Christmas?

Well, tonight the dad, mom and sister arrive in La Crescent for an evening of festivities and eating. What else would we do? Food is how we fellowship?

I've been in an odd place these last few days. There are some rocky patches in my life right now that have hurt my feet to get over. True that there are always things that will push us beyond where we want to go. God is going to take care of this...even though I can't really see what's going to happen. Seems to be this way a lot.

BUT...it's always going to be good.

Whoever you are...I love you...

KCK

610 N. Third Street

Good evening, my friends.

I'm sitting in my basement abode talking on the phone (with Sasha) and enjoying the warm ambiance created by wood patent paneling that covers all of the walls of my room. It's alright, I don't mind. Never will I ever be at home in this world. That's a comforting feeling, though, because a restless, adventurous spirit has filled me and there's so much to do.

Living with Benjamin, Kristine, Madelyn and Collin has been a great encouragement to me. The kids come down and visit me now and then but it's never annoying. Collin woke me up this morning ...

KNOCK KNOCK
"Who iiiis it?"
"Aaaaaaah!" (as he runs over to me and jumps on top of my covers)

It was nice. After looking at the clock, shock and shame filled my mind at seeing that I was still asleep after 9 AM.

Having my keyboard in a setup and usable position is inspiring me to practice and think more about music. Right now more music and stimulus would be good for me.

My brother Benjamin is involved with the opening of a new Kwik Trip store tomorrow so he'll be getting up and leaving the house by 4:45 AM. It's unlikely that he'll be seen off by yours truly in the morning, but who knows, maybe I'll surprise him and make coffee.

LG washers and dryers = very nice. It's the YEAR OF THE APPLIANCES in this house.

Well, I should be asleep and be giving my entire attention to this call. So, until next time...goodnight.

P.S. - Please pray for me to find employment. Kristine is going to a Bible study in the morning and is taking me to the Kohl's area/mall and I will be putting in applications for a couple hours. Thanks.

KCK-ILY

Finishing Trinidad.

I never did finish writing about my time in Trinidad. It was spectacular. We spent a lot of time just talking and being around the house, walking down the street to the shops, and me being sick and causing strife in my own mind because of the discomfort. I really do complain too much sometimes.

Saying farewell to Sasha at the airport was difficult. Although I knew that we would get together again in a couple weeks, at the time A COUPLE WEEKS seemed like a very long time. Karim (our friend) drove me to the airport and he showed us some things on the way. He was very compassionate about taking us places and providing us some transport.

I returned to the states with yet another adventure and experience behind me, but never apart from me.

A week behind...

I wanted to blog everyday about my trip while being here but due to some unforseen circumstances I have not been able and not taken the time to. Shame... it's been such a beautiful trip and I will look back on it with great joy and appreciation.

The Chalcos have been wonderful to me. Right now my pain killers are kicking in so I need to lay down. Forgive me if I have made anything out to be over-dramatic and life-threatening. I'm fine and will be good soon. Some things are harder to swallow than others.

Goodnight.

KCK-ILY

Frustration with time.

Here I am at 11:40 PM writing to tell you that I won't be writing about my experiences tonight. We went to Pizza Hut with Karrem (who is this funny guy that I NEVER know what he's saying but he's always paying for things) and he paid for us. What a nice trip it has been. The pizza was really good and we brought some home. With a full belly I will now be saying goodnight and hopefully there will be no nightmares.

Salud.

KCK-ILY

Monday Part II

To conclude what we did on Monday in full would be good for my mind. Leaving things incomplete or not done well bothers me. Here goes...

Napoleon Dynamite...I hate it. Makes me sick and whenever I do muster up the courage to fight through a few minutes of it there's a heavy sense of regret afterwards. Some people think it's great, some people don't. The same as: some people have a sense of humour, some people don't. I can't say this about everyone, but the summer this came out I was working at WCYC (Wisconsin Christian Youth Camp) and hadn't seen the film yet. Two campers always commented about me when they came through the dining line. One would say, "Hey Napoleon" and the other, "Vote for Pedro". This never made sense to me until, between intermediate and senior sessions, I watched the whole thing. Understanding isn't always worth it. Hence the phrase, "ignorance is bliss". There is truth to this at times. My long, curly hair, goofy expressions and tall figure had reminded the campers of a star that a few watts short of shining. If God gave me the chance to go back and get those IQ points back I would, but that's not likely so I'll just have to work my way back up.
All that so say I watched a few minutes of it on Franco's PSP while the family was speaking in Spanish together. It's alright, I now have something to work for. Pray for me, please.

