Jenny In Aussie Land

Something Deeper

2011-05-19T01:03:00.000-07:00

After months of prayers, texts, meetings, preparation, and facebook messages, the second annual Deeper Retreat finally got underway last Friday night. Twenty-four women (that's 10 more than last year!), ages 18-30ish from Sydney, Newcastle, Gosford, and Oklahoma gathered in Casuarina Lodge of Point Wolstoncroft Sport and Recreation Centre because they were thirsty and hungry. They were thirsty for a deeper relationship with God, hungry for a deeper understanding of who they were are and who God is. Though they were different ages, from different cities or countries, went to different churches, they still had these desires in common. Friday night was about getting to know each other. Anne organized a great game where everyone got a piece of a puzzle with a different symbol on the back. We started the game by finding someone with something in common with us (same shoe size, eye color, birth year, etc.), and then we'd ask them the question that corresponded with our symbol. It was so fun to find out new things about each other. After the game, we had supper and Tiffany Buck (one of the HIM workers from Campbelltown) did an awesome devo about the Holy Spirit dwelling in us, and how that is such a blessing. After the devo, we got into groups based on the symbol on the back of the puzzle piece. These groups, we discovered, were our prayer groups, which we spent time in that evening sharing and praying. We finished off the rest of the night playing Nertz and writing notes for each other's blessing boxes.

Saturday morning started bright and early with brekky and a devo. Jamie Canham (a former Sydney HIM worker who is here visiting on a holiday! Such a blessing to share this time with her!) talked about having emergency phone numbers in the Bible. She was referring to those Scriptures we can always turn to when we feel dry or empty that can rejuvenate us. The rest of the morning and early afternoon we spent listening to our guest speaker, Ronya Johnson. Ronya is an American married to an Aussie from Brisbane, Queensland. She and her husband have been working there for 10 years with a church in various ministries. I met Ronya at a few camps last year and knew she would be a perfect fit to speak at Deeper. Ronya talked about using our S.H.A.P.E. (Spiritual gifts, Heart, Abilities, Personality, and Experiences) to determine God's purpose for our lives. We focused on the fact that God didn't make us unique so we could all do the same job, but that he made us all different for different purposes. We spent time in Judges 6 looking at Gideon as he tried to come to terms with God's purpose for his life. Ronya used lots of interactive activities, personal stories, and Scripture to help us discover our S.H.A.P.E. Even now, after being away from camp for a few days, I am still mulling over the things she stirred up in my heart, and I'll be processing them for awhile!

Saturday afternoon, after Ronya's final session, we had a prayer walk out to the Point of Lake Macquarie, which surrounds our camp site. We were randomly paired up and given a third person to pray for on the way to the Point and a person to pray for on the way back. My prayer partner was Marcelle. We had a wonderful time of prayer for our two girls, as well as got to spend time chatting and catching up as we walked the 3 kms there and 3 kms back. Everyone enjoyed the prayer walk so much that it was dark by the time we all made it back for dinner. After dinner, we had another devo by Amanda (from Gosford). She talked about the Israelites crossing the Jordan River before going into Jericho. We spent the rest of the evening having supper, playing cards, praying in our prayer groups, writing cards, and laughing until the early morning hours.

I woke up nervous on Sunday morning. Amber and I were responsible for leading worship, and I wasn't exactly sure how to get across all the things I wanted to say. We set up the room with chairs in groups of four. The girls were asked to come into worship quietly to prepare their minds and to sit in their prayer groups. Worship was in the form of a prayer concert, similar to what we did last year. We looked at the acronym D.E.E.P., focusing on the words Discipleship, Equip, Energy, and Perseverance. We read Scriptures and sang songs (led by one of the STAMP students, Sarah) about each of those words. After the songs and readings about each word, we asked the girls to pray either silently or as a group about the particular word. One of my favorite things about doing worship in this interactive way is hearing all the groups praying out loud at the same time and knowing that God can hear all of those prayers. I was responsible for the words equip and energy, and as usual it didn't matter what I had prepared to say about them. God took over as soon as I opened my mouth and gave me the words He wanted me to say. At the end of the prayer concert, I transitioned D.E.E.P. into the Lord's Supper. After the prayer for the bread was said, each group was given unleavened bread (homemade and so yummy!). We asked for each girl to share what the bread meant to her with the rest of the group. Then, each girl was supposed to tear off a piece of the bread for the girl beside her to eat, until everyone in the group had spoken and been given the bread. We repeated this process with the cup. Because Amber and I were leading worship and not sitting with our prayer groups, we did the Communion process by ourselves, which was so special! I love hearing how other people connect with God during this time each week and also getting their slightly different perspective on it. Communion was definitely the highlight of the weekend for me!

After worship, we headed back to the lodge for lunch and to pack up to go home. Everyone was gone by 3:30 pm when I pulled away. Watching Lake Macquarie slowly disappear in my rear view mirror was very bittersweet. Organizing this whole retreat and facilitating worship times for other women of God is such an adrenaline rush; it's like my drug. When I am doing a Communion talk or praying out loud with other girls, I just feel like I am doing exactly what I am good at, exactly what God made me to do. Thinking about not being here for Deeper 2012 and knowing that I won't be in full-time ministry position when I get home is pretty heart-wrenching. Yet, I have faith. I have faith that Deeper will continue without me, because it was never about me or one person. It was about young adult women from churches all over New South Wales being recharged and stretched in their relationship with God. Every girl is an active part of this retreat and they all love this weekend of renewal this year. They need this weekend of renewal each year, so I have faith it will keep going. God used this weekend to teach all of us about Himself and about ourselves; I have faith that He is not done with Deeper yet.

Typical picture of Amber and I.

Tiffany's devo on Friday night.

Our Lodge

Prayer Concert at Worship on Sunday.

The whole group (minus Margaret our fabulous cook) on the prayer walk in front of Lake Macquarie.

Amber and I leading worship/prayer concert on Sunday morning.

Marcelle and I on our prayer walk to the Point.

Jamie and Jenny: reunited

Some of the Deeper Girls

Undeniable

2011-04-30T05:27:00.000-07:00

"For since the creation of the world God's invisible qualities--his eternal power and his divine nature--have been clearly seen, being understood from what has been made, so that people are without excuse."

-Romans 1:20-

I have never really had trouble accepting that God existed or that He created the world. After driving along the Great Ocean Road, it is undeniable and irrefutable that God exists. Seeing rock formations molded by rain and wind, hearing the waves crash against them, and feeling the gentle breeze with a hint of rain--how could you not believe?

I was blessed to take a little 2 days excursion to the Great Ocean Road as part of my Easter (working) holidays. The Great Ocean Road is a coastal drive along the bottom of the state of Victoria, along Bass Strait. Amber, Anne, and I decided to drive the stretch of road between Port Fairy to Torquay. We made the 12ish hour drive to Melbourne on Monday. After a great Drew family dinner, we headed out on our adventure on Tuesday. We decided to go inland to Port Fairy, and then drive the along the coast on the way back to Melbourne. Here is just a brief look at our journey. Check out good ole FB for more photos.

Driving: Driving inland in Victoria looks surprising like driving through Oklahoma! We drove through pastures full of cattle and sheep on semi-paved roads with no lines. It's the flattest part of Australia I have seen yet. We spent most of the first day on roads like this, but I didn't mind because it felt a little like home.

Stop #1: Port Fairy

We finally made it to Port Fairy late Tuesday night. It's a lovely little village with a great main street of boutique shops. We took a walk around the port and saw a great lighthouse. That night we drove about 20 more minutes along the road to stay in a caravan park (like a camp ground) in Warnambol.

Stop #2: London Bridge Rock Formation in Port Campbell National Park

We checked out of our cabin at 8:30 am in the morning, drove an hour and a half to Port Campbell National Park. Our first stop of the day was London Bridge rock formation. Because we got there early-ish and no other tourists were there yet, we were able to enjoy this amazing site in the peace and quiet.

Stop #3: Loch Ard Gorge in Port Campbell National Park

The second stop in Port Campbell National Park was the Loch Ard Gorge. There were lots of walks around the gorge to see different rock formations, including one called the Razorback! (because I am learning to be an Arkansas fan, I had to take a picture of it and try to appreciate it). We were also able to go down stairs to stand on the beach, which made me realize how huge it really is.

Amber and I in front of Loch Ard Gorge.

Stop #4: Twelve Apostles in Port Campbell National Park

The most famous site on the Great Ocean Road is the Twelve Apostles, even though there aren't really twelve any more. There are only about 8 that are still visible, because the others have erroded away or fallen into the sea. This is probably the most commercialized site and with tons of people, but that couldn't diminish how gorgeous it was.

Stop #5: Lorne

The town of Lorne was our final stop on the Great Ocean Road. It's a pretty big town with lots of great little bakeries, which is where we had a late lunch. From Lorne back to Torquay, you can see the ocean right along the road. It's very curvy and turny drive, but the sights are literally breathtaking. This sign signifies the end of the Great Ocean Road.

On our drive back to the big city of Melbourne, I couldn't stop thinking of that Romans verse. The views I saw on this 2-day drive did not happen by accident or a big bang. God, our Creator, spoke them into being. Whenever I get a little bit complacement about God's power and divine nature, all I have to do is think back to the Great Ocean Road to remember his irrefutable Presence.

