Hey Friends,
For some reason my computer is not allowing me to log on to any websites that require a username and password. Therefore I am required to use my dear friend Steph's computer if I want to do anything like Facebook, email, or update this blog. Because of this I am going to put a pause to my blog until I get back home. We are in our 2nd to last week of programming and are finishing strong. I will be flying home August 9th... so look for an update sometime within that week.
Thanks for following my summers adventures. Sorry for cutting it short.
PEACE!
Monday, July 25, 2011
Saturday, July 9, 2011
British Accents and Blessings
I love Saturdays for many reasons. I get to sleep in, talk to people from home that I miss very much, make non-YouthWorks food (banana bread - YUMM), take a long shower, and update you on my week.
This is a longer update than normal. Sorry!
I have to tell you, I was NOT looking forward to this past week starting - at all. Monday was the 4th of July and it was a headache to work out the logistics for the day. Not only was most everything closed, but I am kinda living in the nations capitol. No big deal. There was just a lot of prep work needed to make the day go smoothly. Yuck. This far into the summer my team and I are getting good at the normal week to week schedule, so having to adjust for the holiday craziness was simply undesired.
As apprehensive as I was going into the 4th it went surprisingly smoothly. All of the prep work paid off and the youth and adult leaders were flexible with our modified schedule. Because we switched around the order of evening events we were able to go to a park after dinner to watch fireworks. It was rather anticlimactic considering I had a tree blocking my view of the show, but no participants or limbs were lost... So I call the whole day a success!
For as tired as I entered (and exit) this week, it has been the best week for me so far this summer. This week was so good because of two wonderful women God introduced me to, Juliet and Wanda. Meeting them was exactly what God knew I needed to propel me through the remaining 4 weeks of programming.
Juliet was one of the adult leaders this week. This lady is a woman after my own heart! While driving to the Wednesday night evening activity I was riding shotgun in her car. As we passed the British Embassy we started speaking to each other in British accents. We even sang "I'm so pretty" from West Side Story. It was FANTASTIC! That was a catalysis for the rest of the week! I have never laughed so hard or been so encouraged by an adult leader in my summer and a half I have worked for YouthWorks. There are really no words that can describe her and how much she has touched my life, especially via blog post. I pray to keep in contact with her throughout the rest of the summer and beyond.
I met Wanda, the 2nd God-sent women, on Tuesday when I had the opportunity to go to United Cerebral Palsy (UCP) in the afternoon with some of the participants. UCP is a place for people with CP and other developmental disabilities to go to during the day. UCP provides social activities and various therapies for the individuals they serve to help them live as full, independent, and meaningful lives as possible. Because Tuesday was the 1st day this group of YW participants had been to UCP we got the grand tour from a woman named Wanda. Wanda has CP, is confined to a motorized wheelchair, has delayed speech, and minimal fine motor skills. Despite her physical limitations she had nothing different about her. She has a degree in social work and volunteers at UCP Monday through Friday. While watching some of the YW participants and UCP clients play Wii bowling Wanda and I had an opportunity to have the most blessed conversation I have been able to be a part of this summer. Wanda was sharing her heart with me as to why she volunteers at UCP and why she likes it when the YW youth come. She spoke with such grace about how much she wants for people to see the clients at UCP as people themselves and not their disability. She spoke from the depths of her heart when she said, "They are my friends." She also spoke of how blessed she was to have the abilities she has. Her perspective on her blessings is what is continually running through my head. I have the ability to run freely, speak quickly, eat with ease, type this blog post, and SO much more. How often do I reflect on the true multitude of blessings I have? Answer: Rarely!
My reflection on God's blessings in my life was reinforces again this afternoon while I was listening to a John Piper sermon. He quoted Psalm 40:5. It reads:
"You have multiplied, O LORD my God,
your wondrous deeds and your thoughts toward us;
none can compare with you!
I will proclaim and tell of them,
yet they are more than can be told."
AH, God is so cool! I can write until my fingers are numb and speak until my face is blue about what God is doing in my life and how He has blessed me and all those around me... and YET there is still more to be told. My God is SO BIG! I love it!
God is revealing so much of Himself to me. I am only beginning to process what His is doing. Thank you for your patience as a ramble and attempt to start the processing process of my summer through this blog.
Shampoo Update: I caved. I used shampoo on Friday. It feels so good to have hair without grease and baking soda build up in it. I am considering trying it again for another 2 weeks... but I haven't decided yet. Once again, just be glad you are 950+ miles away as I play hippie for the summer.
Prayer request: Steph has poison ivy. She got it while helping Noah and I fill up water balloons for a game we played with the youth on the 4th. Pray that it wouldn't spread anymore and fast healing. Thanks!
Peace and Love
This is a longer update than normal. Sorry!
I have to tell you, I was NOT looking forward to this past week starting - at all. Monday was the 4th of July and it was a headache to work out the logistics for the day. Not only was most everything closed, but I am kinda living in the nations capitol. No big deal. There was just a lot of prep work needed to make the day go smoothly. Yuck. This far into the summer my team and I are getting good at the normal week to week schedule, so having to adjust for the holiday craziness was simply undesired.
As apprehensive as I was going into the 4th it went surprisingly smoothly. All of the prep work paid off and the youth and adult leaders were flexible with our modified schedule. Because we switched around the order of evening events we were able to go to a park after dinner to watch fireworks. It was rather anticlimactic considering I had a tree blocking my view of the show, but no participants or limbs were lost... So I call the whole day a success!
For as tired as I entered (and exit) this week, it has been the best week for me so far this summer. This week was so good because of two wonderful women God introduced me to, Juliet and Wanda. Meeting them was exactly what God knew I needed to propel me through the remaining 4 weeks of programming.
Juliet was one of the adult leaders this week. This lady is a woman after my own heart! While driving to the Wednesday night evening activity I was riding shotgun in her car. As we passed the British Embassy we started speaking to each other in British accents. We even sang "I'm so pretty" from West Side Story. It was FANTASTIC! That was a catalysis for the rest of the week! I have never laughed so hard or been so encouraged by an adult leader in my summer and a half I have worked for YouthWorks. There are really no words that can describe her and how much she has touched my life, especially via blog post. I pray to keep in contact with her throughout the rest of the summer and beyond.
I met Wanda, the 2nd God-sent women, on Tuesday when I had the opportunity to go to United Cerebral Palsy (UCP) in the afternoon with some of the participants. UCP is a place for people with CP and other developmental disabilities to go to during the day. UCP provides social activities and various therapies for the individuals they serve to help them live as full, independent, and meaningful lives as possible. Because Tuesday was the 1st day this group of YW participants had been to UCP we got the grand tour from a woman named Wanda. Wanda has CP, is confined to a motorized wheelchair, has delayed speech, and minimal fine motor skills. Despite her physical limitations she had nothing different about her. She has a degree in social work and volunteers at UCP Monday through Friday. While watching some of the YW participants and UCP clients play Wii bowling Wanda and I had an opportunity to have the most blessed conversation I have been able to be a part of this summer. Wanda was sharing her heart with me as to why she volunteers at UCP and why she likes it when the YW youth come. She spoke with such grace about how much she wants for people to see the clients at UCP as people themselves and not their disability. She spoke from the depths of her heart when she said, "They are my friends." She also spoke of how blessed she was to have the abilities she has. Her perspective on her blessings is what is continually running through my head. I have the ability to run freely, speak quickly, eat with ease, type this blog post, and SO much more. How often do I reflect on the true multitude of blessings I have? Answer: Rarely!