We had arroz con huevos (rice and eggs) for dinner and then sat around talking before retiring to bed. It's difficult for me to describe how an evening of talking and doing little things together feels in words on a blogs. Family, warmth, and connecting with laughter and discussion are things that just stick with you and grow you closer to people. Every night I feel bonding happening and it makes me glad.

I was so tired and ready to sleep. Almost every night I have woken up very early or several times in the night for one reason or another, and the exhaustion was getting to me. Sasha read Proverbs 10 and Jeremiah 29 to Ivanka and I before visitng slumberland.

Just another day in paradise.

Monday, the one no one wants to come.

Monday morning started early with restlessness again. My saving grace is, once again, coffee. C.V. to the rescue! She didn't make it for me, but I made it for her. This is her vacation too, you know?

Next Wednesday Ivanka is going back to her team in Leon, Mexico and the following day I fly back to the states. It really doesn't feel like I've been here a week, but when things are new, stimulating and energy consuming one doesn't notice the time passing as much. Napping during the heat of the day helps to consume time as well, and because this is not a regular habit of mine the days seem shorter. Perhaps this isn't completely true, though. My wake up time is much earlier than usual. I don't know. Seems like the waters of my life are whirling at times and stagnate at others. That's the joy of it all, randomness leading to spontaneity.

The cupboards in the kitchen were falling apart and I couldn't take it any longer so we decided to redo the kitchen. Dante left to sell his boomerangs and Franco went to work at HI-LO before we started. Once we got started we just kept going and going until all of the junk was off and it was barren around the cupboards and shelves. Have you ever seen that plastic cover they put on wood and cupboards to protect it from wear? Well, that was peeling off and there was need to strip it off. So strip it we did. Then I got out the sander and lightly went over everything to prepare for paint. Sasha, Ivanka and I got out the white paint after lunch and went to it. C.V. put too much water in the paint so it ran causing us to have to put two coats on. It looks so much better though and for this we are happy.

I have to run now, almost literally. We're off to the beach today and the van is honking at us to hurry. I will write about Tuesday and yesterday tonight... AHAHAHAHAAAAAAAAAA!

KCK-ILY

God's people in Trinidad

"Sunday morning rain is falling"...

We had to take a taxi to the church building which was fifteen minutes away. Since there's always something to look at in the cities, it's not a big deal for me. I don't get tired of "travelling" (taking a taxi opposed to walking).

La Iglesia De Cristo:

De Church o Christ n dis place.

Although the Chalcos are Spanish speakers, most of the islanders are English speakers. This is a strongly accented and lots of lingo English that makes some people very difficult to understand. Once one is used to it, though . . . it's still sometimes difficult. This has been mentioned before, though.

The class was about works and faith and how important it is to have both. One comment that I commented on, after the initial comment was made, enlightened me to one of the points of interest in the church here. Sometimes there are language usages that can be somewhat confusing to one who has not had extensive English training. When I say extensive, I mean through high school. This is off subject though.

We had a great fellowship and brought two of the four cakes that were given to Franco to share and I got to meet so many people who are striving to be like Jesus on this island. I am always moved and encouraged to see believers in other places and the faith that they show. On Saturday there is a sports day for the church and we're all participating. I biffed my knee, but it should be alright by then. As long as I'm not doing the 25 meter race. Good times are always had playing games.

After a relaxed afternoon of napping and spending time together we decided to play Jump. Franco, Sasha and I played after dinner. For those of you who have never played before, it's an easily learned game that is good for fun in all occasions. Guess who won? Sasha...of course...

Sunday wasn't highly eventful...um...we got to assemble...that was brilliant. I have already mentioned my admiration for Franco and I won't go into it any further tonight, but on the topic of church and Biblical issues we lay on our mattresses and talked about all sorts of things for quite some time. It was good, but by the end of it I was definitely ready to sleep.

It's a strange thing. We haven't done a TON of things but we've stayed busy and it's always hot so I expect to sleep well at night. Well, that just hasn't been the case. Restless nights and getting up for water, washroom visits and pills have been quite frequent. This will pass, there's just a lot on my mind and my joints have been hurting in this climate. Pray for my body, it's up and down.

Goodnight, my friends and keep well. I'm 3 days behind, I know, but will make it up soon. I said that a couple days ago. If I had brought my computer it would be much more coonsistent, but travelling without it is easy and less-stress in the airport. Drop me an email if you have a change. I love hearing from you.

