoo!!! They stress me out to the max. May the good Lord help me get to December.

10 years later

2011-09-17T20:01:00.002-04:00

I made the mistake of taping every 9/11 special there was last Sunday and a week later, I'm still watching them all.

Ugh.

Bad idea.

I felt a strong duty this year specifically to make sure my students understand 9/11 and the effects of it. Thankfully, they were very responsive and respectable. There was a lot they didn't know about that day and they were happy to learn. Most of them have no idea what life was like before 9/11 because they were only 3.

I also enjoy learning all of the new stories and experiences uncovered from that day. There were so many good things that happened that day and thousands of lives that were saved. I hope we never forget that either.

Watching the new memorials be revealed was particularly special and fascinating considering all of the thought and specifics that went in to making it people friendly.

Watching the Obamas and Bushes walk together with no seeming feeling of angst or competition but rather unity and respect was refreshing yet frustrating... wishing that we felt that political unity every day.

The things I hate most about 9/11 are that it took such a catastrophric event to make us feel united as Americans. Why did we have to go through something so brutal to feel united? I hate that our president has to stand behind glass frames for safety. And I hate that we are scared to get on planes, especially with people who are a different color than us or particularly Middle Eastern. And that you scan the plane when you get on to see if anyone looks suspicious. I hate that our views of religion have been so skewed.

Every anniversary of 9/11 means so much to me, but at the same time... I hate it. I hate the day. I still feel anger. I still feel frustration. It infuriates me. Some things have gotten better and some things have gotten worse. I wish we didn't have to have such honorariums because I wish September 11 wasn't such a scarred day now. As much as you want to make this day "normal" now, it just can never be.

As a firefighter from 9/11 put so truthfully, time is said to heal all wounds... but that just may not be the case for September 11, 2001.

Can't Complain...

2011-09-10T20:55:00.006-04:00

Since last, I have had a fun vacation with friends, received a day out of school due to flash flooding, and had several friends give birth to beautiful babies! It's been a fun few weeks! OH! And.... my brother in law is home from Iraq!!!!! YAYYYYY!!!!

My precious girlfriends (from college) and I had our annual vacation in Chattanooga this year, mainly due to the few pregnant girls who can't travel far because their due date is so near. This was our fifth annual vaca and they get better every year! We went to a cabin on Nickajack Lake and had fun boating, going to Coolidge Park, eating downtown and playing ridiculously fun games with all of the hubbies. It was all highly entertaining. =) And the kiddos are making things so much more exciting!

We left the cabin last Monday, Labor Day, which was when the remnants of tropical storm Lee decided to drop a record amount of rain on Cleveland and Chattanooga. The flash flooding was ridiculous so we were out of school Tuesday. It was the most rain EVER in one day-I think over 10 inches. Even Chattanooga made national news. One extreme to the other-drought to flood!

I also would like to share that several of my friends have had their babies and I have more to look forward to! Little Cooper was born a few weeks ago... as well as Samuel (who is far away but I skyped with him!)... and Emma Claire arrived last Friday night! I met Cooper and EC yesterday and they are the softest, best smelling things ever. =) Praise the Lord for healthy babies and safe deliveries.

As far as Cambodia goes, I have several things in the works and I'm trying to create a fundraising plan. I've started my excel spreasheet with all necessary columns that relate to life. Are you surprised? =) Of course not. It's already a fun journey and I know it's going to keep getting better...

Things to come or look forward to: Other babies being born that I can't wait to hold, fall break (ha!), sweatshirt weather, my Cambodia yard sale and the grand Fall Party.

ohhhh Winston

2011-08-28T23:47:00.001-04:00

I find this small video clip particularly funny. I let Winston take my flip cam and video whatever he wanted and the perspective of his every day life definitely shows through this. Just listen and watch what happens... he falls off the couch with the camera, and then thinks he broke something, and tries to put it back together. He gets scolded by not only his mother, but also his brother. And I love how you can see their little heads and bare feet swirling about. ha.

Cambodia Bound!

2011-08-27T07:29:00.002-04:00

This is my fun announcement. =)

In January, I plan to move to Cambodia for approximately 2 years. I'm.pumped!!!!!!!!

I have so many thoughts swirling around in my head that I'm glad to start blogging about it all. It's going to take time to get it all out.

Now that people are finding out and saying something to me I honestly don't know where to go with the conversation when they bring it up... "oh my gosh! I heard you're moving to Cambodia!" "yeaa!! I am!!" .... (cricket.cricket).... It's like I have so much to say that I can't even get out one word and I also don't know what people want to hear. Everyone asks different questions.

So, let me do a little QandA for you on this first of many blogs about the Cambo.

What will you be doing? Well, I'm so glad you asked. =) I will be working for People for Care and Learning (http://www.peopleforcare.org/) and my main priority is to enhance the education program for both of the Orphanages. There is an orphanage in Siem Reap called The Children's Home, and a newer orphanage in Phnom Penh called Hope Orphanage. I hope to track all of those children on a path of success to higher education or a good job so poverty will not just be delayed for them, but rather nonexistent. I also hope to head up the PCL blog, the Cambodia side of it, because I enjoy writing so much and want to make sure all ministries etc. are exposed properly for everyone stateside to see. I'm REALLY excited about that part too!

Where will you live? I don't know exactly yet. There are several people going over in January, multiple graduates of Lee, and housing is being worked out. Although, I'm not totally for sure, I'm not that worried about it. There are several options so we just have to wait and see for a little while.

Do you get paid? Noooo!!!!! =) I have to raise full support. $30,000 is my goal. yikes!

What are you doing with your house? I have to rent it. I'm working out the details on that as well, but if anyone knows a trustworthy Clevelander that needs a nice, little home.... please contact me because I would like to rent to someone who will cause no problems. I live in a super calm, safe neighborhood. With sidewalks. ha.

Did you quit your job? Well, basically, yes... I'm done in December. I told my principals right before school started. I was TERRIFIED to have this conversation but I do believe the Lord had a hand in this situation, the first of many hopefully, and they were wooooonnnnddeeeerrfullll about it. I am so glad they are supportive. I know that I really want and need my colleagues support the next few months. As it has started to leak out at LF, people have been very kind.

I think this covers some of the main questions but there are many more things to think about to make sure I've got it all covered. I do hope to come home at least twice in that two year stretch. I also hope and wish that as many people come visit that possibly can!!!! Not only do I want and need to see my American friends, but I truly want people to be exposed to what PCL is doing because it's mindblowing all that is going on over there.

I hope my future blogs about Cambodia aren't so businesslike but rather the heartside of why I felt the need to move there and what's been going on in my life.

I would also like to go ahead and let you know how you can give to support me. Just mail a check, made out to People for Care and Learning (or just PCL), and put in the memo line my name: Abby Fletcher. 100% will go into my account. I hope to have some materials made to pass out soon.

People for Care and Learning
4235 TL Rogers St NE
Cleveland, TN 37312-4991

Here we gooooo!!!!!

and that's not fat with a PH

2011-08-16T20:29:00.009-04:00

Today was the 7th official day of school and my body is slowly adjusting to being back at work. I am exhausted to say the least.

I'm doing my best to bring NO work home with me and so far I've done very well. That means I can take my time cooking food I want to cook... laying around... cleaning the house.... and reading-of course!

Thanks to my dear friend MS, she suggested this devotional book Sunday...

... this time of year I'm always needing a new plan to get into the Word so I've been wanting a new guide and this seems like a great place to start. I enjoy the probing questions and prayers. Last week one night I just sat on my bed and stared at my Bible, hoping God's word would just float into my brain, because I was so exhausted I literally couldn't even pick it up. It's a new day kids!

So have any of you gotten the new "Shellac" or "Gel" polish??? Oh... my... word... it's perfection! I have had it on for 10 days now and not a scratch, mark, or chipping on these hands yet! It's already worth every penny! It's $20, but is supposed to last 3-4 weeks. I'll let you know how it pans out.
(Do you like how I went from devotional book to nail polish? No hiding what's important to me!)

I went to Zumba last night... probably the first time since May. And it all suddenly came rushing back to me all the thoughts that occur to me in that 1 hour time period. First of all, I'm not young like the good ole days. Secondly, I always admire the very elderly who do Zumba or those who are very motivated to lose a lot of weight. I think that's admirable. I was also highly entertained by the woman in front of me, who's face in the mirror I could see clearly and I'm pretty sure she thought she was in a Jay-Z music video with those faces she was making. It. was. hilarious. Oh how I needed a close girlfriend to be there with me. And the joys of being a teacher in a somewhat small town always include having to do Zumba with at least one student you've had.

If you have a friend that is a Tennessee teacher, on their behalf I suggest you be extra encouraging and supportive right now. I won't get into the MADNESS of it all, unless you have a lot of time to spare, but just know... there are some serious changes going on right now in TN Legislation and it is surely going to lead to a lot of people leaving this profession. May the good Lord help us all. And may I be a "solid 3". (ahem, we are now being ranked 1-5 and apparently if you are a "3" you are considered "rock solid". then why offer a 5 people!?!?!?)

Oh, and how could I forget. Did I tell you a student called me FAT in front of the entire class last week? Yes. True story. I will save the details BUT-I handled it like a champ honestly, and I was rather proud. I talked with him after, he did come apologize, and then I called his father. =) And when I talked to his dad I wanted to say, "Oh... and by the way... I'm really not fat. You can come in and see for yourself." HA! Not the point here Abby...