My reflection on God's blessings in my life was reinforces again this afternoon while I was listening to a John Piper sermon. He quoted Psalm 40:5. It reads:
"You have multiplied, O LORD my God,
your wondrous deeds and your thoughts toward us;
none can compare with you!
I will proclaim and tell of them,
yet they are more than can be told."
AH, God is so cool! I can write until my fingers are numb and speak until my face is blue about what God is doing in my life and how He has blessed me and all those around me... and YET there is still more to be told. My God is SO BIG! I love it!
God is revealing so much of Himself to me. I am only beginning to process what His is doing. Thank you for your patience as a ramble and attempt to start the processing process of my summer through this blog.
Shampoo Update: I caved. I used shampoo on Friday. It feels so good to have hair without grease and baking soda build up in it. I am considering trying it again for another 2 weeks... but I haven't decided yet. Once again, just be glad you are 950+ miles away as I play hippie for the summer.
Prayer request: Steph has poison ivy. She got it while helping Noah and I fill up water balloons for a game we played with the youth on the 4th. Pray that it wouldn't spread anymore and fast healing. Thanks!
Peace and Love
Saturday, July 2, 2011
Uneventful Update
I can't believe it. We have completed 4 weeks of programming... and we only have 5 more left. WEIRD! This summer is going so fast!
Last week was a pretty typical week. We had one group from Wisconsin (almost as good as Minnesota) and another from North Carolina. The youth minister from WI and his wife knew 2 of my residents from last year and a fellow RA. Small world!
I am not in a very creative mood, so I am just gonna highlight some random things that are going through my head.
- Hair update: It's nasty. It is super weird. The first 1/2 of the week it just felt funny... then it got dry... and now it looks greasy but feels dry. I am very confused. I am going to give it another week and then reevaluate this experiment. I will keep you posted.
- Highlight of the week: On Thursday I went to the Salvation Army ministry site. They do a park outreach program where they have a cookout, cloths, crafts for kids, and a prayer table all set out in a park. I got the opportunity to play with a little 7 year old girl. I just pushed her on the swing for the longest time. It was so fun to forget about the to-do's of the day and just play! The joy of children is so beautiful!
- Last Saturday Steph, Noah and I went to the Navy Yard for a free community BBQ. We live in the community... and like free food... so we went! I'd never been to the Navy Yard before and really liked it. If you are ever in D.C. on a nice day please bring a blanket and a book and go there. you will not regret it!
- I have a combination of Bruno Mars' "Lazy Song" and Lincoln Brewster's "Amazed" my head. Weird combo... but I'm a weird person... so it makes since.
Here is Amazed. It's my favorite worship song of the weekend.
OK... sorry for the whawhaaa update. Steph and I are going to go on a target run for britta water filters. Oh the life of a D.C. YouthWorks employee.
More later. PEACE!
Last week was a pretty typical week. We had one group from Wisconsin (almost as good as Minnesota) and another from North Carolina. The youth minister from WI and his wife knew 2 of my residents from last year and a fellow RA. Small world!
I am not in a very creative mood, so I am just gonna highlight some random things that are going through my head.
- Hair update: It's nasty. It is super weird. The first 1/2 of the week it just felt funny... then it got dry... and now it looks greasy but feels dry. I am very confused. I am going to give it another week and then reevaluate this experiment. I will keep you posted.
- Highlight of the week: On Thursday I went to the Salvation Army ministry site. They do a park outreach program where they have a cookout, cloths, crafts for kids, and a prayer table all set out in a park. I got the opportunity to play with a little 7 year old girl. I just pushed her on the swing for the longest time. It was so fun to forget about the to-do's of the day and just play! The joy of children is so beautiful!
- Last Saturday Steph, Noah and I went to the Navy Yard for a free community BBQ. We live in the community... and like free food... so we went! I'd never been to the Navy Yard before and really liked it. If you are ever in D.C. on a nice day please bring a blanket and a book and go there. you will not regret it!
- I have a combination of Bruno Mars' "Lazy Song" and Lincoln Brewster's "Amazed" my head. Weird combo... but I'm a weird person... so it makes since.
Here is Amazed. It's my favorite worship song of the weekend.
OK... sorry for the whawhaaa update. Steph and I are going to go on a target run for britta water filters. Oh the life of a D.C. YouthWorks employee.
More later. PEACE!
Saturday, June 25, 2011
Staff, Shampoo, and Singing
There have been a few changes in my life in the past week. Sorry once again for the delayed update, but life has been too crazy to think about blogging. BUT... I am here now.
One huge change since my last update is my staff. My site director, Rosie, had to leave last Friday. As a result, Steph is the new D.C. site director. This is a very weird coincidence considering Steph is a good friend of mine from Eau Claire. When she applied for YW I never in a million years thought she would ever be placed at the same site as me. Although my worlds of "normal life" and YouthWorks have collided (Seinfeld reference... be proud)I am excited about what is ahead. I am nothing but optimistic for the rest of what this summer has in store for us as a new staff team.
The new D.C. staff:
Another thing that is new (as of today) is my choice to join the no-poo revolution. After months of blog reading and contemplation I have finally decided to go shampoo-less. This morning was my last official shampoo shower. I figured that a YW summer would be the best time to do this considering the fact that there is a good two weeks that my hair will be greasy until it returns to its natural pH and not dependent on the oil-stripping chemicals that are in shampoo. This may sound gross and I probably will look gross (thank goodness I am 950+ miles away from anyone that reads this) but hey... what's the worst that can happen... I go back to being a normal shampoo-using person in 3 weeks. For more info on going poo-less check out this blog: http://crunchybetty.com/no-poo-to-you-too
Fun story of the week:
This past Wednesday I had a pleasure of going to Clusters Downtown Geriatric for the morning. Clusters is one of my favorite ministry sites. It is a daycare for elderly who have Alzheimer's and dementia. My favorite part of going to Clusters is the first 2 hours when we get to simply go and talk to some of the Clusters participants during their tea and coffee time. This week was a little different than normal. We just did the usual tea/coffee time for a hour then the YouthWorks youth chose to sing for the Clusters participants. From talking to the workers at Clusters and some friends who have grandparents with Alzheimer's it has been made known to me that music is one of the last things to go for people with this disease. It was fantastic to see the whole mood of the room brighten up with the songs. Every one was clapping and singing. People who were not having the best of days had an instant and positive shift in behavior. Mr. Lemon even got up out of his chair and started to dance. It was so fun! I was laughing so hard and smiling so big. Best.Day.Ever!
As previously stated, this past week has been crazy, but my time at Clusters and the pure joy in the participants faces reminded me that the joy of the Lord is my strength (Nehemiah 8:10b). No memory loss, staff-team changes, or greasy hair can get me down. I have Jesus. Fact!
Peace and Love from D.C.
One huge change since my last update is my staff. My site director, Rosie, had to leave last Friday. As a result, Steph is the new D.C. site director. This is a very weird coincidence considering Steph is a good friend of mine from Eau Claire. When she applied for YW I never in a million years thought she would ever be placed at the same site as me. Although my worlds of "normal life" and YouthWorks have collided (Seinfeld reference... be proud)I am excited about what is ahead. I am nothing but optimistic for the rest of what this summer has in store for us as a new staff team.