"You know who you are."

KCK-ILY

SA farmers to rent land in Congo

If you are not aware of how things are in SA, here's is a brief preview. I find it fascinating because of my time spent there. They say that onced you've been to Africa and experienced it it never leaves your heart. Politically there will always be corruption, socially there will always be issues, and economically there will always be ups and downs. BUT, God has the power to work things exactly how He wants to for His will to be fulfilled. Pray for the country of South Africa today.

SA farmers to rent land in Congo

Thank you.
KCK-ILY

Greater things are yet to come, greater things are still to be done...

I promised I would write so here I am.
Albeit this is not the longest entry it´s one so you know. In a footrace up the steps and around to the security gate of the stadium I biffed my knee. You see, Ivanka had cheated and instead of running the full circuit she stopped and went back the same way to try and win. Well, I saw this and sped up. As I approached the end of the median that separated the entrance from the exit in the front lane I thought to myself,

``This will be fine, I always make it.``

Well, I didn´t. My knee is slightly swollen and I can barely put weight on it. All this to say. I´ll write about the past two days tomorrow. Three Acetaminophin PM´s later I feel alright. Is that spelled with an 'e' in the end?

KCK-ILY

It´s magnificent here. HOT, but magnificent. I have met some extraordinary people and had some good laughs. Words will never do it justice. Cheers...

Happy...Birthday to Franco! . . . and Halloween

Good day to YOU!

It's a muggy and difficult to breathe day here. Who's complaining? Everyone's dealing with the same thing so let it be (one of my favorite Beatles songs).

Let me tell you about yesterday... (this would be Friday now, so much delay)

7 AM wake-up and shower! This means that there´s water now. Ivanka is a big fan of coffee now and that makes me happy. If she hadn´t bought a coffee maker and coffee we would not have had any while I was here. Thank you C.V. (chata Vanks ... aka "shorty")

De iland iz da best man, na? There´s certain truth the perceived island language. The thing you don´t catch in the perception is the heavy accents, different intonation, and faster speaking that makes it difficult to discern if one is speaking English or something completely different. I have asked on several occasions which language is being spoken and more often then not, it´s the good ole English.

The drivers on this island are similar to South Africans in the respect that there are no real boundaries while driving on the road. Here, however, the streets are not nearly as broad and this makes for a LOT of close calls. My nerves have been stilled. It doesn´t phase me anymore if a large truck is coming right at you and your taxi driver only swerves with 2 inches to spare. Makes some part of the heated days exhilirating. In contrast to the South Africans, taxis don´t make me as nervous. Probably because you tell them a destination and it´s only a car, instead of a "kombi".

I had sudado for lunch with the family and it was spectacular. For all the flavour it was incredibly healthy. A whole fish in a broth that has boiled tomatos, onions and spices to give it a big kick. Dante showed me how to eat the eyes. Who wouldn´t want to eat a fish eye?

SIESTA!!!

C.V. (Ivanka), Sasha and I went to HI-LO (where Franco works) to get some goods. Upon our arrival home we ordered KFC. That´s right, they deliver. It´s a HUGE treat though. Franco has been wanting KFC for a long time so we got a 12-piece bucket and feasted. So delightful. Dante can´t eat the grease because of his heart condition so he ate something else.
"Trinidad has the best KFC in the world." -Franco

Something about the humidity and weather here really makes my joints hurt. My ankles and wrists have been hurting quite a bit since being here which is surprising. I would have thought that the heat would relax the body a bit, but it hasn´t done anything for me. On the doctor room laminated-smiley-face scale it´s been about a 4 everyday. I think it will be fine upon my arrival back to the states. The cold weather is going to clench my swollen extremities back to normal. Since I´m writing this on Tuesday and recalling what was going on on Friday I have to mention that things are doing much better. My joints are growing more and more accustomed to the climate and I´m able to do mucho!

It´s been a long day and we sang happy birthday, feliz cumpleanos, and several other birthday tunes to Franco at midnight. Well, Sasha, Ivanka and I did before I got in the shower and headed to bed.

