Friends,
I will be resuming my blogging adventure in the very new future, so be on the lookout for new posts. In the meantime, please, if you haven't, take a look the posts from this summer which include many of my stories and adventures from that trip. I am hoping to begin processing for a two year trip in 2011, so be looking for details:)
-Michelle
Friday, January 8, 2010
Sunday, August 9, 2009
We Both Go Down Together...
I am writing to you with an extremely sore, bruised and cut up body, which is result of my adventures, and quite possibly the best day I've had here. I thought my African prime had come to an end, but yesterday proved that that statement was not true.
Friday night I set up a movie night for me and 6 of my beautiful teen/preteen girls, where we watched Prince Caspian and ate way to much junk, and just had a blast. At the end of that, one of the moms called saying they had room for 2 more to go to Bab's dock the next morning. I had wanted to go back, but never really got the opportunity, and there it was.
Bab's dock is one of the most beautiful places I've ever been. It's an hour away from the ship on the bumpiest road ever, but once you get there you go to a dock and get on a boat. It's a motorized canoe that you ride on to get to the actual Dock. You ride through these beautiful trees that have formed a tunnel, and pass tons of palms and it's quite the site. Eventually, you reach this huge lake and it has a floating dock- our destination. They set up mattresses(pool kind) on the ground with umbrellas, there's hammocks, and the cost is just lunch and the boat ride. They make this incredible Hibiscus juice called Bisop, which I was extremely happy to have again.
Now let me take you back about a month to my first trip at Bab's Dock. We went with the Academy, and I came upstairs, pumped for a great day, and see grey sky staring at me. My heart sank, but the leaders said we'd still go anyway because the locals said it'd pass. We got going- I was in the car with 2 moms(one whom I have become friends with since) and a few kids and another leader. I got slip from my group, but that was okay for a day. We got rolling, and it started to drizzle. I thought, well.. that's not too bad.. it could be worse...
We arrived at the little dock, and loaded kids up and there was a tad of sun, and we began to feel some hope for the day. 2 boats went, 3 boats went, and then, with 9 adults left at the little dock, and all of the kids over there, we waited.. and waited... and waited... Eventually Olly, one of the dad's, phone rang. His wife was on the big dock already and was wondering where we were. She told us that she found out the engine on the canoe died. We were all thankful at that point that all of the kids were on the other side- especially since we had preschoolers with us that day as well.
We waited for over 30 minutes to 45 minutes, and one of the moms said 'why don't we pray- we're all Christians here...' So we did, and about 10 minutes later, this dugout canoe pulls in with a man on the end using a large stick to drive it along. We all looked at each other, and one grandmother said 'oh, that's not for us...' and another says, 'Oh, I think it is...' Haha! Alas, it was ours.
We got 5 of us in there, and we started to sink. I almost had a panic attack because my mom's camera and my book were in my bag, and I really just didn't wanna go down like that. Normally, the water levels are pretty low, making the dunk not so bad, but they'd gotten more rain in the past few days before we came than they had in 10 years, so as you can imagine.. it was deep. So, they took the 2 men out of the boat, we stabilized, and then we went. But, but this point, it started raining much harder.
It was me, one of the girls who lead the little kids, and Anne, the mom I was talking about earlier. We were just trying to stay balanced, but at the same time had some quite funny conversations. My most memorable one was when the topic of makeup came up. It went something like this....I said 'Man, it's really starting to come down', and Anne said, "I know, my mascara is beginning to run, of all days, I pick today to wear mascara, what was I thinking?"(add a British accent to that:) ) I was not expecting that at all haha:) It was so funny. I later learned that she was much funnier and light hearted than my first impressions led me to.
That takes me to another point- FIRST IMPRESSIONS HERE HAVE BEEN WRONG EVERY TIME!! The end.
Friday night I set up a movie night for me and 6 of my beautiful teen/preteen girls, where we watched Prince Caspian and ate way to much junk, and just had a blast. At the end of that, one of the moms called saying they had room for 2 more to go to Bab's dock the next morning. I had wanted to go back, but never really got the opportunity, and there it was.
Bab's dock is one of the most beautiful places I've ever been. It's an hour away from the ship on the bumpiest road ever, but once you get there you go to a dock and get on a boat. It's a motorized canoe that you ride on to get to the actual Dock. You ride through these beautiful trees that have formed a tunnel, and pass tons of palms and it's quite the site. Eventually, you reach this huge lake and it has a floating dock- our destination. They set up mattresses(pool kind) on the ground with umbrellas, there's hammocks, and the cost is just lunch and the boat ride. They make this incredible Hibiscus juice called Bisop, which I was extremely happy to have again.
Now let me take you back about a month to my first trip at Bab's Dock. We went with the Academy, and I came upstairs, pumped for a great day, and see grey sky staring at me. My heart sank, but the leaders said we'd still go anyway because the locals said it'd pass. We got going- I was in the car with 2 moms(one whom I have become friends with since) and a few kids and another leader. I got slip from my group, but that was okay for a day. We got rolling, and it started to drizzle. I thought, well.. that's not too bad.. it could be worse...
We arrived at the little dock, and loaded kids up and there was a tad of sun, and we began to feel some hope for the day. 2 boats went, 3 boats went, and then, with 9 adults left at the little dock, and all of the kids over there, we waited.. and waited... and waited... Eventually Olly, one of the dad's, phone rang. His wife was on the big dock already and was wondering where we were. She told us that she found out the engine on the canoe died. We were all thankful at that point that all of the kids were on the other side- especially since we had preschoolers with us that day as well.