Just a little bit behind...

2011-04-06T05:35:00.001-07:00

It's been over a month since I last blogged. I promise I have some good excuses....

Excuse #1: My bestie came to visit! You can't waste time blogging when there is junk food to be eaten, wedding magazines to be poured over, movies to be watched, stories to be laughed at and conversations to be caught up on.

Excuse #2: I had to go to Canberra. Three days after Alex left, Deb Brown (left to right) took Anne, Elisha (her daughter, me, and Lindsey for a 48 hour whirlwind tour of Australia's capital city.

Excuse #3: I had to help through Mini Mow and his/her mum, Mel, a baby shower with these lovely fellow hostesses (from left): Tammy, Me, Elisha, Mel (Mum to be), Caitlyn, and Kylie.

Excuse #4: I had to go to my first footy match, Australian Rules Football that is. Amber's hometown team, the Essendon Bombers were playing the Sydney Swans so I had to go and show my support. Excuse #5: I had to work on Holiday Bible School (like VBS), which is slightly dominating my life. I am responsible for the craft center and this only about half of the supplies I need to gather before Monday when it starts.

See? I really had a lot of hard work and, okay, some fun things too, to keep me busy. Am I off the hook yet? I promise (as I have numerous times) to try my hardest to go back to being a (semi?) regular blogger. My sincerest and deepest apologies, dear readers.

Small Town Kid

2011-03-04T05:13:00.000-08:00

My whole life I have wanted to live in a small town. I blame it on the fact that I grew up visiting my grandparents in their sleepy little town of 1,500 people. A place filled more cows than humans and getting to the nearest mall takes half an hour. Visits to Apache, OK coupled with my early indoctrination of country music and my love of trucks, living where there were wide open spaces and less people seemed ideal to me.
But, I did not grow up in a small town. Not even close. As of last year, the population of my hometown of Arlington, Texas was 380,000 people. I grew up in a place where shopping centers pop up overnight, and you sit in traffic from 3-7 pm everyday. High schools have 4,000 kids, and there is a Sonic on every corner.
Oddly, it took me moving to Australia to get my taste of small town living. Though the population of Gosford is 160,000 people, it still feels like a little community. The sidewalks practically roll up around 6 pm every day, and nothing is open later than that besides McDonald's and the grocery store. I can't go to the shopping center by our Ministry Centre without running into at least one member of our church or someone I know from the community.
And I love it! I love that I ran into a lady I volunteer with at the soup kitchen a few weeks ago and she already knew that I was engaged before I could tell her. I love that the Wednesday night Macca's crew knows Gosford church is coming after mid-week study. I love that everyone has bumper stickers boasting the new Central Coast footy team (rugby) on their cars. I love that I can see trees, mountains, and a bay on my drive to work. I love that the guy at subway knows my regular order. Though there are times when I would kill for a 24 hour Wal-mart or only a 20 minute drive to the airport (opposed to the hour and half it takes me), I wouldn't give up my two year stint as a small town kid for anything.

Melbourne Mish

2011-01-30T22:08:00.000-08:00

I never know how to explain or tell you about some of the things I get to experience in Australia. My words seem insufficient to capture the moments of pure joy, the moments when frustration almost leads you to knocking someone out, the moments when the work of the Spirit is tangible. I will attempt to share with you about the amazing week our teens spent in Melbourne, working with the Belmore Road congregation...through some photos and a top 10 list, of course.

10 Best Moments of Melbourne Mish

1. Open Mic Night: We do Open Mic nights in Gosford and have a lot of success with them being outreach activites. We did one on the last night in Melbourne, and it was awesmoe. So many people volunteered to perform. We even had 2 guys from the community, that some our teens met in a train station, come and perform. My favorite acts were Amber playing acoustic guitar karokee and Laura and Evan singing 4 chord songs.

2. Growth: one of the highlights of my week was watching our Gosford teens step up and serve. There was little to no complaining about the work we were asked to do. Through leading prayers and devos, I was so blown away by the maturity of these 13-17 year olds. I'm so proud of them.

3. Kids Korner: we did a play group for any kids in the congregation the last day we were in Melbourne. The kids were awesome and really cute. Our teens planned the whole activity and interacted with the kids so well. Plus, I got my teaching fix for a few more days. 4. Tuesday Night: We. along with all the Belmore Rd youth, were invited to the Carpenter's house on Tuesday night for a pancake supper! We had American lemonade and delicious chocolate chip pancakes with strawberries! Unbelievable. After dinner and a couple of rounds of Apples to Apples, the whole gang headed down to Brighton Beach. We spent a few hours playing ultimate frisbee on the beach with downtown Melbourne in the background. Before we left, we sat on the beach and praised God in song, with waves crashing in the background and the sky painted red.

5. Sharing a room with the Crazies: The housing situation worked out for Amber, Anne, and I to all share a room at the Drews house for the week. We had such a good time, and definitely did not get enough sleep. Without these two, I would not have made it!6. Hanging Out: With the busyness of the holidays, it seems like forever since I got to hang out and catch up with a few members of our youth group. This trip was a great way to rekindle and strenghen relationships inside our group, and with friends who live in Melbourne.

7. Church Picnic: On Sunday following worship, we had a church picnic at a local park. We had a great time sharing a meal and spending time with the congregation. The best part was the youngies (under 18s) vs. oldies (over 18s) tug of war competition. Sadly, the youngies had youth on their side and beat us 2-1.

8. Gardening: We did more gardening that week in Melbourne than I have done in the last 5 years. Even though mowing lawns and weeding flower beds isn't my idea of fun, it was still one of my highlights because everyone had such a great attitude while were doing it. Each person found a project or task and worked so hard that we finished so quickly. 9. The Bus: We crowded 14 people into our 14 passenger bus for the 12 hour drive to Melbourne. You better believe that we were riding three across in the front seat. Then we spent a week driving around the greater Melbourne area in it...lots and lots of bus time. Even though it's a little bit uncomfortable, it was also the sight of so many hilarious moments, like Tim singing Mika songs (yes, he can hit those high notes) and nerf gun attacks. 10. Sister Sara: On the Thursday of the mission trip, Sara (15 years old) called me outside and said she needed to talk about something. I was a little bit nervous because we had had a pretty emotional girls' devo the night before. When I went outside, she told Amber and me that she had decided to be baptized on Sunday when we got home!!! I have been studying with Sara for about a year, and it was so exciting to watch her die to her old life and be raised as a new creation on Sunday. God's timing is always perfect!
Looking back over this list, it is a poor representation of everything that happened that week. It's just a glimpse of an awesome experience where God worked on us and through us. Melbourne Mish is definitely one of the highlights of my time in Australia.

Tell Me A Story...

2011-01-06T05:54:00.001-08:00

Because international candlelightings are hard to plan on short notice and in an effort to fill everyone in on THE Story of the Century, I thought I'd blog about the details of January 4, 2011--the day I got my bling bling and a great fiance too!

Alex arrived in Australia on December 31st to spend 12 glorious days. Before he got here, I had myself convinced that there was no way he was going to propose. Since he had been here, he kept making comments about how we weren't getting married for 2 years and tried to pull me into every jewelry store in the mall to look at rings. He tricked me. He's in PR, so he's pretty good at "stretching" the truth.
Tuesday, January 4th was a normal great day. Alex and I had a double date with some of our great Aussie friends, Laura and Cristiaen Van Der Meulen, which ended in a giant nerf war (awesome double date activity, by the way). Laura and Cristiaen left my apartment about 10:30 pm and Alex said we should go sit out on my jetty (dock) and watch the boats in the dark. I didn't really want to go because it was chilly and I was tired from play nerf guns, but I agreed anyway. We were sitting on the dock talking about our New Year's Resolutions, individually and as a couple. Then, we started slow dancing, still talking about life, having a nice romantic moment. Before I know it, Alex has pulled away from me and is down on one knee!! He said a bunch of really sweet things, none of which I can remember, and all the while I am thinking, "I can't belive he is ruining this great moment with an engagement fake out." Though he claims otherwise, he has faked me out before. All I can say is "Are you serious?? Alex, is this real? That is really not funny!" (I always thought I wouldn't be one of "those" girls who says "are you serious?" but I definitley was! It's impossible not to say it.) After asking if he was serious about 7 more times and seeing him pull out this gorgeous ring, I knew it was for real. I did finally say, "Yes!" and he promised to be an amazing husband, a spiritual leader, and to love me until the day he dies. Sigh. It was like heaven, just the two of us sitting on the dock, starting our lives together--it was perfect. So there's my sweet little story about love! (that's a shout out for you Jill Nichols)

The Ring: Taking a good picture of a ring is really hard, which I'm sure some of you know. So there aren't any good close up ones yet, but you get the idea from these pics. The middle diamond and its setting are from Alex's Grandmother's wedding ring, so it's over 65 years old! He took her diamond and put it on my band. I feel so honored to have such a precious piece of our family's heritage.

The Plan: no dates have been set yet. I will be in Australia until mid-June like I already committed, then I'll be moving back to Edmond. The earliest we would get married would be in October, but nothing is concrete yet. Just letting everything sink in. I'll keep you posted!