And lastly, stay tuned dear friends as I hope to make a BIG announcement next week about some recent decisions about my life! I have NOOOOOO clue who even reads my blog but if you do, I promise it will be fun! =) Bring a friend even. teeheehee...

Book Worm

2011-08-09T21:35:00.004-04:00

I'm super restless right now. So blogging is always a good option.

We started school yesterday so my body is adjusting to going to bed early and getting up early. It's also hot as hades so I finally got my classroom super frigid today. The only information I have to share about school is that we have A LOT of kids!! Surely we are breaking an enrollment record because there are just so many. My classes are very full and a multitude of teachers do not have enough desks. Not quite sure why the increase of kids but it seems to be all over the county.

Without cheerleading my afternoons feel different and I kind of don't know what to do with myself. I'm supposed to be reading a book for my master's class and I literally would rather walk across hot coals right now than read this darn book. ugh.

Which leads me into the only bit of information I could round up that might be half way interesting to write about... the books I am currently reading.

1. Undaunted Courage

This is about the Lewis and Clark expedition and thus far in the first 150 pages I have learned almost nothing. boo on you Ambrose.

2. Half The Sky

This book is about women who live in severe oppression all over the world. It's a book about change and a vision and hope for women who are trafficked throughout different countries. Several of the stories are from Cambodia women, and that of course, hits home for me. I am reading it slowly though because I have a hard time digesting some of the horrific situations these women lived through. It's really fantastic though. Borrowed it from my sister Sarah. =)

3. Unbroken

Awesome book!!!!! It's about an Olympic Athlete, Louis Zamperini, who ends up fighting in WWII. His plane goes down in the ocean near Japan and well... I don't want to ruin it for you. I'm about half way done and it's so very well written and descriptive. A little too descriptive at some points but it really puts into persective what men at war have went through for our country. Thanks to my favorite author, Shauna Niequist, for suggesting this book.

Up next on the Kindle is the second Hunger Games book and the Anne of Green Gables series.
During the summer, I read:
The Help-

which comes out in theatres TOMORROW!!! Woohoo!!! I LOVED this book and I hope the movie does not disappoint.

Francis Chan's Erasing Hell-

Chan is a genius. I hate to put a human on a pedestal and I have to remind myself that's all he is, but he is so ridiculously awesome I can't even handle it. His book is somewhat of a response to Rob Bell's Love Wins, but Chan does it so eloquently. He actually verbalized several thoughts I had in regards to heaven and hell. Team Chan for sure.

And also, can I add that Francis Chan writes children's books and they are fabulous! We gave my best bud Katie a book shower this weekend and she got this book...

I want to buy it for every child I know. You should go get it and read it. Beautiful message... even for adults.

Sweet Babies

2011-08-04T21:11:00.002-04:00

Here are some summer videos of my sweet babies that I love so much! I don't think Fletcher Nathan made the cut somehow... he must have been outside playing. I personally enjoy Jones blow drying his hair... =) ENJOY!

oh yeahh...??

2011-07-26T22:23:00.003-04:00

I almost forgot I had this blog. Ok... not really.

I have been soaking up the summer like it's almost over! Oh wait-It is!

I go back to work on Monday which will consist of a whole week of in-service. I shall not reveal all personal feelings about school right now because it will probably lead you to believe I am the worst teacher in the world but needless to say, not too thrilled about school.

Moving on... I have spent many a day at my friends' pools and it's been so relaxing. Glad I've been enjoying time with several pregnant friends before their babies arrive!! Did I mention I have about 10 friends do within a few weeks of each other? Ok... more like within 3 months but I'm for real! I love hearing all the new names... and nursery colors... and funny pregnancy stories.

So you might ask, whats new with me? Well-I did have my first scare in my house and actually called the police the other night. I could hear banging against my garage and back door. To make a long story short... after 3 nights of hearing this... I called the police and asked for someone to come check out the grounds. Final conclusion by the very nice southern policeman: large bugs banging against my house. Lucky those bugs just had a harmless police officer because I would have worn them out with my mace!!!!! I have slept soundly since then.

My usual evenings consist of vamping our curriculum maps, eating food I have purchased from our local's farmer's market, trying NOT to watch so much TV, and reading an extremely NOT interesting book about Lewis and Clark. After the first 120 pages I have learned that Meriwether Lewis was very fond of Thomas Jefferson. And that's about it.

On a happier note-I'm ecstatic to not be doing cheerleading. I know I mention this in like every blog but I'm finally reaping the benefits now. I'm not missing it like I thought I would.

And some things have stayed the same... I still miss Cambodia and think of it every day.... my nephews and niece are my favorite little people in the world... and I'm still lovin' the heat.

Deaf and Dumb

2011-07-11T19:00:00.006-04:00

As you can see, my blog has taken a turn towards boredom. Eh.

Last weekend the family ventured to KY and it was eventful, needless to say. In the midst of a few hours, a few accidents occurred and the passing of my great uncle was announced. That being the worst obviously, I am thankful none of the other incidents did not end up differently. Anytime there are children.... and pools... and flipping into pools-it can be rough! I don't even have enough strength to type it all.

We went back to KY last Wednesday for my Uncle Ray's funeral and it was lovely to be with the Jones family, as to whom I had not seen several of them in quite a while! I always knew, even as a little girl, that those Jones boys were an interesting crew but the older I get, the more I see it and LOVE IT!

My Papaw is 5th in line out of 6 children. Uncle Ray was the baby and all of the others are still living. The oldest is my aunt Nell who is 89 and she looks GREAT! At a time like this, stories of old happenings always come about and I can't help but share one that my uncle Fred told at the funeral. It's super funny...

My uncle Ray and Papaw were the two brothers who dealt in cars most of their lives. So several years ago my papaw headed to the car auction, 2 weeks in a row, and he got a speeding ticket both times! So my uncle Ray told him "I'll show you how to do this!" and he hopped in the driver's seat. So they headed, together, to the auction and uncle Ray got pulled over... so he leaned over to Papaw and said, "follow my lead". So when the cop came over to the car, Ray and Papaw acted DEAF AND DUMB to the cop!!! HAHAHAHAHAH!!! The cop was so flustered he just walked away....

And THAT pretty much sums it all up! They are a mess... 2 preachers, 2 car salesmen, and the 2 sisters. I love my family. =)

(Picture taken several years ago)
In birth order: Nell, Lola, David, Paul, Ted (my papaw :) ), and Ray-who just passed.

Part II

2011-07-07T18:45:00.000-04:00

the Homeland

2011-07-04T20:12:00.003-04:00

Well you can probably tell I'm back in the states because my blog came to a screeching halt. I have been home almost a week and surprisingly, I have suffered only minor jet lag. I was trying to get adjusted to life again and catch up with a lot of people I haven't seen in a while therefore the blog lost some pizazz.

I'm also still processing things and thinking of all things American-especially since it's the 4th of July. I do have some other blogs to share about Cambodia and thank you to everyone who has followed this journey! My videos on youtube are getting a lot of hits and I just hope you are able to see a small glimpse of what PCL is doing in Cambodia because it is truly miraculous.

To top it off... on this day of celebrating our country's birth... let me give you the "Things you should know about AMERICA" spill... I have been reminded of these things in the past week.

1. The humidity in the south is like a frigid winter compared to Cambodia
2. Our greenery, at least here in TN, is BEAUTIFUL... there isn't dust here to overshadow the beauty of it. Enjoy it.
3. Things are expensive. No doubt.
4. It's amazing that you can travel lengthy distances on flat roads with no massive potholes
5. Nice to know you can drink water out of the faucet
6. Main concept I'm reminded of daily: I have way more than I need.

Closure

2011-06-27T00:36:00.003-04:00

As my final blog from Asia, just wanted to share a few thoughts.

I intend to share a few more interesting items (more pictures and videos) even when I get back to the states but I feel at this time, this is necessary to share.

First of all, thank you to everyone who supported me in my coming to Cambodia rather that be through prayer, emotional support or finances. It's the journey as a whole that's life changing. I may not be preaching to thousands every day for hours at a time, but whether it be a small interaction or a clasroom full of orphans, it's the whole experience that counts. No, I did not live in a hut the entire 21 days and "suffer for Christ" as some may put it because honestly, I didn't suffer at all. I was surrounded by wonderful people and knew what I was doing was the right thing so how can I possibly call that suffering? Sure.... at times the heat was extremely difficult and the food was less than "American" and the roaches were highly undesired but that was all minor. So however you chose to help a sista travel across the world-please know I am more than grateful for your continuous support. I think you would be surprised at how many times you all popped into my head.

Secondly, I am going to try my very hardest to not just come back to American and have the post missions trip attitude where I seem to be overcome with guilt for living in the USA and just be annoyed with how ridiculously spoiled we all are. As Jake put it, if you were born in America, you hit the geographical jackpot. But rather, focus on how we can truly use every gift, talent, and extra dollar to help others. Even if it's not a third world country, what are YOU doing to help ANYBODY? Even if it's your next door neighbor. It's not always about helping an orphan on the other side of the world but rather how you use what you have to help YOUR world in your own town. I judge no one with a fancy house, fancy car, or fancy clothes (because in all truthfullness I fall into that category myself based on the lifestyle people live here) but maybe ask you to just slow down for a bit. If that is the main thing this precious 3rd world country has shown me is to sloooooowwwww dooowwwwwwn. Don't do so much. Don't say so much. Don't EAT as much! ha. And just pause to think about what you should give.