The new D.C. staff:
Another thing that is new (as of today) is my choice to join the no-poo revolution. After months of blog reading and contemplation I have finally decided to go shampoo-less. This morning was my last official shampoo shower. I figured that a YW summer would be the best time to do this considering the fact that there is a good two weeks that my hair will be greasy until it returns to its natural pH and not dependent on the oil-stripping chemicals that are in shampoo. This may sound gross and I probably will look gross (thank goodness I am 950+ miles away from anyone that reads this) but hey... what's the worst that can happen... I go back to being a normal shampoo-using person in 3 weeks. For more info on going poo-less check out this blog: http://crunchybetty.com/no-poo-to-you-too
Fun story of the week:
This past Wednesday I had a pleasure of going to Clusters Downtown Geriatric for the morning. Clusters is one of my favorite ministry sites. It is a daycare for elderly who have Alzheimer's and dementia. My favorite part of going to Clusters is the first 2 hours when we get to simply go and talk to some of the Clusters participants during their tea and coffee time. This week was a little different than normal. We just did the usual tea/coffee time for a hour then the YouthWorks youth chose to sing for the Clusters participants. From talking to the workers at Clusters and some friends who have grandparents with Alzheimer's it has been made known to me that music is one of the last things to go for people with this disease. It was fantastic to see the whole mood of the room brighten up with the songs. Every one was clapping and singing. People who were not having the best of days had an instant and positive shift in behavior. Mr. Lemon even got up out of his chair and started to dance. It was so fun! I was laughing so hard and smiling so big. Best.Day.Ever!
As previously stated, this past week has been crazy, but my time at Clusters and the pure joy in the participants faces reminded me that the joy of the Lord is my strength (Nehemiah 8:10b). No memory loss, staff-team changes, or greasy hair can get me down. I have Jesus. Fact!
Peace and Love from D.C.
Saturday, June 11, 2011
Daily Bread
Yesterday, after the kids were gone and the shopping was done I took a lovely 4 hour nap. AH, it was so nice. I work up, messed around on facebook, wrote a letter, and called John at midnight (he turns 22 today). Needless to say, after such a long nap so late in the day I wasn't tired enough to sleep when it came time for bed.
I have been reading through Proverbs and thought my awake-ness was a good reason to have an extended quiet time away from the chaos of the week. I read Proverbs 30. Verses 7-9 really stood out to me. Fun fact, this is the only section of all of proverbs that is a prayer.
"Two things I ask of you;
deny them not to me before I die:
Remove far from me falsehood and lying;
give me neither poverty nor riches;
feed me with the food that is needful for me,
lest I be full and deny you
and say, “Who is the Lord?”
or lest I be poor and steal
and profane the name of my God."
-Prov. 30:7-9 (ESV)
After reading this I remembered hearing pastor and author Francis Chan speak to these verses in a youtube clip. I was able to find it again. Here it is:
As I go to college in pursuit of a quality degree, work, save my money, and spend it by my choosing I find these verses really hard to pray. I want to save and not have to worry about paying bills and such, but just have the resources there waiting.
Then I look at how God is a God of provision. He will give us what we need. "Look at the birds of the air: they neither sow nor reap nor gather into barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not of more value than they?"(Matt 6:23). Jesus even teaches us to pray like this in Matthew 6:11, "Give us this day our daily bread." Not our yearly bread or lifetime supply of bread, but daily. Then I look at Deuteronomy 8:12-15 and 23:15 and how easily the Israelites forgot about God when there was an abundance.
Where is the balance between being smart with the blessings God has already provided and living in the true heat behind Proverbs 30? Honestly, I have no idea. But I know that I do desire God more than riches and that He will provide for all my needs. Where knowledge takes my life I guess we will wait and see what God has in store.
Please comment. I would like to hear other people's perspectives.
In His Grip,
Bridget
I have been reading through Proverbs and thought my awake-ness was a good reason to have an extended quiet time away from the chaos of the week. I read Proverbs 30. Verses 7-9 really stood out to me. Fun fact, this is the only section of all of proverbs that is a prayer.
"Two things I ask of you;
deny them not to me before I die:
Remove far from me falsehood and lying;
give me neither poverty nor riches;
feed me with the food that is needful for me,
lest I be full and deny you
and say, “Who is the Lord?”
or lest I be poor and steal
and profane the name of my God."
-Prov. 30:7-9 (ESV)
After reading this I remembered hearing pastor and author Francis Chan speak to these verses in a youtube clip. I was able to find it again. Here it is:
As I go to college in pursuit of a quality degree, work, save my money, and spend it by my choosing I find these verses really hard to pray. I want to save and not have to worry about paying bills and such, but just have the resources there waiting.
Then I look at how God is a God of provision. He will give us what we need. "Look at the birds of the air: they neither sow nor reap nor gather into barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not of more value than they?"(Matt 6:23). Jesus even teaches us to pray like this in Matthew 6:11, "Give us this day our daily bread." Not our yearly bread or lifetime supply of bread, but daily. Then I look at Deuteronomy 8:12-15 and 23:15 and how easily the Israelites forgot about God when there was an abundance.
Where is the balance between being smart with the blessings God has already provided and living in the true heat behind Proverbs 30? Honestly, I have no idea. But I know that I do desire God more than riches and that He will provide for all my needs. Where knowledge takes my life I guess we will wait and see what God has in store.
Please comment. I would like to hear other people's perspectives.
In His Grip,
Bridget
Friday, June 10, 2011
Life Back in D.C.
Sorry it has been so long. These past few weeks have been crazy busy.
On May 23rd I set off for Philly for a week of training. It was legit. It was a LOT less overwhelming than last year. It was definitely nice knowing that I am actually able to do a YouthWorks summer, instead of just thinking I will be able to. As tedious as it was to sit through some (most) of the training sessions, I remember the pressure I felt last year not knowing what I was getting myself into, so I had patience.
The following week we set off for Washington D.C, my 3rd home(1=Apple Valley, MN 2=Eau Claire, WI). AH, It was go good to be back. Brother Thompson met us at the church to show us around and give us the keys. We then got busy unpacking and inventorying all of the YouthWorks stuff. Prep week was spent getting the building ready and meeting with our service partners for the summer with Noah. Seeing the people I started building relationships with from last summer again has BY FAR been my favorite part of the summer. As much as I hate prepweek, I really enjoyed the simple fact of being able to be back into the same city working with the same people and organizations I have fallen in love with.
FINALLY, after 2 weeks of training and preparation we were ready for our 1st group to come. We had an easy week of 17 youth and adult leaders. It was so nice to actually get to know all of their names and spend full days serving along side then, instead of the typical running from service site to service site for a 1/2 at most with one group. I know I should not have favorite youth, but I do. Deal with it. This week I had the blessing of getting to know a girl named Lindsay. She and I learned the Parent Trap handshake and rocked it! It was so fun! It's weird to think we have already survived our 1st week of programing. Only 8 more to go.
Thanks for following my blog. I hope to update about once a week from here on out.
Oh yeah, here is a picture of my staff-team for ya. From the left we have me, Savi (the program staff) Noah (my other service coordinator) and Rosie (my site director). They are legit. I am looking forward to seeing how we continue to jell as a team throughout the rest of the summer. So far so good!
On May 23rd I set off for Philly for a week of training. It was legit. It was a LOT less overwhelming than last year. It was definitely nice knowing that I am actually able to do a YouthWorks summer, instead of just thinking I will be able to. As tedious as it was to sit through some (most) of the training sessions, I remember the pressure I felt last year not knowing what I was getting myself into, so I had patience.
The following week we set off for Washington D.C, my 3rd home(1=Apple Valley, MN 2=Eau Claire, WI). AH, It was go good to be back. Brother Thompson met us at the church to show us around and give us the keys. We then got busy unpacking and inventorying all of the YouthWorks stuff. Prep week was spent getting the building ready and meeting with our service partners for the summer with Noah. Seeing the people I started building relationships with from last summer again has BY FAR been my favorite part of the summer. As much as I hate prepweek, I really enjoyed the simple fact of being able to be back into the same city working with the same people and organizations I have fallen in love with.