THE spot where he got down on one knee

Just a little bit excited!!!!

MFEO

Did you know the Griswold's lived in Australia??

2010-12-08T18:43:00.000-08:00

I can't believe that Christmas is two and half weeks away! And despite the 85 degree weather and tank tops, I am trying to get in the spirit. Last Saturday night, I put on my favorite Christmas movie, White Christmas, and did my favorite Christmas activity, put up my tree. The beauty of being a HIM worker is that you get lots of hand-me-downs. Case in point, my leaning Christmas tree with random decorations, which I inherited from former HIM Workers Jamie and Sammie. It's a modge podge of old baubles and colored lights, but I love it anyway.

The leaning tree of Pisa.

My favorite Christmas decoration. It didn't make the top of the tree this year, but it wouldn't be Christmas without Alex's 7th grade face smiling at me.

Christmas lights are not as common as they are in the States, but they starting to take off in Australia, and especially on the Central Coast.A local radio station does a contest each year for the best decorated house. (A group of young adults from church will go check out the best ones on Christmas Eve.) Somehow, I don't think this one is going to win...

The Aussie Griswolds

I hope you are having a great holiday season!

Beyond Blessed

2010-12-04T03:49:00.001-08:00

I have experienced my second Thanksgiving in Australia, and it was even better than my first one. In my family before you can eat Thanksgiving dinner, you have to say what you are thankful for (or read your thankful acrostic if my Grandma is in charge of the festivities). This is what I would have said if I would have been standing in that circle among the Jackson Family:

I am thankful for other HIM workers like Anne and Joe and Tiffany Buck who I can share American holidays and all the other crazy things that come our way on this adventure.

I am thankful for my Australian family and friends who love and accept me, even my weirdo American ways.

I am thankful for a great HIM supervisor who let me take a day off in the middle of the week to celebrate.

I am thankful for those people who have gone before me in working for the Lord in Australia.
I am thankful for skype, which allowed me to talk to my entire extended family on Thanksgiving Day, including my 78 year old grandma and my 6 month old niece.

I am thankful for the Sydney Blue Sox and the Australian Baseball League, who provide a little slice of home for me.

I am thankful for old friends who know me and know I need extra encouragement when I am away from home on my favorite holiday.

I am thankful for my family, who love me unconditionally and support me. If they didn't believe in me, I couldn't be here.

I am thankful for my great boyfriend who just gets me and doesn't give up on me, despite the 15,000 miles that separate us.

I am thankful for the way God works and His timing that has brought me to this point in my life.

I am thankful for the church that unites people of different countries, languages, and backgrounds.

I am thankful for God for being a faithful father; for Jesus for being the perfect example and sacrifice; and for the Spirit for guiding me daily.

My first (of many) Sydney Blue Sox games. Watching live baseball is good for the soul.

Thanksgiving feast with the Bucks.
Anne, Tiffany, and I enjoying some good ole sweet tea on Thanksgiving Day.
We tricked Jude into taking a picture with us!

Cornicopia of Goodness

2010-11-17T05:40:00.001-08:00

Bring on Thanksgiving! I am now officially ready to celebrate my favorite holiday after coming home to a lovely brown box from Arlington, Texas sitting on my doorstep. I was giddy as I ripped open the box to find my treasures. Nestled against about 20 snack size boxes of Hot Tamales were the Thanksgiving must-haves you cannot get in Australia: cornbread mix, stuffing mix, and french fried onions. Yummy! Oh how I missed cornbread! The box also included a Texas Rangers American League Champions t-shirt (finally!), an order from Gap (despite what they say, I don't really think they ship internationally...), a new necklace (my mom has good taste), a Texas shaped cookie cutter (gotta represent), and a note scrawled by my Grandma Jackson. It was like heaven. THANK YOU, THANK YOU JGray Sr and Slick, you are way too good to me and I love you so much!

Beyonce and Kelly

2010-11-15T02:45:00.000-08:00

My good mate (no, I am not Australian enough to say it, but I can type it), Amber Drew, turned the big 2-0 two weeks ago. Though I am late, I still wanted to comemorate her day of birth (in 1990! she is such a baby) with a list of 20 things I love about her!

What I Love About Amber Drew:

1. She loves the Ninja Turtles more than anything else.

2. She practically lives at my flat.

3. She would marry Jack Johnson in a heartbeat.

4. Her family talks about poo and farts at the dinner table.

5. She has seen a grand total of five movies in her life: Shrek, The Mask, Mean Girls, Baby Mama, and Into the Wild (I'm working in this one, don't worry).

6. She moved 12 hours away from her family and home to do STAMP (Short Term Australian Missions Program) and learn more about God and serving others.

7. She has been to the great state of Texas, and knows the beauty that is Sonic.

8. She lets me tag along on family holidays to Tasmania.

9. She has a small crush on Tina Fey, and can't stop quoting her movies.

10. She is a talented guitar player.

11. She rides shot gun in my car, and is starting to like Lady Antebellum.

12. She hates to make decisions...about anything.

13. Her guilty pleasure is Destiny's Child.

14. She is a great listener, but also tells me when I need to get over something.

15. She challenges me to be a better person and to live more like JC.

16. She is a proud owner of Toms Shoes.

17. She dreams big in terms of what the Kingdom can and will do in Australia.

18. She makes a mean lasagna.

19. She forces me to experience Australian traditions like ANZAC Day Dawn Services.

20. She keeps me up all night long laughing so hard, I almost cry.

My favorite moments with Amba:
Amber's parents and she stayed at my house when they were visiting Amber in June. We had so much fun sharing my flat and seeing the sights on the Central Coast.

We do this everyday.

Beyonce and Kelly

Driving two hours to Campbelltown and two hours back in one night.
My first rugby game, supporting the Sydney Roosters.

Going to a million camps together.

Freezing our tushies at the Mariners Game.

Still Learning

2010-11-04T06:30:00.001-07:00

"Miss Jenny, I need a rubber!"
I heard this phrase today while helping with first grade math groups at a local primary school. My first thought was, "WHAT?!?!" Then, I remembered that Australians call pencil erasers rubbers, and I breathed a sigh of relief. Although I've been living in Australia for over a year and am pretty fluent in Aussie-talk, sometimes I get caught off guard. Living in a different culture is definitely a learning process, and no one ever has it all figured out. Thanks to my six little first grade angels for reminding me of that today.

I used to really resent baseball...

2010-10-24T03:17:00.000-07:00

I used to really resent baseball. For years I hated being dragged to Little League batting practices and all day Saturday select tournaments. In fact, I thought it was a special brand of punishment that my dad and brother cooked up to torture me.

But, my dad loves baseball. He only loves two things more: God and our family. Not only does he love baseball in general, but he especially loves the Texas Rangers. My dad has been there from the beginning, cheering them on in the good years and supporting them in the lean years. No matter what kind of season they were having, he is there.

I used to really only go to Texas Rangers games to humor my dad. He taught me about the rules, the players, and the history, and eventually I became a true fan. I actually wanted to go to games and pay attention to what was going on. I started reading the sports page and voting for players for the All-Star game. I even worked for the Texas Rangers for two summers while I was in college. Even though my job taking tolls wasn't glamorous, I still loved it because I got to work for my favorite team.
When the Texas Rangers made history by winning the American League Championship Friday night, there was only person I wanted to talk to. There was only one person who could completely share my excitment and pride. There is only one person who understood the significance of the moment: My dad. Even though we are separated by miles and miles of ocean, we are brought together by our love for a game and a team.

My dad and I at a baseball game. One of my favorite ways to spend a summer night.

After Birkley's first Texas Ranger game. Please notice her bow and shirt.

He's learning to love them.

At Spring Training in Surprise, Arizona in March 2009. I met Josh Hamilton and he autographed my shirt! He loves God and he's my favorite player.

As the World Series approaches, there is only one thing left to say:

LET'S GO RANGERS!!!!!

Shine

2010-10-17T00:47:00.001-07:00

This weekend Gosford Church of Christ had their annual family camp for members of ages called R Cubed (Revive, Renew, Recharge). Most churches in Australia have a weekend retreat for their whole congregation each year,which I think is a great idea. I was part of the planning committee for this camp and really wanted to help create an uplifting weekend of fellowship and study. The weekend started off a little bit rocky with a tire blow-out on the freeway while Anne, Amber, Sara, and I were driving to camp. Did I mention we were in a bus with the groceries to feed 70 people for an entire weekend? So, we were very excited to see the NRMA man (Like AAA) when he showed up to change the tire.

Faces of joy that our hour long wait on the side of the road is over.

Friday night was pretty low-key. It started with lots of people meeting at McDonalds for McFellowship before driving the rest of the way to camp. Once we got there, we get things set up and settled before having a devo to introduce the weekend theme of "Shining Like Stars." The night finished up with a massive game of Paper Chinese Whispers (which is like playing telephone but you draw pictures and write sentences).

