September 28, 2010
Well, I am still sick. I only taught in the morning yesterday and slept all afternoon. I woke up feeling a little bit better. We have started eating dinner as a family. The older girls, O'Dells, Wiley's and I all eat together in the dining room. It has been nice sitting and all talking together. After dinner, Carly, Shana Kay, Damille, Sue and I watched Dancing with the Stars. It was fun to just hang out with the girls for a few hours. Last night after dinner, we ended up bringing Jhanelle to the hospital. She is not doing well. He O2 level was under 72 and she had a very irregular heart beat. It doesn't look good. Please continue to pray for her, her mom and her family here at the Nest. Joel has been with her all day and she is still in the ER and not moved up to a bed. We have a ton of sick sick kids here today. I spent the morning with Abby, Kishmar, Brittanya and Asia. We turned the dining room into the sick bay. We put a couple mattresses on the floor and watched movies all day. We are currently in the middle of a tropical depression that will likely turn into a tropical storm. It has rained hard all day! They are calling for it to rain until at least Friday. They are letting all the kids out of school early today and school is cancelled for tomorrow because of the storm. So far it has only been rainy without much wind, but I'm sure that will change. So lots going on here in Jamaica. Please continue to pray!
Pray for:
- Jhanelle as she is close to eternity.
- Tropical Depression 16 to fizzle out and be nothing more than a rain storm.
- All of us who are sick at The Nest. Brittanya, Kishmar, Asia, Abby, Shana Kay, and others. Pray for healing and that no one else will get sick!!
Tuesday, September 28, 2010
Sunday, September 26, 2010
Another weekend
September 25, 2010
Great day today! Tried to sleep in but that didn't work. I was awake at 5:45 and got out of bed around 6:20. On days that I don't get to sleep in I could and day when I can, I can't! Anyway, I got up and spent some time out on the porch off my room. I took my computer and my Bible. Got to listen to some good music while I had my quiet time. I spent about 2 hours just being "away" from everyone and focusing on my God and I time. It was a great way to start my morning. At noon, Angie and I headed down town to get some of the school kids pictures taken. We had 2 truck loads of kids. Benji drove "Old Blue" and Angie was in "Bad Boy" and we were off to Fontana. After that was done, which took a lot less time than we thought, Angie, Carly, Sam and I headed to Mega-Mart to go grocery shopping. We came back up to the Nest for dinner and then Carly and I went down to the O'Dell's house to make cookies. Carly had a recipe for Mocha Brownie Cookies. They were as good as they sound! We spent a few hours making cookies, dancing and laughing! So much fun! I love spending time with my O'Dell family. We are going to church at Teamworks tomorrow. It's the school that Sam, Carly, Taylor, Jacob, Chavar, Damille and Shaq go to. I am excited to see what their school looks like! Then it's off to the beach! Ken and Keri Eberline are here this week visiting Kishmar and Asia. They are going to meet up with us at the beach tomorrow. Should be a good time! We will see if the ocean is stirred up because of the tropical storm that went through. Should be interesting. I got to talk to Yogi today!!! FINALLY!! We are trying to make plans to see each other. So far it hasn't worked out. When she is in town, I am up the mountain and without the bus it's hard to make "special" trips into town. I will make it down to see her soon though! I can't wait to see her and her baby boy!! Well, I am off to bed. It has been long day, and tomorrow will be the same!! I should stop by and see Lucky tomorrow! Haven't seen him since I've been back either. So many people to see and no enough time to do it!
September 26, 2010
Busy day today! We left early for church today. Sid drove like a crazy man down the mountain on our way to church. By the time we made it into the Bay, poor Anna was puking because she was so car sick. Thankfully when we made it to Teamworks she was feeling better. The church service today was interesting. The music was good! I t was a nice change from the other churches we have been to. The piano player actually played the right music that went along with the songs we were singing. That doesn't always happen! I know at Riverside the guy just plays whatever and sometimes doesn't even come close to what the song should sound like. The service was over 3 hours long. We started at 9:30 and it wasn't over yet when we left at 12:30. Our poor kids could hardly sit any more. I was struggling to sit. The guy that preached was all over the place with his points and at one point his teeth fell out of his mouth! Now that got everyone's attention! We headed to the beach after church. The weather didn't look to promising. Huge dark clouds on either side of the beach. Thankfully we didn't get rain until we were leaving. The water was so warm today. There wasn't much difference between air temperature and water temperature. When the storm rolled in it got down right chilly! Angie and I were wrapped up in our towels. Thankfully it only lasted a few minutes and it was over. We headed back up the mountain and Sid took it nice and slow so no one got sick! After dinner tonight I got to hold Asia for a while. She has gotten so big! She is such a sweetie! I remember when she was just a tiny, little, ornery thing. She is just precious. I got to sit and rock her to sleep. Probably my favorite thing to do. I love sleeping babies!
I haven't been feeling well the last few days. I have been fighting the "flu". Down here they call a cold the flu. I haven't been sleeping well because I have been so stuffy and have been coughing throughout the night. Hopefully I am over the worst of it! It is not fun being sick down here. Not that being sick anywhere is fun. Well, I am off to bed. I will want to sleep in tomorrow and I need to be up and at 'em at 5:45 am. Back to school tomorrow!! Week 3 here we come!!
Friday, September 24, 2010
It's Friday!!!
