Daughter of the King

2012-01-08T13:36:00.000-08:00

This past week and a half Andrea and I have been watching my siblings as my parents helped move my sister and nephew to Ontario. It has been fun but so very tiring. I know that God is calling me to love special needs orphans and I know that if I am obedient in this area that i will need his strength and patience everyday. I am so tempted to live the "typical" life but my heart just can't do it. I need to follow my God given desires and passions. I do not have it built in me to live an ordinary life.

So I guess I can know three things: I will never know boring., I will be stretched and life will ALWAYS be an adventure.

I do not know what the road ahead will be like. I think it will involve many children, loving the people on the fringe of society, driving a big ol' van and living in a house that knows much laughter and joy. I am excited to look back from enternity on my life and see how God has lead and blessed me.

Back to the World of SIAST

2012-01-08T13:30:00.000-08:00

I am back at SIAST for my last semester and it is such a different atmosphere from Briercrest. I low the price of classes and the lack of pricey student fees but I miss the caring professors and Godly atmosphere. I am taking law, economics, accounting, career skills and ebusiness. It looks like it should be a lighter semester once I get my last distance class and portfolio finished.

I am moving into Moose Jaw on Wednesday and will be back to work this week as well. I have very much enjoyed a 10 days off and hopefully when I go back that it will be a quiet week. I am excited to pay less for gas but will have to get used of locking doors again:)

2011

2011-12-31T14:45:00.001-08:00

2011 was a good year to me it brought many challenges and blessings but it is one that I will never forget.
It brought the starting of my final year of college (for real this time-I have no intentions of going back at least for a few years), the birth of my handsome nephew (who captured my love- I never knew I could love someone so much), the blessing of having my whole family living in the same community with me and a time of growth and seeing my dreams start growing for my next steps.

I am so thankful to God for the blessings that he has brought in my life. I remain so thankful that He is beside me leading me as I walk.

Looking forward to 2012 I see my graduation and a move to a new location there. I have started looking at jobs and have found some that I would be able to use my skills and passions in but they are in the northern communities of Alberta and BC so I may be looking forward to more "real winters" in my future. I am so excited to start paying off my student loans and to be able to dream about what comes after that. I have a great desire to adopt a baby with Down Syndrome and to be able to pour into the lives of people who are choosing to raise their children with disabilities.

I know that whatever comes next will be an adventure and will not contain the word "boring"-even if sometimes I desire that.

Answer to Prayer

2011-11-28T10:03:00.001-08:00

This past week I found out that if we wanted to rent heated storage for our belongings (which we need because we have things that the cold will wreck) it would cost us $500 per month. The reason we are housesitting is to save money to pay off some bills and save for our future moves.

Saturday night as I was talking with Krista our neighbours names came up and I remembered that they have an empty basement that they do not use. So they have agreed to let us store our belongings in their basement for free! I am so thankful that God worked this out for us.

Today I am Thankful for...

2011-11-25T07:27:00.000-08:00

-above zero weather that is melting all the snow

-food in the cupboards and fridge

-my sewing machine

-my family

-the ability and resources to go to school

2011-11-11T12:34:00.000-08:00

The world only gets one you!

You with your gifts.

You with your smile.

You with those things you do.

So take your place,

take your chances,

take this moment to know…

You’ve got something to offer.

Something good and right and true.

Something God-given,

Heart-of-Heaven created.

And the rest of us need it, need you.

Oh, you think it’s no big deal.

Anyone could be that way.

Anyone could do it.

Nope.

Not true.

There’s just one irreplaceable you.

By: Holley Gerth

Blackberry Problems

2011-11-08T09:51:00.000-08:00

Well I have had a cell for five years now and I have come to rely on it and I never thought I could function without one...last week my phone refused to turn on and so I went over a week without a phone and I must admit I more then survived (I kinda liked being phone-less).

For work at this point and with driving on the winter roads I do need a phone but I will be practicing leaving it on more and not jumping every time I do hear it as I focus much better on school without it near me.

Maybe there will be a day when I can go cell-less again....I would sure save alot of money (in two years I would save enough to go on a nice vacation to Mexico or Disney Land!).

Entered my Last Miracle month

2011-11-08T09:46:00.000-08:00

At Briercrest we call November "Miracle Month" as it is the month that each student is likely to feel overwhelmed and defeated. The assignments are due, the looming end of the semester is coming and the thought of exams is not so exciting. I noticed that the library is hopping and students seem a bit more stressed with their deadlines.

For my last Miracle Month I am trying out the relaxed view of working hard on my days off to get my homework done and aiming to do a good job (not a perfect job) on my papers...so far it is going well but it is only 8 days in....I do have a long list of things to accomplish but I am striking them off one at a time.

The Cutest Little Rooster and I

2011-11-08T09:36:00.000-08:00

Adoption

2011-11-04T18:38:00.000-07:00

When I think of the word adoption I think of many of the people I love and have come to call my brothers, sister and friends. Yes, adoption is not always easy and it does sometimes bring disappointment and some valley experiences but it also bring so much joy, new life and love to ones life.

When people see pictures of my family or hear that I have so many siblings and learn that we have adopted they generally say "I could never do that" or "Your parents must be very special people". Yes, my parents are special people but that is because they are children of God who are walking in obedience to his calling to care for the orphans and children with disabilities. They aren't perfect or superhero's but just normal people who choose to live a different then most of their peers.

I think that people assume that they could never adopt when really they would learn to love another children as much as the children they already have. Love isn't bound by genetics or giving birth to a child; it is born in your heart. I know that I am not a mother but I am a sister to both people who have the same parents by birth to me and by siblings who have been adopted and I love them all; they are all my siblings regardless of the colour of their skin or when they became a "Keno".

Update

2011-10-22T19:48:00.000-07:00

I have started my last fall in Caronport (at least this is my plans) and I am hoping for a almost snow free winter with nice warm (aka -15) weather.

I am loving my Globalization class as it is so interesting and relevant. I barley find myself counting down the minutes until class is done and look forward to learning more each class. I think that it gives you a very unbiased view of globalization and allows you to decide where you stand on the issue.

Work is going better then it had been and that has been a blessings! I have started thinking and dreaming about where God will lead me next and until then I am trying to be content with my work situation.

I had been praying about next semester and next summer and was trying to figure out how I can afford to move and get established. God has given us a housesitting situation and then our parents are going to let us live with them for the last month or two. So we will be packing up all our worldly belongings and putting them in storage for the semester and giving up our duplex. It should be an adventure filled semesters; one that I will never forget!!

This week is my reading break and so I will be able to hopefully have a couple days to relax and then get a lot of assignments done.

It's Family Photo Time...

2011-10-11T15:44:00.000-07:00

Having 11 people in our family makes it "fun" for getting family photo's done. Here's some pictures from our latest photo shoot in Briercrest, Sask.

A Year Ago Today

2011-08-24T10:05:00.000-07:00

I flew into Toronto to help Krista pack up her dorm room and move her in with Andrea and I. I finished work, spent a last day at home with my family and then took a red eye flight to Toronto. Krista picked me up and we had a quick nap, I gave her some gifts (you can't expect a first time auntie to not go shopping for baby things) and then we went to the Dr for her last appointment there and I got to see her ultrasound. Isaiah moved so much that the technition had a hard time getting the pictures. I thought that it had to be a boy!

The Dr still didn't think that Krista's body would carry the baby to term and they were aiming that he would make it to 30 weeks but doubted that it would happen. So we prepared for a baby at our house knowing that we might not bring him/her home but hoping and praying that God would perform a miracle.

14 weeks!

We thought that Krista was going to lose him more then once and the Dr's continued to aim for the 30 week mark. We made more then a few trips to ER and the Maternity Ward and before 30 weeks they stopped and things went well until 40 weeks and 2 days.

I am so thankful that God saved Isaiah and when I look at him each day I am reminded that miracles do happen.

Isaiah

2011-08-23T13:09:00.000-07:00

Isaiah and I all ready to head out with his Mom for supper.

It is so fun having a baby in the house and it brings much joy to our family to watch Isaiah grow and develop. He now has 8 teeth, has started to crawl and climb and loves to sit up. He will be six months this week and continues to amaze us with his development.