Saturday was super busy! We had classes for all ages in the morning after breakfast and a devo. Hannah and I taught ten kids ranging in ages from 3-11 years! It was slightly crazy, but we lived and I think the kids learned what it means to shine like stars in the process. Right after lunch, we spent an hour teaching the congregation 4 new songs: "Mighty to Save," "Magnificat," "Ancient Words," and "Above All." People spent the rest of the afternoon playing ultimate frisbee, rock climbing, riding bikes around the lake, chatting, writing encouraging notes, and doing crafts. We were supposed to have a canoe race, but it was too windy and cold. The evening activity was playing BUNKO, which the Aussies had never heard of. Once everyone understood the rules and got the gist of the game, they were yelling out "BUNKO!" like they were veterans. Saturday ended with a great devo and s'mores around the campfire.

The whole camp playing BUNKO. The teens loving BUNKO.

Singing around the campfire.

Sunday morning began with an early morning prayer session and devo at 6:30 am. We originally planned to have a sunrise devo by the lake to focus on Jesus's resurrection, but because of the cold temperatures, we went with plan B. We had our regular time of worship at 9:30 am. A few of our older members who couldn't come to camp for the weekend came for worship and the barbeque afterwards. We also had an congregational meeting with the elders and kicked off our new small group program on Sunday. After cleaning and packing up and dealing with a dead battery on the bus (talk about a bad car weekend), we finally made it back to the Central Coast around 4:30 pm.

Even though R Cubed was exhausting with all the planning and organizing, it was such an awesome weekend. Not only did we spend time studying Philippians 2:14-16 and learning how to shine like stars, but we also got to spend lots of time in fellowship. Long talks were shared over cups of tea and relationships were taken to different levels. After weekends like this, I realize how much I love this church family and how sad I will be to say goodbye to it.

Gosford Church at R Cubed

Do everything without grumbling or arguing, so that you may become blameless and pure children of God without fault in a warped and crooked generation. Then you will shine among them like stars in the sky...

-Philippians 2:14-16-

a nerf gun definitely makes camp more fun.
Lindsey and Mel

Amber and I (and Doug) about to watch the kids' play

Southern Voice

2010-09-22T06:22:00.000-07:00

This is who I hung out with last night...

Tim McGraw and the Dance Hall Doctors!

Tim McGraw brought his Southern Voice Tour to Australia this week. Luckily, I have friends who know my love for country music and keep an eye on the local music scene for me (Thanks heaps, Dan and Mel!), which is how we found out last May that Tim was coming to Sydney in September. Who would really pass up seeing TM in Australia?!?! Not me, so my parents graciously got me a ticket for my birthday!

The concert day finally arrived: I put on my cowboy boots, and Dan, Mel, Joy, and I headed South, TM blaring on the ipod. The concert was AWESOME, probably my favorite concert I've been too. Before the show started, Joy and I were practically bouncing in out of our seats, buzzing with energy.We could barely contain our excitement as we impatiently willed the opening acts to hurry up and finish! TM came on at 9 pm and played until almost 11, and sang almost the whole 2 hours... and so did we! Not a big talker, that Tim McGraw, but I didn't mind one bit. He sang my favorite oldies like "Indian Outlaw" and "Just to See You Smile," as well as his more recent hits and a song off his new album. Just when I thought the show couldn't get any better, he started singing "I Need You," and everyone started screaming. We all knew Faith was going to have to come out and sing her part of the duet! Out she came, and brought the house down. Our seats were in the front row nose bleed section, which turned out to be the best seat in the house. We could see Tim perfectly, and hear even better. One of my favorite parts was hearing everyone else in the audience singing along to his songs, too. Sadly after an encore, TM went off stage, the house lights when on, and the concert ended. We joined the masses leaving and finally made it back to the Central Coast at 12:30 am. We fell into bed, happy and still humming "Don't Take the Girl" as we drifted off to sleep.

Tim and Faith, singing their hearts out for us.

Great view from the cheap(ish) seats.

Joy and I were definitely the most excited out of our group, but maybe out of everyone in our section! We both had a sore voice from screaming and singing at the top of our lungs.

The rest of the TM posse: Mel, Dan, and Joy.

All of the Mowday kids went together to get Joy a ticket for Mother's Day.

True Dedication

2010-09-19T07:45:00.000-07:00

So, this is what we do when our beloved Mariners are out of town...

Despite being gone all weekend chaperoning teens at Bible Bowl, no shower, and not much sleep, I was still there to cheer on the Mariners on a tonight. And they aren't even in town!!! They were playing in Queensland against Gold Coast United. We had to go to a local pub (which is really a restaurant with a bar and a grill. Don't worry, we sat in the restaurant side, Mom) to see the game, because it was only being shown on satellite. Sadly, the game was a draw, but it helped us hang on to her 2nd place lead in the standings.

Sidenote: TREK Youth did not win Bible Bowl this year, despite being the reigning champions. Even though we lost, we still had a great weekend of fellowship and worship with the other Sydney churches. We'll get 'em next year!

Spring has sprung

2010-09-14T06:27:00.000-07:00

Spring has sprung in Gosford and that can only mean one thing: SOCCER! We are oh so blessed to have our own major league soccer team in our backyard (well, it's by Donnison Street, which I feel like is my backyard some weeks.) The past two Friday nights I have been cheering along with all the other loco fans at Blue Tongue Stadium as the Central Coast Mariners fought their way to victories over two different Melbourne teams. Many of the members of the congregation, especially teens and young adults especially love going to games together, which makes the games even more fun.

Before I moved to Australia, all I knew about soccer came from watching OC soccer games and intramurals. Let's be real: I did a lot more socializing at those games than actual watching. But, I am a changed woman! I can now tell when a player is off-sides...well at least 50% of the time I can tell. I even can name 3 players (Matty Simons, Daniel McBreen, and Bow-itch) and I know what they look like. Sadly, the Mariners won't be back in town for 3 weeks, and I have no idea what the under 30 population of Gosford Church is going to do with all of their free time. But on October 2 when our yellow football team returns, we will be there to cheer them to another win, and we might even have homemade t-shirts! Can't wait!

All the little soccer teams practicing at half-time of the Mariners game.

We do watch the game, I promise!

This past Friday night was so cold! Good thing Amber and I had our Mariners scarves to keep us warm.

The girls at the game.

Central Coast Mariners beat Melbourne Heart 1-nil last Friday night.

Home is...

2010-08-29T23:13:00.000-07:00

- snuggling with your new baby niece.
- taking walks with your sister-in-law.
- going to a Ranger game with your family wearing matching t-shirts.
- being picked up from the airport in the church van.
- driving around in a green Honda with Nebraska plates.
- going to Wal-mart at midnight...and then an hour later because you forgot something.
- summer bbqs with friends.
- holding hands in church.
- eating Chicken Express twice in one week.
- praying before dinner.
- Grandma Jackson hugs.
- Rt. 44 Sonic drinks with easy ice during happy hour.
- Buffalo Wild Wings on a Thursday night.
- two triple dates.
- staying up until 2 am talking and laughing with old friends.
- getting a pedicure with your best friend, your mom.
- laughing over old stories with your cousins.
- Singing along to country music on the radio.
- spending 5 days in a row with your childhood best friend, but that's still not enough.
- Pilsbury cinnamon rolls on Sunday morning.
- mom's brisket at a church potluck.
- ESPN on non-stop.
- adopted parents driving 3 hours just to see you off at the airport.
- taking naps with your dad.
- the aching feeling in your heart when you leave.

I was blessed to have 3 weeks of furlough to visit friends, family, and a few places I call home. Two weeks in Arlington, one week in Edmond, and a weekend in Stillwater. It was a great couple of weeks, but also crazy couple of weeks trying to spend time with as many people as possible! Though I came back exhausted, I came back rested and refreshed, feelings that only come from spending time at home. I am so thankful I had the opportunity to have a break and go home, and I wouldn't have traded the last 3 weeks for anything!

Tie-Dye Tuesday

2010-07-18T20:07:00.000-07:00

School Holidays=Tie Dye Tuesday! This past Tuesday afternoon, Amber and I got some of the teen girls together for some tie dye fun. Because of all my years as a Gamma girl, I consider myself a tie dye connoisseur, but I had never actually tie dyed a shirt! After mixing up 3 buckets of dye and rolling our shirts into spirals, we were off and ready to go. Once all the shirts we brought were dyed, we were looking around for more things we could twist and tie. The Moads almost ended up with tie-dye curtains in the kitchen, but we restrained ourselves. After the tie dying had died down, we made some pancakes and spent the rest of the afternoon playing Wii. It was a great way to spend a lazy Tuesday off of school.

Three of our tie-dying apprentices.

The finished product.