We waited for over 30 minutes to 45 minutes, and one of the moms said 'why don't we pray- we're all Christians here...' So we did, and about 10 minutes later, this dugout canoe pulls in with a man on the end using a large stick to drive it along. We all looked at each other, and one grandmother said 'oh, that's not for us...' and another says, 'Oh, I think it is...' Haha! Alas, it was ours.
We got 5 of us in there, and we started to sink. I almost had a panic attack because my mom's camera and my book were in my bag, and I really just didn't wanna go down like that. Normally, the water levels are pretty low, making the dunk not so bad, but they'd gotten more rain in the past few days before we came than they had in 10 years, so as you can imagine.. it was deep. So, they took the 2 men out of the boat, we stabilized, and then we went. But, but this point, it started raining much harder.
It was me, one of the girls who lead the little kids, and Anne, the mom I was talking about earlier. We were just trying to stay balanced, but at the same time had some quite funny conversations. My most memorable one was when the topic of makeup came up. It went something like this....I said 'Man, it's really starting to come down', and Anne said, "I know, my mascara is beginning to run, of all days, I pick today to wear mascara, what was I thinking?"(add a British accent to that:) ) I was not expecting that at all haha:) It was so funny. I later learned that she was much funnier and light hearted than my first impressions led me to.
That takes me to another point- FIRST IMPRESSIONS HERE HAVE BEEN WRONG EVERY TIME!! The end.
Hah.. now back to my story.. We finally hit the lake after me turning around multiple times and getting yelled at by Bethany because I almost tipped us, and by this point.. you would not believe how hard it was raining. It was so hard I felt like it was going to pierce my skin and I was wondering if it was hailing.. it was awful. I just couldn't stop laughing, I found it extremely funny that we were in this situation, and frankly thought God had a pretty good sense of humor:) When we got to the dock, I looked and 1/2 of my body was soaked and 1/2 was basically dry. When we pulled in, I quickly yelled for Holly to get my bag- my number one worry, and then we all safely(barely) got out of the canoe. I felt bad because some people came over in their dry clothes and were going to change, but I just wore my bathing suit over there hah:)
After we got there, and ate something quickly, I just went for the water. I was amazed at how much my adventure level skyrocketed this day. I kayaked and played with the kids and swam. It was a great day.. no matter how miserable it seemed. But, the car ride home and getting back on the ship was not very fun. We were all freezing and it poured harder than I've ever seen. I walked from the car to the ship slightly damp already and was soaked from head to toe- dripping. I got inside not even thinking, and froooze because the AC killed me.
But, I went back yesterday. The sun was out, the company couldn't have gotten any better, and it was just picturesque. I played and played with my kids and it was just nice to know that we had one last day together just having a blast. I may bet to babysit them again, but the're starting school tomorrow, so chances are we won't have a chance to just be crazy together much longer.
Today I was wiped out. I went out to breakfast with some friends, which was beautiful, and came back for ward service, which was the best one yet, and near the end, I kinda crashed. I came back and napped for an hour, ate something slept for another 45 minutes, then for another 1/2 hour... I had a headache and ever since I've been sick I developed this cough.. no good. Hopefully I can push on and be dandy and get home without any more sickness.
5 days and I"m on a plane. Please just keep us in your prayers. The idea is growing on me, but the reality that certain people will not be around and my friends are going through some of their biggest life moments when I'm not there is hurting me, but I know that it's happening for a reason. I also know that we'll have a ton to share later. My friends here, however are in ABSOLUTE denial that I'm leaving. I'm glad to know I'll be missed, but I don't want them to be depressed and think its over.. I'm having everyone write in a book, so hopefully that'll help with closure a bit.
Anyway, I'm going to go do some stuff for my Vocal teacher, and then go have dinner, get my dress that was made for me(my other one came last night and is beautiful), and do more stuff for Lynn.
I love you all! Write me a note! I wanna hear from you!
-Michelle
Monday, August 3, 2009
It's been a while....
Hello out there!! I was planning on writing today despite current circumstances that have me in bed, but alas, I'm updating. I'll prolly update on a few big things a post, so there might be a few posts coming to you today/ in the next week:)
My most recent adventure, and one I hope to never revisit, began at around 1 am last night. I layed down after watching movies all evening with my good friend Kathleen since it was our last weekend that she isn't working, and I felt a bit strange. I thought maybe I just ate too much junk, and it would pass. I fell asleep, but was woken up by this pain. Slowly but surely, I came down with GI virus. It was no good. I was out of my bed at least once an hour, which was not pleasant for either me or my roomates as they could hear me just gagging away. After about 7:30, my body decided to let it rest, though I was, and still am battling a fever. I went to the nurse, and she told me about the virus, and how it's been around the ship, and I shouldn't eat today, but drink a lot. She seemed concerned, which made me concerned about my condition, but she said as long as I don't get worse, I should be fine. I'm feeling much better now, and my boss let me off for the remainder of the day, Thank goodness. I thoguht I could handle it, but I think that would've been bad. I don't think I'll be eating Mexican again for a good while after that fiasco.
Things around here have grown on me over the past few weeks. I remember talking to people back home before I came about how it could happen where I'd come for more than just a few months- more like a year or two, but how I just couldn't see how it'd work out. Well, as time has passed, I've gotten to really know a few people, and I've come completely attatched with a few kids and families I've met here. Now, I honestly can't imagine what it's going to be like to leave this place. Leaving my kids behind is going to be impossible, and leaving all of the people I've met and experiences we've had together will be really painful. But, there is light at the end of the tunnel. Some of the families I've met are expecting to stay for at least another couple of years. One was scheduled for 2 years and I think they're now on their fourth year. Another has been here for a couple years and I don't see them going anywhere soon.