I have learned that it is harder to do school in a house that has a baby as it is much more fun to play with Isaiah then read books on poetry and history....but alias this week I am buckling down and doing lots of my assignments as I want to enjoy as much time with Isaiah and my family as I can this fall and winter as I know our time living in the same town will be coming to a close sometime this next school year.

A New Semester is Almost Upon Us

2011-08-19T20:03:00.000-07:00

My next semester is another non-business class semester and I have to admit I am missing them. I am taking a Theology class, Philosophy, Missions class and History of Christianity. It is going to be a busy semester but I am able to cut my work weeks down to 31.5 hours so hopefully it will go smoothly.

A little Girl who Needs some Help

2011-08-18T19:19:00.000-07:00

The more I submerse my self in the world of adoption through supporting and praying for people who are walking down this road the stronger my passion for it become. I especially feel my heart burdened when following families journey's to children with Down Syndrome. I look forward to the day that God tells me its my time to journey down this road but for now I will support and educate others on the joys of growing up in a house with three brothers who are blessed with a little extra something.

Today I read about this orphan who is in need of a family to adopt.

Liliana at 9 years old

At 11 years old she is only 10 lbs

If you would pray for this little girl that God would raise up a family to adopt her. To learn more about the fundraising efforts and more about this little girl go to this website

Adoption is a Blessing

2011-08-15T20:54:00.000-07:00

Canada now has another little Bulgarian with Down Syndrome as a citizen! As I read and watched our friends journey I have been reminded of the blessings that come with choosing to have adoption as part of your family story. Adoption is not always easy as it involves alot of waiting for the paper work to go through. This can be hard and frusterating as you know that each day that goes by means that the child has to spend another day without a Mother and Father to protect and provide for them.

With Aiden we were blessed as the orphanage staff loved him and did their best to provide for him. He knew love and quickly showed that to each of us when he arrived home. He knows that Mom is Momma Mary and that Dad is Daddy John and he reminds of daily of how thankful he is to be living in Canada with a family.

May prayer is that Aiden and our friends little girl will be lights for the orphans in Bulgaria and that people will be encouraged to adopt through their interactions with these two precious children. I sure know that Aiden steals everyones hearts that he meets and I am sure that S does too!

What is Success?

2011-08-04T11:35:00.000-07:00

God’s Purpose or Mine? From the Oswald Chambers My Utmost for His Highest

" He made His disciples get into the boat and go before Him to the other side . . . "

—Mark 6:45

We tend to think that if Jesus Christ compels us to do something and we are obedient to Him, He will lead us to great success. We should never have the thought that our dreams of success are God’s purpose for us. In fact, His purpose may be exactly the opposite. We have the idea that God is leading us toward a particular end or a desired goal, but He is not. The question of whether or not we arrive at a particular goal is of little importance, and reaching it becomes merely an episode along the way. What we see as only the process of reaching a particular end, God sees as the goal itself.

What is my vision of God’s purpose for me? Whatever it may be, His purpose is for me to depend on Him and on His power now. If I can stay calm, faithful, and unconfused while in the middle of the turmoil of life, the goal of the purpose of God is being accomplished in me. God is not working toward a particular finish— His purpose is the process itself. What He desires for me is that I see "Him walking on the sea" with no shore, no success, nor goal in sight, but simply having the absolute certainty that everything is all right because I see "Him walking on the sea" ( Mark 6:49 ). It is the process, not the outcome, that is glorifying to God.

God’s training is for now, not later. His purpose is for this very minute, not for sometime in the future. We have nothing to do with what will follow our obedience, and we are wrong to concern ourselves with it. What people call preparation, God sees as the goal itself.