FINALLY, after 2 weeks of training and preparation we were ready for our 1st group to come. We had an easy week of 17 youth and adult leaders. It was so nice to actually get to know all of their names and spend full days serving along side then, instead of the typical running from service site to service site for a 1/2 at most with one group. I know I should not have favorite youth, but I do. Deal with it. This week I had the blessing of getting to know a girl named Lindsay. She and I learned the Parent Trap handshake and rocked it! It was so fun! It's weird to think we have already survived our 1st week of programing. Only 8 more to go.
Thanks for following my blog. I hope to update about once a week from here on out.
Sunday, May 22, 2011
Unpacking to Repack
Short update... not a whole lot is new.
Today is a very rainy Sunday. I am sitting in my living room in sweats and an old comfy sweatshirt. Remembering how incredibly hot D.C. was last summer I am soaking up these moments of being able to bundle up. Despite all of the stuff I need to get done, I think I am going to take a nap!
Finals week was last week. I left Eau Claire yesterday afternoon, got home, and have been unpacking, doing laundry, and repacking ever since. Packing for YouthWorks is so different than last year. I have such a better grasp on what I need and what I can live without. Needless to say, I am 99% sure I will still overpack. Oh well!
Tomorrow morning I leave for Philly for a week of training. I do not have internet access, so there won't be any updates for about a week. I am so excited to meet my staff and get pumped about this summer together!!!
More later!
PEACE!
Today is a very rainy Sunday. I am sitting in my living room in sweats and an old comfy sweatshirt. Remembering how incredibly hot D.C. was last summer I am soaking up these moments of being able to bundle up. Despite all of the stuff I need to get done, I think I am going to take a nap!
Finals week was last week. I left Eau Claire yesterday afternoon, got home, and have been unpacking, doing laundry, and repacking ever since. Packing for YouthWorks is so different than last year. I have such a better grasp on what I need and what I can live without. Needless to say, I am 99% sure I will still overpack. Oh well!
Tomorrow morning I leave for Philly for a week of training. I do not have internet access, so there won't be any updates for about a week. I am so excited to meet my staff and get pumped about this summer together!!!
More later!
PEACE!
Sunday, May 15, 2011
Relenting Expectations
BIG NEWS: I am going to be going to Washington D.C. for a 2nd summer.
It is 4:56 in the morning and I can't sleep. My brain is going a billion miles per hour. I am about to embark on my finals week in addition to getting ready for my YouthWorks summer. I don't know where to begin to process. I am so so SO excited to be back in the community I have fallen in love with... but that huge feeling of excitement is matched with a nervousness. I am in the same city doing the same job. That gives me great comfort. I know what to expect with that. BUT it is going to be so different. Instead of Courtney, Dan, and Austin I have Roselyn, Noah, and Savion. Instead of going into this summer blind, I have insight and knowledge from last summer. Along with that insight and knowledge comes expectations. These expectations scare me. I do not want them! I want God to use this summer how ever He desires.
Please pray for my continued excitement, the relent of my expectations, and the Lord to rock my world this summer as He reveals truth about His character to me.
Thank you for following me as I embark on this adventure.
I can hear the birds waking up. Whoops. I am going to try to sleep...
It is 4:56 in the morning and I can't sleep. My brain is going a billion miles per hour. I am about to embark on my finals week in addition to getting ready for my YouthWorks summer. I don't know where to begin to process. I am so so SO excited to be back in the community I have fallen in love with... but that huge feeling of excitement is matched with a nervousness. I am in the same city doing the same job. That gives me great comfort. I know what to expect with that. BUT it is going to be so different. Instead of Courtney, Dan, and Austin I have Roselyn, Noah, and Savion. Instead of going into this summer blind, I have insight and knowledge from last summer. Along with that insight and knowledge comes expectations. These expectations scare me. I do not want them! I want God to use this summer how ever He desires.
Please pray for my continued excitement, the relent of my expectations, and the Lord to rock my world this summer as He reveals truth about His character to me.
Thank you for following me as I embark on this adventure.
I can hear the birds waking up. Whoops. I am going to try to sleep...
Friday, April 22, 2011
Headed Back East
YouthWorks update: I just got an email yesterday from YW telling me that I will be in the Eastern Region again this summer. I am super excited! I will find out what city I am on on May 13th. I am literally counting down the days (20) until I find out. I'll keep you updated!
Not a whole lot is new....
-Spring break in North Carolina was grand. It was a treat to be able to spend quality time with my uncle Tom, Diane, and Erin. PLUS I avoided a Minnesota snow storm too. Who would have thunk? Snow in March. Crazy. But then again, Wisconsin got show last weekend too... Oh the glory of the Midwest!
-I turned 21 last Sunday. That was fun. It was a very chill but very good birthday! Thanks to everyone who made it special.
Sorry for the very blah blog update.
As a wrap this post up, I encourage you to take a look at this youtube video my friend Heather showed me. It is not only appropriate for this Good Friday, but a good daily reminder of what Jesus did on the cross for us. This thing I like about this video is that it doesn't stop with the message of just what Jesus did, but touches on how we are called to respond. Take a look. Let me know what you think.
In Him.
Not a whole lot is new....
-Spring break in North Carolina was grand. It was a treat to be able to spend quality time with my uncle Tom, Diane, and Erin. PLUS I avoided a Minnesota snow storm too. Who would have thunk? Snow in March. Crazy. But then again, Wisconsin got show last weekend too... Oh the glory of the Midwest!
-I turned 21 last Sunday. That was fun. It was a very chill but very good birthday! Thanks to everyone who made it special.
Sorry for the very blah blog update.
As a wrap this post up, I encourage you to take a look at this youtube video my friend Heather showed me. It is not only appropriate for this Good Friday, but a good daily reminder of what Jesus did on the cross for us. This thing I like about this video is that it doesn't stop with the message of just what Jesus did, but touches on how we are called to respond. Take a look. Let me know what you think.
In Him.
Sunday, March 20, 2011
YouthWorks Summer... Round 2!
Welcome back to my blog!
Exciting news... I just officially accepted a job working with YouthWorks as a Service Coordinator (same missions organization and job description as last summer). Saying I am excited would be an understatement. I am confidant that YouthWorks is where God wants me this summer... and I am happy to follow His lead!
Although I have the same job as last summer, this coming summer is going to be very different. Even though I know what the YW schedule looks like and more about what my job entails... having a new staff, different participants, and potentially a new location will make this experience completely unique from last summer. My mind is going a million miles an hour. I can't believe I am asking for another stress-filled, gross food, hot, and sleepless summer. BUT at the same time, I can't think of another place I’d rather be.
This news is so new to me (I just officially accepted the job Thursday)... I cannot articulate the wide scope of excitement, peace, anticipation, joy, and anxiousness I am feeling. BAH! Here we go!
Because I haven't updated since August... here is a little update on what I have been up to the past 7 months.
... Now that I think about it, there is not that much to report. Maybe that is why I haven't written anything :)
Fall semester went super fast and was relatively seamless. Transitioning from the summer had its highs and lows. It was good to be back into the routine of Eau Claire life, but challenging to apply and articulate all that I had experienced.
In January, took a winter break class that focused on some fundamentals of education. Through this class, I had the opportunity to go to Maryland got a week to observe in a high school. I learned SO much from seeing a school in such a non-Eau Claire/suburb setting. While out East we also spent a long weekend in D.C.!!! AHHH! It was so good to be back. I even got to go to church at Douglas, the church I lived in last summer. It was also fun to take over the town with some of my classmates!