Franco truly is an extraordinary person. He´s old beyond his age and has shown great maturity for one who has just turned 18. Sleeping on mattresses in the living room together has brought the geat opportunity for me to talk one-on-one with this man of God. If I was asked who I think is a friend of Jesus I would say...,"Franco Chalco, have you met him? If not, go and do so. You´ll be greatly encouraged and moved." If my vocabulary was more expansive I would use every word to get across to you the encouragement I have received from Franco. He´s inspired me to be more vigilant in treating everyone equally, loving people richly, utilizing what God has given you and not complaining about all the little things that we want but don´t get. I can honestly say that I love Franco and his great, big heart.

Thank You, Father, for allowing me to be in this place at this time. It´s been much needed and I feel the warmth of your embrace, the teaching of your mind and the love of your people. Forgive me for not being as vigilant as I should be and help me in all matters of wisdom and strength. Open my heart to Yours and, Spirit, move me in righteous, eternal ways. Thank you for the endless list of blessings in my life. Especially family, and I´m speaking beyond biological.
Amen.

KCK-ILY

What was that?

So, what about Doubles and Boomerangs?

Ivanka (Sasha's sister), Karim, and Alex (friends) picked us up and drove us to Marabela where the Chalco's stay. When we went outside in FL it was warm, but at midnight in Trinidad it was even warmer. Thank God we came to in the rainy season. It's cooler now but still muggy enough to make you sweat in under ten seconds.

The car stopped in front of a two story house in the middle of Marabela and immediately Chamelly and Franco (Sasha's mother and brother) came down the stairs to greet their long-expected daughter and sister. How the affection flowed. It was evident how much they love each other by the way they kept holding on to each other. Once I got to the top of the stairs and went through the door with our bags, I saw Dante and Sasha embrace. He didn't let go of her for a very long time and kissed her face over and over again. A father's love is strong for his children. God's love surpasses any love man can muster. This is truly extraordinary after seeing this meeting of family.

We stayed up until 4 AM getting gifts out of the suitcases and talking. Only when Franco lay himself down to sleep and looked at his phone was the time recognized. Just a 24 hour trip. I love it.

Sleep crept over us, and we endured a night of heavy rain. Or so they tell me, I slept straight through. Eventually waking up and managing to get out of bed in the heat (which seems much more difficult) I had two sandwiches for breakfast and some orange juice. Island life, can't get enough. At this point it's noon, but considering the time of lie down, that's acceptable. Even if I was the last one up.

After greeting everyone and getting ready for the day. We (Sasha, Ivanka and I) went to the market where Franco works and got some groceries for dinner. That was great. If only markets were more common in other places. No complaints, it makes it more memorable here. Franco got us a deal on some ginger. Trinidad being an island, lots of goods are imported. They were selling almost half kilo packages of ginger. It wasn't fresh and it didn't seem worth it, so he took it in the back and got it re-packaged in a smaller quantity for us. What a guy. We also got a discount with his work card.

On the walk to catch a taxi we stopped at a little stand and got doubles. They're two flat bread pieces overlapped with some beans and spices, then wrapped together. So spicy, but it burns so good.

Upon our return I sat down to blog and Dante came upstairs. He was working on making boomerangs and I went down with him to learn how. Step by step we went through the sanding process. Now I can say I made a boomerang in Trinidad with the infamous Dante Chalco. Next week he's going to take me through the primary steps of cutting the shape out and creating angles. Again the reminder flashes in my mind that there's always more to learn. There's just enough time to learn what God wants us to know. Be the sponge!

Now I'm smelling Chamelly cooking some delicious dish in the kitchen and relaxing in the heat. There's no water on Thursdays or Sundays so we did dishes with the reservoir water and a bucket. Talk about a different way of living. Oh yeah, the shower doesn't have a temperature option. My custom of finishing every shower with cold water has paid off. The water isn't freezing by any means, but even if it was it would just feel nice.
"This is the only place you get out of the shower sweating." -Franco

Tot siens, my chomies.

Doubles and Boomerangs

Hola, mis amigos!

Tuesday, at 11 AM, Kareesa and I left Monroe for Chicago to meet Sasha at the airport. She flew in from Frankfurt at 2:10 PM and finally made it through customs at almost 3. Seeing her at the airport in a completely open and free way was refreshing to my spirit. We both had our first airport kiss!

From there we went to the southside to meet Catherina Wojtowicz (Wojo). She graciously opened her lair (basement) to us for the night so we could be in the city for our early departure on Wednesday morning.

After Chi Tung Asian food and bulging bellies we bunked down for the evening. Well, Sasha and I repacked our bags to accomodate for all the purchases she made for her family. Target is great and I love the deals. If you're not a fan, become one! Shoppers beware. The Target chain does a fantastic job of created a warm, shopper friendly atmosphere that encourages the spending of money. If you struggle with self-control. Step back.