Connecting

2010-07-18T19:34:00.000-07:00

Last weekend, I was privileged to attend a camp on the Gold Coast of Queensland. (I know, right? I could make a career out of going to church camps all over Australia). Five of us Gosfordians set out from the Central Coast Friday morning at 8 am. After over 700 kms, two trips to Maccas, one drunk man insulting customers in the Subway line, and 9 hours of driving, we finally arrived at the camp. It was such an amazing weekend, and I was able to catch up with many people I hadn’t seen since attending Camp Gidawarra in Queensland after Christmas. Also at the camp were two campaign groups—one from Harding and one from Lipscomb. Ironically, I met a second cousin of the Watson-Hawley family from Harding, and played spades with her. I felt like I was back in Mexico! I also saw the Gentry family from none other than good ole Arlington, Texas. Todd Gentry used to be one of the main organizers of Arlington Work Camp, which I attended for 6 years and led one year while in college. I couldn’t believe it as soon as I saw Todd, his wife Debbie, and Tyler. Though we never knew each other well , we all recognized each other and had friends in common. The weekend retreat was filled with great teaching from Peter Randall and awesome singing. Many of the songs I hadn’t sung since I had been here in Australia. I was asked to lead one of the small groups, which met 4 times throughout the weekend. We had a great group of teen and young adult girls who had lots of great insights and discussions into having a real relationship with God. One of my favourite things about the weekend was the gorgeous weather! It was so warm in Queensland that we were able to wear flip flops and go to the beach on the Saturday afternoon. It wasn’t warm enough to swim, but we still enjoyed soaking up the sun and watch the people play ultimate Frisbee. We finally headed back South on Sunday after worship. We left about noon and didn’t arrive back until about 11:30 pm. Though it was a quick trip and lots of driving, I was so blessed by this weekend.

The Gosford crew hanging out at the beach: Anne, Tim, Cam, Me, and Amber.

My lifesaver and co-pilot on the long drive home.

Amber and Peter being Amber and Peter.

We saw a double rainbow while we were driving to Queensland on Friday. We were in the middle of nowhere and could see both ends of it! So beautiful.

Deeper Deeper

2010-06-22T18:47:00.001-07:00

Last weekend, I was privileged to help organize and plan Deeper, a retreat for young adult women. I had the idea for this weekend about 6 months ago and started compiling a team to get the ball rolling. Finally after lots of planning, praying, stressing, laughing, eating, studying, scouting, and facebooking, it was June 18 and it was time for Deeper. God did so many amazing things last weekend, that I have to make a list so I don't forget anything! Here is Deeper by the numbers:

125 blessing notes--Anne had a great idea that each person got a blessing box at the beginning of the weekend. Throughout our time together, we were supposed to write blessings or encouraging notes to each other. We didn't open or read them until we left on Sunday. When I got home after the retreat, I was unbelievably blessed by my sisters through reading their kind words.

55 Powerpoint slides--One of the huge highlights of the trip was Sunday morning worship. Amber and Kim worked at creating a prayer concert to prepare our minds for taking the Lord's Supper. We used DEEP as an acronym to direct our thoughts--Dedication, Examine, Empty, and Promise--during this time. We sang songs and read scripture about Dedication. Then, in our prayer groups we read scripture, discussed, and prayed about these words. We also spent some time in silent prayer as well as. We repeated this process for the other three words. After focusing and looking at each of these words, we were ready to partake in communion of homemade unleavened bread and grape juice. This was one of my favorite times I have ever taken communion and I will remember it forever.
33 hands of Nertz--I haven't played Nertz in years (I think the last time was during the ice storm my junior year of college), but it was THE game of the weekend. Though we got a little bit competitive, we still had a blast together.

20 ugly mugs--Jamie scoured Vinnies (the local thrift store) looking for 20 ugly mugs for a mixer game on Friday night. We had to get into groups based on our mugs theme, like Christmas mugs, Dad mugs, Saying mugs, Boring mugs, and then answer a question. Each mug had a shape and a color written on the bottom as well, which made us switch our groups a few times. After switching three times, we found our selves in our Prayer Groups for the weekend.
15 kilos of wood--Point Wolstoncroft has an amazing fire pit with wood benches and a stage, which is one of the reasons I fell in the love with this camp site. On Saturday night, we decided to have a bondfire, which took all 15 kilos (about 30ish lbs) of wood we brought! Who knew you needed so much wood to start and keep a fire going! We had our evening devo, led by Claire, and sang around the warm glow of the fire. Of course we couldn't have a fire without having s'mores!
13 women--We ended up having 13 wonderful women come to our retreat. Our original goal was 20, but with uni exams, work schedules, family visiting, and new babies being born, we ended up with a smaller number for the weekend. But, it ended up being such a blessing! Because we had a smaller group, everyone got to know each other and bond on a deeper level. New friendships were born and old friendships were strengthened.
7 kilometers--Our camp was located 3.5 kms from a point at Lake Macquarie (hence the name Point Wolstoncroft). We decided to take advantage of having such a nice walk so Saturday afternoon, Mel organized a prayer walk. Before leaving our lodge, every person filled out a questionaire about our spiritual walk--what were we struggling with? What did we want God to accomplish through us? What was our spiritual gift? ect. Then, we were put into pairs and given another person's question sheet to pray for our on our walk. Once we reached the point on the lake after our walk, the whole group met up together and was given a new partner and a new person to pray for. It was such a wonderful experience to bond with another person through prayer for someone else! And, to get to pray outside, surrounded in God's creation, just made it better. The Prayer Walk was one of the highlights for me!
4 prayer groups--Through the genius Mug Mix-Up game, we were put into prayer groups for the weekend. The groups met to pray Friday and Saturday night. We also prayed in these groups for the prayer concert and communion service on Sunday morning. I was in a group with Jamie, Claire, and Marcelle, and LOVED every minute of it! It was so nice to be able to share my struggles, fears, and doubts with these women and take them to God.

3 classes-- On Saturday, there were three classes taught by three different people to equip us to have a deeper relationship with God. The first class was taught by Rebecca about having practical faith. Using examples in the Bible and from her own life, Bec reminded us that we really can trust God with everything in our life, if we give up control and take a leap of faith. Jamie taught the second class about Bible reading. She gave us tools to battle distractions while reading God's word, as well as introduced us to different reading plans and versions. I taught the last class of the day on prayer. I used Jesus as an example of why and how we should pray, and then gave different practices, techniques and tips for spicing up our prayer lives. I got so much out of listening and preparing for these classes, and left feeling equipped with tools to implement in my relationship with God.

2 cooks--We were so blessed to be fed so well this weekend by two amazing women: Joy Mowday and Deb Brown. Not only are these two ladies are known as some of the best cooks in Gosford, but they are also my Aussie mums. They planned menus, bought groceries, and prepared scrumptious meals that kept our tummies very full! In addition to serving in the kitchen, they also offered wisdom and insight as they interacted with the girls and participated in the prayer groups.
1 boy--I know we said the retreat was for young adult women, but we made on exception: for Joel! Since he is just a little over 3 months old, we had the pleasure of having him and his mum around for the whole weekend. His favorite parts were the 7 km walk and the bondfire.

I'll say it: The BEST prayer group!
(Claire, Me, Jamie, and Marcelle)

Our bonfire--we made it ourselves!

Enjoying the bonfire.

Blessing boxes filled with encouraging notes to take home.

The halfway point of our Prayer Walk over-looking Lake Macquarie.

(This photo was not my idea)

Rebecca and Anne

My girls: Amber and Jamie

Our beautiful camp at Point Wolstoncroft.

Claire, Tammy, Joel, and Kim in class on Saturday

Birthday Bliss

2010-06-15T21:17:00.000-07:00

I'll be honest: I was actually dreading my birthday. I'm not Ashley Prybyloski who thinks their birthday is a holiday (love you Ash), but I do usually look forward to it. But this year, being in a different country away from most of my family and friends, I was kind of hoping that I could just fast forward or sleep through June 3rd. Alas, my Aussie friends wouldn't let me and I ended up having one of the best birthdays ever!
I spent my actual birthday with several of my great friends. I went out to lunch (Maccas, duh) and shopping at Erina with Sara Moad, instead of our usual Thursday bible study. It was so fun to try on clothes and catch up over french fries. Throughout the day, I had calls from Ghana and Japan wishing me happy birthday, as well as more facebook messages and emails than I can count! I felt even more special that people remembered I am a day ahead in Australia and remembered my birthday a day before. That afternoon Jamie Canham came up from Sydney to hang out, which was such a blast! This girl has become one of my best friends in Australia! Despite going to OC together for 3ish years, it took us moving across the world to make us friends. That night, Jamie, Jenn (who also came up from Sydney), Amber, Anne and I went out to see a movie and out to dinner. Being the fabulous friends that they are, they brought along extra diet coke so I could have "refills!" We went back to my house for presents, a sinfully delicious chocolate cake, and games. Gotta love playing Yahtzee and Mexican Train until 1 am.
My birthday month continued last Saturday night. Dan and Mel have been talking about throwing me a Texas birthday party for months, and they succeeded! With the help Joy, Amber, Anne, and so many people, they decked out the ministry centre to show love for my two homes: Texas and Australia. People young and old from the church came decked out in their plaid shirts, hats, and boots. Everyone brought delicious "Texas" food, which included lots of queso and every kind of dip you can think of, quesadillas, bacon wrapped chiles, sopapilla cheesecake, peanut butter pie, and so much more! After everyone had eaten, we all sat down and watched video messages from some of my friends in the States! It was so special! Then I had to break open a pinata in the shape of a cowboy boot. It took me a few tries and I almost severely injured a 2 year old, but it finally came open! After all of the lollies had been gathered up, the lights went out and 2 gorgeous cakes were put in front of me--one was decorated as the Australian flag and one was decorated as the Texas flag! They were perfect, thanks to the professionals, Joy and Mel! The night ended up with Anne and I teaching everyone how to do the Electric Slide. They don't do it in Australia! A few of us have decided that our next major event is going to be a barn dance with bush dancing (which is like square dancing) this summer! The best part of the night was just spending time with all of these wonderful people who have become family. I felt so blessed as each family came through the doors with their country clothes on, a plate of food, and a big hug for me.
I think my birthday spree has officially ended, but it was a great 2 weeks! I am so thankful to have so many loving and caring friends and family spanning the world!