So, for those of you(which is a lot of you) who I havent been able to talk to lately and have heard- I'm considering coming for either a year or two years. I'm really praying that God will bring me here with my family, at least for a year of it. Like, if I come for 2 years, and my family was here for the second year, it'd be completely worth it. It's all still very up in the air, but I feel like I'm supposed to come back. I'd teach drama, and do another job. Teaching drama, and music, etc. is considered a 'minor' job, so I'd need a major job as well, and sales(the cafe) has already told me they'd be happy to have me. Human Resources are on my mom trying to get her to come. My dad likes the idea, and so does my mom, but we just don't know how it'd all work out- with the house and all of our lives back home, family, etc. But if you could just pray for us, I'd deeply appreciate it. Please pray that God would show us clearly what he wants for us, and if possible quickly so that we can begin making fund-raising plans if we all come together, or if I"m alone, or make it known if I"m not even supposed to come back, and help me meet these people again.
Two of my girls are just extremely wonderful and it's so funny because they've asked me maybe 3 times this week if I'd come visit them in England when they go home(which may be a while). I told them we'd see, but they should definetly come visit me in DC. Their little brother, who is 6, also wants me to stick around. They are just so convincing:) They have told me that I must come back and teach them and babysit them:) I would LOVE to hah, but we'll see where God leads me.
On our final day of summer program(which was friday), I made a video of my kids. I had them say their name, age, grade, country, and anything else they'd like to say. Most/all of the girls said that I have to come back, I can't leave, and I need to teach them next year. While filming, I seriously almost cried. I also had them sign a paper for me to hang in my dorm room, and some of those children are the most encouraging people i've ever met. One of my 11 year olds wrote to me about how God will be with me on my journey, and a few of them, again, wrote about how they want/need me to come back.
One of my girls, my 13 year old norwegian from the most beautiful family I've ever seen(all blondies with blue eyes- picturesque), is quite the little actress. When we first got here, there was a film festival, and she and her friends made these amazing little movies. One was polly pockets, one was a news cast, and I forget the last, but they were completely brilliant and incredible! She's just got an extremly inventive and creative mind. She has these great plans for a play, but the teacher is off ship because she's having a baby, but it's not going as planned, so she's coming back maybe after the baby is born. My girl, Linde, was telling me the full plan, and how she needed her teacher back and I said -you realize.. if I come back, I have a lot of experience- then I listed what kinds of classes I took, and she absolutely lit up. SHe was like 'you have to come back so we can do a play, Miss Michelle!!' We sat there for probably 45 minutes just going on about her plans and just talking about everything . She is also addicted to twilight, and got the song book, and asked me to learn a song. I gave up on the one she asked me to learn, but learned one I liked better, and she was so floored with excitement when I showed it to her:) If I do come back, I need to bring her more music. Living here, you only get mail so often, and it's extremly expensive and takes a lot of time, so hopefully I can help introduce some new music to her. SHe's taught me a lot about music and persistence with learning it. Neither of us are good at reading it, but once we get the hang of it, we run with it.
Anyway, feel free to comment if you wanna say a word:) My goal by letting you all know about my hopes to come back, is that you'll help me remember that I do want to come back, and I have a passion for these kids, and not let me forget my dream, or let go too easily. I think that if I got the chance to come back, yeah, it'd be hard to get into the groove again when I come home, but I"m going to be fresh out of college, with no ties quite yet, and it's the perfect time to decide if I'd like to persue teaching, or something medical, and gives me time to explore those options in a place where people want to help you figure these things out.
The end.
<3 Michelle
ps.. sorry if that was semi- incohesive- i am still in fever land.
My most recent adventure, and one I hope to never revisit, began at around 1 am last night. I layed down after watching movies all evening with my good friend Kathleen since it was our last weekend that she isn't working, and I felt a bit strange. I thought maybe I just ate too much junk, and it would pass. I fell asleep, but was woken up by this pain. Slowly but surely, I came down with GI virus. It was no good. I was out of my bed at least once an hour, which was not pleasant for either me or my roomates as they could hear me just gagging away. After about 7:30, my body decided to let it rest, though I was, and still am battling a fever. I went to the nurse, and she told me about the virus, and how it's been around the ship, and I shouldn't eat today, but drink a lot. She seemed concerned, which made me concerned about my condition, but she said as long as I don't get worse, I should be fine. I'm feeling much better now, and my boss let me off for the remainder of the day, Thank goodness. I thoguht I could handle it, but I think that would've been bad. I don't think I'll be eating Mexican again for a good while after that fiasco.
Things around here have grown on me over the past few weeks. I remember talking to people back home before I came about how it could happen where I'd come for more than just a few months- more like a year or two, but how I just couldn't see how it'd work out. Well, as time has passed, I've gotten to really know a few people, and I've come completely attatched with a few kids and families I've met here. Now, I honestly can't imagine what it's going to be like to leave this place. Leaving my kids behind is going to be impossible, and leaving all of the people I've met and experiences we've had together will be really painful. But, there is light at the end of the tunnel. Some of the families I've met are expecting to stay for at least another couple of years. One was scheduled for 2 years and I think they're now on their fourth year. Another has been here for a couple years and I don't see them going anywhere soon.