And to somewhat contradict everything I just said: I think EVERYONE needs to get off their butt every once in a while (and I mean rather often actually) and leave your comfort zone and travel to another country!!! Save some dollars, sacrifice an easy vacation or new outfit or new electronic device and even ask for some support if necessary to pay to get yourself into a different culture. I can easily bet my life that you will not be disappointed.

I'll shall see you on the other side of the great pond. =)

This and That

2011-06-24T23:50:00.005-04:00

Today is Saturday morning here and the team left last Thursday (as in 9 days) evening. Chloe and I have stayed in two different guest houses since then, the latter now containing multiple roaches. It's actually a very nice place but we are on the first floor and the owner said they come in through the bottom of the door. As of this morning, we have had 12-LARGE-roaches in our room. yikes!

We have been doing a little bit of everything. We have had some fun and also participated in as many PCL activities as we could. We have taught the Children's Home kids English classes twice and we will teach one last time on Monday before we leave. We have visited the Tonle Sap boat and I even had the opportunity to share devotions last night with all of the kids.

Yesterday was a full day of leadership/potential training from Dr. Fred Toke who is from Singapore and on the PCL board. I thoroughly enjoyed him! He is a psychologist so of course a lot of what he shared can be applied to my teaching and the students I teach.

Today we will attend ISOLD (International School of Leadership Development) graduation which will be the 2nd time for me because I attended this as well 4 years ago.

I've also really enjoyed getting to know the Lee Interns that are here. There are 7 of them and they are very good-hearted, mature college kids! They are here a total of 10 weeks so they will head back sometime in July.

I have a few other random blogs to post, especially one about our adventure to the Landmine Museum. We leave late Monday evening so we only have about 2 1/2 days left here in Cambodia. I'm trying not to force my brain into switching gears just yet about going home... because it seems once I do that, I can't go back!! Lucky for me though, I don't have a whole lot to do when I get back and THAT, is wonderful. Enjoy some pictures.

Sreilin

Devotions... with a translator of course! =)

Crazy ride in the back of a truck!!!!

Phiseth doing... whatever it is he usually does...

All of the kids!!! Almost know everyone's names...

A typical wedding dress-made out of silk.

Barong (sp?) has stolen my heart!

We had a girls' night at Heathers! It was great fun.
(Chloe, Me, Jen, Heather, and Donna)

I'm a videoing machineeeeee!!!

2011-06-23T08:48:00.001-04:00

Tonle Sap Video

2011-06-22T05:22:00.000-04:00

Things you should know about Cambodia

2011-06-21T10:31:00.003-04:00

I encourage everyone to come visit Cambodia! It's a beautiful place with beautiful people and I've been trying to keep track of the interesting pieces of information I have learned throughout my few weeks here.

1- I have difficulty in everything being measured differently, metric system, and also that the temperature is in Celsius. I so should have paid better attention in math and science.

2-Big adjustment to the lack of toilet paper. Places you think would have TP do not, therefore always keep some with you! And also the lack of napkins. The napkins they give you in most restaurants are the size of my palm. And they give you one. Either we are a wasteful bunch of people or we just get too dirty when we eat.

3-They also do not use wash cloths or hand towels. I can live without a wash cloth, but no hand towels is rather frustrating. Which also leads me to saying they don't use soap often. Hence the no hand towel rule...

4-Honking is an action of courtesy here. You will hear incessant honking solely to be a signal of "hey-I'm behind you!" Or "Hey... I'm going faster than you so scoot on over so you don't get hit. thank you!" There is definitely no road rage. Rather shocking actually.

5-A lot of people cook with a lot of MSG over here which can be a big problem for some people. Several of the girls' ankles were swollen all the way into youth camp (which was about a week) and we're pretty sure it was the MSG. So touristy restaurants will actually say in the menu "We do not use MSG."

6-Being on time is unnecessary here. Which-if you know me-could possibly be the most difficult adjustment for me, EVER! Even more than the no TP! And when I say it doesn't matter... I mean, people come 45 minutes late, it doesn't matter. Thanks to our great trip leader Jen who warned us of this and then I was totally fine. As long as I have a heads up!

I don't mean for these to all be negative, just different or fascinating. I actually kind of like the honking idea. I also saw my first moto wreck today which was SCAARRRYYYYY! Two girls, with no helmets. Forget laws here people... when you're number one goal is survival you don't really care about anything else! I have also vowed to never complain about taxes again. If you could drive 10 minutes on their sideroads you would understand why.... they need better paved roads! As much as I enjoy paying $4 flat for dinner, taxes might be a good idea????

Another video

2011-06-21T09:46:00.002-04:00

I'm so sorry my videos are not exactly matching up with my blogs. It just takes a little longer for me to put them together. Here is our Takam video...

Ode to Chacos

2011-06-20T10:53:00.003-04:00

I had a revelation the other day on the Tonle Sap: every missionary needs a pair of Chacos. If I were to start a new ministry, it would be "Chacos to Missionaries" ministry because I do not know how some of them survive over here without them! Flip Flops just don't cut it. I was inspired to share just about 2 of these lines while we were on the boat since so many people were Chaco lovers. I decided to extend it because the nonstop rain here has inspired me. So do enjoy.

(not my feet BTW)

Chacos, chacos you're so grand
I'm glad I can wear you in the sand

You can wear them up a mountain
You can wear them in a fountain

You can wear them on a boat
Because they'll surely float

You can wear them in Tennessee
You can wear them across the sea

You can wear them in the rain
Although the smell will sometimes stain

You can step upon a nail
They will even endure hail

You can wear them in the dirt
You can wear them with a skirt

You can wear them in the mud
Because they will not come off even in the crud

You can wear them in the cold
And they have such colorful folds

You can wear them if you're male
You can wear them if you're ABIGAIL

You can wear them down the Ocoee
You can wear them if it's snowing

They are made for young and old
Oh dear Chacos, you are gold!

Siem Reap Day 3

2011-06-19T09:39:00.002-04:00

Wednesday morning.... excuse me, middle of the night... we met at 4:45 to gather on Tuk Tuks and head to Angkor Wat. Sunrise is considered the most ideal time to be at the temples, not to mention its less crowded and MUCH cooler. It was fun riding together in one big mass as the sun rose, although I will say... since I was in one of the slow tuk tuks that was in the back of the group, looking ahead it kind of looked like a Harry Potter movie and I was waiting for Hagrid to appear at any moment on his winged motorcycle and have a tuk tuk fly away with him. Sadly, that did not happen.

We ventured through the temples which are pretty much rocks and some are rubble but in some, you can still notice their fine detail. These temples represent a whole handful of thoughts. (and might I add-I have enjoyed my 2 tours of Angkor Wat but honestly, I do not know if I would care to ever do it again! The heat is unreal!) The time and dedication and precision it took to build and create these temples is breathtaking. But now, most of the glimmer and color has faded. Those building it thought it would last forever but sadly, it will not. There are Buddhas throughout the grounds (the whole area is the size of Manhattan) and like a fellow travel mate said-I'm so glad our God is not a God of rock. Amen!

I also enjoyed an elephant ride around a temple. Pretty sure the elephants almost trampled a few people but whatev... no biggie here.

After Angkor we returned at lunch and basically had the remainder of the day to rest or shop or get a massage. =) It was an early day but super fun.

Siem Reap Day 2

2011-06-18T06:19:00.003-04:00

Day 2 we traveled to Takom Village. Along the bumpy and muddy bus ride, a few of us were able to listen to Sien tell us about growing up in this village. He lived in an orphange nearby and still loves Takom dearly. We did a small service with the villagers and Stephen's group led an "illustrated sermon". (And might I add on a completely selfish note... going to the bathroom in these villages is not exactly ideal so everytime I creep out of there without having to use the restroom and my own toilet paper, I am ecstatic. I find joy in the small things!)

This village is significant because of the small "business" that the Young Entrepenuer's Society (led by J Stum) has put into place with the help of Lee University's business department. It is a farm where the people are learning to grow their own food and sell off to not only help those around, but create a business that will be sustainable. We toured the village and gave out water filters here and bags of candy to the children.

We venture back into town to have lunch at Common Grounds then headed to the Children's Home for a little Welcoming Presentation and then a service with the children. They are beautiful, vibrant, life-giving little bundles of joy and they will wear you out! I had the pleasure of really connecting with one of the adults whose name is Pheneth. She and her husband Ezra are one of the couples who maintain the children's home. I sat up in her room with her as she fed her son Johnathan and we basically just talked about each other's cultures and how we became Christians. She was eager to learn "Western" ideas as I was eager to learn about her life.

It was an action packed day!

Youth Camp

2011-06-18T00:19:00.002-04:00

We played games at camp... had wonderful services... did crafts... and even had a little rapping session from J Stum.

Siem Reap Day 1

2011-06-17T06:11:00.003-04:00

Our first day in Siem Reap was action packed and HOT! What else would you expect?

The whole crew headed out to the Tonle Sap where 1 million refugees have been living for years. We didn't get to see all of PCL's ministries because the water hasn't risen yet so it would have taken hours to get to where we needed to go. We were on two large boats where little boats will come up and attach themselves to the tourist boat and then send their very young children onto your boat to purchase a drink or take a picture of them with a snake for $1. It's such an awkward feeling.