God’s purpose is to enable me to see that He can walk on the storms of my life right now. If we have a further goal in mind, we are not paying enough attention to the present time. However, if we realize that moment-by-moment obedience is the goal, then each moment as it comes is precious.

~~~

I have been thinking alot about my future and planning what will happen next. I think about the goals I want to achieve and where I want to end up. I find myself having two sets of dreams: the one where I settle down, become a Mom and possibility start a consulting type business from home. The other dream involves my Masters, working up into a high Government job where I can help to change the way people with disabilities and their families are treated, while having money to travel to foreign orphanages and own my dream acreage.

As I read this devotional I was reminded that what the world deems being successful and what God deems as being successful are different. I need to bloom where I am planted and continue to walk in the ways that God lays before me; not comparing my journey with others but embracing each new step as God brings them. I need to focus on the steps I am taking, while having an idea of where I am heading but allow God to make changes and to lead where he wants. I don't think that any of my dreams are bad but I think that it is my attitude towards them that needs some fixing. I need to be thankful for today and not yearn for the future.

Call Me Old Fashion

2011-07-30T16:16:00.001-07:00

Call Me Old Fashion by High Valley

I believe in making my money the hard way - so I work for it
And every job I do I do with pride
I believe in keeping a promise that I make - you've got my word on it
When I shake your hand and look you in the eye
I believe in my country and putting your hand over your heart
And taking off your hat when that anthem starts

Call me old fashioned
Call me out of touch for having faith in the way it was
When mom and pop was the place we shopped & a check was good for cashing
Call me out of style that's who I am when a neighbor's down I reach out my hand
I just can't turn my head and walk right past 'em(And open up a ladies door without her asking)Call me old fashioned

I believe a man should have to ask permission - for a woman's hand
Before he gets down on one knee
I believe in passing down traditions - every chance you can
So children learn what family means
And sitting round the supper table every night at six o'clock
Talking 'bout your day with the TV off

Call me old fashioned,Call me out of touch for having faith in the way it was
When a golden band on someone's hand meant love was everlasting
Call me out of style that's who I am I believe kids need a mom and a dad(And)
Their worth working out any problems that you're having
Call me old fashioned

Call me out of style - that's who I am - I still say "yes sir and thank you ma'am"
And wish kids still prayed in school before their classes
Sometimes I shake my head and ask myself what happened?
Call me old fashioned

Work has been a challenge lately to say the least and I am just reminding myself that in less than a year I will have my degree and hopefully I can find a workplace that I am better suited towards. As I think about the challenges that I am facing I realize that alot of it has to be with different expectations and mind sets. As I have been listening to this song I am reminded that I have an "old fashion" mindset and the people that I work with live in and love the modern day world of living with your latest fling, spending money on alcohol (even if you can't pay your bills), going to the bar to meet your latest boyfriend and not being honest and doing half the job.

Last night a fellow employee and I were talking and we were discussing relationships and she was telling me that I need to wait for a good guy and to not just settle. It got me thinking about standards and how the worlds standards are based on looks, money and sexual things. I laughed and said "I'm pretty conservative in the way that I approach relationship". My idea of meeting a guy is saying hi and having a conversation with no physical contact or other then a handshake. She laughed at me and the way that I approach things but that is okay.

I think:
- Marriage is a commitment that should be honoured
-Sex is for marriage
-We should do our best in our work and life(even if it means spending more time doing it )
-Promises are made to be kept
-Men should respect women and treat them with honour
-Dating should be used to get to know a potential marriage partner not because you don’t want to be alone
-Parents should be respected
-It is respectful for a man to ask a father to marry his daughter

I value character, high moral standards, hard working men who honour and respect the people around them while actively pursuing God. I think that lots of money, good looks and the things that the world sees as important are things that can fade and change. I pray that God will show me how he wants me to live out my single days and that I will wait for a godly man who I can live the rest of my days with. I do not want to lower my standards and settle in anything but I want my life to show God’s blessing and desires for the way I decisions and actions. I think I will live the rest of my days and raise my children to have an “Old Fashion” mindset.

Summer So Far

2011-07-25T08:15:00.000-07:00

Summer has been busy but so good. I love having my family close and it is fun to experience my first Sask summer with them. I work three nights a week and so inbetween my shifts I ususally sleep and try to fit in a walk with Isaiah.

The more I do nights the more I perfer how easy my work generally is over the day shifts but the mixed up sleeping pattern is not so good for my body. I have some weeks where sleep won't come and other times when all I do is sleep. I went to the doctor and got some low dose sleeping pills to help with the days that I can't sleep. I do not plan on working in a group home for to much longer. I am in the process of switching my nights and hours for the fall as I need to be under 32 hours per week and not work the nights before my classes. If my bosses are not able to make the switches then I will move down to casual and hope that I can get enough shifts per month.

I have one class done and two to go and one month left to do them so I will be busy reading and writing papers this August. I still can't believe that after I am done these classes I only have 2 semesters left before graduation! As I think about graduation I start thinking "I wonder where I will end up living and working?" I have no doubt that it will be an exercise of faith, trusting God to lead and guide me as I love to plan ahead and currently I have no set plans.

This summer, I have been going to church with my Mom and my youngest siblings as my Dad is away at Yohetta for the summer. I have enjoyed getting to know some of the older people (and hoping to meet some of the younger ones) and it is so good to see a church where people embrace David, Brent and Aiden. I had become a custom to people not acknowledging them at church and in Sask people have generally embraced them at our church and now their church. What a blessing to see people shaking their hands and saying hi to them and helping them in Sunday School.

Life is good and I am enjoying my first summer on the warm flatlands and not planning on going to far from them as I want to explore the beauty around me as it will probably be my first and last summer here.

Today I'm Thankful For

2011-07-18T11:04:00.000-07:00

-Sunshine (44 here today)
-Health Care
-The opportunity to go to school
-That I have a job
-For family
-Church
-New Friends and Old Friends
-Adoption
-Health
-Gluten Free Food
-My Car
-White Chocolate

Isaiah

2011-07-12T15:40:00.000-07:00

Here is Isaiah when he was around 7 days old.

Isaiah at 4 months! Our Bajan Cutie!!

He:

Rolls everywhere

eats rice cereal

has two teeth

has been to the Ponoka Stampede, Toronto and BC

weighs around 21 lbs

he babbles

loves walks

loves people

can almost sit unassisted

loves to jump in his jolly jumper

loves water

Isaiah brings so much joy to our household! His laughter is contagious and his smile brightens even the hard days. I am so thankful that God saved my nephew and I pray that God will be glorified in his life.

Friends

2011-07-12T08:33:00.000-07:00

This past couple weeks I have been thinking about my close friends and how I met them all at different points in my life. I have had friends that come for a season and then we find ourselves no longer in contact and I have come to accept and appreciate this.

I have come to see that I would rather have small group of close friends over many acquaintances. I am thankful for the time that I spent at camp, in Lethbridge and now in Sask as God has brought me deep friendships that will last a life time.

Perfection

2011-06-26T12:34:00.000-07:00

Today, I went to church with my parents. This summer, Andrea and I will be taking turns helping my Mom with the kids as my Dad is leaving to work at the hunting lodge for the summer.

In the sermon, the Pastor told this story of a couple who had been married for 18 years and who desperately wanted to have a child. They decided to adopt and had been turned down for not having a big enough place and then when they bought a house they were turned down for not having enough money. They found an agency that approved them to adopt and the agency had a beautiful baby who was looking for a family. The thing that made him seem "unadoptedable" was the fact that he had no arms. This couple loved him and chose to see him for a whole human being who was capable and desired to live a full life. They saw him for who he was and not for what he looked like or the things that he couldn't do.

People do not understand why my family would chose to adopt children who are not "perfect". I would say to them it is all is your definition of "perfect". We see perfect as something bleamish free, something that other people desire or without flaws. Our world has come to a place where perfection is what people desire and anything or anyone who does not fit into this category is shunned or destroyed. I think that my brothers and auntie are perfect! I think that God created them to be the way that they are. They are fearfully and wonderfully created. They are perfect. Plain and simple.

When I picture myself adopting children one day in the nearer future I picture a perfect baby with an extra something. I am reminded that God adopts each of us and he doesn't just pick the people that the world says are "perfect"; thankfully because if He did I wouldn't be a child of his.

May our eyes be opened to see that perfection is not what we have made it to be. May we be open to accept and love all people, regardless of their colour, religion and abilities.