So, for those of you(which is a lot of you) who I havent been able to talk to lately and have heard- I'm considering coming for either a year or two years. I'm really praying that God will bring me here with my family, at least for a year of it. Like, if I come for 2 years, and my family was here for the second year, it'd be completely worth it. It's all still very up in the air, but I feel like I'm supposed to come back. I'd teach drama, and do another job. Teaching drama, and music, etc. is considered a 'minor' job, so I'd need a major job as well, and sales(the cafe) has already told me they'd be happy to have me. Human Resources are on my mom trying to get her to come. My dad likes the idea, and so does my mom, but we just don't know how it'd all work out- with the house and all of our lives back home, family, etc. But if you could just pray for us, I'd deeply appreciate it. Please pray that God would show us clearly what he wants for us, and if possible quickly so that we can begin making fund-raising plans if we all come together, or if I"m alone, or make it known if I"m not even supposed to come back, and help me meet these people again.
Two of my girls are just extremely wonderful and it's so funny because they've asked me maybe 3 times this week if I'd come visit them in England when they go home(which may be a while). I told them we'd see, but they should definetly come visit me in DC. Their little brother, who is 6, also wants me to stick around. They are just so convincing:) They have told me that I must come back and teach them and babysit them:) I would LOVE to hah, but we'll see where God leads me.
On our final day of summer program(which was friday), I made a video of my kids. I had them say their name, age, grade, country, and anything else they'd like to say. Most/all of the girls said that I have to come back, I can't leave, and I need to teach them next year. While filming, I seriously almost cried. I also had them sign a paper for me to hang in my dorm room, and some of those children are the most encouraging people i've ever met. One of my 11 year olds wrote to me about how God will be with me on my journey, and a few of them, again, wrote about how they want/need me to come back.
One of my girls, my 13 year old norwegian from the most beautiful family I've ever seen(all blondies with blue eyes- picturesque), is quite the little actress. When we first got here, there was a film festival, and she and her friends made these amazing little movies. One was polly pockets, one was a news cast, and I forget the last, but they were completely brilliant and incredible! She's just got an extremly inventive and creative mind. She has these great plans for a play, but the teacher is off ship because she's having a baby, but it's not going as planned, so she's coming back maybe after the baby is born. My girl, Linde, was telling me the full plan, and how she needed her teacher back and I said -you realize.. if I come back, I have a lot of experience- then I listed what kinds of classes I took, and she absolutely lit up. SHe was like 'you have to come back so we can do a play, Miss Michelle!!' We sat there for probably 45 minutes just going on about her plans and just talking about everything . She is also addicted to twilight, and got the song book, and asked me to learn a song. I gave up on the one she asked me to learn, but learned one I liked better, and she was so floored with excitement when I showed it to her:) If I do come back, I need to bring her more music. Living here, you only get mail so often, and it's extremly expensive and takes a lot of time, so hopefully I can help introduce some new music to her. SHe's taught me a lot about music and persistence with learning it. Neither of us are good at reading it, but once we get the hang of it, we run with it.
Anyway, feel free to comment if you wanna say a word:) My goal by letting you all know about my hopes to come back, is that you'll help me remember that I do want to come back, and I have a passion for these kids, and not let me forget my dream, or let go too easily. I think that if I got the chance to come back, yeah, it'd be hard to get into the groove again when I come home, but I"m going to be fresh out of college, with no ties quite yet, and it's the perfect time to decide if I'd like to persue teaching, or something medical, and gives me time to explore those options in a place where people want to help you figure these things out.
The end.
<3 Michelle
ps.. sorry if that was semi- incohesive- i am still in fever land.
Wednesday, July 29, 2009
The Best is Yet to Come!!
Okay- so here's the deal. My job is currently taking up all of my spare time, and when I have a second, I'm sleeping, eating, or doing something to keep me sane:) I'm doing great, but until Friday night hits(a night that shall be quite a sad one since my job with the academy is up and Holly is leaving) I have no time.
Expect an update at least one a day for the next week.. I hope:)
<3 Michelle
Expect an update at least one a day for the next week.. I hope:)
<3 Michelle
Tuesday, July 21, 2009
I am not forgotten, I am not forgottenn:)
This is just to let you know, I haven't forgotten about the blog:) I'll update with a few quick thoughts, and over the next few days/week update about what's been going on over here.
I'm just really amazed by how much I've learned since I got here- about myself, about the world, about God, about relationships, etc. It's pretty incredible. I feel like a different person in a way. I found like I've found my spark as I told someone in an email earlier this evening. I've got my little burst of light that has been waiting for so long to come out. I'm just praying that when I get home, I don't just fall into the motions and rut that school and life at home can be, but rather take it all, and run with it. Do what I can to help people, and not be so lazy.
As I reflect, I realize I don't like the person I was at home. Sure, I was okay by many people's books, but was I happy- honestly? No. I found that I needed people more than I should've maybe, and I was kinda stuck in this place that was no good. But here, I love to have alone time where I can just read, or write, or reflect, which happens maybe once in a blue moon. At home, I'd kinda freak out if I had a lot of alone time, but man do I wish I had it now:) Also, I was alway just 'okay'. Never 'great' or 'incredible' like I've felt here. I was always 'okay' but never 'happy' but never realy 'sad' either.
Sure, I have my moments here, as all of us do. When I'm faced with something difficult, I just kinda gotta take it in my stride, and pray about it, and have faith that God will help me out. That's something rather new for me. The trust thing is still in the works, but I at least have faith that God will take care of me.