4 AM arrives and we all become aware enough of the world to finish packing our stuff, pick up our bedding, grab some breakfast/COFFEE and say farewell to the Wojtowicz family. They are sweet. It's worth going to Chicago just to see Wojo. Unfortunately, she does not drive expressways and when I said "we" early I was also referring to Kareesa. She stayed the night (Wojo and her being the real friend connect, between me and Wojo it's more of a fun acquaintance) and got us to O'Hare International Airport at 5:30AM. You're a star, sister.

Checking in was a breeze, only a minor complication with the credit card in the automatic teller machine but it worked out for the better. The lady who helped us fix it realized we were going international and said we didn't have to pay for the bags. When she weighed them and realized they were heavy I thought that surely she would charge us. I call this the "Sasha Effect". Whenever Sasha goes anywhere things seem to fall into place. Glad I was travelling with her. Security was security and we survived. Then waited an hour for our flight to Ft. Lauderdale, FL (FLL).

I slept the entire way there but Sasha didn't. This became reversed on the final flight from FLL to Port of Spain, Trinidad. At FLL we had Chili's (both of ours first time since being back stateside), sat, checked into Carribean Airlines, found out terminal, sat, cup of coffee, sat, 14 minutes 12 seconds on an internet terminal, sat and boarded at 8:10PM. Wasn't that bad actually, only about 6 hours.

The flight went smooth and we landed in Port of Spain at midnight. Touchdown in anoother country always brings that excited, mind-opening feeling of wanting to take everything in. Suddenly, we're not tired at all. No matter that Sasha has been in transit since Monday. She's going to see her family for the first time in a year and a half. Who wouldn't be bubbly?

Interest.

I've heard it said that it takes three blog entries a week to keep interest. Am I doing it? Are you interested? Are you getting this? Comment if you are!

This is not the extensive entry I wanted it to be. My mind is off. So much going on in there. If every this was an odd time inside me, this is a big one. No worries, God always does His thing and all things...all things...

I love you all. You don't know how much I do because I'm not showing it enough.
KCK

And I'm behind...and sad...

You know how Satan uses feelings of inadequacy to bring us down when things seem to be going well? Of course you do. Being a breathing, walking, thinking, fleshly human yourself you must have felt, at some point in history, a feeling of not having what it takes to do things correctly. All I will say at this time is that those feelings are lies. YES, you may not have what it takes. Where you are lacking God will fill beyond what is needed and that is why we are righteous. Don't worry about tomorrow, DO TODAY!

Anyway, I say all that to say I'll blog soon. Would be dishonest of me to say there hasn't been much to say. What I can say is...my sleep schedule is off, there's a lot to do, Ken and Judy are here tonight, I miss this one girl, feelings on the fritz and wanting to see some old, familiar faces but can't. Beyond that, you'll hear from me. Goodnight.

KCK-ILY

Live Music

I find there's no greater way to experience music than live performances. If you're actually sitting and hearing/seeing/feeling the music that is being played before you the affect is drastically different then just pushing a CD into the player or popping in your ipod.

Last night (technically Saturday night), Cafe Claudeen catered the Big Top Chautaqua show that came to the Monroe PAC (Performing Arts Center). First, thank the Lord it wasn't raining because whoever designed that auditorium didn't think of the fact that an uninsulated, tin roof would be impossible to hear over when it's raining. Clear weather made for a clear sound coming from the stage. This show really reminded me of the pride I have in Wisconsin. There were 4 vocalists (1 doubled with guitar on a couple songs, another doubled as a cello/guitar player on all the songs), 1 bass, 1 guitarist, 1 mandolinist, 1 fiddler and 1 trap-setter (doubled as "Dr. Finnius Third Eye and local, nostalgic fisherman). They were brilliant. If you've ever heard of Appalachian Journey or any really good folk group...they were that. The sound they produced, their harmonies, their versatility and their style were breathe-taking. I loved it. Apart from the music, there was another aspect of the show that took me back and brought me to. In the middle of the stage was a large screen where various pictures and videos of past and present, northern WI life were presented. Seeing the steamboat era, the logging era (where they floated logs downstream for lack of any better transport) and the natural, God given beaut of nature really made me feel nostalgic.