Here is a video we made form our time in D.C.:
Now I am on spring break. I am spending the first ½ of the week back home in Minnesota then going to North Carolina to visit my uncle Tom and my friend Erin. I have never been to NC before, so it should be fun!
Sorry for such a long entry. More on YouthWorks and other Bridget-ventures to come.
Exciting news... I just officially accepted a job working with YouthWorks as a Service Coordinator (same missions organization and job description as last summer). Saying I am excited would be an understatement. I am confidant that YouthWorks is where God wants me this summer... and I am happy to follow His lead!
Although I have the same job as last summer, this coming summer is going to be very different. Even though I know what the YW schedule looks like and more about what my job entails... having a new staff, different participants, and potentially a new location will make this experience completely unique from last summer. My mind is going a million miles an hour. I can't believe I am asking for another stress-filled, gross food, hot, and sleepless summer. BUT at the same time, I can't think of another place I’d rather be.
This news is so new to me (I just officially accepted the job Thursday)... I cannot articulate the wide scope of excitement, peace, anticipation, joy, and anxiousness I am feeling. BAH! Here we go!
Because I haven't updated since August... here is a little update on what I have been up to the past 7 months.
... Now that I think about it, there is not that much to report. Maybe that is why I haven't written anything :)
Fall semester went super fast and was relatively seamless. Transitioning from the summer had its highs and lows. It was good to be back into the routine of Eau Claire life, but challenging to apply and articulate all that I had experienced.
In January, took a winter break class that focused on some fundamentals of education. Through this class, I had the opportunity to go to Maryland got a week to observe in a high school. I learned SO much from seeing a school in such a non-Eau Claire/suburb setting. While out East we also spent a long weekend in D.C.!!! AHHH! It was so good to be back. I even got to go to church at Douglas, the church I lived in last summer. It was also fun to take over the town with some of my classmates!
Here is a video we made form our time in D.C.:
Now I am on spring break. I am spending the first ½ of the week back home in Minnesota then going to North Carolina to visit my uncle Tom and my friend Erin. I have never been to NC before, so it should be fun!
Sorry for such a long entry. More on YouthWorks and other Bridget-ventures to come.
Thursday, August 12, 2010
MINNESOTA
I am in Minnesota! I have been here for 2 days now. It is great to be near family again.
Being home just affirms how blessed I am. I have so many people here who would do anything for me. I am comfortable and safe here. I also have a lot of luxuries... a comfy bed, good healthy food, and even as much as a new computer.
I will be home until the 18th... then I go back to Eau Claire for RA training.
These next few weeks are going to be full of transition. Transition form D.C. to Apple Valley to Eau Claire. Transition from working with high schoolers everyday to living with my peers. Transition from living among some of our nations most impoverished people to living among people who have the world at their fingertips.
My biggest fear within this transition is that I will slip into pre-YouthWorks life unchanged. I fear that I will let this summer stay in this summer. But, I know that the Lord will not let this summer go in vain... so I have nothing to fear.
I know I am just at the start of processing this summer. I am excited to see what the Lord continues to teach me from this summer even as my time in D.C. has ended.
I am sorry this post doesn't flow well. OH WELL!!!
FYI... I probably will not be posting anything on here as often... but take a look every now and then just in case.
Thanks for sharing my summer with me!!!!
With all the love in the world,
Bridget
Being home just affirms how blessed I am. I have so many people here who would do anything for me. I am comfortable and safe here. I also have a lot of luxuries... a comfy bed, good healthy food, and even as much as a new computer.
I will be home until the 18th... then I go back to Eau Claire for RA training.
These next few weeks are going to be full of transition. Transition form D.C. to Apple Valley to Eau Claire. Transition from working with high schoolers everyday to living with my peers. Transition from living among some of our nations most impoverished people to living among people who have the world at their fingertips.
My biggest fear within this transition is that I will slip into pre-YouthWorks life unchanged. I fear that I will let this summer stay in this summer. But, I know that the Lord will not let this summer go in vain... so I have nothing to fear.
I know I am just at the start of processing this summer. I am excited to see what the Lord continues to teach me from this summer even as my time in D.C. has ended.
I am sorry this post doesn't flow well. OH WELL!!!
FYI... I probably will not be posting anything on here as often... but take a look every now and then just in case.
Thanks for sharing my summer with me!!!!
With all the love in the world,
Bridget
Sunday, July 25, 2010
Connected Ears Unite
This weekend my dad came to visit! It seriously the best weekend I have had in D.C.! Yes, seeing 4 museums and the memorials was a blast, but those were really just the sprinkles on top of the cake. I can't express how good it was to just be able to spend time with my dad. Most all of you who read this know him well.... so I won't blabber on long... but for all of you who do not know him I would recommend getting to know him! I really admire his outlook on life. Ask him how he is and he will 9 times out of 10 respond with "Just Great!" And he means it too. He really embodies Psalm 118:24. "This is the day that the LORD has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it."
Anyway... long story short. I LOVE my dad and I feel sorry for anyone who is not Catherine, Jack, or me because you don't get to have the worlds best dad as your own.
What we do while my dad was here?
Friday: Walked to the church I live in.
Saturday: Air and Space Museum, American History Museum, Holocaust Museum and the Memorials.
Sunday: National Archives and lunch with Austin, Dan, and Courtney.
Lots of waking!!! We had to have walked more than 12 miles over the weekend. Who needs a car when you have 2 feet! It was also above 100 degrees and humid here. We sweat standing still. By the end of the day it looked like we had been swimming!
They put the caution thing by our feet because we are so awesome people have to be careful when they get close.
Minnesota Pride!
Did you know that there were 3 Wright brothers!!!
Thanks for an awesome weekend Dad! It makes me thirsty to come home! 2 more weeks!
<><
Tuesday, July 20, 2010
we ARE the CHURCH
Today I went to Central Union Mission for the morning. While there we helped make beds and fold sheets for the shelter. We also helped fold newsletters they are going to be sending out. The group I was with was AWESOME!!! We finished everything with 45 minutes to spare. Usually I would be FREAKING out at this moment. My JOB is to have work for the participants from 9-3. However, today God really blessed the extra time. The group and I were sitting in a room right off the offices. The participants had the opportunity to hear the testimony of 3 of the men who work at the Mission yesterday. SO, today I asked if anyone wanted to share their testimony. Both of the adult leaders and I shared how God has brought us to this point in our lives. It was so cool! THEN, I asked the youth what made them want to come on this mission trip and what their expectations are for the remainder of the week. One of the youth said that she had signed up for this trip a long time ago, but within the past month really did not want to come. I really appreciated her honesty. One major reason for that was that someone from her church called her mom and told her mom that she was a bad kid. You can tell that stung! She started to tear up just voicing it. This girls honesty led to a sweet conversation. The main center of this convo was a frustration with how people who say they are Christians and go to church every Sunday can be the most hurtful... while at the same time people who are not Christian can be so loving and do so much good even if that is not a part of their creed.
My dear blog reading friends, how often do I judge and deny the right from someone to be loved?
I do it all the time! But, I have no place in doing that. If I say I am a Christian I am saying I am a Christ Follower. Is un-love following Christ's example?
Let's look!
The Woman at the Well in John 4:1-42.