I've been having an incredible time, and I can't wait to update with stories galore of some quite hilarious adventures I've had in the past week and 1/2 or so:) I will soon do that, so be on the lookout:)
<3 Michelle
I'm just really amazed by how much I've learned since I got here- about myself, about the world, about God, about relationships, etc. It's pretty incredible. I feel like a different person in a way. I found like I've found my spark as I told someone in an email earlier this evening. I've got my little burst of light that has been waiting for so long to come out. I'm just praying that when I get home, I don't just fall into the motions and rut that school and life at home can be, but rather take it all, and run with it. Do what I can to help people, and not be so lazy.
As I reflect, I realize I don't like the person I was at home. Sure, I was okay by many people's books, but was I happy- honestly? No. I found that I needed people more than I should've maybe, and I was kinda stuck in this place that was no good. But here, I love to have alone time where I can just read, or write, or reflect, which happens maybe once in a blue moon. At home, I'd kinda freak out if I had a lot of alone time, but man do I wish I had it now:) Also, I was alway just 'okay'. Never 'great' or 'incredible' like I've felt here. I was always 'okay' but never 'happy' but never realy 'sad' either.
Sure, I have my moments here, as all of us do. When I'm faced with something difficult, I just kinda gotta take it in my stride, and pray about it, and have faith that God will help me out. That's something rather new for me. The trust thing is still in the works, but I at least have faith that God will take care of me.
I've been having an incredible time, and I can't wait to update with stories galore of some quite hilarious adventures I've had in the past week and 1/2 or so:) I will soon do that, so be on the lookout:)
<3 Michelle
Monday, July 6, 2009
Not gonna lie...
Not gonna lie, I've been feeling really down lately. Be it because I no longer have a clue what I want to do with my life, whether I realized that a lot of my friends will be gone here before I know it, because I had a dream the other night about summer at home and all of the good stuff going along with it, because I've lost most of my ward family, or because I'm just in a mood, I do not know.
I kinda have a feeling it's all of those things. Things have also been happening at home, like a friend from high school dying suddenly, and a good friend from school getting in a car wreck, as well as my dad having surgery soon, so it's hard to be away. i know that I'm supposed to be here, and that what I'm doing is going to basically steer me in the direction I need to be in for my career and such, but for the first time since I got here(other than when I was sick) i am officially homesick.
Call me crazy, but I am. I talked to my mom last night, and just to hear them was nice. I heard my nephew in the background, and just about lost it. I've never been away this long- ever. Especially from Jordan. I'm also starting to miss friends. I have this small fear that I'm growing apart from a lot of people, and that when we all get back we'll have nothing in common. I'm fairly certain that's just a bad thought, but it gets to me.
PS- those of you around home, I'm hoping to have a coming home party around August 22nd or so? I was thinking about the 16th, but I don't think I'll have recovered all the way yet:)
Anyway- I am supposed to be at lunch now, but wanted to just expel my thoughts on those things.
As I fell asleep last night, I was not happy, but prayed that if I dreamed of home it'd make me not miss it so much, and lo and behold I had a nightmare.. buh. Not exactly what I was hoping for. I'm very tired today, but hopefully things will be chill. We went to the hospitality center with our kids, and had fun and I got to see some of the kids from the ward again, but of coarse right when I got there, Geraldo and his mom were headed to the ship:( I don't know if they're going home today or not, but if so, at least I had yesterday with him.
My tummy is a grumbling, and I normally don't post frequently, so yeah:) Maybe I'll make a better habit of it so posts aren't novels anymore;)
All my love
and please keep me in your prayers!! Especially now!
<3 Michelle
I kinda have a feeling it's all of those things. Things have also been happening at home, like a friend from high school dying suddenly, and a good friend from school getting in a car wreck, as well as my dad having surgery soon, so it's hard to be away. i know that I'm supposed to be here, and that what I'm doing is going to basically steer me in the direction I need to be in for my career and such, but for the first time since I got here(other than when I was sick) i am officially homesick.
Call me crazy, but I am. I talked to my mom last night, and just to hear them was nice. I heard my nephew in the background, and just about lost it. I've never been away this long- ever. Especially from Jordan. I'm also starting to miss friends. I have this small fear that I'm growing apart from a lot of people, and that when we all get back we'll have nothing in common. I'm fairly certain that's just a bad thought, but it gets to me.
PS- those of you around home, I'm hoping to have a coming home party around August 22nd or so? I was thinking about the 16th, but I don't think I'll have recovered all the way yet:)
Anyway- I am supposed to be at lunch now, but wanted to just expel my thoughts on those things.
As I fell asleep last night, I was not happy, but prayed that if I dreamed of home it'd make me not miss it so much, and lo and behold I had a nightmare.. buh. Not exactly what I was hoping for. I'm very tired today, but hopefully things will be chill. We went to the hospitality center with our kids, and had fun and I got to see some of the kids from the ward again, but of coarse right when I got there, Geraldo and his mom were headed to the ship:( I don't know if they're going home today or not, but if so, at least I had yesterday with him.
My tummy is a grumbling, and I normally don't post frequently, so yeah:) Maybe I'll make a better habit of it so posts aren't novels anymore;)
All my love
and please keep me in your prayers!! Especially now!
<3 Michelle
Saturday, July 4, 2009
C'est Bon!
Bonjour mon amis! Ca va?
Hah. My french is getting a little better, but not too much:) I need to work on it:)
First of all, Happy fourth of July! I think most Americans do miss home badly today due to lack of hot dogs, hamburgers, fireworks(mainly those!), and family, but today was pretty cool despite the longing for those things. I spent my day at an orphanage, which is always tough, but worth it. I saw one of the little guys from last time who was about Jordan's age, and the last time he was happy and running around and wreaking havoc, but this time he was just clinging to the workers. I looked at him, and his arm was clearly burned around the middle of his fore arm, and his hand had skin hanging off(sorry for graphic content). I saw him and my heart sank. A nurse looked at him(seems like every time I go someone is sick or hurt, but at least we can help) and she said that they were dealing with it really nicely, and if they kept up the treatment, it'd heal up really nicely.