Growing up I often wondered what it would be like to live somewhere else. California living always seemed to appeal to me, or even the East coast, but no wondering or visits elsewhere have ever shown me the great things that those slides did. To invoke such pride in one's home state is refreshing. When I was in school, down in Lubbock, TX, and on the mission field, in Port Elizabeth, South Africa, the subject of where I was from came up so many times. Unfortunately, the only contemporary reference that people could relate to WI was That 70's Show. After MY explanation of this great state I would state that it's the most under-rated state in the union. Keep your Texas, I'll have WI and live merrily ever after (this is NOT an alcohol reference:). All this to say, I thoroughly enjoyed the show and would see again whenever I am up the Bakersfield way (correct me if it's not in Bakersfield).

On a much more spiritual note, ... even though music is a GREAT gift from God ... , being with the church this morning was encouraging. How welcoming and loving this body in Monroe is. I had forgotten the feeling of being so close to them but it's swiftly returning to me. For this I am grateful. Thank you, Father. Sitting here listening to Flatfoot 56 there's a stirring within me to delve deeper into the Word. Challenged this morning by the subject matter in Daniel 9, I feel the need to pursue prophecies and their purpose, timing and content. FIRST, I go through the Gospel according to Mark. It's been a while since I've gone through a gospel book and I need the words of Jesus. James...read it everyday and it's still not enough. Not yet at the point where I read it everyday, but there was a time. Hopefully, with God's help, I'll get back into that habit.

It rained again. On the mower, burning along, and droplets that could fill ketchup packets start hitting my head.
"This is just a flash. The sky doesn't look too threatening...I'll ride it out (no pun intended)."
Yeah, ok. That didn't last very long. It only got better - or worse depending on your glass and water perspective - and away with the mower. At least the garden almost was finished. With the howling winds it will be dry enough to continue in the morning before going to IKEA with my mother and sister. That should be nice.

For the sake of intrigue, I'm working on some secret projects. That is all...

If I don't go to sleep I won't and will regret it greatly later on today.
KCK-ILY

Friday in Wisconsin

Good morning to you!
It's a hazy, drizzly day in Wisconsin and I'm glad it is. Although I haven't exactly done a lot of physical work, I've been lifting and trying to stay fit while being back. I know that if I allow my body to become unfit it will drag me down quickly if I get into a rut. So, I'm staying on top of that.

If the weather had permitted, the lawn would be being mowed right now and I'd be cutting more wood from the trees that line the drive. Unfortunately, outside work is not on the menu for today. Other entrees are up for eating.

So, what am I doing? Well, I've cleaned the stove top, done the dishes, am running loads of laundry, vacuuming, running to Clarno (a little village 10 minutes from the farm) to get supplies for the re-roofing of the back-porch and READING!

Why do I emphasize READING? Since I've been back in the states very little reading has taken place. The book I started before leaving South isn't even finished and there's only a half chapter to go. Lately I've been feeling the need to go through the Gospels! It seems like I'm aware of the facts, but nailing down where, when and why Jesus said things is fuzzy in my mind of late. A ploy by Satan to drag me down. I feel the tug, but I'm not giving up. It's frustrating to let God down. I learned this at a very young age when I realized my parents seldom yelled at us unless tact wasn't understood by us, the children. To disappoint a parent is the worst feeling in the world. God being my FATHER, the disappointment is far greater than if I were to let my father or mother down. I feel it deep within me when I sin. It hurts and I don't want to hurt anymore. This leads to another lesson, as well. Peace and trust. God is there for us through everything. We commit the vilest of offences and He never wavers. To me, this is the greatest show of love.
Why would I not say the cross? This is part of the cross. Failure is inevitable, but through the blood of Christ we are made righteous. So, the love shown by Jesus is extraordinary. TRULY extraordinary. Recognize this and you're well on your way to being a devout, trusting, self-less servant.

I'm still being worked on and working on it myself. Let God in...

The day is still young. After James, I'm headed to Mark!

Mild regrets...

One of the nice things about being back in WI is the twenty minute drive between Honeywind Farm (my parents house) and Monroe. It's just enough time to mull over the upcoming events, people I need to contact, and possibly job opportunities before arriving at my destination. I say this to say I have thought about one of my mild regrets about my time in South Africa:

Not keeping up with my blog. Now, this is an ironic statement considering my publicizing of this feeling is coming from a blog entry. That's fine by me, though. For all of those people who wanted to follow the daily grind of my South African experience, I sincerely apologize for not keying you in on everything. Someone made a good point, instead of wanting or trying to put something profound up, just a few paragraphs about what I did that day would have been really nice for those back in the states to see. Unfortunately, I failed in this respect.

