10 Things

My roommate, Alex, and I used to have a certain tradition: Every day after chapel on the way to lunch, we would compile a list of ten blessings or things we were thankful for that were going to happen that day. I have found myself continuing this tradition even after college and moving to Australia. So, here is my list of 10 Things from the last 2 weeks.

10 Things.

1. Superbowl Parties: I am so thankful that American football spans the globe and the Superbowl was broadcast on Monday morning LIVE. We didn't get all the commercials but it was still a great way to spend time with some of my favorite Americans and Aussies.

2. Cool Breezes: the last few days the weather has been amazing and cool. We have had a break from the hot, humid days.

3. Skype and Facebook: I literally thank God for these two things quite often, because they have enabled me to stay in touch with everyone while I am gone.

4. Thelma: Thelma is this great lady, who goes to Gosford. I get the opportunity to visit her every other week or so. I sometimes take some of the TREK jr. girls with me, but no matter who goes we always end up playing Scrabble!

5. Jamie and Sammie: I cannot express how grateful I am to have two other HIM workers living so close. We just enjoy being together, and we are able to lean on each in so many ways.

6. Tutoring: This week, I started volunteering at a primary school on Thursdays for an hour. I get to help in a kindergarten class doing math groups. I have really been missing teaching lately, so I jumped at this opportunity.

7. Sisterhood: Sisterhood is a bible study with a group of young adult women that meets every other Thursday in Sydney. Even though it is quite a drive for just a few hours, I always leave feeling more encouraged and uplifted.

8. My Car: The starter went out in my car the week before last, and didn't have my car for a week! Not having a car was so hard for my independent self, but I survived with the help of so many friends how gave rides and loaned their cars.

9. Wednesday Nights: I love going to TREK Youth on Wednesday nights. I love getting to just hang out with the teens, while at the same time show them more about God. Afterwards, we all head to Maccas for McFellowship.

10. Packages from home: I have been so spoiled lately with amazing packages and presents from home! Never underestimate the power of receiving something from your home country--it's a great feeling! I am so blessed to have such a fabulous support system.

Watching the Superbowl.

The awesome decorations at our party. I was going for the Colts!

Dan showing off the awesome football plates sent over by my amazing Mom.

Traditional Velveeta and Rotel queso, courtesy again of J. Gray Sr.

I'll Tell You What I Want, What I Really, Really Want

There is no better way to go back to school than with a great scavenger hunt with your best buddies. Which, is what TREK youth did last Sunday afternoon to kick-off the school year. We broke into five teams of 4-7 people to get started.
We had two hours to complete as many tasks as possible. Amanda Edginton and I lead a team of girls: Sara (13), Emma (13), and Amber (19). The first challenge we did was to come up with a team song/chant. Since we had five girls, we decided we definitely should do a Spice Girls song. And, you can’t sing Spice Girls without costumes! (The hilarious video is at the bottom.) We were having such a great time singing, that we barely had time for the rest of our challenges. But, we did manage to roll down a hill (without throwing up), spell out a word with our bodies, go to the beach, re-enact a commercial, and take a picture with a policeman, all the while laughing hysterically. We met up with the other teams at the ministry centre after we reached our time limit. We all had pizza for dinner, and hung out for a little longer. We found out the following Wednesday that we tied for 2nd place!!! Not to shabby for five fabulous girls with a lot of attitude.

Challenge: Take a picture at the top of the Scillion at Terrigal.

Check.

Challenge: Take a picture with someone from church doing something hilarious.

Check. Definitley Check.

Not a challenge. Just a cute photo of two cute girls!

Challenge: Take a picture of someone in a costume.

Check.
We ARE the Spice Girls.

Challenge: Create a team song or chant to show your superiority over the other teams.

Check, duh.