Later, I came back, ate, napped, then went to the US Embassy. We had a potluck, which was really amazing and great food. Unfortunately, I was dehydrated aand my head was killing me. I drank a ton of water and took some meds, and by the time I got back and layed down, I was all better. Funny story- I poured myself and a friend some water, and I sat down, reached for my cup, and BAM- the water spilled all over my skirt. Luckily it wasn't that noticeable, and actually made me feel much better since I'd been out in the heat all day- nice personal AC:) Also, the African fabric I was wearing was nice and dried quickly:) After that I got to do coffee for people, which always makes me happy:)
Now backtracking a bit... Ward updates. Edoh, David, Bligone( another kiddo in that ward) and all of my other new friends have gone home. My ward closed down for a while, and we were getting rid of patients so that we could make more room for others(of coarse they were all ready to go, or we moved them to the hospitality center), so I kinda have been displaced, not to mention the sickness that took me out of the game for about a week threw me off, and I haven't been to the ward in a while. It was a needed break for me to realize 1) why I go, and 2) how much I miss it and need those connections. When I visited Maome's mom(the only one left from the beginning), she was so excited she was shouting and jumping:) I haven't been back since, but I plan to very soon to get my head back on track.
Last Friday, I woke up feeling a little weird. I got ready, got to the Academy, realized our planned field trip was not happening, so I asked to go down and change, and while I did I realized how tired I was and how much my throat was killing me. I went to Starbucks on my way back and got some chai to help soothe my throat, and went on with the day. Around lunch time, I realized how exhausted I was and how I probably should take the rest of the day. In the afternoon we have more teachers because the preschool gets out at noon, so we weren't short staffed, and they told me to go take care of myself. So, I went and napped and hung out. Hannah and I watched Anne of Green Gables, the Sequel that night(which is 4 hours, but wonderful- and the last 10 minutes wouldn't play.. KILLER... GUHH!!), but by the time we finished(at 1am) I'd had 4 cups of tea since dinner, and I was dying for sleep. At that point, I knew it was more than just a sore throat.
Saturday, we woke up at 1:30.. why Hannah slept that late as well, is beyond me- I at least had a good excuse;), then ate lunch. I came back after lunch, and layed down, and that's when the rest of the symptoms started to hit me. I was incredibly achy, I had a cough, and I had a slight headache. I was not feeling so good. I ate dinner like a normal person, happy that my appetite was fine, then watched a movie and went to bed. I was invited to church, so I thought about getting up with the girls, but when I got up at 10, I started to read, and felt 1/2 decent. Then, as time went on, I started feeling worse and worse. I tried to wait up for the girls so I could eat, but I fell asleep. I fell asleep around 12ish and woke up off and on until 5pm- hardly able to move due to such an achy body, and I got up once to goto the bathroom, but barely held myself up on the way. I got on Facebook(God bless Facebook), and imed Hannah, who was up at work so I knew she'd be on, saying I needed help. She couldn't do anything, so I asked her to get our other roomate as soon as possible. I needed the nurse. The nurses are all working and there's no crew nurse on weekends, so no one could come make a house call, which is semi- problematic when you can't move out of bed.
After a while, Emily came and helped me over to the ICU, which was basically the waiting room for me, since there were no patients, and one of the nurses came to me, took my temp and told me to just go back to my room and goto the nurse in the morning. She drilled me and asked if I had any stomach symptoms and if I was taking my Malaria meds, and I said I'd been on my meds regularly, and no stomach problems really(except for 0 appetite). My temperature was high, and my nurse friend, Kathleen, said that my temp had to have been higher than just 100 because of the way I was reacting(chills and hot and cold sweats to the max) and also because my temp was only 1 degree colder the next day and I was drastically better.
The next day, after fighting through the night and finally eating something that Em got for me, I got breakfast in bed( thanks to my looovely friend Emily:) ) and then went to the nurse. She told me I had the Upper Respiratory Virus that everyone else had(the one I said I had escaped the last time I posted) and I just needed rest. At that point, I was getting bored, but fell in love with my book, and sleep, and fared well. The next day, after taking the German equivalent of Nyquil(which serriously felt like taking a shot of alcohol(bleghh) and put me to sleep for over 10 hours) I felt worlds better. I skipped work again because they were on a field trip, but it was a good decision, and just relaxed and did some things that needed to get done for the program, and myself. Now, I still have a cough, but hardly a sore throat, no congestion really, no aches or fever- which is totally a blessing. I will never take my health for granted again on this ship. I do still have low energy, but that'll get better with time.
Now for what I want to do with my life. I have no idea. I thought I did, but I do not. Things I've thought about were a nurse(which I'm not sure that I"m cut out for), or some kind of volunteer with another job teaching or something. My friend Kathleen told me that I'd be an incredible Child Life Specialist, and it's something I'd like to look into. It's basically a person who helps the family and child understand what is going to happen, helps the child cope, and helps to entertain the kids in the wards. I'd get to do some medical stuff, but nothing too crazy(just learning), and help kids. I know I want to be with kids. Adults are cool, but kids have my heart-always have and maybe always will. Anyone who knows me, knows that if a baby is around, my attention is on them:) I feel like I've gone through everything I have medically for a reason- and I think that reason is to help other kids through similar(or different) problems and fears that I had growing up. My situation was a pretty sweet one in the sense that everything went well and I hardly remember anything- great nurses and doctors, staff, my parents were great, and things just were good(mostly;) ). If I can help other kids have an easier experience and come out happy with their experience, I'd be happy. Also, getting to hang out with kids- soo much fun and wonderful job. If I got paid for this.. HOLY MOLY I'D BE IN HEAVEN. Now, there are some problems, such as you have training and an unpaid internship, but I have faith that if that's what's supposed to happen, God will help me there, and my family will support that. I think since I stepped foot in a ward, and my mom saw me, she knew something was going to change, and has been semi- prepared to help me through(I hope:) ).