2011-05-19T22:40:00.000-07:00

As I sit back and reflect on this last semester I know that I will always remembr it for it many blessings and challenges. I ended up finishing well with my courses and although I squeezed them in to a couple months I completed everything ontime and learned along the way. It was refreshing to not have any math type classes and to enjoy 2 Bible based classes (Sermon on the M0unt and the books wriiten by Paul) as well as English (last English class EVER!), World Religions and then a Leadership Class.

My favourite class was the Leadership class which was offered through the Seminary and focused on Building teams within our churches and work places. I was nervous going in as I did know what to expect and if I was ready to perform at a Master's level but I did well on my two papers that I submitted. The Seminary students welcome the three college students and explained the concepts to us that we did not know and they walked along side of us for the week. My Professors complimented each other very well and made learning a hands on experience. I was reminded once again how important it is for us to be leading in some aspect and to always be learning how to bette work with others around us. Who knows maybe oneday I will be back at Briercrest for my my Masters in Leadership?!?!

I have continued to work three nights a week and some weeks I find it overwhelming but it has paid the bills and for that I am thankful. I am also learning what areas I don't want to work in and how I need to stand up when I do not agree with things. It has been a stretching evnironment and I remind myself that it is not longterm:)

Krista and Isaiah continue to live with Andrea and I...it has been lots of fun having Isaiah around to watch him grow and change. I am learning to better balance helping and ensuring that my priorities are in-line with what they should be.

Another semester is done and for that I am thankful!

Breathing Lighter

2011-04-30T23:36:00.000-07:00

I now have my two distance classes and two mods done...only one mod left and then hello summer! Due to my lack of planning, busy schedule and discipline I have completed one mod and one DL class in the last 10 days....I don't recommend it. Tonight will be a blessed night as I can sleep more then 5 or 6 hours...though i am learning that if you get up early you get more things done in a day and I wasted less time.
I will update soon with how things are going here and what the next few month is going to hold for 206 b 5th ave.

7.5 Weeks Old

2011-04-19T16:24:00.000-07:00

Interesting thought

2011-04-15T14:27:00.000-07:00

I read this quote today and it reminded me that when we view people we see them as imperfect while the creator see them as perfect and flawless.

"In the fictional novel The Clowns of God by Morris West, Jesus comes back to earth, and some people think it’s Him while some don’t. At one point, Jesus is at a school for children with Down syndrome, and He is holding a little girl. Jesus says:

I know what you are thinking. You need a sign. What better one could I give but to make this little one whole and new? I could do it, but I will not. I am the Lord and not a conjurer. I gave this mite a gift I denied to all of you — eternal innocence. To you she looks imperfect — but to me she is flawless..."

Growing like a Weed

2011-04-07T18:20:00.000-07:00

We enjoy our daily cuddles and now we are going for walks too! He is 5 weeks old and is probably at 12 lbs now as he seems to gain close to a pound a week right now!

2011-04-05T17:13:00.001-07:00

I just signed up for my last classes at Briercrest...it is a crazy feeling to know that my time in Caronport is coming to an end and that in a year I will start a new adventure.

It looks like I will be able to continue to work in the fall with my class schedule but time will tell if I will physically and mentally be able too.

Life Update

2011-03-29T15:32:00.000-07:00

-Life is good but very busy. I spend my valueable "downtime" cuddling with Isaiah and love having him live with us. He is a blessing that we continue to thank God for.

-Work hasn't been going "smooth" but I am remembering that it is not a life long job and I can stick it out until I am done at Briercrest.

-I am half done my first module and am living sitting in class again.We are walking through the books that Paul wrote and discuss them as we go.

-One of my front teeth chipped and I went to the dentist this morning and he gave me a nice quote of $2200-2400 to repair my two front teeth. I knew that they would need to replaced (I had a run in with the edge of a swimming pool when I was 10 and had to get them filled) and it was a blessing that they lasted this long but ouch thats a lot of money to put out as a student. The bonus is I should get $750 of it covered and then hopefully once they have caps I wont have to get them replaced for many many years. I will be rocking the chipped tooth look for a while and then will get a second job this summer to help cover the costs.

-My plans for the summer are to enjoy time in Sask and maybe take a couple trips to Minot. Andrea and I are going on a mini holiday in May for 2 nights just to get away and relax.

God is faithful and provides what we need....we are seeing this each day.

Sisters

2011-03-19T16:39:00.000-07:00

When people find out that I live with my sisters they are shocked that we would choose to live together. Andrea, Krista and I get along very well…I don’t know if this is because we homeschooled or served at camp together or if we just got lucky. We are best friends and love to do things together. We still have our disagreements over whose turn it was to do dishes and get on each other nerves but at the end of the day we are always friends. I am blessed.

Rodney

2011-03-16T22:55:00.000-07:00

When I was in my teens we lived in Quesnel for a year and we had the opportunity to meet Rodney. Rodney told the best blonde jokes and would bring us on tours of his families ranch. He helped his parents with the chores and shone the light of Jesus through his radiant smile. He was a friend to our family and accepted us all.

Rodney had hydrocephalus but he didn't let that stop him. This past weekend he passed away and today they celebrated his life on what would have been his 50th birthday. The more I meet people with disabilities the more I see that God brings life to people that the Doctors think will never thrive or live. Rodney was living proof of that.

10 Years

2011-03-14T18:30:00.000-07:00

On Sunday as I was talking to my pastor we discussed how looking back over the last ten years of our lives we have experienced more then we ever thought possible. Ten years ago my family lived in the middle of nowhere as my Dad was attending Bible School. That was a year of fun and watching God provide food and money for the every day things we need to live. We met dear friends there and learned that friends don't have to be the same age as you.

The other significant positive things that took place and not in the correct order:

• Jesus freaks: Bible program and mentorship under Young Life. That was one fun class and we were really good at "avoiding" the movies by R.C. Sproul...they were horribly boring. We took Toastmasters together and built solid friendships.
• Belize: I went on a missions trip with a friend to Belize. We served in an orphanage and at a children's camp and stayed with family friends who retired there. My favourite memory was spending time with Matteo. Matteo was a 6 year old boy with severe disbailities who was so malnurished. People were nervous around him but I loved to spend hours just rocking and singing to him and trying to fatten him up.
• Guatemala: I went to visit Andrea there with my friend Heather. We had so much fun riding the chicken bus, taking an overnight trip to Hondurus and enjoying lots of delicious food. We spend our mornings at the hospital for children with disabilities. They had them lining the walls in cribs and for ones with severe behavioural issues they were put in cages with thick mats on the floor. My favourite child was a baby with Down Syndrome whom I would assume had a tumor or growth on the back of her neck as there was a tennis ball size bump. You get over the stench and learn to pick up and love the children,as well as to not judge the locals as they do not have the resources that we have in Canada.
• Youth Pastor: My year spent at Arrowsmith after my two years in Lethbridge. It was a year of fun and learning how to lead volunteers and the youth. It was a priviledge to watch them grow and step out and serve. I learned that being a female in a ministry role is not widely accepted by all the church memebers.
• PMBC: I will never forget praying that God would direct me to the church were he wanted me. Through a friend of a friend I got invited ot Park Meadows and I knew it was were God called me. Little did I know that i would serve under the Community Kids area and how it would open my eyes to learn how to love unconditionally, be firm and loving all at once. I still have some of the youth contact me when they are going through hard times and it was a jot to serve them. I was blessed to work under a amazing pastor who mentored me and lets not forget the trip to California for the Youth WOrkers Conference:)As well I look back on my time in the College and Careers group with much fondness...oh the fun times of being a college student.
• College: North Island for a year (Social Work Certificate) and Lethbridge for two years (disability studies). Both areas that I am passionate about.
• Briercrest: I was never heading to Bible School or Sask as I was partial to my homeland and missed the mountains even when I could see them in the distance in Alberta. God called me to come to Briercrest and it took until I was 23 to go. I am so glad I listened as it has been three years of growth and blessing that I would never wanted to miss out on.
• 4 new siblings: David, Jenn, Karl and Aiden have all become Keno's!!!
• Working at a fishing office: A "fun" experience that I learned lots at about the evils of greasy fishermen and how it is hard to work somewhere where you aren't passionate about the work or happy with the working conditions.
• Mexico: two week long mission trips one with Arrowsmith and the other with Young life.
• Driving license: I'll never forget my parents making me go and write my learners test...I am so thankful as I needed the push and was prepared regardless of how I felt about it at the time.
• Amasa/ Hope bay : so many fun summers serving at camp with my friends and family. Some good food and some horrible food, some fun campers and some challenging ones, lots of naps and not as much sleep at night and I wouldn't trade any of it for anything.