We took a break on a floating market... got stuck in the anchor... and weasled our way through the lily pads that were pretty much engulfing us. We saw floating basketball courts, schools, and churches. Several NGOs have boats out there.

We then went to an abandoned temple called "temple without a door" (not for sure how to say that in Khmer) and had boxed lunches from Common Grounds. It was a neat idea and we were able to sit in the shade on cool rocks.

After lunch we went to Tok Lok village where PCL is starting to really connect with the people. We handed out 225 water filters and gave a lesson on how to use them. It was so neat to see them drive off on their motos with their pretty filters attached. Each filter is approximately $11 so if you would like to purchase some, please go to PCL's website and e-mail them. (Can't help but give them a plug of course.) =)

We came back and ate at the Red Piano-Angelina Jolie's favorite restaurant. She's even in the menu, ha. And I'm sure somewhere in the mix I got a massage... because so far I have gotten some type of massage the past 4 days.

I feel as if my blogs are very mechanical and business like because I do enjoy sharing the logistics of what we have done... but there is definitely more to it. I feel as if I need to take the time to flush out some thoughts and what I'm really thinking. It's absolutely overwhelming.... I'm writing this now, 4 days late, after the team has already left and after we had a great "debriefing" yesterday. People shared their discoveries, hearts, concerns, tears, and desire to keep coming back and helping the whole country of Cambodia. I've had a few epiphanes along the way that I think will be life-changing.

As much as I miss family and dear friends from home, I really don't miss home at all.

More blogs, and videos, to come.

Phnom Penh video

2011-06-16T23:34:00.002-04:00

This is my Phnom Penh video footage. I didn't do a fabulous job here, but it's still worthwhile. We visited the Poverty Reduction "neighborhood" (with all the naked babies and very skinny animals running around). PCL is slowly building new homes for these people and they also have a learning center smack dab in the middle of the neighborhood! Notice the computers and sewing machines. We also visited a new PCL learning center as well as a playground PCL built. It's only about 2 1/2 minutes long.

Siem Reap pictures

2011-06-15T22:44:00.008-04:00

Julie educating the village on how to use a water filter. Fascinating...

This is for M and J Parker-this is their sponsored little girl, Sreila. She is a handful!

Part of the farm at Takom Village. So cool because these are people are learning how to farm, support themselves, yet also create a business.

At a temple eating lunch.

Common Grounds=ridiculously cool coffee house.

Fried crickets, spiders, worms, etc.

Perpetual state of "glistening" here in Cambo.

All of the youth camp crew. yay!

Extremely large, dead bug. whoah!

Wanted to get these pics uploaded and hopefully will have a written blog soon.

Camp Day 2 and 3... and the end

2011-06-13T11:35:00.003-04:00

I woke up extremely late today…. 6:15. ha.

I barely made it through last night’s worship and dances. As in, I literally could not keep my eyes open. I went to bed at 8 and slept like a rock. I think I’m finally un-jetlagged.

We had service again in the morning, after breakfast (which was another hot dog), and it was really lovely to hear a testimony. You may not understand their language, but when they cry, you understand what that means. And when they smile… its comforting.

After our small groups, which always follow up the sermon, we started working on a skit that we are to perform at the night service. Each group has a skit to share in the competition and they LOVE it! My students would probably despise an activity like this but as we talked at dinner, it’s important to realize that their lives are extremely monotonous with no diversity of any kind because survival is so important. Therefore, anything with some spunk and fun they absolutely love. They happily do it because it’s so different to them.

After a very intense soccer tournament of 4 teams and barefooted jumping and kicking, a few of us went swimming. The pool is beautiful and they swim in their clothes. It’s an extremely modest culture which is somewhat refreshing. I just wanted the option to actually be cold and I enjoyed every moment of it.

I had a pre-dinner snack and nap which consisted of Pringles, cookies, and then rice. I actually woke up to my dear friend AM putting a cookie underneath my net and it was the best wake up treat ever.

A group from South Carolina joined us today and they did a few dramas and a dance at the evening get together. The Khmer loved it. Also, each group performed the dramas they prepared and our group had the story of Jesus healing the 10 lepers. And can I just say the way we practice it was NOT at allllll how we performed it. I couldn't fix it either because I had not clue what they were saying... just had to go with the flow. Once they got on stage, they drug it out because they love having the microphone. =) Apparently, after talking to all of the other groups, everyone’s group did that. I think that’s funny.

The last full day consisted of a morning service, small groups, Khmer dancing and games, and then a fun evening service. Small groups were really intense and we actually had a few students, just in our group, fully commit to Christ. One girl said she prayed and actually felt something different inside of her physically which is so ridiculously cool because she would have no frame of reference to ever make up something like that.

I won’t go into details but everything panned out super fun…. We did all the Khmer games in the pouring rain which I think the kids loved and then they taught us their dances. They are a very “dancy” culture. Maybe that’s why everyone is so skinny?

We left camp and ventured to Siem Reap on Sunday which took almost all day. I’ll save those blogs for later. Enjoy some pics below.

1-Me and Saren

2-Me and Andrea

3-Breakfast =)

4-Our pretty little nets and bunks

Camp Adventures!

2011-06-12T12:11:00.000-04:00

Day One and a half:

(Side note: I LOVE Cambodia… but the camp life is hard! So please just know I’m making light of how different things are and partially revealing me as an Americans and my prissy little ways about things. Ha.)

Wednesday evening we arrived at the camp which is about 2 hours outside of Phnom Penh. We had to honk a few cattle out of the way, but we safely made it. =)

Do you ever watch Lost? If so-then you can clearly picture what our camp looks like. John Locke should jump out of the jungle at any moment. It’s just like the Dharma Initiative except bigger…. And prettier… and maybe hotter? I’m pretty sure that we could combust at any moment due to extreme temperatures. I mean… when I took a shower the first night at the camp I could not stop the heat from radiating off of my body. Even while standing under cold water. It was unbelievable.

But enough of the heat. The campers are super excited to be here. We had an opening service where they did great in leading worship and Stephen Burton shared the opening message that focused on our theme “Reflect”. The group at camp this year only consists of Christians because they are wanting us to really focus on disciplining them.

The food is…. Interesting to say the least. I’m pretty sure Jen just found a chicken foot in her “soup”. Man cannot live on bread alone, but maybe rice? So far-rice gets an A+. But the hot dogs for breakfast…. Eh, maybe a C-? I opted out of that.

All of the girl leaders are in one big cabin where we have pretty little pink mosquito nets hanging over each one. The girls slept great the first night with not a site of one bug. But the boys-apparently they chose to leave their door open which welcomed the mosquitoes. One of our gentlemen got into a swatting match last night with all the mosquitoes, although I’m still confused how they all got under his net?

We also received our sleeping items when we got here which our one top cover is a fleece blanket. Yes. I said fleece. I barely sleep with fleece blankets in Tennessee in the winter, none the less the hottest place on earth! Therefore, I slept with nothing on top of me which I can probably say was the first time I have ever done that. I decided that I do have a blanket on top of me…. A blanket of humidity. Who needs fleece when you have a steam bath 24/7 upon your body?

After the morning service we met in small groups and really broke down the message and made sure the campers understood what it was about. Honestly, they know more than you realize and it’s refreshing to hear their stories of salvation.

We had lunch again… which was, of course, rice! And some type of meat stew stuff. I will confess that their fruit is top notch! Something about it makes it way better than ours… their pineapple, watermelon, and oranges (but the outside was green?) are ridiculously good.

We played team games and all of the campers decorated flip flops and made journals. The Mt. Paran crew brought all the supplies for that which was super cool.

A few random things…
-a kid got stung by a YELLOW scorpion today! How crazy is that?!
-Their smiles are worth a million bucks.
-The first night of camp, the girls actually got up at 2:30 to start taking showers. This is no joke.
-They do not drink near as much water as we do so the staff had to go out and buy like a truck load of water just for us Westerners. Are we high maintenance or what?

Phnom Penh, Cambodia

2011-06-07T11:45:00.005-04:00

We ventured to the Killing Fields yesterday and Tuol Sleng prison. Whoah! The last time I was here, 4 years ago, the Killing Fields did NOT look like this! They've built a lot around it. There is a museum with it now. It is still just as horrifying though. I won't go into detail, but we were talking on the bus as to why this genocide is so difficult to cope with. It wasn't long ago, America had an "interesting" role to say the least (google it), and it is still unsettled. Just last year, in 2010, they finally convicted one of the main leaders who admitted to allowing so many deaths. (picture of him below) BUT-while in prison, he also became a believer and agreed that whatever punishment they gave him he deserved because of all that he did. His name is "Duch". Look him up.

We had lunch at Jacob's Well which was another Non-Profit that helps provide cooking skills/jobs to the Khmer. The food was delicious.... especially the fish sticks! ha.

Then we went to the House of Hope Orphanage (I think that's it) where the children performed for us and we toured the orphanage. This place is NICE! PCL knows how to do it right! The children are B-E-A-UTIFUL! We also gave them bags and items that schools in America had put together for them. They loved their soccer ball. :)

Our boat ride was cancelled due to the small monsoon that undertook us. But-we did have excellent pizza with a lot of our new Khmer friends. My roomie Andrea and I then went and got a foot and shoulder massage for an hour.... for $8! Which was absolutely, hands down, the best massage I have ever received. I mean.... I was at the level of falling asleep and periodically jerking... you know how that is when you're really tired?