I'm also hoping to find a sweet job at a coffee shop next year:) I'd love it. Starbucks, or something else that's got a nice atmosphere would be wonderful:) Working at Starbucks, getting free coffee, then going to study- what could be better? ;)
I'm also trying to think of volunteer positions around the area with kids. If anyone knows of any orphanages or places that need help in Baltimore, please let me know. The sooner I get hooked in with someone, the better. I have never ever been happier than I am here- and it's because I feel like I'm needed and I make a difference in people's days/ lives. Nothing is more satisfying, so if I could get linked in ASAP at home, that'd be good for transition- something to look forward to. Honestly, at this point, I'm not wanting to come home and go back to school, but I know that having my degree, and my program will ultimately help me in my job. I talked to Kathleen, and I told her that Actors are amazing people when it comes to relatablilty. Their job is to think about what if they were in this person's situation, how would they respond- constantly putting themselves in someone else's shoes- what better person to help others, no? I think it's a skill God has put in me to find some joy in helping others, cheering them up, and relating with them.
Hah. My french is getting a little better, but not too much:) I need to work on it:)
First of all, Happy fourth of July! I think most Americans do miss home badly today due to lack of hot dogs, hamburgers, fireworks(mainly those!), and family, but today was pretty cool despite the longing for those things. I spent my day at an orphanage, which is always tough, but worth it. I saw one of the little guys from last time who was about Jordan's age, and the last time he was happy and running around and wreaking havoc, but this time he was just clinging to the workers. I looked at him, and his arm was clearly burned around the middle of his fore arm, and his hand had skin hanging off(sorry for graphic content). I saw him and my heart sank. A nurse looked at him(seems like every time I go someone is sick or hurt, but at least we can help) and she said that they were dealing with it really nicely, and if they kept up the treatment, it'd heal up really nicely.
Later, I came back, ate, napped, then went to the US Embassy. We had a potluck, which was really amazing and great food. Unfortunately, I was dehydrated aand my head was killing me. I drank a ton of water and took some meds, and by the time I got back and layed down, I was all better. Funny story- I poured myself and a friend some water, and I sat down, reached for my cup, and BAM- the water spilled all over my skirt. Luckily it wasn't that noticeable, and actually made me feel much better since I'd been out in the heat all day- nice personal AC:) Also, the African fabric I was wearing was nice and dried quickly:) After that I got to do coffee for people, which always makes me happy:)
Now backtracking a bit... Ward updates. Edoh, David, Bligone( another kiddo in that ward) and all of my other new friends have gone home. My ward closed down for a while, and we were getting rid of patients so that we could make more room for others(of coarse they were all ready to go, or we moved them to the hospitality center), so I kinda have been displaced, not to mention the sickness that took me out of the game for about a week threw me off, and I haven't been to the ward in a while. It was a needed break for me to realize 1) why I go, and 2) how much I miss it and need those connections. When I visited Maome's mom(the only one left from the beginning), she was so excited she was shouting and jumping:) I haven't been back since, but I plan to very soon to get my head back on track.
Last Friday, I woke up feeling a little weird. I got ready, got to the Academy, realized our planned field trip was not happening, so I asked to go down and change, and while I did I realized how tired I was and how much my throat was killing me. I went to Starbucks on my way back and got some chai to help soothe my throat, and went on with the day. Around lunch time, I realized how exhausted I was and how I probably should take the rest of the day. In the afternoon we have more teachers because the preschool gets out at noon, so we weren't short staffed, and they told me to go take care of myself. So, I went and napped and hung out. Hannah and I watched Anne of Green Gables, the Sequel that night(which is 4 hours, but wonderful- and the last 10 minutes wouldn't play.. KILLER... GUHH!!), but by the time we finished(at 1am) I'd had 4 cups of tea since dinner, and I was dying for sleep. At that point, I knew it was more than just a sore throat.
Saturday, we woke up at 1:30.. why Hannah slept that late as well, is beyond me- I at least had a good excuse;), then ate lunch. I came back after lunch, and layed down, and that's when the rest of the symptoms started to hit me. I was incredibly achy, I had a cough, and I had a slight headache. I was not feeling so good. I ate dinner like a normal person, happy that my appetite was fine, then watched a movie and went to bed. I was invited to church, so I thought about getting up with the girls, but when I got up at 10, I started to read, and felt 1/2 decent. Then, as time went on, I started feeling worse and worse. I tried to wait up for the girls so I could eat, but I fell asleep. I fell asleep around 12ish and woke up off and on until 5pm- hardly able to move due to such an achy body, and I got up once to goto the bathroom, but barely held myself up on the way. I got on Facebook(God bless Facebook), and imed Hannah, who was up at work so I knew she'd be on, saying I needed help. She couldn't do anything, so I asked her to get our other roomate as soon as possible. I needed the nurse. The nurses are all working and there's no crew nurse on weekends, so no one could come make a house call, which is semi- problematic when you can't move out of bed.