Jesus FIRST reveals himself as the Messiah to a 1.) Samaritan 2.) woman 3.) in the afternoon (aka heat of the day when no one else was at the well). You have 3 cultural no no's right there. BUT Jesus chose to show this woman himself and give her life giving water... the same life giving water he has given us. Should not I also stop my judging and start loving? My challenge for myself is to stop seeing all that I see wrong in people's lives and start loving them where they are at...TODAY!
There are many many GREAT things the church does. But sometimes I forget the greatest commandment. LOVE! Drop everything else I have...everything the "church" tells you to be and do and start being the Church of Christ Example Followers I am called to be a part of. Start to bridge the gap that has caused the youth that was in the group so much pain.
Before I go I just have a few random things:
1.) Dad, I am SOOOOOOO excited for you to come visit this weekend! You are going to take D.C. by storm!
2.) Heather, you make me smile very much! Thank you. I am sorry my letter still hasn't made it to you. WEIRD. I put the same address on it as was on your return address form the letter you sent me. Sorry!!!
3.) All who are reading this... thank you for reading this. I know lots of people write blogs and they can be a hassle to read, but I really do feel loved by the fact that you would take the time out of your day to read about mine.
4.) SHOUT-OUT TO CATHERINE (because I didn't give you a shout-out last time I did this).
Peace, Love, and Lots of Life Learning for me in D.C.
<><
Bridget
My dear blog reading friends, how often do I judge and deny the right from someone to be loved?
I do it all the time! But, I have no place in doing that. If I say I am a Christian I am saying I am a Christ Follower. Is un-love following Christ's example?
Let's look!
The Woman at the Well in John 4:1-42.
Jesus FIRST reveals himself as the Messiah to a 1.) Samaritan 2.) woman 3.) in the afternoon (aka heat of the day when no one else was at the well). You have 3 cultural no no's right there. BUT Jesus chose to show this woman himself and give her life giving water... the same life giving water he has given us. Should not I also stop my judging and start loving? My challenge for myself is to stop seeing all that I see wrong in people's lives and start loving them where they are at...TODAY!
There are many many GREAT things the church does. But sometimes I forget the greatest commandment. LOVE! Drop everything else I have...everything the "church" tells you to be and do and start being the Church of Christ Example Followers I am called to be a part of. Start to bridge the gap that has caused the youth that was in the group so much pain.
Before I go I just have a few random things:
1.) Dad, I am SOOOOOOO excited for you to come visit this weekend! You are going to take D.C. by storm!
2.) Heather, you make me smile very much! Thank you. I am sorry my letter still hasn't made it to you. WEIRD. I put the same address on it as was on your return address form the letter you sent me. Sorry!!!
3.) All who are reading this... thank you for reading this. I know lots of people write blogs and they can be a hassle to read, but I really do feel loved by the fact that you would take the time out of your day to read about mine.
4.) SHOUT-OUT TO CATHERINE (because I didn't give you a shout-out last time I did this).
Peace, Love, and Lots of Life Learning for me in D.C.
<><
Bridget
Thursday, July 8, 2010
BRING IT!
Hello! This is an entry from last week that I just never posted. Enjoy.
This week has been one of the craziest weeks of the summer. The youth and adult leaders have been wonerful, ministry sites were great, and even praking and traffic wasn't bad (which was very unexpected because of it being the week after the 4th).
This week I have been learning a lot about how great God is. There have been a lot of unexpected events this week and yet God is still (and will always be) great!
The real exciting stuff started Tuesday night. We had gotten back from our evening activity (Union Station because it was too hot to go outside for our usual Capitol walk) and had started out nightly worship (we call it Club). Then we got news that the girls bathroom in the basement smelled like gas. In the middle of Club we all had to move outside and 5 fire trucks came. Although it is not cool that we had to call the fire depatment and finish Club outside it actually turned out to be one of my favirite worship experiences of the summer. Austin led us in singing "How Great is Our God"... and our voices rang louder than the fire engines. It was so cool to literally stand on the corner of downtown Washington D.C. and sing about our God! As a bonus, there was no gas leak. False alarm... but better safe than sorry.
On Wednesday I got a lesson in my dependance on the Lord. I got a call from Courtney asking if I had left my computer in our room. I had. I used it to print off directions in for one of the ministry crews in the morning and then put it by my bed like I always do. Long story short, my computer has been stolen... charger included. We still have no idea what happened, but you can't dwell on the 'what ifs' anyway. I am upset that someone would do that. This is my HOME for the summer... and someone chose to violate it. I was at one of our ministry sites when I got the news and had to go to another ministry site across town to check in on another group. During my dirve I couldn't find a good radio station, so I sang any worship song that came to my head. It was an awful sound. I can't sing to save my life, but I don't think Jesus cared. Later on in the day while I was driving home I finally found the Christian radio station... and what was the 1st song that was on... How Great Is Our God! How awesome is that! Yes, He IS Great! I am not going to lie... it really is frustrating that someone stole my computer. But in reality, as much as I REALLY enjoy having my computer and everything on it... I don't NEED it. The only thing I NEED is God... and there is no possible way that anyone can take Him away from me.
------
End of last weeks writing.
------
Fun adventure of this week.
We went to the Monuments on Tuesday instead of our usual Monday because it was raining a little on Monday and the chance of rain on Tuesday was a little less. FALSE! Weather.com LIES! We got poured on. I was just drizzling as we were walking to Lincoln... but nothing bad at all. Fast forward 15 minutes... DOWN POUR! It was AWESOME! It was raining so hard you could not even see the Washington Monument from Abe. Although it was crazy... it was kinda fun too... for real... how many people can say they were caught at the Memorials with a group of 64 youth in a tsunami rain storm. Everything turned our great and everyone was safe.
Oh D.C. how I love thee. You never give us a dull moment.
lovelovelove and a big fat hug.
Thanks for following my blog. I am sorry my entries have not been very frequent.
In His Grip,
Bridget
This week has been one of the craziest weeks of the summer. The youth and adult leaders have been wonerful, ministry sites were great, and even praking and traffic wasn't bad (which was very unexpected because of it being the week after the 4th).
This week I have been learning a lot about how great God is. There have been a lot of unexpected events this week and yet God is still (and will always be) great!
The real exciting stuff started Tuesday night. We had gotten back from our evening activity (Union Station because it was too hot to go outside for our usual Capitol walk) and had started out nightly worship (we call it Club). Then we got news that the girls bathroom in the basement smelled like gas. In the middle of Club we all had to move outside and 5 fire trucks came. Although it is not cool that we had to call the fire depatment and finish Club outside it actually turned out to be one of my favirite worship experiences of the summer. Austin led us in singing "How Great is Our God"... and our voices rang louder than the fire engines. It was so cool to literally stand on the corner of downtown Washington D.C. and sing about our God! As a bonus, there was no gas leak. False alarm... but better safe than sorry.
On Wednesday I got a lesson in my dependance on the Lord. I got a call from Courtney asking if I had left my computer in our room. I had. I used it to print off directions in for one of the ministry crews in the morning and then put it by my bed like I always do. Long story short, my computer has been stolen... charger included. We still have no idea what happened, but you can't dwell on the 'what ifs' anyway. I am upset that someone would do that. This is my HOME for the summer... and someone chose to violate it. I was at one of our ministry sites when I got the news and had to go to another ministry site across town to check in on another group. During my dirve I couldn't find a good radio station, so I sang any worship song that came to my head. It was an awful sound. I can't sing to save my life, but I don't think Jesus cared. Later on in the day while I was driving home I finally found the Christian radio station... and what was the 1st song that was on... How Great Is Our God! How awesome is that! Yes, He IS Great! I am not going to lie... it really is frustrating that someone stole my computer. But in reality, as much as I REALLY enjoy having my computer and everything on it... I don't NEED it. The only thing I NEED is God... and there is no possible way that anyone can take Him away from me.