It's been great so far, except that I might have just blown my straightener. Don't judge if all you see is my hair up in a bun. Gotta get creative with the hair dos! I would write more but I have to eat breakfast and I'm running late. Just a few pics below... and yes, that would be our fearless leader Jake.

Travel Day

2011-06-06T20:08:00.002-04:00

Or maybe I should have titled this travel DayS...??? I'm not quite sure what day(s) I was traveling anyways.

7:30 am Sunday morning: met at FBC
8:00 am Left for Atlanta airport
10:30 am Arrive at Atlanta airport
12:30 pm Board plane to Seoul, Korea

.... 14 hours later....

4ish am Monday morning (still TN time) land in Seoul
6 am... now 5 p.m. Seoul time... leave for Phnom Penh, Cambodia

... 5 hours later...

land in Phnom Penh, 10 p.m. there time
11 p.m. arrive at hotel

Ohhh... the journey doesn't stop here kiddos. I slept about 3 hours total on the plane and our last plane ride was AWESOME because more than half of it was empty therefore everyone was able to spread out over 3 seats. oh no. But I still didn't sleep. (We flew Korean Air by the way, and it was probably the easiest overseas traveling I have ever done. Great airline!)

I fell asleep at 2:30 last night... and woke up at 5:30. It is now 7:20 here now. Yea.... you following me? 3 hours again and dear heavens I dread how tired I am going to feel by noon. yikes! Hence why I'm taking the time to blog now because I'm up and at 'em.

Here are some random happenings thus far:

1-Jake Stum has already made fun of me for using my hands so much when I talk therefore we might start doing some "sign language" for the trip.

2-My luggage was exactly 50 pounds! ha! How great is that!?!? I was so prepared to shift items into someone else's bag.

3-iPhones rock my world. I can use Wi-Fi, wherever it is, to get on facebook etc. I just can't have my cellular data turned on or I get charged like crazy. I feel that I will be in touch with all of you more than you would like!

4-Our group is Super laid back and fun. So far, so good. =) And I'm also glad to be reunited with an old friend, Stephen Burton who is leading the Mt. Paran group. Somehow I always find myself at summer camps with this guy???

We are headed to the Killing Fields and the prison today... and we get to top it off with a boat ride and some KAROAKE!!!!! woohooo!!!! These Cambodians have not experienced the excitement of this crazy American!!!!

From Southeast Asia, yours truly

Other side of the world...

2011-06-04T23:42:00.003-04:00

I had grand intentions of writing a much better post before I leave the country but time did not permit that.

I leave tomorrow for Cambodia until June 28-a little over 3 weeks.

I'M EXCITED!

I hope to blog from over there as I will have internet access most of the time. I will be in Siem Reap and Phnom Penh if you would like to google these places. I get to visit Angkor Wat again... tour the Tonle Sap... and explore the Killing Fields and the Toul Sleng (sp?) prison.

It is almost a complete day's travel from Atlanta tomorrow where I will fly to Seoul, Korea for about 16 hours then onto Cambodia which is another 5, I think? Soooo... long day! PLEASE pray that I do not get sick and that I can sleep on the plane. Always a little apprehensive about these long travel days.

About 16 from First Baptist Church are going as well as a youth group from Mt. Paran. It's going to be fun and we get to lead a youth camp while we are there! I can already imagine the stories...

Here I come Cambodia!!!!

Proverbs 6, 7, 8

2011-06-03T23:21:00.002-04:00

Proverbs 6:6 Take a lesson from the ants, you lazybones, Learn from their ways and become wise!

First of all, I love the term "lazybones" and may adopt that for my classroom next year. Secondly, I think it's fascinating that there are a few verses dedicated to the wee little ants of the world because he elaborates after this verse how ants have no ruler, yet they still work hard and store food all year. What a great comparison and encouragement to us to NOT be lazy!

Proverbs 7 the entire chapter is warning of immoral women.... again. This is obviously a pattern in the Bible emphasizing how important it is to stay aware of this. Although it is directed towards men, it's imperative for all to read to completely understand a woman's influence. Also, what a foreshadowing of the days to come.... which would be the days now.

Proverbs 8:35,36 For whoever finds me finds life and receives favor from the Lord. but those who miss me injure themselves. all who hate me love death. Hmmmm... does this mean finding life NOW on Earth? or the eternal life that has become so recently discussed? And if we "miss" him... how are we being injured? I kind of wish there was more specificity on this verse. And is it meaning if you hate God, you love death because you will be "dead on earth" spiritually or actually really dead?

Thoughts to ponder.

Proverbs 3,4, and 5

2011-05-28T22:40:00.002-04:00

Proverbs 3: 21-22 My child, don't lose sight of common sense and discernment. Hang on to them, for they will refresh your soul. They are like jewels on a necklace.

I suppose the words"common sense" may not be mentioned much in the Bible but it is here. Lets just keep things simple and encourage each other to be aware of what's going on and remain "common" with our "sense". Interesting when you actually break the entire thought apart... know what's going on, be aware, and discern between right and wrong.

Proverbs 4: 23 Guard your heart above all else, for it determines the course of your life.

And isn't that the truth?! It's what we teach our young people to do when dating but really everyone needs to be practicing this within all relationships. Lets make sure our heart and intentions lead us in the right direction. Stay focused.

Proverbs 5:22-23 An evil man is held captive by his own sins; they are ropes that catch and hold him. He will die for lack of self-control; he will be lost because of his great foolishness.

This chapter is titled "Avoid Immoral Women". The whole chapter warns of seductive women who will take control of men. This is definitely encouraged in our society hence the new song by Beyonce... "who runs the world? girls!" (and I totally love Beyonce, just not sure on her premise for this song) Anyways... it is amazing how our own sins hold us captive, no matter male or female, and what the sin may be. It truly feels like a prison when this happens.

Visitors

2011-05-24T21:33:00.004-04:00

One of the joys of the end of the year is having former students come back to visit you... I mean this both seriously and not seriously. Since the high schools have exams and their kids get out early, they all feel inspired to come back in their very holy jeans revealing too much and sagging britches probably just to show us how they've only progressed into teenagedom even more so.

It is often encouraging to see your former students come back when they are near high school graduation, and they have learned how to drive, and actually have a very mature conversation with you about where they are going to college and how well they have done in HS.

But then... there is also this awkwardness that comes along with it. Teacher phrases often consist of the following and eventually you run out of things to say.

"Oh hey there! So good to see you!" (totally can't remember the students name)
"How is high school?"
"You staying out of trouble?!" (probably to a student that was pure terror for you)
"Are you making good grades?"
"Playing any sports?"
"Who's your favorite teacher this year?"
"Doing anything fun this summer?
"Do you miss the 8th grade?" (reaching the point of totally running out of things to say)
"ok... well so glad you stopped by... uh.... see you... later?"

I ended another year of teaching today and like a dear friend posted on facebook... this day is like your birthday, Christmas, Thanksgiving, and July 4th all rolled up in one. HALLELUJAH!!!!

Proverbs 31, 1, and 2

2011-05-24T17:24:00.002-04:00

Proverbs 31: 8, 9- Speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves; ensure justice for those being crushed. Yes, speak up for the poor and helpless, and see that they get justice.

I mean... this is pretty much the universal scripture for any Christian social justice group and lets be honest.... there's not much else to decipher, or interpret, or get out of it other than it means what it means and we should do it. Help people who have no voice.... speak up for those who have nothing... and continue to do it. Solid verse.

And I have to mention that everyone knows this for being the chapter describing a Godly Woman and it definitely is powerful, although I definitely don't know how to spin thread and I do not wear fine linen and purple gowns so I hope that doesn't count me out. I'm not opposed to picking up the talent of spinning cloths....

Proverbs 1:20 Wisdom shouts in the streets. SHE cried out in the public square.

I just like that the Bible references wisdom as a SHE. 'nuf said.

Proverbs 2 I didn't particularly find a verse that spoke to me, but it is about wisdom and how wisdom is either 1)purely God given or 2) given in an "energetic search" as my Bible's commentary says. I thought that was interesting... and a side note: the Bible's description of wise is only given to 12 people in the Bible and Abigail is one of them. She is considered the "wise wife". Oh dear heavens I can only hope this is why the Lord is making me hold out on marriage solely because he is waiting for all my wisdom to come to me because I apparently do not have it all.... yet?? teheheehe....

Relief Efforts

2011-05-18T20:27:00.002-04:00

Once again, I apologize for my oh so annoying voice. Drives me crazy.

Proverbs 28, 29, 30

2011-05-18T20:11:00.002-04:00

Proverbs 28:6- Better to be poor and honest than to be dishonest and rich.

Well obviously... I think it would be better to be anything other than dishonest!!

Proverbs 29:23- Pride ends in humiliation, while humility brings honor

Once again, pride is painted all throughout the Bible. I've begun to look at every unhappy situation that appears in my life and digest it to the very root, and it seems pride is the basis of it all. Why why why don't more people see this? Or why can't we see it at the appropriate time? Or why is it so hard for us to fight against?

Proverbs 30: 8- First, help me never to tell a lie. Second, give me neither poverty nor riches! Give me just enough to satisfy my needs.

Wow-this is hard to swallow. We all could probably do without a few things in our lives... or the few extra bucks we make. Yes, we'ld have to cut out some luxuries but this clearly states we are to have what satisfies our needs... neither poverty nor riches.