September 24, 2010
Well, it has been a few days since I have taken time to update this. It has been a crazy week! School is going well. Dean and Ian are both ADD off the charts! It makes for an interesting day. Ian is quieter when he is off task. He gets distracted easily but sits quietly (sometimes). Dean on the other hand is just the opposite. He is always LOUD!!! Dean has a severe sight loss and currently does not have glasses with the correct prescription which means he is always right up in your face because he cannot see. I am wondering if the eyes and the ears are connected somehow, because he has a hard time listening as well. He also doesn't have an "inside" voice. I couldn't tell you how many times I've had to say, "Dean, you need to quiet down." He is always singing, talking to himself or just making noise while working. They are quiet the kids. They will do just about anything for a "sweetie". I am not above bribing them to get them to sit and work. :) I find it extremely effect as a management tool. Today we are taking a bit of a break. The boys are playing trains and cars right now. They love having time to play inside with the toys. They don't get to do that a lot, so I like to give them time during the week in the classroom.
This morning, Angie and I spent about a half hour out by the pool having quiet time. We have talked about needing to be in the word more and it was so nice to start the day like that. I have been studying the book of Esther. Today I read chapters 5-6 where Esther is preparing the feast for Haman and the King. I have read the story of Esther many times and have heard the story since I was a little kid. I very specifically remember Melissa Styes teaching junior church and telling the story of Esther. I almost laughed out loud today reading part of chapter 6. The king hadn't been able to sleep and asked for the record books to be brought to him. He was reminded that one time Mordecai had saved his life from people that were plotting against him. Haman came in later that day and the king asked him what he should do to show a person honor. Self-centered Haman thought the king was talking about himself and came up with this elaborate plan with royal robes and a royal horse. When the king told him to do everything he had said to Mordecai, Haman was not happy. He was planning on killing Mordecai and instead he is parading him around the city on a royal horse dressed in royal robes! I love how God works! His sense of humor is something else!
The weather has been really weird here the last few days. Tropical Storm Matthew is just south of us and is effecting our weather a bit. It has cooled things off a bit and yesterday I thought we were going to get blown off the mountain top! Praying that Matthew stays to our south! We really don't need to get hit by this!
I'm ready for the weekend! I want to sleep past 5:45 tomorrow morning! We will see if that happens. I am excited to spend some time with the O'Dell kids. I really miss them being here during the day now that they are in school. I'm glad that they are enjoying school and doing well, but I do miss them during the days! Well, I must be back to school. I'm not used to updating this during the day. It's usually my night time activity. Praying for all of you as you pray for me! I am beyond blessed to have each one of you behind me supporting me! I couldn't do it without you!
Dean and Ian playing trains
Well, it has been a few days since I have taken time to update this. It has been a crazy week! School is going well. Dean and Ian are both ADD off the charts! It makes for an interesting day. Ian is quieter when he is off task. He gets distracted easily but sits quietly (sometimes). Dean on the other hand is just the opposite. He is always LOUD!!! Dean has a severe sight loss and currently does not have glasses with the correct prescription which means he is always right up in your face because he cannot see. I am wondering if the eyes and the ears are connected somehow, because he has a hard time listening as well. He also doesn't have an "inside" voice. I couldn't tell you how many times I've had to say, "Dean, you need to quiet down." He is always singing, talking to himself or just making noise while working. They are quiet the kids. They will do just about anything for a "sweetie". I am not above bribing them to get them to sit and work. :) I find it extremely effect as a management tool. Today we are taking a bit of a break. The boys are playing trains and cars right now. They love having time to play inside with the toys. They don't get to do that a lot, so I like to give them time during the week in the classroom.
This morning, Angie and I spent about a half hour out by the pool having quiet time. We have talked about needing to be in the word more and it was so nice to start the day like that. I have been studying the book of Esther. Today I read chapters 5-6 where Esther is preparing the feast for Haman and the King. I have read the story of Esther many times and have heard the story since I was a little kid. I very specifically remember Melissa Styes teaching junior church and telling the story of Esther. I almost laughed out loud today reading part of chapter 6. The king hadn't been able to sleep and asked for the record books to be brought to him. He was reminded that one time Mordecai had saved his life from people that were plotting against him. Haman came in later that day and the king asked him what he should do to show a person honor. Self-centered Haman thought the king was talking about himself and came up with this elaborate plan with royal robes and a royal horse. When the king told him to do everything he had said to Mordecai, Haman was not happy. He was planning on killing Mordecai and instead he is parading him around the city on a royal horse dressed in royal robes! I love how God works! His sense of humor is something else!
The weather has been really weird here the last few days. Tropical Storm Matthew is just south of us and is effecting our weather a bit. It has cooled things off a bit and yesterday I thought we were going to get blown off the mountain top! Praying that Matthew stays to our south! We really don't need to get hit by this!
I'm ready for the weekend! I want to sleep past 5:45 tomorrow morning! We will see if that happens. I am excited to spend some time with the O'Dell kids. I really miss them being here during the day now that they are in school. I'm glad that they are enjoying school and doing well, but I do miss them during the days! Well, I must be back to school. I'm not used to updating this during the day. It's usually my night time activity. Praying for all of you as you pray for me! I am beyond blessed to have each one of you behind me supporting me! I couldn't do it without you!