------
End of last weeks writing.
------
Fun adventure of this week.
We went to the Monuments on Tuesday instead of our usual Monday because it was raining a little on Monday and the chance of rain on Tuesday was a little less. FALSE! Weather.com LIES! We got poured on. I was just drizzling as we were walking to Lincoln... but nothing bad at all. Fast forward 15 minutes... DOWN POUR! It was AWESOME! It was raining so hard you could not even see the Washington Monument from Abe. Although it was crazy... it was kinda fun too... for real... how many people can say they were caught at the Memorials with a group of 64 youth in a tsunami rain storm. Everything turned our great and everyone was safe.
Oh D.C. how I love thee. You never give us a dull moment.
lovelovelove and a big fat hug.
Thanks for following my blog. I am sorry my entries have not been very frequent.
In His Grip,
Bridget
Tuesday, July 6, 2010
Half Way Already?!?
Today marks the 1/2 way mark for the summer. CRAZY!!!!!! I cannot believe it. It feels like we are still just getting started.
I haven't updated you all about any of the ministry sites in awhile. I have 2 favorite ministry sites (this week) so I will tell you a little something about each one.
In no particular order...
Rachael's Woman's Group is a place for women without a home to go during the day. I get so much joy out of going to this ministry site. The staff is SO loving and the women there are teaching me something new each time I go. I am getting better at playing the card game spades and am stretching my creativity with game Scattergories. I am also leaning a lot about giving and gratitude though being able to spend time at Rachael's Woman's Group. The staff there is continually inquiring if there is anything they can do for us as volunteers... even though we are there to serve them. I am learning what true gratitude is from how the women respond to us being there. Every time we leave they are full of blessings, well wishes, and a heartfelt thanks for our time. Although we may just be organizing a closet or playing games they let their appreciation be know. This challenges me to show the same gratitude for the people in my life and the little things they do.
The Chinese Community Church is a summer long VBS program for kids from 2nd-5th grade. A YouthWorks group goes in each week and helps make skits, do crafts, and play games with the kids. Last week was out 1st week helping with their VBS. I am in LOVE with this service site because I get to do what I love doing... playing with children and sharing the good news of Jesus with them. I am having a really hard time articulating my passion for this ministry site... so I won't ramble on any longer. But once again, I love it. I cannot leave that place without a smile on my face and joy in my heart!
I was planning on writing more.... but I am gonna keep it on the short side today and take a nap.
I will try to update again by Sunday. Thanks for following my summer!
<><
I haven't updated you all about any of the ministry sites in awhile. I have 2 favorite ministry sites (this week) so I will tell you a little something about each one.
In no particular order...
Rachael's Woman's Group is a place for women without a home to go during the day. I get so much joy out of going to this ministry site. The staff is SO loving and the women there are teaching me something new each time I go. I am getting better at playing the card game spades and am stretching my creativity with game Scattergories. I am also leaning a lot about giving and gratitude though being able to spend time at Rachael's Woman's Group. The staff there is continually inquiring if there is anything they can do for us as volunteers... even though we are there to serve them. I am learning what true gratitude is from how the women respond to us being there. Every time we leave they are full of blessings, well wishes, and a heartfelt thanks for our time. Although we may just be organizing a closet or playing games they let their appreciation be know. This challenges me to show the same gratitude for the people in my life and the little things they do.
The Chinese Community Church is a summer long VBS program for kids from 2nd-5th grade. A YouthWorks group goes in each week and helps make skits, do crafts, and play games with the kids. Last week was out 1st week helping with their VBS. I am in LOVE with this service site because I get to do what I love doing... playing with children and sharing the good news of Jesus with them. I am having a really hard time articulating my passion for this ministry site... so I won't ramble on any longer. But once again, I love it. I cannot leave that place without a smile on my face and joy in my heart!
I was planning on writing more.... but I am gonna keep it on the short side today and take a nap.
I will try to update again by Sunday. Thanks for following my summer!
<><
Monday, July 5, 2010
4th of July
Sorry I haven't written anything in a week... plus a few days. I will be posting something by mid week this week.
Quick though: As I was watching the fireworks from our housing site yesterday... and I could not help but thank God for our independence... especially the freedoms we all have. I...we... are so blessed to live in this country. I can have a summer job that openly serves the Lord and proclaims His Good News to 60+ youth each week plus the D.C. community. I am able to do this job all without an ounce of fear of persecution... a luxury still not found in MANY countries even today.
Although the last week and the start of this one has been busy and exhausting, I can't help but choose an attitude of JOY. There is nothing that can happen that can take away from Jesus... His life, death, and resurrection, God's grace, and the Holy Spirit's wisdom and guidance. I am FREE!
I am proud to be an American because America allows me to live out my faith with the joy and freedom the Lord has given me in a bold manner.
My challenge for myself now is to take the freedom I am thankful for and do something with it.
Happy Independence Day!
<><
Quick though: As I was watching the fireworks from our housing site yesterday... and I could not help but thank God for our independence... especially the freedoms we all have. I...we... are so blessed to live in this country. I can have a summer job that openly serves the Lord and proclaims His Good News to 60+ youth each week plus the D.C. community. I am able to do this job all without an ounce of fear of persecution... a luxury still not found in MANY countries even today.
Although the last week and the start of this one has been busy and exhausting, I can't help but choose an attitude of JOY. There is nothing that can happen that can take away from Jesus... His life, death, and resurrection, God's grace, and the Holy Spirit's wisdom and guidance. I am FREE!
I am proud to be an American because America allows me to live out my faith with the joy and freedom the Lord has given me in a bold manner.
My challenge for myself now is to take the freedom I am thankful for and do something with it.
Happy Independence Day!
<><
Saturday, June 26, 2010
Doughnuts Anyone?
Reason number one thousand and ONE why I am in love with D.C.
Dan and I went to Dunkin' Donuts tonight at 9:15 and asked if we could take the doughnuts they were going to throw out... and they gave them to us. I have already eaten 2. We think this may just have to become a Saturday night ritual.
In My World
HELLO FRIENDS!
Via Facebook and the lovely letters I have been getting...I have been asked multiple times what a typical YouthWorks week looks like in D.C.
Sunday
Bible Study and Church from 9 to 12:00-ish.
Then we get busy converting the church back into our housing site. This includes hanging posters, setting out tables, getting directions and ministry crew binders ready, making sure the bathrooms are stalked and everything is in its proper place.
At 3:00 we start making the beef for taco dinner on Tuesday. Our oven is too small so it is easter to brown the beef on Sunday and then just have to heat it on Tuesday. Beyond that we also start prepping for dinner.
The participants arrive anytime between 4 and 6.
Everyone gets settled in and we eat dinner (BBQ chicken sandwiches).
Then at 8 we have youth orientation where Austin, Dan, and I make fools out of ourselves as a fun means of presenting the rules and expectations for the week. The adult leaders are in a meeting with Courtney.
Then we have Club which is a time for worship and a message from Austin.
Following Club is church group time. While the particapants are at that we have a staff meeting and go over the next days agenda.
We then hangout some more before lights out at 11:30-ish.
Monday - Thursday
We wake up and eat breakfast at 7:15
Tuesdays I am on breakfast prep so I wake up at 6:20 to get ready before my prep crew comes in to help make the meal. Every staff member has his or her own day to be in charge of breakfast
After breakfast we clean the building.
Devotionals are at 8:15.