Looking at these Proverbs daily have been eye opening because I have no idea what I'm looking for, just an openness to what the Lord makes stand out. It's funny how we can read the same verse at a different time in our life and it speaks so clearly to us. Obviously, we all have different struggles at different times and there are times where certain verses weigh heavy on us. That's why we continue to read the Bible over and over and ask for Him to speak.

Tornado Stories

2011-05-17T16:06:00.000-04:00

My students wrote about their April 27 experiences and after reading them all, I chose a few sentences that stuck out in my mind. These are 8th graders and all will stay anonymous.

"My cousin called my mom and gave us the horrifying news that my aunt had passed away in the storm. Before the storm came she asked my uncle to go and get all of her wind chimes off of the porch, as soon as he stepped outside the wind knocked him off and he crawled under the truck remaining safe. My aunt however was not. She was thrown out of a window 200 yards from her house and crushed by a tree. My aunt was a great woman and just thinking about her having to go through that really tears me up."

"That's all we need in the world. For people to help people when they need it. Most people don't even care if somebody needs help or someone to talk to. They just walk away like ntohing has happened. This just shows you that there are still good people in the world. You just need to find them."

"That next day, April 28th, we went around and checked on our family and saw all of the destruction. I was honestly very scared, actually, this experience made me believe in God more than I had before."

"Nothing happened to our house, but the power was out for five days. I saw a bunch of homes that were destroyed. Some people that I knew died. I went to four funerals from Saturday to Tuesday."

"I heard the tornado hit the house. You could smell trees. I thought a tree hit us. I looked around and saw insulation everywhere. Rain was hitting us. Nana was going to see what happened and walked two steps up the stairs and told us the roof was gone. J called her friends to see if he could help us. He and his dad cut through trees and fences to get to us."

"After the storms I was glad to see all of the people helping the people that had something happen. I didn't really think that Bradley County was like that."

The kids have been slowly returning to normal as much as they can and our city continues to work hard in the recovery. Instead of having to hear stories on the news I just ask those around me and it all comes to life. Such a different perspective now.

Proverbs 26, 27

2011-05-16T22:36:00.002-04:00

Proverbs 26: 24-26: "People may cover their hatred with pleasant words, but they're deceiving you. They pretend to be kind, but don't believe them. Their hearts are full of many evils. While their hatred may be concealed by trickery, their wrongdoing will be exposed in public."

I've been having this strong sense of fakeness... or maybe it's my own insecurities, where I feel like everyone is just being nice to be nice and deep down inside they don't like me. But honestly, I think it stems from myself being nice to people and then wanting to say later that they get on my nerves. (whoah! big confession! don't judge me!) And now you're all wondering if it's you? ha. I honestly have no idea of a particular person/instance, it's just nonsense that comes to my brain and so of course this stands out to me because it convicts me and as Dr. Horton use to always say, stop the diarrhea of the mouth: Just nonsense talk that doesn't build anybody up. I've got to work on this.

Proverbs 27: 21: "Fire tests the purity of silver and gold, but a person is tested by being praised."

Wow! What a verse! Comparing simple praise to pure fire... something strong, powerful, and immediately changing. Praise is a wonderful thing, but it sure can be twisted into something that harms one's inner soul and convinces we actually are worthy of something. Every day I'm reminded more and more of how UNworthy I am of ANYthing, and how each day is completely lived through grace. We've got to keep pride out. Number one sin that seems to be the underlying issue of so many things.

To come

2011-05-13T16:05:00.000-04:00

I have full intentions of finish my Proverbs analysis. I went to blog last night and the site wouldn't let me on.

I also want to share a few thoughts that my students shared in regards to the devastating tornadoes that hit our county. And, I have some video footage of our city.

So after I return from a family wedding in Pigeon Forge this weekend and have internet, I'll get to these!

I know you're all sitting on the edge of your seat...

This is just the beginning

2011-05-01T22:54:00.003-04:00

I can honestly say that since I last blogged, I pressed the pause button on my life.

I barely paid some of my bills on time, I have spent almost no money, watched a TV show, nor read a single book...chapter even.

In case you've been living under a rock, the south was nailed with some of the biggest storms we've seen in decades. In the state of TN, Bradley County has the most deaths-9-and Obama just declared our county, as well as 3 others in TN (I think), federal disaster areas.

We are out of school all next week although the city goes back tomorrow. Two of our county schools were significantly damaged, one of which may not recover at all. I will share my own personal storm story at another time, but right now, I'm lucky to get energy from my fingertips.

I'm physically exhausted, but my brain won't stop. I lay in bed and just see images, and people, and relive moments. 2 confirmed tornadoes touched ground but I am CONFIDENT we had more considering the damage. The areas affected were my students therefore I do take this very personally.

Two things that make this situation significant for me: number one-if you know me well then you know I was terrified of storms when I was little. (I actually think I just mentioned this in a previous blog, pre-storm...???) Like-absolutely. terrified. I would hear thunder in the middle of the night and would literally be out of bed so fast and running to the basement, that I would barely be awake. I was TERRIFIED of them... spefically tornadoes. Yet at the same time, I was so fascinated with them.

secondly-my mother has worked for Men and Women of Action for 15 years, I think? They are a disaster relief, rebuilding non-profit through the Church of God. This kind of stuff is what they DO. They travel all over the world and throughout the US to disasters or rebuilding projects, but this is all new territory because we've never had quite a disaster like this in our own area. MWOA is struggling in getting to Alabama and Georgia because we have such destruction here.

I should be asleep.... but writing here is therapeutic for me. I suppose I want people to know that anytime you can attach a person, face, relationship to a disaster-it changes everything.

I hugged necks today of people I would have NEVER met in my life...

I heard a lady tell her story of how she and her daughter literally rolled down her steps when her windows started popping...

I watched a deaf man communicate and ask for help, a place to stay, food, anything he could get out....

I had a lady tell me her husband needed counseling because he's in such shock and is struggling so badly from it all...

I also watched one of my cheerleaders come volunteer with her mother... and I watched a man grill for literally 8 hours solid over 1000 hamburgers, hot dogs, etc. as to which he did yesterday and is doing again tomorrow...

I still claim God's goodness. Come volunteer with MWOA this week.

Proverbs 24 and 25

2011-04-26T22:22:00.002-04:00

Proverbs 24: VERSE 12... "Don't excuse yourself by saying, "Look, we didn't know." For God understands all hearts, and he sees you. He who guards your soul knows you knew, He will repay all people as their actions deserve."

I like that God says this, but then again I don't. I want people who have done wrong to suffer for their bad decisions, but then that would include me. Some people's sins are so public and others' are not. It seems we only want the people with very public sins to receive such discipline, but we all know that's not how it works. He sees my heart, and knows me. Sometimes that's scary.

Proverbs 25: VERSE 20... "Singing cheerful songs to a person with a heavy heart is like taking someone's coat in cold weather or pouring vinegar in a wound."

I suppose this goes along with the verse telling us to rejoice with those who rejoice, and mourn with those who mourn. I like the comparison though because he gives two examples of situations that are unpleasant and almost annoying, not outright unbearable... yet trying to make the point that it's just an unwise thing to do because of how uncomfortable it make things.

Proverbs 22 and 23

2011-04-25T22:44:00.003-04:00

I'm going to do two at a time to catch up from this weekend.

Proverbs 22, VERSE 15: A youngster's heart is filled with foolishness, but physical discipline will drive it far away.

Do you think this means "spanking" your children? Is this where we have gotten the support for corporal punishment? I guess it does not have to necessarily only refer to spanking, but maybe some type of physical connection between good and bad. A smack on the hand even with the little ones?

Proverbs 23, VERSE 13 and 14: Don't fail to discipline your children. They won't die if you spank them. Physical discipline may well save them from death.

Hhhhhmmmm... interesting.

Pause

2011-04-23T11:25:00.001-04:00

I'm having a Proverbs pause. I am visiting a dear friend in VA and her Internet wasn't working for me to be able to do my daily blog. :( This is from my phone, and it's hard to do! When it's up and running I'll catch up. Happy Easter weekend!

Proverbs 21

2011-04-21T22:53:00.002-04:00

VERSE 4: "Haughty eyes, a proud heart, and evil actions are all sin."

It seems that pride is the most pronounced sin. It is what seeps into every other sinful thing we do. I'm always fighting against it, and it is repeated over and over in the Bible.

I have no grand answer on how to deal with pride, rather than to pray against it every day because it's such a sneaky little sucker that just grows on you like algae. So slow.... and gross... you don't even notice it until you're green and covered in it.

eww. It literally makes me sick. Not only do I hate it within other people, I hate it within myself.

Side Note

2011-04-20T21:19:00.002-04:00

I was checking my RSS feed and saw that someone found my blog by typing in:

"how to treat a busted blood vessel in infant eye."

No help in that area. So sorry fellow searcher aka desperate mother who was probably freaking out because she thought her child was going blind.

Proverbs 20

2011-04-20T20:57:00.002-04:00

VERSE 13: "If you love sleep, you will end in poverty. Keep your eyes open, and there will be plenty to eat!"

I'm in trouble. I love to sleep. My family used to always make fun of me because I took very long naps, very often. In HS, mom was so concerned she wanted to take me to the doctor. I somewhat grew out of it, mainly because I have no choice now. But, I can't do small naps... .they are usually lengthy, like 2 1/2 hours. ahhh!!! ridiculous! So I assume I will be extremely impoverished here soon. And apparently without food as well.