Dean and Ian playing trains
Monday, September 20, 2010
Jodi's Birthday weekend
September 19, 2010
Busy weekend here. Yesterday we celebrated Jodi's birthday. We went and had lunch at Wendy's then spent a few hours at the beach. It was such a fun day! Shana Kay and I laughed so hard playing in the water. She has had a major attitude change lately. Keep praying for her. While we were at the beach yesterday, Jodi was talking to Joyel, Angie and I about what it means to take communion and to be baptized. She is very interested in being baptized. So neat to hear her asking questions about her faith. Last night when we got home, we went and watched a movie at Joel and Angies. It was such a full and fun day!
Today we went to Riverside Open Bible Church. Sid came and picked us up since we are still without a bus. It was nice to have AC on the way to church today. While we were on our way I saw many Jamaican's out heading to church. Little girls in pristine white dresses, shoes and tights. Little boys in pressed pants, shirt and tie. Old men in 3 piece suits and women in their dresses and nylons wearing sandals carrying their high heals because they have to walk a couple miles or more to church. Going to church is a big deal in Jamaica. Although to many people, "church" is nothing more than the building they go to on Sunday mornings for a few hours, I am awed by the people who walk miles to and from church. Going to church is not easy. How many in America would walk 2 or more miles to attend church on a weekly basis? Makes me wonder what my response would be if going to church was more "work"? How far am I willing to walk? How far are you willing to walk?
Anyway- during church today, I got to snuggle a little boy for a while. He was with his mom a couple rows behind me and came right up to me and crawled in my lap. His name was DJ. He snuggled right in a sat with me for about 20 minutes. He was so cute! After church we all hopped back on Sid's bus and headed to the beach. I got FRIED!!! Two days in the sun like that is not a great choice for me, but I love the sun so much I can't seem to stay out of it! I am going to be a wrinkled old lady! On our way back up the mountain, by Orange River Ranch, the boys asked Sid if they could get out and pick guava. The kids have Sid wrapped around their little finger. He loves them and will do just about anything for them. We stopped for a few minutes while the kids were picking plums and guava. It was funny to see them climbing the trees in their swimming suits and their church shoes. After 2 busy days I am exhausted! I am determined to get to sleep early tonight! Morning comes so soon!!
September 20, 2010
Back to school today!! Dean and Ian both had pretty good mornings today. The afternoon was a whole different story! Ian had an horrible afternoon. Had to send him to his bed a couple times and wanted to pull my hair out by the end of the day. Had a good talk with him tonight so hopefully tomorrow will be better! Not much else happened today. Helped with homework after school and played with Anna for a little bit. After dinner the kids were playing outside and I was out watching them and almost wanted to get a sweatshirt. It has cooled off big time tonight. It's probably in the low 70's! Down right chilly!! Tonight is the season premier of Dancing with the Stars!! Carly and I have "date" night whenever it's on. I LOVE watching Dancing!! I am going to bed right after because I have been struggling to get up in the morning! They come so early!
Busy weekend here. Yesterday we celebrated Jodi's birthday. We went and had lunch at Wendy's then spent a few hours at the beach. It was such a fun day! Shana Kay and I laughed so hard playing in the water. She has had a major attitude change lately. Keep praying for her. While we were at the beach yesterday, Jodi was talking to Joyel, Angie and I about what it means to take communion and to be baptized. She is very interested in being baptized. So neat to hear her asking questions about her faith. Last night when we got home, we went and watched a movie at Joel and Angies. It was such a full and fun day!
Today we went to Riverside Open Bible Church. Sid came and picked us up since we are still without a bus. It was nice to have AC on the way to church today. While we were on our way I saw many Jamaican's out heading to church. Little girls in pristine white dresses, shoes and tights. Little boys in pressed pants, shirt and tie. Old men in 3 piece suits and women in their dresses and nylons wearing sandals carrying their high heals because they have to walk a couple miles or more to church. Going to church is a big deal in Jamaica. Although to many people, "church" is nothing more than the building they go to on Sunday mornings for a few hours, I am awed by the people who walk miles to and from church. Going to church is not easy. How many in America would walk 2 or more miles to attend church on a weekly basis? Makes me wonder what my response would be if going to church was more "work"? How far am I willing to walk? How far are you willing to walk?
Anyway- during church today, I got to snuggle a little boy for a while. He was with his mom a couple rows behind me and came right up to me and crawled in my lap. His name was DJ. He snuggled right in a sat with me for about 20 minutes. He was so cute! After church we all hopped back on Sid's bus and headed to the beach. I got FRIED!!! Two days in the sun like that is not a great choice for me, but I love the sun so much I can't seem to stay out of it! I am going to be a wrinkled old lady! On our way back up the mountain, by Orange River Ranch, the boys asked Sid if they could get out and pick guava. The kids have Sid wrapped around their little finger. He loves them and will do just about anything for them. We stopped for a few minutes while the kids were picking plums and guava. It was funny to see them climbing the trees in their swimming suits and their church shoes. After 2 busy days I am exhausted! I am determined to get to sleep early tonight! Morning comes so soon!!