What's done is done. I've learned from it. Hopefully there will be minimal regrets like this in the future. One of the biggest life-lessons I learned while being away was the DEEPLY important necessity of communication! Never stop communicating...

...commitment...

It's funny how things work out. I started this blog over a year ago and I believe the number of entries can be counted on fingers and toes. Shame really...there's been so much to say.

As of today, I have 19 days left on the continent. Everyday seems so much more significant now than when I first arrived. Funny how the blunt realization of departure makes one feel. It's going to be good though. God has a plan for me to be back in America sooner than I expected. Ah...how that works. The Spirit within me moves my heart to know that I need to go now and God, knowing it, worked it out that way. I'm glad He did. If there wasn't a grand plan I would be so lost. Luckily, our Father has made arrangements. It's up to me to get on the plane now.

My name is Tyler and I have felt bad about a lot of things for a long time. Having the end in sight has brought me to a new level of trust and expectation. I feel anxious, nervous, bitter, jealous, happy, sad, angry, calm, intense, flinchy, emotional, and fine all at once. It's astounding. Fear not, because my emotions are not what dictate who I am, what I believe, or how I live. They get to me at times and they're not something to run from, but if I always feel sad then I'll never truly live as God intended.

A true testimony to how great the body, mind and spirit God has given us is. Someone once told me that we only use 10% of our brains capacity. If this is true, THINK OF THE POTENTIAL! We are amazing creatures and God made us to have intellect, freedom, conscience, and the capacity to house the Holy Spirit.
Are we minuscule?
In comparison to the vast power of our Father...yes.
In comparison to the world around us...good heavens, what do you think? I should say NOT!
Something that has been driven home to me time and time again whilst being in this place is how important it is to let the little things go. I spoke on Sunday night about passionate anger and how we need to channel that anger into positive purpose. Read Proverbs 16 and watch NOOMA Store.
{Side note: if someone wanted to purchase something for me, they could get as many NOOMA videos as possible (seen as how I only own FLAME)}
Trust in God with all that you are and He will make sure that your path is made straight. You don't make it straight. Only He has that power. Your commitment will insure that the world is overcome. Why? Because...

"Whoever believes that Jesus is the Christ is born of God, and whoever loves the Father loves the child born of Him. By this we know that we love the children of God, when we love God and observe His commandments. For this is the love of God, that we keep His commandments; and His commandments are not burdensome. For whatever is born of God overcomes the world; and this is the victory that has overcome the world - our faith. "

I John 5:-4

MIRACULOUS!

Have no fear, peoples. My computer has decided to turn on again. Just needed a day to rest I guess. For whatever reason, however, it's on and I'm writing this to you on it. Thank you for the concern if you even knew to be concerned. More later, too much happening to think clearly.

Dead Computer:(

As you may know, or not know, I have a 12 inch PowerBook G4 Mac and
it's a little old. I can't complain about it much because it has lived
up to it's reputation in reliability. However, all good things have an
end. Last night I couldn't get my computer to turn on. There was no
function noise except the sound it makes when it turns off. I thought
to myself, "This will pass. Time is all it needs". I guess not. Today
I tried multiple times to turn it on but to no avail. Perhaps it's a
sign. How do we know which are signs and which are temptations though?
They can look very similar at times. I don't have a lot of support and
this would make buying a new computer difficult. Especially since it's
about that time where I need to purchase a plane ticket to return to
the USA. I'm not worried about the harddrive. For the longest time the
only way I've been able to use my Mac is if it's plugged in. There's a
good chance that the power source and connection has given up. Updates
will follow as to the state of my technology difficulties. Don't
worry, I'm sure my friends will let me use theirs if it's needed. I
regret to say that my May newsletter is not done or accessible (if it
was done). If anyone can forward a link to my supporters that would be
wonderful. On a providential note, I have set-up my mobile blogging
just in time! Phew...what a day. Thank you to Benjamin and Kristine
for the package of pictures. I sat in the car and laughed with an
smile that couldn't have been wiped off my face for a few minutes
before driving back to my place. It was a bright moment in my day.