Proverbs 19

2011-04-19T22:36:00.002-04:00

This chapter is overflowing with applicable lessons, but here's just one.

Verse 13: A foolish child is a calamity to a father; a quarrelsome wife is as annoying as constant dripping.

Why is it just to a father? Why isn't the mother mentioned? So a foolish child does cause any such pain for a mother?

And how great the simile of a wife to a "dripping"? This is such a relatable sound, feeling, annoyance so the proverb is so perfectly written. We can envision the slow, but constant dripping that is hard to fix. You think you've turned the faucet tighter, but the drips just keep coming. I guess I need to start working on this already so I do not become a "constant dripping".

Proverbs 18

2011-04-18T21:39:00.002-04:00

This chapter talks about foolishness a lot. Which, lets be honest, all of Proverbs talks about the foolish and the wise... common theme.

Verse 21: "the tongue can bring death or life, those who love to talk will reap the consequences."

ugh. This is so me. I love to talk and it probably wouldn't hurt me to tone it down a notch. Obviously, I blog, so I like to share words with people. But I realllllyyyyyy try to listen as well. Good reminder that my words are either bringing life or death. Need to work on this.

Proverbs

2011-04-17T22:22:00.002-04:00

I have birthed a new blogging task!

I was encouraged today to read a chapter from Proverbs everyday. I've done this before, but thought that maybe now is a good time to do it again. Proverbs is such a quirky little book... and as much as it is full of wisdom, it also has some of the strangest verses EVER.

Although it's in the middle of the month, I'm going to start today with Proverbs 17 (matches day of the month). And every day, for a month, I am going to pull out the most interesting, or odd, or weird, or particularly moving verse from that chapter.

I am doing this for multiple reasons:
#1-it will keep me accountable in reading my Proverbs.
#2-it will encourage me to break down the Bible and see how it applies to our lives. #3-the Bible is full of strange things, and I think it's fun to see that sometimes. #4-and lastly, maybe it will be a light of some sort to anyone who reads this.

So here's my verse from Proverbs 17: VERSE 16- "It is senseless to pay tuition to educate a fool, since he has no heart for learning."

This verse makes me think of all the kids at Lee, whose parents paid for their education and they kept failing. ha. BUT-it also makes me wonder how far we, as a country, should continue to offer public education because there is definitely a large crowd that does "not have a heart for learning". But then again, maybe it's our job to train them to have a heart for learning? Honestly, I just think this is a funny verse.

(I will try to keep each day's thoughts short, but with this being the first, I felt the need to give a preface.)

Just say no

2011-04-14T19:42:00.003-04:00

It just hit me this week that I've been living in a fog the past few months. Since about December, I think things have just been unclear, muggy, and dark.

Not quite sure what put me in the fog, probably a conglomerate of things, but I think it's slowly lifting. It's easy to look and spot those years that were glorious, and those years that were far from it, and I'm sure I'll end up putting this past year in one of those categories, sad to say, probably the latter.

But. Things are looking up. I felt a new urge, one I should have done a loooooong time ago, to say NO to more things. I just have to for my sanity and for me truly focusing on what I'm even doing here on earth.

I have stepped down from coaching cheerleading-officially. They had a parent meeting on Monday night and I was not there. Bittersweet. I have already felt like I've had more spare time than I know what to do with, which is now going to my masters degree. Treading new waters....

Because of me going out of the country this summer, I already had to say no to a week long training of some sort, and that is rather liberating as well.

I'm just cleaning things out. I want to say YES to serving others and helping with events, but I also want to say YES to me reading, and cooking, spending time with friends and family, and figuring out what the Lord wants.

So I hope you try to give me a guilt trip, and tell me I'm not as busy as you, and exaggerate how you work so hard and I'll gladly say, "Yes, you're right. So how's that workin' out for you?"

Facebook (I've probably already had this as a title)

2011-04-05T21:19:00.003-04:00

2 interesting things in regards to facebook. Number one... they had a story on Channel One (the schools' news program they show all over the country, in most public schools at least) last week about Facebook and how there are things called "facebook envy" and "facebook depression" and how it affects teens. Well, honestly, how it affects everyone thus why I had a short sabbatical last year. But it talked about how people view each other on facebook andd seem to make everything seem wonderful therefore causing others to feel bad. I just thought it was interesting they discussed it, yet noteworthy to say the least.

Secondly... there has now been another teacher in the news for what she posted on facebook about her students at school. (Actually, the first teacher blogged about her students...) All I would like to say is everytime I hear this pop up on the news, I immediately feel pain for that teacher. Dear heavens... I absolutely, 100%, know what it's like to need to vent and feel unbelievably frustrated with your students. Honestly, I'ld probably be the first to side with those teachers and without even meeting them, I believe they are good people who are trying to be good teachers.

All I need to say is that if you are considering getting into the teaching profession, take a good, hard look around and do some investigation first because the education system is about to blow up in our face.

Hump Day

2011-03-30T22:49:00.003-04:00

I've been trying for multiple days to muster up something to write about.

I really want to write right now but I have nothing cool to share... or any deep, profound thought. Actually, I do have lots of thoughts about things but they are not blog worthy.

Basically... teaching my little heart out the best that I can.

Reading a lot, pretty much every night, so I can write my research paper that is due in a few weeks.

Enjoying this week of Big Blue victories and looking forward to the Final Four this weekend!

Totally random, ridiculous thoughts to maybe entertain you:

1-Did anyone watch Britney Spears on GMA Monday morning? wow. Her performance was really bad, which made me sad because I realized that we are old women now Brit!... who do not need to be shakin' their tail feather like that on stage. (not that I usually have a venue on a stage where I shake it, but you get the idea)

2-This week is cheerleading tryouts. We had 72 girls show up Monday. Holy splits batman.

3. I got a new haircut. I like it. =)

That's all.

My Life Lately

2011-03-19T18:58:00.002-04:00

Things have been trucking along as usual with a few ups and downs as I go.

This is always a fun time of the year for me because of March Madness! It's suspenseful to watch all of these ball games and see if my bracket gets busted or not.

I'm officially on spring break and I have goals in sight! I will mainly be reading and writing a paper for my masters class but still hope to do some other relaxing things as well. My sis is coming into town so I'm excited to see her!

Last week I had a student throw up in the middle of class. As in... I'm up teaching... they're all listening and paying attention... and just BAM... kid throws up everywhere! Bless him. It just wouldn't stop! That was enough excitement for a Monday.

My phone has been TERRIBLE and basically goes in and out of service abnormally. It's been doing this for almost 2 weeks. After 4 phone calls to AT&T they finally confirmed "it's your phone". DUH... really? I had no idea! So I am now on the hunt for a new phone that maybe I will not have to pay full price for.

A little over a year ago I had several friends who were all pregnant at the same time, and then there wasn't really anybody. But now-there's another wave and I have about 5 friends due within a month of each other. They are all public knowledge so I don't think they would mind me sharing.

Stephanie-due end of August
Courtney-due end of August
Shauna-due beginning of September
Kristen-due middle of September
Katie- due end of September

Bring on the babies!

It is official that I'm going to Cambodia June 5-June 29. WOOHOO! My tickets have been bought and I'm savin' every penny I can! Honestly, this is about the only thing I'm looking forward to so if school could just hurry and end for the year that would be great! I will gladly take any support for this trip, whether that be support through prayer or finances. I am going over with First Baptist's group but am staying an extended amount of time just because I want to. =) I would stay all summer if I didn't have class in July. =( I CAN'T WAIT to blog about my experiences there. Excited to travel again this summer!

For the Joneses

2011-03-14T23:40:00.002-04:00

I had the privilege of attending the first UK game of the SEC tournament this past weekend... (had to come back for class Saturday, and then we went and won the whole thing!)

We played Ole Miss and it was a nail biter! BUT-it was AWESOME. As usual. 16000 UK fans and like.... 1000 fans from other schools. Which continutes to baffle me considering we were IN the state of Georgia. But whatever. There are no fans like UK fans. =)

The video is from the ball game and most of it is just the fun stuff done at time outs etc. because from my angle, watching regular plays wouldn't have been as exciting on video.

In case you didn't know, not only is UK known for its basketball, but their cheerleaders are RIDICULOUSLY good. They've won 18 national championships and they have quite a legacy. I kind of wish you could see how good they are by comparing them to other squads, but those squads don't even do anything worth taping. ha.

I dedicate this to allllllll the Jones family in KY who have made me love UK so much.

G

2011-03-09T22:57:00.002-05:00

Isn't he the cutest? Can't you tell I love being with my nephews and niece?!

The best part about this simple video is 1... him totally staring at me/the camera and 2... the smaaaaaall little tear under his eye.

Always something new to learn

2011-03-07T21:49:00.004-05:00

(Warning: Very long, emotional, somewhat awkward, blog)

I feel so restless, like I should be up running miles and miles but my insides are tired. My little face feels swollen from tears and my breathing even hurts.

With every funeral or visitation I attend, I either feel some new feeling, or wonder some new question. As death is death, it seems with each case it pulls something different out of me. (and yes, I probably have blogged after each close death I've had in the past few years, but it's always a worthy cause as it helps me cope)

I, for the life of me, can not figure out why I've been so torn up about the passing of Kathy Isaacs-as to which I had not even seen in years, nor even had a conversation with. I just can't figure it out. I woke up almost every hour last night with dreams and thoughts about the Isaacs family... and I was so apprehensive... and thinking that maybe it wasn't true???