September 20, 2010
Back to school today!! Dean and Ian both had pretty good mornings today. The afternoon was a whole different story! Ian had an horrible afternoon. Had to send him to his bed a couple times and wanted to pull my hair out by the end of the day. Had a good talk with him tonight so hopefully tomorrow will be better! Not much else happened today. Helped with homework after school and played with Anna for a little bit. After dinner the kids were playing outside and I was out watching them and almost wanted to get a sweatshirt. It has cooled off big time tonight. It's probably in the low 70's! Down right chilly!! Tonight is the season premier of Dancing with the Stars!! Carly and I have "date" night whenever it's on. I LOVE watching Dancing!! I am going to bed right after because I have been struggling to get up in the morning! They come so early!
Friday, September 17, 2010
A few more crazy days!
September 15, 2010
Another crazy day that didn't go as planned. No surprises there! Joel and Angie both had to be at meetings in the Bay today so I got to watch Anna all day! I love spending time with her so it is never a problem! She came to school with me for the morning and played with Dean. There was a bit of a misunderstanding about Ian so he wasn't in school today. Anna and Dean played so well together. They played out on the playground for a while. At one point they had 4 chairs lined up on the playground and they were pretending it was a bus. Dean was the driver (he said he was Audley) and Anna got on the bus and paid her bus fare, in rocks, and asked to go to Mega-Mart and the beach. It was so funny. I just sat back and laughed. After lunch I went down to the O'Dell's house and put Anna down for a nap. When she was asleep, I went back up and got to work one-on-one with Dean. He is a smart kid and he loves to work! If you can keep him focused long enough to do the work. I have been playing Steve Green's "Hide 'em in your heart" for the kids. A great way to learn bible verses! We don't necessarily listen to learn them, but Dean has already caught on to many of them and sings right along. So fun to see him pick up on that without me having to do anything but listen and sing along with him. Joyel started 2 bible studies tonight. One with the younger kids at Jake's House and one with the older kids up at the big house. Seemed to go well. I got to hold Dwight again tonight while he fell asleep. He is such a stinker when Nurse Smith is here. She is his "Mom" that is looking at fostering or adopting him. He doesn't go to bed when she is here. So while I was rocking him in the babies room, I went over and stood at Jhanelle's bed. I really struggled seeing her tonight. I was questioning God on his plans. Why doesn't he take her? She is miserable laying in that bed. She barely weighs anything and everything about life is a struggle. Then i thought about Quest. I know that I didn't see him when he was so sick, but I questioned why did he take Quest? I miss him so much. I can't even begin to describe what I'm feeling. I feel like I'm questioning everything right now. I am continuing to trust that God has a plan and a purpose for me in every situation that I am going through. Lord, continue to do your work in my life. Help me to remember to praise you in all things. You are worthy of my praise no matter what my circumstances are! Blessed be YOUR NAME!!
September 17, 2010
Wow! What a couple crazy days! Yesterday was Jodi-Ann's 16th birthday! We were hoping to celebrate last night but she came home very upset. On her way up the mountain someone flagged Benji, our driver, down because a boy had fallen 40 feet out of a coconut tree. Jodi saw him and thought it was her cousin. It turned out that it wasn't her cousin, but she was very shaken by this. Joel and Matt were on their way to a Community Development Committee meeting when Benji flagged them down to help. Thankfully with Joel's background he was able to some tests to see if there were major injuries. They ended up strapping him to a piece of lumber that Joel had in the back of the truck and drove him down to the emergency room. Riding in the back of the truck down the mountain roads with a possible spinal cord injury is not the best, but he made it. No word today how he is doing.
It was HOT today! I have acclimated to the weather so I didn't really sweat too much, but it was very warm. I am thankful for the little fan my mom sent down with me. It sits right on my desk giving me a nice breeze. The boys were crazy today. Yesterday it was Dean that was driving me crazy and Ian was doing his work pretty well. Today it was the opposite! Dean was doing his work and Ian was all over the place. Not sure what is going on with that kid. His behavior has gone down the tubes big time. I think he is struggling to process Quest's death. They were pretty close and I don't think Ian has the understanding or ability to communicate what he is thinking and feeling. We are hoping to get him in to see a counselor. Pray for Ian. Today ended on a great note! The O'Dell's, Wiley's and I had a "nacho" night down at the O'Dell's house. We had all the fixing for good old nachos! It tasted so good to eat something besides rice! Joyel also bought 2 pies (apple & cherry) and ice cream! It was great! It was nice to have the time away from the kids and be able to spend time together as a team. It was a great time of fellowship. Now I am exhausted! It's past my bedtime, but at least I get to sleep in tomorrow!! Tomorrow is Jodi-Ann's birthday party. Not sure what we are doing. GOing downtown to eat I think, but not sure! I'm sure it will be fun!
Emmaunel, Dontae & Matthew being monsters!