• Planning friends weddings: I have had the priviledge of standing up for friends twice and it has been so much fun planning parties and helping with last minute details. The bonus is that I have two pretty dresses hanging in my closet that I will probably never wear again:)
• Become an auntie: It is a blast being an Auntie! I am so glad that Isaiah joined our family and he is currently the man of our house.
• West mount: The church we attend in Moose Jaw. It is a small church of around 20 people and the average age has to be around 60 years old. It is a family to us and has brought alot of restoration into my life and soul. Two Saturdays a month their is breakfast at Zellers and this summer we are having our first camp out!
• New life and death: Friends having babies, David joining our family and I have said some sad goodbyes and the hardest one of all was Pastor Tim...I miss his support and wisdom and hold on to the words that I remember him speaking to me the last time we talked.
• Road trips with Andrea: Staying at strangers in Montana, camping at lower quality camp grounds, breakfast in Banff, many trips to Alberta, finding Corner Gas and our numerous monthly trips to the "big city".
• Parents moving to Sask: This is a shocker that we never would have guessed as my Dad is an Islander through and through.

There have been times of pain and of great joy. Times where I wanted nothing to do with God and then realizing that the pain was so great that only he could subside and heal it.
Times of blessing and friendship. Times of lonliness and great trials. Over the past ten years I have seen that God is faithful. He provides and when the waters are rough he will carry me and when I need a kick in the butt he has helped me out there too. I can’t imagine walking the road we call life without him by my side. I wonder what the next 10 years will hold...

Isaiah

2011-03-10T23:25:00.000-08:00

The Single Years

2011-03-09T14:47:00.000-08:00

Being a Christian single in your mid-twenties can be a challenge. The pressures to get married and settle down and start a family (don’t get me wrong I want to do this) are very real.

I have been talking to a couple of my friends lately and we have been talking about how when you meet a fellow single Christian of the opposite sex it can sometimes be assumed that “it is meant to be” as you both are Christians, single and wanting to get married. From experience I know that it’s not always meant to be. We all thought we would have settled down by now and have families but this is not the way it is. We have all been in relationships and all for different reasons they ended.

I am thankful for my single friends as we navigate what it looks like to worship God in our single years and to use them to serve God in a way that we can’t once we are married. I don’t want to settle. I have friends who have married people who do not share their beliefs, passions or life callings and I don’t want that for my life. If I choose to settle or rush ahead might that be saying that I don't believe that God will bring someone into my life? I believe that God is a God of grace, love and that he is sovereign. He is not about torturing us and seeing how long we will wait but he is about perfect timing and blessing us beyond what our human minds can comprehend. When I feel like it’s an uphill battle I talk to my friends and we encourage one another to keep running the race and when God sees fit to send us a partner it will be in his perfect timing.

I want to continue to serve God in the ways that he desires me too…if this is as a single person then may He subside the desires of my heart to be a wife and mother and increase my desires to advocate and support families and individuals with disabilities. I want to be a person that worships God no matter he asks me to do. I know from the past that even if I don’t like what he asks when I am obedient to him; he blesses and encourages.

If God chooses to bring someone into my life I will not complain but I don't have a life goal of "I want to be married by the time I'm 25 anymore."

Miracles Sometimes Come in Small Packages

2011-03-06T07:24:00.001-08:00

On Feburary 27, 2011 at 9:13am I became an auntie to Isaiah John Douglas Keno. He is a miracle in our families eyes as his Mom was never suppose to be able to have children. We have prayed so much for him and his moms health throughout this pregnancy and we were told he would be born around 3o weeks (if not before) but of course he was born at 40 weeks and 2 days:) He is perfect and healthy. He is spoiled with love and will never lack attention with 4 uncles and 3 aunties!

He weighed in at 8lbs 10.5 oz and was 21 1/4 inches long.

He loves to snuggle!

Andrea and I are blessed to have the opportunity to have Isaiah and Krista living with us! So we have learned the ropes of preparing for a baby and now helping care for one. I can say that it has been a fun experience but also an expensive and tiring one at times. I know that God has called us to serve in this way and he has provided so much for us. I will forever look back on this time remembering God's faithfulness to his children.

PS I am sure my blog will now include lots of pictures of Isaiah as he's a pretty big part of my life now!

Kaitlin's Wish

2011-02-20T10:02:00.000-08:00

Today we went to the last session of YQ and they took an offering for Kaitlin. I don't know Kaitlin but I have met her sister and know people who attend church with her in Lethbridge. She has an incurable brain tumor and is only 17 years old. I was challenged and encouraged today as I heard her siblings explain her wish and talk about her courage and commitment to honour God with her life.

I was thinking if I got told I had cancer would I think about everyone else in the world who was suffering and pour my last days out to make a difference in their lives? I wonder if I would feel sorry for myself and focus on me...

Kaitlin was granted one wish through the Wish Foundation. Instead of her enjoying 2 weeks vacation with her family her wish was for The Wish Foundation to provide the funds for Compassion Canada to build a well in Uganda. Each well costs around $9500. She will leave a legacy of having built over 21 wells and each well helps 300 children and their families. She continues to raise money and for more information go here. God has provided and moved mountains; what a testimony of His faithfulness, provision and blessing.

For more of her story go here.

Valentines Day

2011-02-13T20:24:00.001-08:00

Due to our work schedules we celebrated Valentines with a crepe supper tonight!

Krista and Brent
The kids with the candy bags that Mom made us

Karl and Brent

Aiden and I

Brent and Jenn

Mom and Brent

Brent and I

I'm Blessed

2011-02-11T11:00:00.000-08:00

Today I was reflecting on how blessed I am to know the love of my family members with Down Syndrome. They have taught me so much about love, joy and stubborness. I wouldn't trade them for anything in this world. I'm one rich woman and I wish other people would see how rich their lives could be as well if they would just open up their hearts to people with a little something extra and special.

Davids typical attire....who needs anything more then a pair of underwear and a blanket?!?
Aidens first time experiencing the West Coast Waters

Brenty Boy

Auntie Shirley! She is going to be 50 this summer and what a party it is
going to be!!

David

Newest Program at Briercrest

2011-02-09T14:26:00.000-08:00

This is an exciting week at Briercrest! They just annouced that they will now be offering an Education Degree in partnership with Minot State University. If you know of anyone who is looking at becoming a teacher and is interested in a Christian education look here for details!

Winter Driving Conditions Exists

2011-02-06T17:19:00.000-08:00

When the road reports say this they really mean it...who would have thought?!?!?! We got an unexpected sleepover in Regina after our friends wedding reception as the roads were as smooth and icey as a skating rink....the lesson we learned was pack an overnight bag (I now have $50 worth of new clothing) and always check and listen to the road reports.

Life is Good

2011-02-02T18:27:00.000-08:00

Right now I am sitting in the livingroom listening to Aiden talk (non-stop that is) and Brent is watching Home Alone and life is good! I love having my family close so that I can see them when I have a few spare minutes. Earlier I got my cuddles from David and got to see Jenn and Karl as well.

2011-01-26T10:02:00.000-08:00

I am writing my first paper back at Briercrest this week and it is intimidating to have to be foot noting again...at SIAST they don't even make you reference generally (in all semester I referenced 1 paper) and so now I have to get my brain back in foot noting mode...I am hoping it comes back to me very quickly!

Miracle Month

2011-01-23T08:46:00.001-08:00

Miracle Month at Briercrest is a month when most of your assignments are due and at some point you generally have a melt down and think that you can't finish everything....but every year Miracle Month (November) comes and goes and it never kills me...I have been thinking lately that February will be my Miracle Month this year and it won't be because of all the work I have to do (I will work 158 hours, have many papers to write and a couple exams to write) but because of other exciting things that I look forward to with much anticipation.

Almost Half Done

2011-01-12T12:10:00.000-08:00

I can't believe that January is almost half done already....where are the days going?
I am adjusting to the life of a night shift worker and it has been much easier then I pictured. I have learned to sleep during the day and to function on less sleep (this is big for a girl who likes to sleep 10 hours a night).
I have started two of my distances classes and will be writing my first tests in the next week. I am taking World Religions and an English class. I much prefer the World Religions class but I know that this is my last English class ever so I will keep my head high and plow through with as much grace as possible. My module classes are not until the end of March, end of April and beginning of May so I am focusing on my DL`s right now. As I look at my degree requirements I am getting down to the last classes and it is getting exciting. I love thinking about all the career paths I could take and pray that God will continue to show me what passions he has given me and how he wants me to use them. I know that I will be looking for a job in BC, AB or SK and that is about all I know at this point. I have big plans for my life and I know they will change somewhat but thats just part of the adventure of allowing God to lead you.

Brent's 16!

2011-01-01T08:13:00.000-08:00

Happy 16th Birthday!!!
His new coat and he got 6 dog movies!

Andrea and Krista

Jenn and Brent at bowling

Birthday Boy!!!

2011 is A'Coming