I suppose the family encompasses loads of memories for me, but honestly, I was always very intimidated of Ms. Kathy, and I don't know why. I spent a lot of time with her boys, and was probably very naive at the time, so for whatever reason, she made me nervous. Looking back, and obviously understanding so much more now, I think she was always just watching out for her sons as to which I COMPLETELY understand. But I'm wondering if the reason I'm having such difficulty in closure is because I wish I could go apologize for being a stupid 13 year old girl who didn't have a clue sometimes... and for her to know that I really respect her and knew she was a very smart woman.

And that's why this is tough because I lost that chance completely and prayed for 2 years for her healing and should have spoken to her during that time, but didn't. I guess this is called guilt? It's a very frustrating feeling. It's grief and guilt all mixed in together.

I went to the visitation... then had to head to my cheerleading banquet... and then got home to see the last part of her funeral via livestream and I could barely contain myself. Actually... I didn't contain myself at all. I totally lost it.

Even though she wasn't my mother, I'm so sad that my friends' have lost theirs. I am literally heartbroken for Jason and Jeremy. No words to explain the uncomfortableness inside.

Classic Monday

2011-03-03T20:45:00.002-05:00

Ok, No. This did not come barreling down my road but it sure did feel like it!

If you've known me for a while, you probably have heard me share how terrified I was of tornadoes when I was little and that I slept in our basement almost an entire summer because I was so scared of storms.

Monday was an eventful day at school... started off just fine. And throughout the day the sky started looking more and more ominous with the darkness/somewhat bright clouds that came rolling in.

At about 2:25 we hear on the intercom: "STUDENTS, TEACHERS, WE ARE GOING INTO A CODE BLACK!"

ohhhh lovely.... PANIC... have we practiced this yet this year? do I remember where I'm supposed to put my kids?

Kids are against walls as to which when I was in school we had to face the walls with books over our heads but no... here in the 21st century we've moved to a more "relaxed" sense of safety. So, basically, just sit with your back against the wall and hope for the best. Not to mention... about 20 minutes into this I realized a student was totally sitting under a massive fire extinguisher. oops. sorry buddy.

113 8th graders crammed against the walls... then the power goes out.... then we see the SIDEWAYS rain coming down outside... then you see all the cell phones come out which was impossible to prevent. "I mean Miss Fletcher!! We can't see!!! can't we use our cell phones for light?!" riiiiighhhhttt....

Not to mention, we have quite a few "chummy" couples in our building this year so amidst the complete darkness, we went around shining our own phone lights in faces and calling for "hand checks" in every corner! And since the power was out, and it was hot that day, you can imagine how pungent the 13 year old body odor was.

Soooo... after 45 minutes.... and after me and my male colleague had had an intense discussion about who is going to get kicked off the Bachelor.... power came on, storm passed, and we returned to seats for approximately 4.3 minutes and then the kiddos were shipped off to leave.

Now THAT... is what I call a Monday.

I love this baby

2011-02-26T21:31:00.002-05:00

I had the privilege of keeping sweet baby Jones a few weekends ago so Rachel and Edward could go out and celebrate his birthday.

We didn't do much considering he went to bed at 8... but we sure enjoyed making "goggy" noises in the bathtub... and he liked dancing to the Zumba ladies.

I wish I could just carry him around in my pocket all day. His smile is priceless.

My new BF Shauna

2011-02-22T22:11:00.004-05:00

So for the record, I already have a bf named Shauna. (Shout out to you in BR! MISS YOU!)

But now I have another friend Shauna, or maybe I should say that I really want to be her friend. Her name is Shauna Niequist and she is a fabulous writer!!! Honestly, the reason I am drawn to her is because I feel that she writes the way I would LOVE to write... and I'm in the midst of her second book which is totally rocking my world.

I'm apart of a book club (that I love dearly!) and this our book for next month. I'm already almost done with it... and I'm probably breaking the rules by writing about it on my blog but I don't care because it's brought me to tears so often lately.

She's extremely transparent.... talks about the good... the bad... families... death... food... traveling... all the while looking through the glasses of a faithful Christian and trying to figure out how everything fits.

She had just miscarried while she was writing this book so that is a clear thread throughout. But in a particular chapter, she is talking about the difficulties of sharing pregnancies and how it is glorious yet heartbreaking for some. A few quotes:

"I know that most of us are longing for something. I know that longing is part of the deal, part of living in the not-yet-heaven. I know people who are longing to marry, who are longing to be healed from disease, longing for their children to come home, longing for the financial pressure to release. I get that longing is part of how we live."

"And I'll ask for help and tenderness every time I find myself crying in the bathroom. And most important, I'll choose to believe that sometimes the happiest ending isn't the one you keep longing for, but something you absolutely cannot see from where you are."

From another chapter: "Life hands us opportunities at every turn to get over ourselves, to get outside oursevles, to wake up from our own bad dreams and realize that really lovely things are happening all the time."

I'll stop now... just go buy the book.

Opened Eyes

2011-02-19T20:39:00.002-05:00

Do you remember a few days ago, my blog "i'm beat"?

Well, it's amazing how life changes with just a little perspective. Do I still feel beat? Yes. But, I remember Dr. Horton always telling us in Campus Choir that sometimes we need to take our minds off of our own problems and just pray for others.

Basically, being a grown up is terrible and I should have stayed in like a 3rd grade bubble. If only we could see what the future holds than we would probably choose to never go there.

To hear, "well everybody has to go through this, so just deal with it" is never really much comfort. That does NOT make the burden any lighter or your perspective any better. Life is painful. Times are tough. People can hurt you.

I have no answer as to why things hurt me.... or times get difficult... therefore, I don't know what to tell anybody else either. But, I do believe the Lord is faithful and through tears, and struggles, and feeling hopeless I cling to that and believe in his goodness.

I have some long time friends (brothers) that I grew up who are about to lose their mother to cancer, and it has truly ripped my heart out this week. I have another friend who attended the funeral of a boy who lost his life caving and it's extremely hard to fathom.

I totally went on a rant tonight to my 9 year old nephew that we have to live each day for Christ and we are never promised tomorrow (as to which my sister was looking at me like, 'seriously Abby?!').

To see people's strengths in such time of suffering is truly a testament of God's REALNESS in our life and the Holy Spirit being a part of everything we do.

I wish I could take my fleshy views away from all of these issues and see God's plan. But I honestly have no clue as to what he's doing sometimes. I do not know why I can't have the desires of my heart... therefore, I don't understand why you can't either. I have no fabulous answer. Sin permeates our world the moment we are born into it, therefore we need that redeeming blood.

We must remind ourselves daily that we are all broken people and at times, do not feel complete. And when we get to the point where we stop asking for help, or sharing our true concerns, or admitting that we have issues or problems, then we are in a dangerous place. We are to carry one another's burdens.... rejoice with those who rejoice... and mourn with those who mourn. That is our calling and may we never put one of those above the other in importance.

If I'm mourning, please mourn with me. But if you are rejoicing, I will rejoice with you.

May we always be reminded of Him giving His life for each and every one of us. He IS good.

Tick Tock

2011-02-12T20:57:00.004-05:00

I received a totally cool, "vintage" like gift from my dear friend PR. We drew names for Christmas and she got me! So yay!

She sent me a cute little bracelet (which I don't have a picture of at the moment) and then she also sent me this...

It's a Magnetic Timer from Anthropologie. Hence, it hangs on the side of the fridge-how great is that? Mine isn't yellow though, it's bright Kentucky blue. =) It's soooo pretty and it's only $12. For those cooks out there, it would be a great addition to your kitchen. Or maybe you're not a cook, but you just want a cool timer.

Thank you friend!! I LOVE IT!

i'm beat

2011-02-10T21:46:00.004-05:00

I wish I had a rewind, play button on my prayers. They get so redundant sometimes. It's the same 'ole same 'ole.... "Lord, I'm tired.... I'm exhausted... I SUCKED again today as a teacher.... my kids at school probably hate me. Help me start over again tomorrow."

and then tomorrow... I'll need to rewind and say it all again.

Some rewinds are good.... like continuing to pray for people I Love, or chances for God to show his unbelievable power but continuing to have to pray over and over and over again for Me to do better... and for Me to not get overwhelmed.... or for Me to be more patient with my students... or for Me to not get stressed out.

I'm just over it. O-V-E-R I-T.

I'm also over the fact that all I ever have the idea to write about on my blog is that I'm annoyed, tired, and frustrated. Dear heavens Abby, is there not anything else?!?!? But honestly, I never know what to do to feel better so I just get on here and ramble.

I DO have good things going on, they just feel so small. And I'm tired. I'm tired on the inside. I just want someone else to tell me they're tired too. Please tell me EVERYONE feels like this? I REALLLLLYYYYYY hope so. I literally feel like a hamster in a wheel. Just running in the same place getting nowhere but all the while wearing myself out.

I have no idea what else to do but to just push that rewind button again tonight and let it play out. And I hope I can make it through 8 hours tomorrow and maybe miraculously not have to push that rewind button again for grace and mercy. I guess that song is true: "If grace is an ocean, we're all sinking." I shall claim my forever sinking status today.