Ian & Dean in school
My classroom ready for the first day of school
Another crazy day that didn't go as planned. No surprises there! Joel and Angie both had to be at meetings in the Bay today so I got to watch Anna all day! I love spending time with her so it is never a problem! She came to school with me for the morning and played with Dean. There was a bit of a misunderstanding about Ian so he wasn't in school today. Anna and Dean played so well together. They played out on the playground for a while. At one point they had 4 chairs lined up on the playground and they were pretending it was a bus. Dean was the driver (he said he was Audley) and Anna got on the bus and paid her bus fare, in rocks, and asked to go to Mega-Mart and the beach. It was so funny. I just sat back and laughed. After lunch I went down to the O'Dell's house and put Anna down for a nap. When she was asleep, I went back up and got to work one-on-one with Dean. He is a smart kid and he loves to work! If you can keep him focused long enough to do the work. I have been playing Steve Green's "Hide 'em in your heart" for the kids. A great way to learn bible verses! We don't necessarily listen to learn them, but Dean has already caught on to many of them and sings right along. So fun to see him pick up on that without me having to do anything but listen and sing along with him. Joyel started 2 bible studies tonight. One with the younger kids at Jake's House and one with the older kids up at the big house. Seemed to go well. I got to hold Dwight again tonight while he fell asleep. He is such a stinker when Nurse Smith is here. She is his "Mom" that is looking at fostering or adopting him. He doesn't go to bed when she is here. So while I was rocking him in the babies room, I went over and stood at Jhanelle's bed. I really struggled seeing her tonight. I was questioning God on his plans. Why doesn't he take her? She is miserable laying in that bed. She barely weighs anything and everything about life is a struggle. Then i thought about Quest. I know that I didn't see him when he was so sick, but I questioned why did he take Quest? I miss him so much. I can't even begin to describe what I'm feeling. I feel like I'm questioning everything right now. I am continuing to trust that God has a plan and a purpose for me in every situation that I am going through. Lord, continue to do your work in my life. Help me to remember to praise you in all things. You are worthy of my praise no matter what my circumstances are! Blessed be YOUR NAME!!
September 17, 2010
Wow! What a couple crazy days! Yesterday was Jodi-Ann's 16th birthday! We were hoping to celebrate last night but she came home very upset. On her way up the mountain someone flagged Benji, our driver, down because a boy had fallen 40 feet out of a coconut tree. Jodi saw him and thought it was her cousin. It turned out that it wasn't her cousin, but she was very shaken by this. Joel and Matt were on their way to a Community Development Committee meeting when Benji flagged them down to help. Thankfully with Joel's background he was able to some tests to see if there were major injuries. They ended up strapping him to a piece of lumber that Joel had in the back of the truck and drove him down to the emergency room. Riding in the back of the truck down the mountain roads with a possible spinal cord injury is not the best, but he made it. No word today how he is doing.
It was HOT today! I have acclimated to the weather so I didn't really sweat too much, but it was very warm. I am thankful for the little fan my mom sent down with me. It sits right on my desk giving me a nice breeze. The boys were crazy today. Yesterday it was Dean that was driving me crazy and Ian was doing his work pretty well. Today it was the opposite! Dean was doing his work and Ian was all over the place. Not sure what is going on with that kid. His behavior has gone down the tubes big time. I think he is struggling to process Quest's death. They were pretty close and I don't think Ian has the understanding or ability to communicate what he is thinking and feeling. We are hoping to get him in to see a counselor. Pray for Ian. Today ended on a great note! The O'Dell's, Wiley's and I had a "nacho" night down at the O'Dell's house. We had all the fixing for good old nachos! It tasted so good to eat something besides rice! Joyel also bought 2 pies (apple & cherry) and ice cream! It was great! It was nice to have the time away from the kids and be able to spend time together as a team. It was a great time of fellowship. Now I am exhausted! It's past my bedtime, but at least I get to sleep in tomorrow!! Tomorrow is Jodi-Ann's birthday party. Not sure what we are doing. GOing downtown to eat I think, but not sure! I'm sure it will be fun!
Emmaunel, Dontae & Matthew being monsters!
Ian & Dean in school
My classroom ready for the first day of school
Tuesday, September 14, 2010
School has started!!
September 13, 2010
So today didn't go quite as planned, but that is pretty normal here at Robin's Nest. I had planned to start school today, but Angie and I got working in my classroom and we spent all day getting things done. My classroom is finally set up how I want it. It looks good! I will have to try to post pictures as soon as I figure out how to on this thing. Ian was a beast today! I'm not sure what is going on with him. I am excited to start working with them tomorrow. Other than working in my classroom and playing with my little Anna my day was pretty uneventful. It was a rainy, cool day today which is a nice change. I found out the other day that Bornell, who is one of my very favorite staff members here, was having testing done to see if she had uterine cancer. We found out today that it is not cancer, but still not sure what is going on. Please keep her in your prayers! Pray for Jhanelle too! She is very sick, but hanging on. She is such a fighter.
September 14, 2010
First day of school today! It actually happened!! Dean and Ian did really well, for the most part. We got through a little bit of math, reading and some hooked on phonics. It took all day to get those 3 things done, but I felt good about it at the end of the day. Both the boys are extremely ADHD and struggle to sit still for any amount of time. To get them to sit for a 15 minute math lesson today was quite the accomplishment! And they had fun! It rained again today. There are several hurricanes in the Caribbean and we are getting rain almost daily from them. It is nice because it cools it down in the afternoon. Spent an hour or so with Anna today. She has been singing "Trading My Sorrows" almost constantly the last few days. She is so cute! Got to have a good "boy talk" with Carly tonight. It was good to be able to process a few things that she is going through with some of my own thoughts. The last few days have been a struggle emotionally for me. Satan has been feeding me lies and sometimes it's easier to believe than that God has a sovereign and GOOD plan for my life. It's easier to see the bad or the hard than it is the good. Tonight we all pitched in and cleaned up the kitchen. Angie, Carly, Sueming, Shana Kay, and a few others were jammin' and dancing in the kitchen. We laughed and had a great time working together! Now at the end of the day I get to snuggle with Asia for a while. SHe is always wide awake when it's time to go to bed. I can't believe how big she is getting. She is going to be walking before too long. She is sitting on my lap playing with her bottle watching the computer screen. She is too cute! Well, calling it a night. I love going to bed and having a few hours until I actually have to go to sleep. I love reading at bed time or taking a baby to snuggle in bed until they fall asleep. I am so blessed to have a "job" that allows me to do what I love!! Thank you Jesus for allowing me the great privilege of serving you and your children in Jamaica!