After a while, Emily came and helped me over to the ICU, which was basically the waiting room for me, since there were no patients, and one of the nurses came to me, took my temp and told me to just go back to my room and goto the nurse in the morning. She drilled me and asked if I had any stomach symptoms and if I was taking my Malaria meds, and I said I'd been on my meds regularly, and no stomach problems really(except for 0 appetite). My temperature was high, and my nurse friend, Kathleen, said that my temp had to have been higher than just 100 because of the way I was reacting(chills and hot and cold sweats to the max) and also because my temp was only 1 degree colder the next day and I was drastically better.
The next day, after fighting through the night and finally eating something that Em got for me, I got breakfast in bed( thanks to my looovely friend Emily:) ) and then went to the nurse. She told me I had the Upper Respiratory Virus that everyone else had(the one I said I had escaped the last time I posted) and I just needed rest. At that point, I was getting bored, but fell in love with my book, and sleep, and fared well. The next day, after taking the German equivalent of Nyquil(which serriously felt like taking a shot of alcohol(bleghh) and put me to sleep for over 10 hours) I felt worlds better. I skipped work again because they were on a field trip, but it was a good decision, and just relaxed and did some things that needed to get done for the program, and myself. Now, I still have a cough, but hardly a sore throat, no congestion really, no aches or fever- which is totally a blessing. I will never take my health for granted again on this ship. I do still have low energy, but that'll get better with time.
Now for what I want to do with my life. I have no idea. I thought I did, but I do not. Things I've thought about were a nurse(which I'm not sure that I"m cut out for), or some kind of volunteer with another job teaching or something. My friend Kathleen told me that I'd be an incredible Child Life Specialist, and it's something I'd like to look into. It's basically a person who helps the family and child understand what is going to happen, helps the child cope, and helps to entertain the kids in the wards. I'd get to do some medical stuff, but nothing too crazy(just learning), and help kids. I know I want to be with kids. Adults are cool, but kids have my heart-always have and maybe always will. Anyone who knows me, knows that if a baby is around, my attention is on them:) I feel like I've gone through everything I have medically for a reason- and I think that reason is to help other kids through similar(or different) problems and fears that I had growing up. My situation was a pretty sweet one in the sense that everything went well and I hardly remember anything- great nurses and doctors, staff, my parents were great, and things just were good(mostly;) ). If I can help other kids have an easier experience and come out happy with their experience, I'd be happy. Also, getting to hang out with kids- soo much fun and wonderful job. If I got paid for this.. HOLY MOLY I'D BE IN HEAVEN. Now, there are some problems, such as you have training and an unpaid internship, but I have faith that if that's what's supposed to happen, God will help me there, and my family will support that. I think since I stepped foot in a ward, and my mom saw me, she knew something was going to change, and has been semi- prepared to help me through(I hope:) ).
I'm also hoping to find a sweet job at a coffee shop next year:) I'd love it. Starbucks, or something else that's got a nice atmosphere would be wonderful:) Working at Starbucks, getting free coffee, then going to study- what could be better? ;)
I'm also trying to think of volunteer positions around the area with kids. If anyone knows of any orphanages or places that need help in Baltimore, please let me know. The sooner I get hooked in with someone, the better. I have never ever been happier than I am here- and it's because I feel like I'm needed and I make a difference in people's days/ lives. Nothing is more satisfying, so if I could get linked in ASAP at home, that'd be good for transition- something to look forward to. Honestly, at this point, I'm not wanting to come home and go back to school, but I know that having my degree, and my program will ultimately help me in my job. I talked to Kathleen, and I told her that Actors are amazing people when it comes to relatablilty. Their job is to think about what if they were in this person's situation, how would they respond- constantly putting themselves in someone else's shoes- what better person to help others, no? I think it's a skill God has put in me to find some joy in helping others, cheering them up, and relating with them.
The summer program is going great by the way. It's much more chill than I thought. It's basically just us getting to hang out with the kids while their parents work- so we go on trips to pools, etc, and have a ton of fun. We played with Jello, made slime and bouncy balls all in one day this week!! :) The people I work with are great, the kids are amazing, the families are great:) It's interesting because I never can escape work, but I don't mind:)
Anyway- my brain is fried. If you want to call me, please do. I'd love to talk. I've only talked to my family and maybe 1 other person in the past month.. it's getting lonely. I love it here, but there are times where I just wish that I could go home to talk to certain people ,or see them, or just share these experiences with you guys. I never wanted to go home more than I did when I'm sick, and I'm just praying I don't get sick ever again on this ship.
Alright- well I hope to hear from some of you soon. I hope you read this all, because I put a lot into it:) I love comments and messages and emails- so please please please feel free to put your 2 cents in...PLEASEEE????
I love and miss you all!
-Michelle
Anyway- my brain is fried. If you want to call me, please do. I'd love to talk. I've only talked to my family and maybe 1 other person in the past month.. it's getting lonely. I love it here, but there are times where I just wish that I could go home to talk to certain people ,or see them, or just share these experiences with you guys. I never wanted to go home more than I did when I'm sick, and I'm just praying I don't get sick ever again on this ship.
Alright- well I hope to hear from some of you soon. I hope you read this all, because I put a lot into it:) I love comments and messages and emails- so please please please feel free to put your 2 cents in...PLEASEEE????
I love and miss you all!
-Michelle
Pictures:
The first one is Geraldo:)
The second is me and Julian.
All of my pictures I have are on Facebook- so take a peek, and keep looking for new ones(coming soon)
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