With all my cupcake presents!

Delicious chocolate cake made by Jamie.

The pinata

Wonderfully talented cake creators!

Amber, Mel and Me in our cowboy clothes

Balcony People

2010-06-06T07:22:00.000-07:00

I was first introduced to the concept of balcony people by none other than JGray, Sr. Balcony people are the people who watch your life from the balcony of theater. They watch you grow and change from a distance or from a different time. They aren't on stage with you living out the action, but there are quietly taking it all in from a higher perspective. They lift you up in prayer, giving you not only all of their power but also envoking a Higher Power. You may not see them much in real life or ever, but you know they are always cheering you on from the cheap seats.

Of course the balcony if filled with family members like crazy aunts and even crazier great aunts, cousins and moms, and grandpas who have passed away. But it's also filled with people who aren't related to you. These are the people who have chosen to sit in your balcony and love you even though they don't really have to.

I have been blessed to have full balcony for years--a childhood preacher and his wife who are angels on earth, influential professors and deans who pushed me to be better, a high school best friend who kept me sane through that crazy 4 years, an old youth minister and his wife who recognized their relationship with me didn't end because I graduated, parents of college roommates, church family who has known me since I was born. These people, and so many more, all make up the non-family section of my balcony.

I was reminded last weekend of another couple who is in my balcony: Kent and Nancy Hartman. I first was introduced to Nancy as my mom's college roommate when I was in college. Through this connection, I got to know the Hartmans better. They convinced me to go on a campaign to Gosford, Australia which led to this life changing decision of being a HIM worker. After spending a couple of days with them, I was reminded of what an impact they have had on my life. They are so wise about missions, having a deeper relationship with God, and reaching out to others. They inspire me to be a better servant and think on a bigger scale. The Hartmans have chosen to sit in my balcony and take an interest in my life. I know when I accomplish something great or need a little encouragement, I can look up from the bright and stressful events of the stage and see them in the top level. Always there, standing firm.

That's What I Love About Wednesdays...

2010-05-20T20:48:00.000-07:00

Wednesdays are one of my favorite days of the week. Here's why: (In list form of course)

1. I don't have as many regularly scheduled activities on Wednesdays. Because these days are free-er, I am able to visit and spend time with members of the congregation. This past Wednesday I had afternoon tea with Tammy Drennan, and her three kiddos: Caitlyn, Noah, and Joel, who are all under the age of 5. They are some of the most creative, fun kids I know!
2. I don't have to cook dinner on Wednesdays! Someone always feeds me before church so I don't have to go home. I have a standing dinner invite at the Mowdays, but this week I had dinner with the Grittens.
3. TREK Youth is every Wednesday night at the ministry centre. We start the night off with time to hang out--playing Uno, chatting, ping pong, listening to music. Then, we have a devotional or break into groups for discussion or prayer. Even though I am usually pretty tired by the time 7:30 pm rolls around on Wednesday nights, I am always re-energized in the next hour and half.
4. After TREK Youth, most of us head to Maccas. I always have the girl car, which means we crank songs like "Hey Soul Sister" and anything by Colbie Callet and sing our little hearts out until we make it Maccas.
5. I love McFellowship after church on Wednesday nights because it's such a mix of ages around the long table at the West Gosford Maccas. You see elders mixing with teens, and just taking the time to get to know each other. There is always plenty of fries and ice cream to share, and the best part is FREE REFILLS!!!
6. I am always exhausted on the 20 minute drive home on Wednesday nights. But as my car drives by the moonlight bay, I am reminded of how blessed I am. I am reminded of exactly why I am here, and I am assured that I am exactly where I am supposed to be.

Caitlyn, Me, and Noah

Literally the funniest kid I know!

More evidence that he is hilarious!
Yes, those are my glasses and my watch.

Crazy Busy

2010-05-16T03:51:00.000-07:00

I used to think weekends were for sleeping in, staying in your pajamas until 2 pm, reading entire books, and taking naps. That's what weekends used to look like. Not any more! Weekends in ministry look a little bit different. They are usually more busy than during the week. These pictures tell the story of my crazy weekend.

FRIDAY:

We hosted the OJ (Only Jesus) Teen Only Event for May. Churches from Sydney and the Central Coast take turns hosting every other month. For our turn, we decided to have a lock-in from 8 pm on Friday night until 8 am Saturday night. It was a real party with over 40 teens and chaperones attend. Gosford church represented with 20 teens--kids in our youth group and all the friends they brought.

I was in charge of big group games to get the night going. We played a game (which I stole from Jamie Canham) that required each team to choose a person to be "it," who they wrapped in masking tape. The rest of their team shot q-tips at them through straws. The team with the most q-tips stuck to "it" won. It was so hilarious to watch!

We spent the rest of the night playing games (including Mexican Train!!! which is what we are doing in the picture), hanging out, and watching movies. Around 10:30 pm, we had a time of worship led by Dan and Evan did a devo on God's timing. I did sleep for 3ish hours from 3:30 am until 6:30 am, which proves I really am getting old! We finished off the lock-in with pancakes for breakfast!

SATURDAY:

I only took a 2 hour nap on Saturday afternoon to recover from the lock-in. (this is the part where you say how proud you are of me!) I couldn't sleep too long because I had to experience another Aussie first: a Rugby game! Dan, Amber, Jacob (another STAMP student), and I went to see the Sydney Roosters play the Newcastle Knights in Gosford. Since Gosford is smack in the middle of the two cities, we bundled up in our warm clothes and rugby jerseys before making the 10 minute drive to Blue Tongue Stadium. Even though there are some similarities, rugby is different than football--there are no pads, you can only pass the ball behind you, you get 6 tackles before the ball goes to the other team, anyone can kick the ball forward, touchdowns are called trys, and trys are only worth 4 points. Sadly, the Roosters lost, but it was still a fun night.

The scrum to see who gets possession of the ball.

Rugby watching crew: Me, Amber, Dan, and Jacob

Amber and I with the Rooster mascot.

SUNDAY:
After worship and teaching Bible class this morning, it was time for the next Kids For Christ (KFC) event. Hannah and I organized for the kids to go swimming at a sports club in town. Luckily, it was an indoor pool since we are winding up autumn and heading into winter. Seven of our kids came to spend the afternoon going round and round the whirlpool, jumping into the water, and getting sprayed by fountains. It was the perfect way to spend a Sunday afternoon. Me, Sebastian, Tanesha, and Hannah enjoying the pool party.

JGray Sr.

2010-05-10T04:54:00.000-07:00

I'm not sure when it happened. I'm not sure at what moment my mom went from being my worst enemy and to my best friend. In high school, we battled it out over everything to length of my shorts to who's turn it was to clean the bathroom. Sometime during my senior year, I stopped slamming doors and rolling my eyes, and our relationship changed. I didn't realize how much I depended on and loved my mom until I went away to OC. Watching your parents drive away after they have moved you into a not-so-luxurious freshmen dorm and left you with a roommate you barely know is one of the worst feelings ever. At the end of the first week being away from home, I realized I had called my mom every day. I never in a million years thought I would be that kind of girl, but I definitley am.

Thanks to my clever Dad, my mom and I have the same first name. At times it's slightly annoying to share a name, but the rest of the time, I am proud to call such an amazing woman my mom. She's the one whose top priority is to love and serve God above anything else. She's the one who goes to Africa at least once a year (this year it's 3 times) to spread her knowledge about HIV and AIDs to people who really need to hear it. She's the one who drops everything to take care of her Dad, when he is in the hospital for 3 months. She is the one who teaches bible class on a regular basis, and is always writing cards to people who need encouragement. She is the the one screaming the loudest during your baseball games, and she is the one swoops in to save the day when you have to move out of your apartment in 24 hours and nothing is packed. She stays up late on Thursday nights so she can skype with you. She's the one who talks you off the ledge when you think stress might actually push you over the edge. She's the one who brushes your hair off your face as you cry into her lap over a boy. She's the one who drives 4 hours to watch Spring Sing, just to turn around and drive right back the same night. She's the only one who truly understands my love for diet coke. She's the best and she's my mom.

The more places I go and the more people I meet, I realize that I have it so good. I am so blessed to have a great relationship with the lady who's literally been with me from the beginning. No matter the distance or time change or miles, I always carry her in my heart.

Lest we forget...

2010-04-30T05:51:00.000-07:00

On April 25, 1915, members of the Australia New Zealand Army Corps (ANZACs) landed on the shores of Gallipoli as part of a strategic campaign to capture Turkey. For the first time, Australians and New Zealanders were fighting for their own countries, and not as a part of Great Britian. Even though the campaign seemed like a failure with Australia losing over 8,000 soldiers in 8 months, April 25th is set aside each year as a time of rememberance. Not only remembrance for the army veterans of World War I, but for all soldiers who have served in any branch of the military. ANZAC Day is arguably the most stoic and serious holiday celebrated in this country. Every town has a memorial in it listing the men and women who fought at Gallipoli and died, with the inscription, "Lest we forget..."