Me & Asia
So today didn't go quite as planned, but that is pretty normal here at Robin's Nest. I had planned to start school today, but Angie and I got working in my classroom and we spent all day getting things done. My classroom is finally set up how I want it. It looks good! I will have to try to post pictures as soon as I figure out how to on this thing. Ian was a beast today! I'm not sure what is going on with him. I am excited to start working with them tomorrow. Other than working in my classroom and playing with my little Anna my day was pretty uneventful. It was a rainy, cool day today which is a nice change. I found out the other day that Bornell, who is one of my very favorite staff members here, was having testing done to see if she had uterine cancer. We found out today that it is not cancer, but still not sure what is going on. Please keep her in your prayers! Pray for Jhanelle too! She is very sick, but hanging on. She is such a fighter.
September 14, 2010
First day of school today! It actually happened!! Dean and Ian did really well, for the most part. We got through a little bit of math, reading and some hooked on phonics. It took all day to get those 3 things done, but I felt good about it at the end of the day. Both the boys are extremely ADHD and struggle to sit still for any amount of time. To get them to sit for a 15 minute math lesson today was quite the accomplishment! And they had fun! It rained again today. There are several hurricanes in the Caribbean and we are getting rain almost daily from them. It is nice because it cools it down in the afternoon. Spent an hour or so with Anna today. She has been singing "Trading My Sorrows" almost constantly the last few days. She is so cute! Got to have a good "boy talk" with Carly tonight. It was good to be able to process a few things that she is going through with some of my own thoughts. The last few days have been a struggle emotionally for me. Satan has been feeding me lies and sometimes it's easier to believe than that God has a sovereign and GOOD plan for my life. It's easier to see the bad or the hard than it is the good. Tonight we all pitched in and cleaned up the kitchen. Angie, Carly, Sueming, Shana Kay, and a few others were jammin' and dancing in the kitchen. We laughed and had a great time working together! Now at the end of the day I get to snuggle with Asia for a while. SHe is always wide awake when it's time to go to bed. I can't believe how big she is getting. She is going to be walking before too long. She is sitting on my lap playing with her bottle watching the computer screen. She is too cute! Well, calling it a night. I love going to bed and having a few hours until I actually have to go to sleep. I love reading at bed time or taking a baby to snuggle in bed until they fall asleep. I am so blessed to have a "job" that allows me to do what I love!! Thank you Jesus for allowing me the great privilege of serving you and your children in Jamaica!
Me & Asia
Sunday, September 12, 2010
A day at the beach and a special project
September 12, 2010
Great day today. Got to sleep in a little again today! Got up and got to have some great quiet time. I am studying the book of Esther right now. I know that God put Esther in the right place at the right time. I know that God has put me in Jamaica again because he isn't finished with me. I know that God is going to use this time in my life to grow me into the person he wants me to be. Ken Rudolph preached this summer out of Esther and said that if Esther hadn't stepped up and done what God wanted her to do, another would have been raised up to do the work. God will get his work done but I don't want to be replaced in the work that God has for me!
The Wiley's, O'Dells, and I went to the beach today. I got to eat lunch with the WIley family. It was nice to spend time with them and be able to get to know them better. Joel, Angie and the kids met up with us a little later and we all hung out at the beach for the afternoon. It was nice to be at the beach without having to watch 15 kids run around! I got to sit and talk with Angie for a long time. God has blessed me abundantly with Angie's friendship. I honestly don't think I could be here without her. We came back up the mountain at dinner time and everyone is so exhausted that we are all calling it an early night. I need to get up tomorrow and figure out what I'm going to do with Dean and Ian tomorrow. I am excited to start school with them! THe first few days will be hectic, I know, but I am so looking forward to teaching this year.
Side note: On our way up the mountain tonight I said something to Joel about wanting to go and see Quest's grave site. Angie hasn't been there yet and wants to go see it too. Joel asked me if I would be willing to make a little grave stone to put on Quest's grave. We are thinking about doing a mosaic tile type plaque to place on his grave. Please pray for me as I take on this very important project. Quest meant the world to me and I miss him so much. I know that this will be a hard project, but I think it will also help me bring closure on Quest's home-going. I covet all your prayers!!
Well, it has been a long day and I am ready for bed! I love you all! I think of you often and pray for you as you pray for me!! You're prayers do not go unnoticed. Thank you to all who are making my time here in Jamaica possible! May God bless you abundantly! Amen and amen!
Great day today. Got to sleep in a little again today! Got up and got to have some great quiet time. I am studying the book of Esther right now. I know that God put Esther in the right place at the right time. I know that God has put me in Jamaica again because he isn't finished with me. I know that God is going to use this time in my life to grow me into the person he wants me to be. Ken Rudolph preached this summer out of Esther and said that if Esther hadn't stepped up and done what God wanted her to do, another would have been raised up to do the work. God will get his work done but I don't want to be replaced in the work that God has for me!