2010-12-27T16:12:00.000-08:00

I can't believe that 2011 is just around the corner. 2010 has been a year of many new experiences and challenges. I have learned that I am not meant to be a fish princess and that unexpected circumstances can become miracles or blessings.

2011 is going to be excting! I will be working 30-40 hours per week as well as keeping up with my full course load. I am planning a trip back to the Island in July for my Auntie Shirley's 50th Birthday as well as hope to go to a rodeo or two. I look forward to 2011 with great expectation of what God is going to do. There will be some new adventures which I will share more about soon.

A Keno Style Christmas on the Prairies (who would have thought)

2010-12-26T16:46:00.000-08:00

Pure Joy
Keno Kids

We had a wonderful Christmas here on the flat prairie lands! All 10 of us squished in our duplex to open presents and eat a delicious turkey meal. It was so good to be together as a family even if it wasn't on the Island (this is my second Christmas ever off the Island...the other one was when my Dad was at Bible School when I was 15). We were thinking that it would be a very modest Christmas and it was but we all had a lot of fun and everyone got a few gifts.

Merry Christmas to Me!!!

2010-12-22T09:47:00.000-08:00

Math is a thorn in my side. I used to be good at it until algebra came along and then its been downhill ever since. I just finished my last math class that I ever will have to take to complete my business degree. It was looking like a retake may be in order but I passed and I am so thankful! I had the best tutor and worked my butt off and life is good now. I am rejoicing with my 63%!! Time to party now and finish up my Christmas presents that are half done:)

2010-12-21T08:52:00.000-08:00

I got called into work for Sunday and when I went to go and start my car I couldn't get out the front door....I tried turning the handle and it appeared to be broken and so I assumed that it was iced shut...I tried some body slams and it didn't budge. I then tried the sliding glass door and it was frozen shut and so I had to exit our house through my bedroom window...nothing like being late for work because you had to climb out your window:)
It turns out that our door knob was broken and so I could open it from outside but not the inside.

So True

2010-12-13T10:07:00.000-08:00

I never knew what this year would hold and I went from "Trusting an unknown future to a known God" to "Out of difficulties grow miracles". I am so excited to see what this next year brings as God has been faithful and I know that I can trust Him through the good and challenging times.

2 Down 4 to Go

2010-12-10T17:43:00.000-08:00

It feels so good to know that I just have 4 finals left! Yes, they are the hardest ones but I am going to work my butt off and do well.

Monday: Conflict
Tuesday: Finance (yikes!)
Wednesday: Observational Behaviour
Thursday: International Business
Saturday: My family arrives for Christmas!

I am officially a Briercrest Student again and have signed up for 2 of the 5 classes so far. I am going to miss my car pool gang but look forward to being back where I know I am getting a good education. I will be going back to SIAST next January (2012) which will be the last courses that I need to take to graduate (crazy!). I am excited to see where my future will take me. I have some ideas on some jobs I would like to try and some other things I want to experience (foster parenting, going to Bulgaria on a missions trip, adopting a baby with Downs, learning how to play hockey, pursuing my masters, etc). Life rarely goes as planned though and so who knows where I will end up!!

My First Christmas on The Prairies....

2010-12-05T16:14:00.000-08:00

...is going to include my whole family! My parents and youngest siblings are driving out here for Christmas! This is our first time to ever host a family holiday at our house and we are looking forward to it. We already have many presents under the tree (which is easy when you have 10 family members) and a turkey in the freezer.

Only two days of classes left and then onto midterms. If you could pray for me as I am having some health problems which are making it hard for me to concentrate on school work and hard to keep up with the things I need to do; like school and work. So until exams are over I will not be able to work as it will take all that I have energy wise to study and function in the school world. I got some blood tests done this weekend so hopefully the Dr will figure out whats up so I can function again at my full capability very soon.

David

2010-12-04T17:35:00.000-08:00

David, the baby of our family is 9 1/2 now and is getting so big! He is our firecracker and hurricane but when he wants he can be calm and sweet. He overflows with love for people who like him and teaches us all about patience and how every day is a new day.

David at least 4 years ago!

Two Weeks...

2010-12-04T17:33:00.000-08:00

...until I get to see this face in person again:)

2010-11-30T10:07:00.000-08:00

One week of classes left and then finals will begin. I am excited for them to be done and for the official Christmas season to begin! This year Christmas is going to be different then it has ever been but I am excited for most of the changes. I will blog about them when I have more time.

For now know that I am finishing up my last quizes, assignments and presentations and then have 6 finals to conquer. December 16th at 12 couldn't come soon enough!

2010-11-19T07:38:00.000-08:00

This has been one of those weeks were I have learned that sometimes you just get sick and have to accept that the world will go on without you. Last Thursday after my fainting incident, I started to feel not so hot but blamed it on my weak stomach and inability to handle the hospital scene (when really I can generally handle the hospital just fine). On Saturday I had a not so hot moment and I knew that I must have some sort of bug. I worked Sunday as I needed the money and Monday I got up to go to school and wasn't feeling swell but blamed it on my not getting enough sleep. So 20 minutes after I arrived I knew it was time for me to go home. I am so thankful for sisters who dropped their plans and came and rescued me. I sat in bed all day and this continued through to yesterday. Everytime I would think I was better and start walking around the house it would get worse so I came to see that I needed to accept that I was taking a week off of school regardless of whether I wanted to or not.

I have watched Pride and Prejudice (first disk) twice and Sense and Senseability twice...I forget how great Jane Austin movies are...I think I may need to invest in some of her other ones in the near future.

I have now ate (with the help of gravol ) 4 pieces of toast and I have come to love gingerale, apple juice and water and can't wait until I get to eat something delicious and tastey.

Pictures From the Fall

2010-11-13T07:44:00.000-08:00

Ange and Jenn ready to head to the hotel

Krista and Brenty Boy! He was soooo excited to see her as it had been 9 or 10 months.

Krista and I waiting in the airport.

Andrea's Birthday "cake". I made pigs out of chocolate and marsh mellows as well as strawberry tarts. The tarts where were going to be the hay stacks but I ran out of time.

Changes are a comin'

2010-11-13T07:19:00.000-08:00

-It looks like I am transfering back to Briercrest for second semester and will be doing mods and a couple DL's. I will go back to SIAST in a year to finish my classes there. Although this is different then I had planned it allows me to graduate on time still:) These changes allow me to be more flexible with my work schedule as well as to be at home more often.

-I have decided to stay in Sask for Christmas so that I can work as well as hang out with my sisters as they probably won't be going home either. This will be my second Christmas away from the Island (first one was when we lived in Quesnel when I was 15) and although I love going back I am looking forward to a white Christmas.

-As changes come some are bringing me on new ground and although it can be exciting and seen as an adventure....it can also also seem overwhelming at times. I am reminding myself that God gives wisdom when we ask and that is what I am trusting Him to give me right now. That I make the right decisions and give the right amount of attention to the important things in my life.

ER Adventures

2010-11-11T16:37:00.000-08:00

This picture describes my morning....I had to go to the hospital with a friend who needed to be check out for some pain she was having. The doctor asked me to hold a monitor in place and I guess I couldn't handle it. I told the person that I wasn't feeling good and then I was gone....luckly another friend was there and she caught me. Needless to say I got a nice snack and a nice ride in a wheelchair and may just start sticking to sitting in the waiting room.

I Wonder How Long This Weekend Will Actually Be?

2010-11-10T12:03:00.001-08:00

We have a four day weekend starting in 80 minutes! We have tomorrow off for Rememberance Day and then we have been given work periods for Friday so that we don't have to come!
But today the news was delievered by the union that SIAST is on a 48 hour strike warning...so we'll see if we even have classes next week. I am not to worried as I have lots of homework I could do. So there is a level of anxiety amongst some of the students and staff but I am just gonna ride this one out and stay neutral.

Our Pumpkins!

2010-10-31T08:16:00.000-07:00

On Friday night I was suppose to have a family come to meet Andrea and I and see if we got along with their son. They are looking for people to do some respite for them when they are in Moose Jaw. They never ended up calling until after they were suppose to be here. Turns out that decided to not come up to MJ this weekend....so Andrea and I decided to spend our evening carving pumpkins instead:) We invited our friend Paulene over and introduced her to the art of pumpkin carving. We have now introduced Pauline to making gingerbread houses, decorating Easter eggs, decorating cupcakes and now pumpkin carving.

John Deere (mine), Pig (Paulene's) and the Tigger (Andrea's)

Disney Land Pictures!!!

2010-10-27T18:49:00.000-07:00

The Oldest Keno Kid's hanging out with Pooh

"Unredeemed" by Selah

2010-10-22T07:00:00.000-07:00

"Life breaks and falls apart
But we know these are
Places where grace is soon to be so amazing
It may be unfulfilled
It may be unrestored
But when anything that's shattered is laid before the Lord
Just watch and see
It will not be unredeemed

For every choice that led to shame
And all the love that never came
For every vow that someone broke
And every lie that gave up hope
We live in the shadow of the fall
But the cross says these are all
Places where grace is soon to be so amazing"