Because ANZAC Day fell on a Sunday this year, I was only able to participate in a few events surrounding the holiday. I was invited to a traditional dawn service by the Grittens' (Ray's dad fought in WWI) in his hometown about an hour away. There are lots of services and programs throughout the day, but the dawn service is special because it was dawn when the ANZACS landed in Gallipoli. We woke up at 3:30 am (I know!) and made it to Wangi for the 5:00 am service. Despite the steady rain, the indoor service was packed! There was a group of sailors from the Navy there, as well as veterans and their families. Many veterans were wearing their military medals and awards on their clothes. The service started with a prayer, and then a man gave an account of what happened on April 25, 1915. Following the recitation, the "Last Post" was played and we had a long period of silence. After the service, a huge breakfast was served for everyone who attended. Unfortunately for us, we had to eat and run to make it back to Gosford in time for worship.

Monday after ANZAC Day was a public holiday because the actual date fell on a Sunday. It is tradition among the churches of Christ in Sydney, and the surrounding regions of the Central Coast (which is where I live) and Newcastle, to get together for a picnic. People started arriving at the Pavillion in Aubury at 10 am. By lunchtime, there were over 130 Christians there enjoying fellowship and food. After lunch, we had a time of singing and sharing. This is probably the biggest group of Christians I have sung and worshipped with since I have been in Australia. To our standards in the States, 130 people isn't a big gathering of Christians, but here it is huge! Hearing all of these voices singing, "A Common Love" brought tears to my eyes. Every few songs, a representative from each congregation would stand up and share what was going on there. It was so exciting and encouraging to hear all the ways God's people were working in so many different areas in their own communities. The entire ANZAC Day weekend was a blessing!

Gosford Girls: Me, Emma, and Amber at the ANZAC Day Picnic.

What else would you do at a picnic besides play Yahtzee?

Jamie (a HIM worker in Sydney), Me, Emma, and Amber.

Amber and I spent the night before the picnic with Jamie because we were already in Sydney for a youth rally Sunday afternoon. Can you tell that Amber and I still haven't recovered from the dawn service the day before??

Where's my Dad when I need him?

2010-04-20T06:32:00.000-07:00

I never liked doing laundry. Luckily, I had this amazing dad who specialized in laundry and ironing, while I was growing up. In college, I would save up weeks of dirty clothes before going home to visit. It wasn’t the putting the clothes in the washing machine part that I hated, but the remembering to put them in the dryer. Then after they’re dry, you have to fold them or hang them up—ANNOYING!

Here in Australia, laundry is even more tricky because I don’t use a dryer (okay, I do sometimes, but not very much). Electricity is very expensive, so one way people save on their bill is by hanging their clothes to dry on a clothesline outside or racks inside. Clothes can dry in a few hours outside on a hot, sunny day! I don’t hang my clothes outside much because I usually do my laundry at non-sunny times (like at night when I am home), and if I’m really honest it’s because I just can’t be bothered going outside. My usual routine is to hang clean clothes on racks in my spare bedroom. In a few days, Abra-cadabra, they are dry. Clothing racks are great for my clothes, but not for big things like sheets and towels. Last week, I had people stay at my house 2 separate nights, so I was definitely in need of washing some linen. Monday, my day off, I washed the sheets and towels since it was actually daylight and sunny, and I knew I could hang them outside on the clothesline. As I was hanging the clothes up, I felt a slight, nice breeze coming up over the bay blowing my hair, and I heard ducks quacking and seagulls crying out, and I was struck with this awesome moment of peace. I decided I did like hanging my clothes on the line, because it allows me to be outside and forces me to appreciate this gorgeous place I get to live in. So, I am vowing to become a regular clothesline user. Now, about that ironing…I’m still waiting for my dad to come over here and take that job off my hands!

Here Comes Goodbye

2010-04-20T06:22:00.000-07:00

At 8:00pm tonight, a plane left Sydney International Airport bound for China. My friend and fellow HIM worker, Sammie Marshall, was on the plane heading home (via China after a visit with her twin sister). She spent the last 20 months serving the Warringah Church of Christ in Sydney, as well as volunteering several hours a week in the community. Though Sammie and I never really knew each other at OC, we have become great friends since I’ve been here. She has been there to offer advice, listen to me vent, and save my life on numerous occasions. Sammie taught me a lot about faith and trusting God even in the hardest of times. When I first got to Australia in September, Sammie had just returned from visiting home. But instead of coming back from a happy, carefree furlough, she came back from burying her brother. Despite the loss and grief she experienced, she still came back to serve—God and the Church. One person at her farewell party said it best, “Sammie, you have become part of our lives and our church. When you leave, a part of our church has gone, too.”

I will miss you, Sammie, but I know that God has amazing things planned for you, more than all you could ask for or imagine. May you go with God as He leads you to the next place He wants you to serve.

Our last hurrah as HIM workers. We went to Maccas of course.

Jenn and Amber were jealous that we kicked them out of our picture, so they took their own.

Love these two!

Catching Up

2010-04-09T22:31:00.000-07:00

So much has happened since I last blogged! I don’t even know where to start to catch you up on my life. Since I hate writing (thank you 10th grade English), I decided to communicate the last month with you in my favorite form: A LIST! Here’s my list of what happened since I last talked to you:

1. My mom came to visit over her Spring Break, and we had a blast together! Both JGray’s back in the same house! We spent some time sightseeing and being tourists, but also had some time to just relax and hang out. Before I knew it, 1000 km had been driven, 500 topics had been discussed, 5 movies had been watched, 3 books had been read, an immeasurable amount of diet coke had been drunk, and the 12 days were over. Saying goodbye to mom in the airport was brutal (Definitely on the list of Worst Feelings Ever), but I am so unbelievably thankful she was able to come and see my life here in Australia. 2. I spent 2 nights in a (freezing cold) cabin of great girls, laughing so hard my sides hurt.

3. The Gosford Ladies had a retreat called Mirror, Mirror. It was an uplifting, encouraging, and challenging weekend of worship, prayer, discussion, and reflection, with each woman taking part in some aspect of it. Spending time with these spiritually minded ladies helped my faith grow.

4. I missed Aquilles, Mexico so much that I cried.

5. I went to Mother’s Blessing. My friend, Tammy decided not to have a traditional baby shower to welcome her third child into the world. Instead, she opted a gathering of women who were special to her to bless her through quotes, scriptures, and stories. We each brought a bead to contribute to the necklace she wore during labor. I felt honored to have been included in such a special occasion. PS: Joel Phillip made his grand entrance the first day of April.

6. I got a letter from an 8 year old from home saying she is praying for me!

7. I was blessed with a trip to Melbourne and Tasmania with my great friend Amber. We visited her family in Melbourne, then headed to Tassie with her parents for Camp Barnabas over Easter weekend. We then stayed in Hobart for 5 days after camp, catching up with friends. It was a fabulous holiday. (Look for pics on facebook.)

8. I saw dolphins swimming in the ocean.

9. I was once again reminded at how thankful I am God designed the church. He knew that we would need a family of believers to share our struggles and joys. It doesn’t matter if you have known them for 10 years or 10 days or 10 minutes, we automatically have a deep bond. What a blessing!

10. I found a Dublin Dr. Pepper at an American food store in Tassie. YAY!

11. I became obsessed with the TV show Friday Night Lights. Luckily, I am not alone in my obsession. I go over to Dan and Mel’s house one night a week to eat dinner and watch as many episodes as we can cram in.

12. I stood at the top of Mt. Wellington overlooking Hobart, Tasmania and realized how great God is.

13. I sent out my monthly newsletter, and was blessed with so many responses and encouraging emails that I haven’t been able to answer all of them yet!

14. I stayed in a gorgeous cottage built in the 1850’s in Hobart with the gracious and hilarious Drew family.

15. I met an amazingly brave 14 year old girl who is battling leukemia, and is holding on like a champ.

16. I hid (with some help of course) 80 plastic and chocolate eggs for the primary school kids to hunt in a local park.

17. Amber and I taught a great group of teen girls at Camp Barnabas. They were so open to discussion and asked some tough questions. I am so proud of all of them!

18. I realized how richly blessed I am to have a Heavenly Father who knows and supplies my every single need.

I know there are at least 58 other things that I could tell you about the last month, but that’s just a random sample. I promise I’ll work on being a better blogger!

Hearts All Over the World Tonight

2010-03-09T03:48:00.001-08:00

I am so blessed, unbelievably blessed to have this experience in Australia. This is experience is made so much easier by such great support from home. Skype, Facebook, and Outlook have saved my life, and I literally thank God for them all the time. Even tonight, I came home from dinner at a friends' house and there was another care package on my front steps. A beautiful manila envelope filled with candy, gum, notes, and my favorite part: drawings from two of my favorite blonde girls (Thank you, Crum family!). Every time I come home to a package or a card or an email or pictures posted on facebook, I can feel the love of home across the 15,000 miles.