The Wiley's, O'Dells, and I went to the beach today. I got to eat lunch with the WIley family. It was nice to spend time with them and be able to get to know them better. Joel, Angie and the kids met up with us a little later and we all hung out at the beach for the afternoon. It was nice to be at the beach without having to watch 15 kids run around! I got to sit and talk with Angie for a long time. God has blessed me abundantly with Angie's friendship. I honestly don't think I could be here without her. We came back up the mountain at dinner time and everyone is so exhausted that we are all calling it an early night. I need to get up tomorrow and figure out what I'm going to do with Dean and Ian tomorrow. I am excited to start school with them! THe first few days will be hectic, I know, but I am so looking forward to teaching this year.
Side note: On our way up the mountain tonight I said something to Joel about wanting to go and see Quest's grave site. Angie hasn't been there yet and wants to go see it too. Joel asked me if I would be willing to make a little grave stone to put on Quest's grave. We are thinking about doing a mosaic tile type plaque to place on his grave. Please pray for me as I take on this very important project. Quest meant the world to me and I miss him so much. I know that this will be a hard project, but I think it will also help me bring closure on Quest's home-going. I covet all your prayers!!
Well, it has been a long day and I am ready for bed! I love you all! I think of you often and pray for you as you pray for me!! You're prayers do not go unnoticed. Thank you to all who are making my time here in Jamaica possible! May God bless you abundantly! Amen and amen!
Saturday, September 11, 2010
September 10, 2010
Got up early today. Spent the majority of the day working in my classroom. Got to talk to Angie a little about what it is going to look like with Dean and Ian. I am excited about this year! I think that I am going to be able to get things done and get the boys learning things! I am excited! So much more than last year! Angie and I took the preschool teachers downtown tonight. It was crazy! The streets were packed! We went into the heart of downtown Montego Bay. Down by Sam Sharpe Square. It was unbelievable how many people were just out and about in the streets. Everyone celebrating the first week of school being over. We went to Mega Mart and Fontana and both places were packed! On our way back up the mountain we ran into Benjamin in the blue truck and Sid was behind him in the bus! We had to back down the road a ways. We thought we were at the drop off and got laughing so hard we could barely breathe! We always have so much fun together! Got back up to the Nest and Jodi-Ann, Shana Kay and Damille were doing impressions of all of us. They did me, Angie, Joel, Matt, Joyel, other staff members and other kids. They were hilarious! They had us all spot on. It's amazing what they pick up on. Then Joel did impressions of Jodi, Shana Kay and Damille. We were rolling on the floor (literally) laughing. It was too funny. Then I went and spent some time with the O'Dells at their house. It's nice to be able to spend that time with them. They are my family. Now it's off to bed. Not sure what tomorrow is going to look like. Whatever happens I'm sure it will be a great day!
September 11, 2010
Got to sleep in a little today. DIdn't get out of bed until 8! I finally unpacked all my stuff! It has been bugging me living out of a suitcase the last few days, but I haven't really had the time energy to unpack. I have tried to convince Tameika that she should unpack for me, but she didn't think that was a good idea. Joel, Angie and the kids went to the Bay today. I miss them so much when they are gone. We had a pretty good day up here though. The Jake's House boys did a garbage clean up and then went in the pool. After that Matt, Taylor and I went to Jake's to watch the Michigan/Notre Dame football game. I watched the U of M game and got the play-by-play for the Iowa/ISU game. Good dose of football and 2 wins!! The little kids watched a movie tonight before they went to bed. They were all laying on the floor watching Veggie Tales. Snuggled Abby, our downs syndrome toddler, for a while. She is too stinkin' sweet. We put the kids to bed and now the house is quiet. Got to have a little bowl of ice cream left over from Tameika's birthday. I am looking forward to going to the beach tomorrow!!
Got up early today. Spent the majority of the day working in my classroom. Got to talk to Angie a little about what it is going to look like with Dean and Ian. I am excited about this year! I think that I am going to be able to get things done and get the boys learning things! I am excited! So much more than last year! Angie and I took the preschool teachers downtown tonight. It was crazy! The streets were packed! We went into the heart of downtown Montego Bay. Down by Sam Sharpe Square. It was unbelievable how many people were just out and about in the streets. Everyone celebrating the first week of school being over. We went to Mega Mart and Fontana and both places were packed! On our way back up the mountain we ran into Benjamin in the blue truck and Sid was behind him in the bus! We had to back down the road a ways. We thought we were at the drop off and got laughing so hard we could barely breathe! We always have so much fun together! Got back up to the Nest and Jodi-Ann, Shana Kay and Damille were doing impressions of all of us. They did me, Angie, Joel, Matt, Joyel, other staff members and other kids. They were hilarious! They had us all spot on. It's amazing what they pick up on. Then Joel did impressions of Jodi, Shana Kay and Damille. We were rolling on the floor (literally) laughing. It was too funny. Then I went and spent some time with the O'Dells at their house. It's nice to be able to spend that time with them. They are my family. Now it's off to bed. Not sure what tomorrow is going to look like. Whatever happens I'm sure it will be a great day!