A Year Ago Today

2010-10-17T21:07:00.000-07:00

A year ago today Aiden left the world that he knew and embarked on a new adventure with new people. He left his orphanage where he was dearly loved by all the staff with just his little suitcase and a bag of goodies (this guy has a sweet tooth and LOVES his food).

Little did he know he was coming home to a set of parents and 7 siblings who would love him dearly. Aiden is a light to all he meets. He doesn't let people ignore him and is extremely friendly. He loves to boss us all around and adores his "mama mary". He fits in so well as a Keno and we plan on keeping him around for a long time.

Tomorrow is his 10th birthday and he is so excited for it. He has already told Mom what he wants cooked and can't wait to open his presents. I made him a Pooh Bear quilt as he loves Winnie the Pooh. I wish we lived closer so that we could see his face as he experiences his second birthday party in Canada.

If you have ever considered offering a child the gift of a family it is well worth the challenges and struggles for the joys of watching them thrive in a oving family were they know they will stay forever.

Good Bye Dell

2010-10-16T09:30:00.000-07:00

That is how I felt yesterday! I am officially done dealing with Dell and to finish off my year of not so happy times with them I wrote them a letter that expresses how I feel about my computer. I don't see myself ever buying one again and may have a burning ceremony when this one dies for good (internet freezes after a couple seconds of surfing the net, its slower then molasses and doesn't like to play movies).

Let's just say; it's still not fixed and they were not willing to have me ship it to them for the repairs. So I guess I will just use my computer to type papers and will start saving for a new laptop.

Good bye Dell; you have taught me how to be firm and try to fight for what I want. As well as to appreciate when I talk to someone I can actually understand.

Disney Land

2010-10-16T09:15:00.000-07:00

I am thinking I may just turn 25 again next year so that I can go on another trip! We spent 5 days at Disney Land and 1 day at Sea World! It was so freeing to leave all my textbooks at home (pre-did all but one assignment) and give my brain a break. We (Andrea, Krista and I) brought Brent and Jennifer with us and it was s much fun to experience DL with them.

Our first day at DL included lots of rain but after that the sun came out and we enjoyed long days of rides and some shopping. I have learned once again that travelling with a food allgery means I have to order more expensive meals or enjoy tacos for each meal. I did eat my fair of tacos on the trip but also enjoyed some other delicious food.

We had some interesting, not-so-good cab drivers and experiences...the one was texting on one cell and talking on the other cell while driving in rush hour traffic in LA and another picked us up and his car had just come from the cleaners....needless to say we all had soaked bottoms when we arrived at the Medieval Times for supper.

Brent and Jennifer enjoyed the scarey rides at DL more then Andrea and I did. Brent would laugh when we screamed!

I have to study now as its midterm time but I will and try to post pictures soon.

7 days!

2010-10-04T15:02:00.000-07:00

In seven days I'm turning 25; tomorrow we leave on our adventure to celebrate it!!
We are off to California to spend 6 days at Disney Land!!

One Week

2010-09-28T10:08:00.000-07:00

One Week until I will be in the air on my way to California! I am ready for a break from school, work and life in general. I will get to spend a week with 4 of my favourite people at a place that I love.

Before I leave a have a mountain of things to accomplish but realistically if they don't all get done life goes on and I will just have to get over it. I am leaving all my books in my locker and turning off my school brain. I am on the verge of getting sick but am trying to sleep more so that I can beat it and so that I don't have to miss any classes.

I am learning that life sometimes brings curve balls and that although they are a surpirse...they are not always bad. God is stretching me and showing me how he has changed me.

What to Look for in a Tutor!

2010-09-21T20:22:00.003-07:00

Finance class is going so well already that I am needing to hire a tutor.

So I was thinking about the qualifications that I should look for and here are some I have come up with.
-Can talk in a simple and understandable level
-Is patient
-Understands the works
-Is a single Christian guy over 25
-doesn't charge over $15 an hour

So tomorrow I am hoping to find a tutor as class lectures aren't cutting it.

What to Look for in a Tutor>>

2010-09-21T20:22:00.001-07:00

I'm Alive

2010-09-11T18:27:00.000-07:00

I have been supper busy since arriving in Caronport! I finished work on August 22 and flew to Toronto on the 24th to pick up Krista. We were able to spend an evening with my Mom's side of the family and then the next day we started our adventure to Caronport. We stopped at a friends (my old professor, his wife and son) house in Michigan for a night and it was great to see them. We enjoyed our time catching up and seeing a small bit of their new world.
We drove almost to St Paul and then the next day we made it to Caronport. It was long hours of driving on highways surrounded by farms and sketchy resturants.

We arrived Sunday and on Monday was my first days of classes. It lasted 20 minutes and then we were told to go and buy our books and to come back the next day. SIAST is a very relaxed atmosphere with many good and different aspects. We are in class five days a week and have classes for most of the day. They have a wide range of professors from intraverts to extraverts; and all our professors are in their 40's and 50's. None of them have wedding rings on and they all give is time to work on assignments in class. Such a change from Briercrest. I do miss the Christian atmosphere and look forward to going back to Briercrest next year. But for now I am enjoying the cheaper tuition, less homework and 4 quizes a week!

In less then a month I'll be in Disney Land celebrating my 25th birthday! I am so excited to go and enjoy some sun and time with family. We booked our flights and are just looking at hotels and car rentals this week. It is going to be a memory building week filled with adventures.

Time to study for my quiz...the life of a SIAST student is filled with study and more studying as they love to test with exams and quizes.

Fish Office Makeover

2010-09-04T16:23:00.000-07:00

In May I posted pictures here of the office and below you can see the changes that were made during the renovations!

2010-08-22T08:37:00.000-07:00

This is my last weekend of work and I kinda bit off more then I could chew in doing the office renovations, packing my belongings, organizing the accommodations for my boss and preparing the office for the rest of the season. As of 1am the waitiing room is done and the accommodation is half done as well my things are in suitcases and ready to go.

Yesterday afternoon I was told that we had a business meeting and given a list of things I needed to prepare for it...I smiled but in my mind I was overwhelmed....so I quickly prepared a couple things and went to the meeting....which was actually a going away/thank you party for me. I was surprised and blessed beyond imagination. It was so much fun to sit and eat and talk with the other guides and their kids. I got gifts of tools and money. Enough money to pay for my trip (flight to Toronto and drive to Sask) back to school. God is so good! I feel so loved and blessed....I never knew that the people considered me their friends until last night.

I also had the priviledge of having someone tell me if they were 30 years younger they'd wanna marry me (Not Interested!!)

2010-08-19T19:13:00.000-07:00

“Life is not about waiting for the storm to pass, it’s about learning to dance in the rain.”

I think I am going to practice my dancing so that I'm better prepared for the storms...I know that when life is going smooth and well that surprise storms come. I want to dance through them with the support of my Savior knowing that the sun will come again.

Thought

2010-08-09T18:35:00.000-07:00

What if God calls me to adopt as a single person? Something I've been thinking through and seriously considering for a couple years down the road.

Bear

2010-08-07T21:44:00.000-07:00

Tonight I was sitting talking to my Dad and he told me to look...there was a nice big black bear standing and looking in the front door of my office. I never got a good picture as we scared him away as my sister was coming down from my apartment any minute and we didn't think it would be wise for her to meet the bear.

Update

2010-08-05T15:35:00.000-07:00

Life is really good. The office is pretty much torn apart and ready to be patched and painted. Tonight my Dad and Jenn are coming to help me with the reminding belongings and the nice holes in the walls.

Hopefully, by Saturday morning I will have paint on the walls and that by Monday it will be done. My goal is to have the paint done before my boss gets back from his Holidays and then on the 17th and 18th the flooring will be laid and then I will have 4 days to put it back together. Gonna be a tight schedule but well worth it.

21 days

2010-08-01T20:42:00.000-07:00

Only 21 Days of work left...I am so excited to be back living with Andrea as I miss our adventures and having someone to live with. At the same time I LOVE living so close to my youngest siblings and parents. I love being able to spend time talking with Mom and being able to bounce stuff off her in person. I love being able to wrestle with David and do things with the other kids.

I am so excited that these next 21 days will fly by as I have the opportunity to give the office a make over and dejunk. I love dejunking and throwing things out (even more if they don't belong to me:)). I will have to remember to take some pictures once the office is complete.

God is good even in the times when things seem to surprise us.

Good Ol' Ukee Road

2010-07-31T17:57:00.000-07:00

My least favourte part of driving the nice windy road...the motorhome drivers...they prefer to go at at turtle's speed and I prefer to do more of a medium rabbits speed:)

Blast From the Past

2010-07-30T21:30:00.000-07:00

Gotta love the bright colours:)

Pearly Whites

2010-07-27T21:13:00.000-07:00

I went to the dentist today and my teeth were cavity free. He asked me if I was married and I said no and he assured me that I should be finding a guy real soon because my teeth are so nice!

Plus he charged me 1/3 of the price that I paid in Sask to have teeth done. God is so good to me.
It was a good, good day!

Morning Star Farm and the Park

2010-07-25T13:51:00.000-07:00

Blessed