We depart for our ministry sites at 9:50.
Each week we split up the participants into 6-7 crews. Each crew goes to their own service site. The staff and I spend the day ministry hopping and problem shooting with any ministry sites that may need extra assistance.
The participants finish at their work sites at 3:00 and go to showers at the near by high school.
Then everyone but the dinner prep crew has free time until 5. I lead dinner prep on Wednesday (cheesy chicken and rice) and Thursday (community cookout leftover heat up... Austin mans the grill).
Dinner is at 5-ish
After dinner we clean up and go to out evening activity.
Evening activities are:
Monday- Memorials and Monuments (Abe, WWII, Korean War, and Vietnam War)
Tuesday- Capitol
Wednesday- Krazy Praise (A worship service lead by youth from the district)
Thursdays is the cookout.
Club starts at 9
Church group time/staff meeting at 10
Lights out at 11 for the participants and we as a staff get breakfast stuff ready for the next morning.
Friday
Wake up at 6:20 to do a massive building clean up and pack the cars.
Say our good byes and get the participants on the road by ideally 9:30.
Then we have a staff meeting about the week as a whole and then go shopping for the next week.
Austin and I go to Costco. We are getting really good. Last week we got in and out of Costco in less than an hour!!!
We get back to the church, unload, do final end of the week stuff, and NAP!!!
We try to finish everything by 3.
We wake up and go somewhere for dinner then come back to the church and go to bed early.
Saturday
SLEEP IN! Take it easy and then usually do something fun in the evening. Saturdays are our days off. We take advantage of not having to do anything!
Repeat!
Not the most exciting blog entry to read... but I hope you have a little better grasp as to what I am doing with my life here in D.C.
<><
Via Facebook and the lovely letters I have been getting...I have been asked multiple times what a typical YouthWorks week looks like in D.C.
Sunday
Bible Study and Church from 9 to 12:00-ish.
Then we get busy converting the church back into our housing site. This includes hanging posters, setting out tables, getting directions and ministry crew binders ready, making sure the bathrooms are stalked and everything is in its proper place.
At 3:00 we start making the beef for taco dinner on Tuesday. Our oven is too small so it is easter to brown the beef on Sunday and then just have to heat it on Tuesday. Beyond that we also start prepping for dinner.
The participants arrive anytime between 4 and 6.
Everyone gets settled in and we eat dinner (BBQ chicken sandwiches).
Then at 8 we have youth orientation where Austin, Dan, and I make fools out of ourselves as a fun means of presenting the rules and expectations for the week. The adult leaders are in a meeting with Courtney.
Then we have Club which is a time for worship and a message from Austin.
Following Club is church group time. While the particapants are at that we have a staff meeting and go over the next days agenda.
We then hangout some more before lights out at 11:30-ish.
Monday - Thursday
We wake up and eat breakfast at 7:15
Tuesdays I am on breakfast prep so I wake up at 6:20 to get ready before my prep crew comes in to help make the meal. Every staff member has his or her own day to be in charge of breakfast
After breakfast we clean the building.
Devotionals are at 8:15.
We depart for our ministry sites at 9:50.
Each week we split up the participants into 6-7 crews. Each crew goes to their own service site. The staff and I spend the day ministry hopping and problem shooting with any ministry sites that may need extra assistance.
The participants finish at their work sites at 3:00 and go to showers at the near by high school.
Then everyone but the dinner prep crew has free time until 5. I lead dinner prep on Wednesday (cheesy chicken and rice) and Thursday (community cookout leftover heat up... Austin mans the grill).
Dinner is at 5-ish
After dinner we clean up and go to out evening activity.
Evening activities are:
Monday- Memorials and Monuments (Abe, WWII, Korean War, and Vietnam War)
Tuesday- Capitol
Wednesday- Krazy Praise (A worship service lead by youth from the district)
Thursdays is the cookout.
Club starts at 9
Church group time/staff meeting at 10
Lights out at 11 for the participants and we as a staff get breakfast stuff ready for the next morning.
Friday
Wake up at 6:20 to do a massive building clean up and pack the cars.
Say our good byes and get the participants on the road by ideally 9:30.
Then we have a staff meeting about the week as a whole and then go shopping for the next week.
Austin and I go to Costco. We are getting really good. Last week we got in and out of Costco in less than an hour!!!
We get back to the church, unload, do final end of the week stuff, and NAP!!!
We try to finish everything by 3.
We wake up and go somewhere for dinner then come back to the church and go to bed early.
Saturday
SLEEP IN! Take it easy and then usually do something fun in the evening. Saturdays are our days off. We take advantage of not having to do anything!
Repeat!
Not the most exciting blog entry to read... but I hope you have a little better grasp as to what I am doing with my life here in D.C.
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Tuesday, June 22, 2010
Let's Do 72!
My D.C. Staff Team: Austin, Me, Dan (with lens-less 3D glasses he found in a park), and Courtney. Welcome to our largest week of the summer. We have 72 participants here this week... all from one church. This week has been a healthy D.C. mix of craziness, hard work, and grace!
The craziness can be seen just by the sheer fact that there are 72 participants in a building that is best fit for 60 or less. We have people crammed in to sleeping rooms. I am sure it is against some fire code, but just don't tell anyone. I also never knew 72 people could eat so much and so fast. I feel like there is always someone in the kitchen during dinner just cutting more lettuce.
Amongst the craziness there is also a LOT of hard work going on. I love this group for many reasons.. one of them being their deep desire to serve. They are constantly asking the staff if there is anything else they can be helping with... even after a long day of serving the D.C. community. It is such a blessing. We as a staff could not do this week without their servant hearts.
Lastly, with 72 people a lot of grace is needed. We are unable to do anything as quickly as desired. There are more dishes, more cars in the caravans, more people getting ready in the bathrooms, etc. The adult leaders have been so patient with us as we try to get everyone where they should be. I am so grateful!
The challenge of this week is getting to know that youth and adult leaders. Because they are all from one group I am unable to break them down into smaller more manageable clusters of people to get to know. I am tying... however there is a lot of "Molly, right?" "No, I'm Sarah" "AHH! I totally knew that." Again, lots of grace has been given this week.
I'll keep it on the short-ish side today. Thank you for following my summer. Feel free to shoot me an email, phone call, Facebook message, or letter updating me on your life.
Prayer Requests: For my continued devotion to doing the Lord's work and not getting sucked into the routine of the summer... but to earnestly seek Him and serve Him everyday. Thanks!
Love you all!!!!
In His Grip,
Bridget Ila
Saturday, June 19, 2010
Smile...it's picture time!
Here are some pictures for you:
Playing Ninja with some of the youth in front of the Capitol:
I am in the gray on the right.
Saturday walk to The Mall
Art on the side of the road:
Dan asking Lauren (our area director) if we can get a dog:
D.C. Sunset:
Oh Hey Abe:
WWII Memorial:
My allegiance:
Sunset looking out from the Washington Monument:
Yes, I am a tourist... I had to:
Washington Monument:
Hope you enjoyed them. It was fun to have a relaxing Saturday enjoying our Nation's Capitol.
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Playing Ninja with some of the youth in front of the Capitol:
I am in the gray on the right.
Saturday walk to The Mall
Art on the side of the road:
Dan asking Lauren (our area director) if we can get a dog:
D.C. Sunset:
Oh Hey Abe:
WWII Memorial:
My allegiance:
Sunset looking out from the Washington Monument:
Yes, I am a tourist... I had to:
Washington Monument:
Hope you enjoyed them. It was fun to have a relaxing Saturday enjoying our Nation's Capitol.
<><
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