September 11, 2010
Got to sleep in a little today. DIdn't get out of bed until 8! I finally unpacked all my stuff! It has been bugging me living out of a suitcase the last few days, but I haven't really had the time energy to unpack. I have tried to convince Tameika that she should unpack for me, but she didn't think that was a good idea. Joel, Angie and the kids went to the Bay today. I miss them so much when they are gone. We had a pretty good day up here though. The Jake's House boys did a garbage clean up and then went in the pool. After that Matt, Taylor and I went to Jake's to watch the Michigan/Notre Dame football game. I watched the U of M game and got the play-by-play for the Iowa/ISU game. Good dose of football and 2 wins!! The little kids watched a movie tonight before they went to bed. They were all laying on the floor watching Veggie Tales. Snuggled Abby, our downs syndrome toddler, for a while. She is too stinkin' sweet. We put the kids to bed and now the house is quiet. Got to have a little bowl of ice cream left over from Tameika's birthday. I am looking forward to going to the beach tomorrow!!
Friday, September 10, 2010
First couple days back at The Nest
September 8, 2010
I made it to Jamaica safe and sound! It is so good to be back! I missed just about everything! I missed the smells, the traffic, the roads, the people, my kids, the staff, the O'Dells, all the craziness that is Jamaica and Robin's Nest! All of it! I almost cried when I saw Angie for the first time! She has truly become one of my very closest friends and I thank God for her daily! I don't think I could do this without her and the rest of the O'Dell family. I got to spend some time with Anna today! I love watching her play and interact with the kids. She is such an MK. She doesn't know anything but Jamaica and loves it. It was fun to see Carly & Sam. Sam was so excited he ran out of his room in his underwear to see me! Now that's true love from an 8 year old boy! We had a birthday party for Tameika tonight. She turned 18 on Monday. I got mad at her today because she told me I had gotten fat. Even though it's not an insult in Jamaica, I was not very happy! I told her she better sleep with one eye open! That gives me the motivation I need to get "un-fat" Well, I am completely exhausted! I have been up for way too long! Looking forward to getting things done in my classroom tomorrow and spending more time with the kids!! I love my job!!
September 9, 2010
Today I got to spend some much needed time with Angie. I love her so much and love spending time with her. I went and spent the morning in the Preschool observing. It was neat to see how they run school. I got some good ideas of some new things that I want to do with my kids. I have not felt great since I got here yesterday. I know the combination of traveling, heat, and getting used to the food again got to me. Thankfully, I got to spend the afternoon napping at the O'Dells house. Angie let me sleep on their couch for a few hours. It was nice and cool and quiet! I woke up feeling much better! Spent the evening working on homework with Jodi-Ann and playing with Anna and Asia. She Asia has gotten so big I can hardly believe it! Anna and I had fun killing a cockroach tonight. I saw it in the kitchen and told Anna to squish it. She started running right after it. She was a little too slow to actually get it, so I had to step on it. I went to get some tissue to pick it up and she grabbed it from me and got it herself to flush it. Such a funny kid. I think Joel and Angie and the kids are going away on Saturday for the day/night. I hate when they are gone. I feel so completely lost without them. I know I have a ton of stuff to do to keep me busy, but I would much rather be with them! Looking forward to Sunday. I think we decided that just the Wiley's, O'Dells and myself are going to the beach. I can't wait to sit and soak up some sun!!!
I made it to Jamaica safe and sound! It is so good to be back! I missed just about everything! I missed the smells, the traffic, the roads, the people, my kids, the staff, the O'Dells, all the craziness that is Jamaica and Robin's Nest! All of it! I almost cried when I saw Angie for the first time! She has truly become one of my very closest friends and I thank God for her daily! I don't think I could do this without her and the rest of the O'Dell family. I got to spend some time with Anna today! I love watching her play and interact with the kids. She is such an MK. She doesn't know anything but Jamaica and loves it. It was fun to see Carly & Sam. Sam was so excited he ran out of his room in his underwear to see me! Now that's true love from an 8 year old boy! We had a birthday party for Tameika tonight. She turned 18 on Monday. I got mad at her today because she told me I had gotten fat. Even though it's not an insult in Jamaica, I was not very happy! I told her she better sleep with one eye open! That gives me the motivation I need to get "un-fat" Well, I am completely exhausted! I have been up for way too long! Looking forward to getting things done in my classroom tomorrow and spending more time with the kids!! I love my job!!
September 9, 2010
Today I got to spend some much needed time with Angie. I love her so much and love spending time with her. I went and spent the morning in the Preschool observing. It was neat to see how they run school. I got some good ideas of some new things that I want to do with my kids. I have not felt great since I got here yesterday. I know the combination of traveling, heat, and getting used to the food again got to me. Thankfully, I got to spend the afternoon napping at the O'Dells house. Angie let me sleep on their couch for a few hours. It was nice and cool and quiet! I woke up feeling much better! Spent the evening working on homework with Jodi-Ann and playing with Anna and Asia. She Asia has gotten so big I can hardly believe it! Anna and I had fun killing a cockroach tonight. I saw it in the kitchen and told Anna to squish it. She started running right after it. She was a little too slow to actually get it, so I had to step on it. I went to get some tissue to pick it up and she grabbed it from me and got it herself to flush it. Such a funny kid. I think Joel and Angie and the kids are going away on Saturday for the day/night. I hate when they are gone. I feel so completely lost without them. I know I have a ton of stuff to do to keep me busy, but I would much rather be with them! Looking forward to Sunday. I think we decided that just the Wiley's, O'Dells and myself are going to the beach. I can't wait to sit and soak up some sun!!!
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