2010-07-25T11:31:00.000-07:00

I am so blessed. My friend Emily from Lethbridge came out to visit me this past week. It was so much fun introducing her to my family and favourite spots on the Island. We went to Coombs, Morning Star Farms, Parksville Beach, Black Rock for Lunch, Harbour Quay and just spent lots of time with my family. She didn't far so well on the windy roads but she was a trooper.

We went fishing (I was VERY full of Gravol and still was thinking I would have to lean over the edge and fed the fish) and we caught nothing. But now I know what a down rigger is used for and we did get some crab.

PS Yes I know that we look extremely hot in these jackets (safety first my friends).

A New Career Possibility

2010-07-18T12:58:00.001-07:00

Yesterday, I had a customer come in and enlighten me on what my new career should be.
So they came in to get their licenses for their upcoming charter and as I was telling them about the derby and latest catches she said something interesting..."your eyes are so beautiful and transparent...you could be on Twilight".

Well I have not yet seen Twilight and it is not on my list of movies to watch but at least I know I have a back up career:)

PS One of my best friends is coming to visit me this Monday to Saturday!

My Dream House

2010-07-14T17:57:00.000-07:00

A Beaver Creek worthy mansion...

I'll take a tin trailor anyday....

2010-07-12T23:16:00.000-07:00

This past week I had my first experience dealing with a very very rich person. I can tell you it was not what i would call a positive experience.

It has caused me to do alot of thinking and to even pray for him. In the worlds eyes he has everything he could ever want and yet he is so unhappy and rude. He is missing out on so much of the beauty that the world has to offer and most of all he is missing out on the joy of knowing Jesus.

I was thinking about all that someone could do with 50 million dollars and boy did I create a long list and looking back over it most of it included serving and caring for those around me. I will take a tin shed (Hols, I'm picturing the nice one we lived in...I loved that place:)) as a home in the middle of a redneck trailor park on the flatlands over owning a mansion with all the things I "want". I am so thankful that I have all my needs met and that I am able to share what I do have with those around me.

If God does bless me with a big bank account I never want to think I am above someone just because they are on welfare or only make $17,000 per year. We are all humans who are in need of the saving grace that only God can give and that doesn't change with our financial status (thankfully).

God, soften this mans heart and cause him to see his need for you.

2010-07-09T11:17:00.000-07:00

As I become a more seasoned "fish princess" I see that it is not the life for me. I thought my favourite part of my job would be the paperwork but alias it is the interacting with customers and guides that I love the most. It is a fun, challenging summer job but not something I want to pursue as a career. As much as I am coming to not mind handling the fish and heads I have yet to brave the open waters with a rod and catch myself a fish. I know that I was meant to come here for a reason and to learn some important lessons and for that I am thankful! As we start our busy season, I will get more and more interaction with people and I know that it will fly by the next month and a half.

It Can't Be True

2010-07-01T11:15:00.000-07:00

My friends Facebook status read this morning "We will be sitting in class next month". My first reaction was man it must suck to be taking summer school and then I realized that I will be sitting in class next month...where has this summer gone? I have enjoyed my time on the West Coast so far and have had my most fun when my family is here to explore the beaches with me. I love being able to watch my family see new beaches and all the things that God has created. Jenn and Karl love the crabs where Aiden prefers starfish. Brent has been getting so brave and is starting to climb the rocks. He will climb to a point where he can watch Jenn and Karl.

Introducing Howard Keno

2010-06-27T21:50:00.000-07:00

Tomorrow we are welcoming a new family member to the crazy Keno clan! His name is Howard and his is four years old and was in need of a family. He is a yellow lab and we are thinking that Mya will love having another dog to keep her company.

A friend reminded me that our school break is half over and it is true. It seems so long ago that I left the flat lands and yet I am not ready to go back. I am loving spending time with my family.

Gossip Around Ukee Today

2010-06-19T21:55:00.000-07:00

The story buzzing around Ucluelet today was about a whale watching tour yesterday. So picture yourself in one of these suits...I know sooo attractive!

and in one of these boats....on the open waters...with no land in sight...

so this group of people was crusing along and they saw a pod of orcas (how cool is that)...well the story gets even cooler! So the ocras spoted a poor lonely sealion and the sealion decided that the safest place in the open waters was aboard the zodiak. I think about this time I would be praying that God would protect me and close the mouth of the sealion (they can be very mean). So as the sealion was climbing on the back of the boat a ocra came out of the water and sent it flying in the air (the rumors are 16' but I'll let you decide that for yourselves). The after it landed the ocras ate it...I can tell you that I would have been praying pretty hard as i would have imagined the boat going for a ride next. They all arrived safe on the land and are happy happy tourists as they have a sweet story to share.

I'd Like to Introduce You to My Car

2010-06-16T18:49:00.000-07:00

This is my car (ok well really it is my parents car and they have allowed me to drive it this summer). It has yet to be named but it has been through so much in its 16 years.

It has had a dog chew most of the plastic in the inside of it, had a farm cat use it for a litterbox(this has increased my hate for cats to a higher level), housed a very nice family of mice and has a window that doesn't like to stay up. It is a gem that runs very well (except when I leave the lights on for 5 days). So now it has been cleaned but I have plenty of airfreshners in it and the window was duct taped up. Last week I lent it out for a few mins and it came back with the window down 6 inches and so now I have to nicely place this tarp over it when it rains until my Dad returns and can do another nice tape job:)

Disney Land

2010-06-15T14:13:00.000-07:00

In around 4 months Andrea and I and maybe some of our family members will be on our way to Disney Land to celebrate my 25th birthday! We are trying figure who to bring. We are leaning towards Brent and possibly Aiden, Jenn and Karl but we'll see what ends up happening. The bonus for bringing a sibling with Downs is that we get to go to the front of EVERY line at Disney Land! We know that David would LOVE the rides but we would need to bring at least 2 adults just for him so it probably won't happen.

Hopefully by the end of summer we will have our flights booked and a plan in place:)

David

2010-06-14T09:58:00.000-07:00

David "helping" in the kitchen
David at one...I remember how hard it was for us to get this picture

Our chubby little happy guy

The day we met David, then known as Albert

His crazy hair

Update

2010-06-14T09:40:00.000-07:00

Life is going well on the Island. I work and then spend my days off with my family. Life at our house is never boring and rather a unique experience... one that I wouldn't trade for all the riches in this world. I love that you can never be bored and that God has blessed us with very special members; ones that the world and sometimes the church doesn't value. Life is not always easy and the challenges can seem over your head but the blessings are worth it all.

I helped with Young Life for 3 weeks until they finished for the year and will helpout if they have any summer events. Other then that I have read some and enjoyed walks in the beautiful scenery that Ucluelet has to offer.

2010-06-07T08:57:00.000-07:00

You know how in th Chinese culture that every year is a year of a certian animal...well this year for the keno household is not the year of the tiger but the year of insurance claims.
Since Christmas Andrea and I have had two claims.

1. Car was stolen
2. Car was hit by lady who decided to back up on the main street and failed to hear Andrea honking and see her behind their car. So our car needs a new grill and a paint job.

Yesterday comes claim three for our family. My Mom was driving down our road and lets just say it is a typical BC road (narrow and has curves). She was following a motorhome and all of a sudden they stopped so she stopped and then they backed up right into her. So we will be getting some work down on the front of our van as our fender(?) is kinda hanging off.

So I am wondering if we should stick to riding bikes for the rest of this year?!?!

2 Down 1 More to Go

2010-06-01T16:55:00.000-07:00

These days every year are stressful at our house...these are the three days were we find out who gets to work with David, Aiden and Brent. So far Brent and Aiden have nice aides for next year and we are holding out that David will get his old aide back. Because of the union we have no say in who they get...so we either stick with who they get or we have to pull them out. Our hope is that all three of them can go to school and be intergrated with children their ages.

Fisherlady?? I think not!!

2010-06-01T16:30:00.000-07:00

I went for my first boat ride in a long time on Sunday! I was so excited to go with Brent, Jenn, Karl and the guide. So we went on a tour of the harbour and outside the harbour. We took pictures of sealions, boats, waves and other objects. We went outside the harbour so we could go fast. I loved seeing the sights and learning about the history of Ucluelet. The thing I did not like was how I felt...it is kinda embarassing...from an 30 minutes boat ride in fairly calm water I felt like I was going to lose my lunch:) I kindly thanked the guide and said we could head into the dock and thanked him. That trigured what was a horrible next 24 hours. I am not sure if I had the flu or what happened but boy was it not fun. As a result i will not be going out on the boat again no matter how much I want to catch my own salmon it is not worth losing your last meal overboard!

You Know You Are On The West Coast When...

2010-05-29T12:33:00.000-07:00

...you see a group of 15 Hippies riding down the main road on longboards and bikes while playing instruments....definately not on the Prairies anymore! I wish I would have thought to take a picture/videoclip as it was quite the experience of colourful dress and sound.