--
Sent from my mobile device

Team Day

Good morning. 9 am brought me to the Nest (Ken and Judy's house) for
breakfast. On the way over I felt so sick I almost threw up in the
car. But, it passed after a few minutes. Still, not a good start to
the day. Breakfast, on the other hand, made the morning so much
brighter. Bacon, eggs, toast with apple butter and marmalaide (believe
I spelled that wrong, my predictive text didn't bring it up), grits,
freshly squeezed orange juice, and filter coffee. An awe-inspiring
right. After we finished eating and discussing the upcoming retreats,
Judy gave me a pill to take away nausea. My plan was to sleep it off
but we're headed to a settlement school to deliver curriculum now.
Then we'll be visiting Addo Elephant Park so the two new team members
can see some African wildlife. A sight that never gets old. This pill
is going to knock me out... Until we finish out journey.

--
Sent from my mobile device

That's amore...

What a long day. It seemed to be a very emotionally open one. I cried,
got angry, became passive, and laughed all at different times and
places. Drained is how I feel. My head is hurting, my eyes burn, and I
feel cold. There's hope that this too shall pass though so don't get
your knickers in a twist over lil old me. Verse of the day: Proverbs
24:16

--
Sent from my mobile device

Cape Town and all it has to offer!

How to begin to describe a city that seems to be significantly different than any other I have visited in South Africa thus far. I'll begin by saying what the lady who gave me a peditox treatment on Saturday said. They have really invested in the infrastructure of the city and therefore have created a beautiful layout and decor that is appealing to anyone visiting and living there. I know it's expensive to own a residence within city limits because of what others have told me but I wouldn't mind putting up the funds to stay there. The cleanliness, scenery, and activities available in the city of Cape Town are things that I admire about it. I can see why anyone would want to study there.... hint hint (probably not, but how wonderful would that be?)

We got up early on Saturday the 18th and drove for about 11 hours to get to our destination. And what was that? The wonderful home of Mark and Flora Schwartz. One thing I will always look back and admire about this trip is sitting in the kitchen having tea. Of course, if there's tea being had then there is plenty of conversation going around. The homeliness of their house was inspiring. I hope that my home, someday, can have that ambiance. Warm, comfortable, classy, and decorated in a fun fashion. There were baskets of shells and rocks about, little trees made out of drift wood, pictures of family, and little, quirky things that catch your eye and make you wonder if there is an interesting story behind them. I'm sure there are plenty of stories there. Stories are inevitable in anyone's life. The stories that come with being a missionary in a foreign land are endless and so fascinating in a different way then those of everyday life. There's something understood and yet mystical about tapping into the life of a fellow human. May the art of story-telling never die!

Oh, let's see now. What did I get to see while I was in Cape Town. Don't be too jealous now, but here's the list:

Cape Point
Cape of Good Hope
Table Mountain
Robben Island (where Nelson Mandela spent some of his incarceration)
The Schwartz's house
Athlone Church of Christ
Eerste Rivier Church of Christ
Century City (the largest mall in the southern hemisphere)

I had a blast. So many pictures to share with those interested, someday. I don't think I'll be able to upload much but it will come soon. The girls will upload (and so will Mike!) at least one album a piece so check them out on facebook.

It's a beautiful, chilly evening in PE and we're looking forward to winter. Our flat is tile and concrete with large picture windows that cool down the temperature of the whole place. It's fine with me though. We have a kettle, hot water bottles, and a space heater. Not to mention my thick socks, sweat pants, and fleece pull-over. The nice thing about cold weather is you can always get warmer and cozier. When it's boiling hot, it's more difficult to get cool.

I'm out. See you peeps soon...ish. I'll try to be on more.

KCK-ILY

Alas, we come to it again...

Sadly, I find myself apologizing again. Please, don't come to me with notes of "it's okay, you're fine" when I know I'm not. There is a responsibility on my part to keep up with what I say and I what I owe to others. My life...

It was my intention to write a daily post while I was here, even if it was just a sentence or two. Guess how long it's been since I updated my blog?

. . . 62 DAYS . . .

Ugh...I'm insulted Tyler. Who are you? Well, I'm here to tell you I have failed, but I've gotten back up and only by the grace of God am I considered to be a man.

Help me, Lord, to type, speak, walk in a manner that is something remotely close to how Jesus did. I'll never be at the point of confidently saying I am a reflection of Christ. But, that's the beauty of grace. It's more that sufficient and it makes life unfair. Thank you for tipping the scale and showing me love when I needed it, and didn't deserve it, most.
All glory be to You and never to us. Humble us in drastic ways, strengthen us through the word, prayer, nature, people and whatever means you know will grow us. Thank you for EvErYtHiNg!
...Amen...