Not only am I blessed by amazing support at home, I am also deeply and richly blessed by support and encouragement of my friends, shining God's light abroad. These women are a constant source of peace. They help carry burdens, understand this weird place of missing home and loving your new home, share advice, give perspective to struggles, and compare notes. Hearing of their perseverance and work in the Lord pushes me to do better, to be better. Even in the face of greatest adversity and loss, they rise strong and trusting, following even more closely to Him. Their names may never be known outside our small cirlce, but they have touched many lives and expanded the Kingdom. I am thankful for their examples of faith. I am thankful for their friendships. I am thankful to call them sisters.

To Jana, Rachel, Chelsea, and Kelsey,
"I thank my God every time I remember you. In all my prayers for all of you, I always pray with JOY because of your partnership in the gospel from the first day until now, being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus." (Philippians 1:3-5)

10 Things

2010-02-18T19:28:00.000-08:00

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

2010-02-04T19:17:00.000-08:00

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.

Jumping Castles and Balloons

2010-01-24T16:31:00.001-08:00

I had the privilege of being invited to a very special event on Saturday: Tanesha's 5th birthday party! I was so excited, because I love Tanesha. She reminds me a little bit of myself at 5: fabulous and maybe a little bit of a diva. Saturday was forecast to be 40 degrees Celcius (that's about 104 degress Farenheit for all you non-metric users). So, instead of the party being at the Krause's house, it was at the Ministry Centre. The place was decked out with tons of balloons, streamers, and food! Outside there was a jumping castle, or a bounce house, for all the kids to play on in the boiling heat. The grown-ups were nice and cool, sitting inside with the air conditioning. Tanesha opened her presents as soon as people got there with them--she just couldn't wait! After about two hours of running, screaming, jumping, eating, chatting, and playing, everyone was ready go home for a nap, including me!

Three of the four Krause kids: Jacques (10), Sebastian (6), and Tanesha (5).

The Birthday Girl and Me

Caitlin and Tanesha making funny faces

Already best friends

Brother and Sister

Drivin'-In

2010-01-18T04:07:00.000-08:00

This past Saturday, we celebrated my friend, Corrin's birthday by going to the drive-in. Corrin is a friend I met through the Brown family. She has done youth work in Australia and the U.K. and just moved to the Central Coast about a month after I did. To properly commemorate the day she was born, we crammed 17 people into three cars with an esky (Australian for cooler) full of cokes and snacks, chairs, and blankets and headed north. After about an hour of driving, we arrived at Heddon Greta 15 minutes before the first movie started. We had just enough time to pop open our tailgates, lay out our blanket, tune our radio to the right station, and get situated before "Alvin and Chipmunks--The Squeakuel" started rolling. The second movie that was shown that night was "Sherlock Holmes," starting at 10:30 pm. Confession time: I was most excited about seeing the Chipmunks! I love their Christmas songs! Between the two movies, we sang happy birthday to Corrin. Nobody remembered the candles for the cake, so we had to use Dan's iTouch lighter application instead. Despite the light drizzle, lack of warm clothes, late hour, and the mosquitoes (I think I got about 15 new bites), we had a fabulous time. I can't wait to go to the Drive In again!

Fun Australian Fact: After you sing "Happy Birthday" to someone, you give them three cheers. One person says, "Hip, Hip..." And, everyone else says, "HOORAY!" Then we do it again two more times.

Trying to stay dry and warm at the drive-in.

We were towards the back of the parking lot, but could see perfect. Before each movie, they had the old snack commericals with the dancing ice cream bars and jumping hot dogs.
Corrin blowing out the candles, I mean the iTouch.

The birthday girl, Corrin.

Annoying American Tourists

2010-01-17T21:51:00.000-08:00

That's us! Between Christmas and New Years, I got to do a lot of the touristy things in Sydney and along the Central Coast that I have been dying to do, but didn't have an excuse. But, since Alex was here, I finally had a reason.
We spent 2 days in Sydney seeing all the sights. One day we went to the city with Dan and Mel Mowday and Laura and Cristiaen van der Meulen to go to the aquarium. The Sydney Aquarium is so cool because it is located right in Darling Harbor. We saw tons of fish native to Australia, got to walk through a shark tunnel, and even got to touch different kinds of coral. After the aquarium, our group walked to Circular Quay to see the Opera House and the botancial gardens. We finished up the day with dinner at Pancakes on the Rocks, and then caught the train back home.
The second day Alex and I went to Sydney, we caught the train down to see a matinee performance of the musical, Mama Mia. It was a wonderful two hours of ABBA and tons of laughs. (If you have the chance to see this musical any time, I would definitley recommend it!) While in the city, we also went to Patty's Market and rode the ferry to Manly Beach. After two days of walking all over Sydney, we were exhausted!
On New Year's Eve. A big group of people from church went to watch the Central Coast Mariners (our professional soccer team) play a game in Gosford. Their stadium is located right on the waterfront. Sadly, they lost, but the game was definitely still fun. We sat right beside the "Marinators," who are the crazy fans that lead all the chants and songs. It was crazy! Following the game, we walked down to the water and watched fireworks.
The last touristy thing we did was go to the Australian Reptile Park. This park is like a zoo with mostly Australian animals, but so much better. We saw alligators, crocodiles, dingoes, giant tortoises, snakes, insects, and birds. In the picnic area, there are wallaby, kangaroos, and emus just walking around that you can feed and take pictures with. We even got to pet a koala!

Our whole group at the aquarium (Alex, Me, Laura, Cristian, Mel, and Dan).

Laura and I with Sydney Harbor in the background.

The Opera House.

The Mariners game against Wellington.

Koalas from the Reptile Park.

Alex and the kangaroos.

I'm Dreaming of a not so white Christmas!

2010-01-14T20:39:00.000-08:00

I am so sorry it has taken me so long to update my blog! Once the holidays started, it was a lost cause. Then, I went straight to church camp at the start of the New Year. So, I'm finally back in Gosford and hoping to get back on schedule!
I experienced my first Aussie Christmas this year and I loved it! It was definitley not white or cold, but I still got in the holiday spirit. I set up my own Christmas tree with a star on top, featuring Alex Vogt (my roommate of 4ish years), and did a lot of baking! Of course, I had to make white chocolate covered pretzels! Interesting fact, pretzel are not that popular in Australia and therefore hard to find.
I had my first visitor over the holidays, my boyfriend, Alex Jones. He arrived on Christmas Eve and stayed until January 2nd. He also brought with him a suitcase full of presents and goodies from my family (Thanks, Mom, Dad, and Ally). The night Alex got here, we went Christmas light looking with a big group of young adults from church. Putting up Christmas lights is becoming popular on the Central Coast, but it's still not very widespread. In most neighborhoods, there are only a few house that actually decorate at all. So, we drove all over town looking for the "good houses." We found a few, and even one with a Santa Clause outside!
We spent Christmas Day with 2 families from church. We started off with the Mowday family in the morning. It was a great day of presents, food, kids, toys, dessert, Christmas crackers, and watching “The Muppet Christmas Carol.” I even made my Aunt Mary Jo's famous chocolate-layer dessert to add to the spread at lunch! We ended the day with the Gritten family. We stopped by for supper and to chat, and ended up playing games for 2 hours!
The day after Christmas, Boxing Day, is considered a holiday in Australia as well. We spent Boxing Day with the Brown family. We had a nice meal, opened a few presents, and played Wii. The main event of evening was the Gingerbread Decorating contest. We put everyone’s name in a hat, and then every person drew out a name. You had a decorate a gingerbread to look like the person whose name you drew out of the hat. At the end, everyone had to guess who had which name based on what the gingerbread looked like.
Despite the differences in temperature and tradition, I still had an wonderful Christmas holiday because I was surrounded by friends and family who love me!

My beautiful Christmas tree, featuring Alex Vogt.

Taking our picture with Santa while Christmas Light looking on Christmas Eve.

Whole Mowday family at Christmas Day lunch. We are all wearing our paper crowns from our crackers.

My friend Laura van der Meulen (formerly Mowday) got to come home for the holidays. Laura came and stayed with me for a week or so in 2007 when she was visiting the States.

Getting ready to start the gingerbread decorating contest on Boxing Day!

My gingerbread version of Deb.

Presentation Day

2009-12-14T21:48:00.000-08:00

Every year Gosford honors all the students and teachers who participate in the Sunday morning bible classes. Everyone who as been a part of the Bible School receives a gift from the congregation. But before the gifts are handed out, the kids do a play. This year was the story of Jesus' birth. Seeing as we only had one practice with the 30 kids and adults in the play, we were not expecting the play to be flawless. But, this year had lots of impromptu moments, include a real baby to play baby Jesus and a Gabrielle who didn't know he was the angel until about 15 minutes before. Either way, the congregation loved it!

King Herod and all his bling.

The whole cast.

The Wisemen bringing gifts to baby Jesus.

The Inn Keepers

Our impromptu Gabriel.

NUMB3RS

2009-11-23T15:39:00.000-08:00

This past week has been crazy! The only way I know to tell you about it is in numbers:
1 Trekkers Basketball game, where they dominated the other team by 20 points and clenched 3rd place in the under-14s division.

2 Performances. One was an elementary school Christmas program, and the other was dance (hip-hop, jazz, tap, modern, and ballet) concert featuring the extremely talented Sara and Sophie.

4 Acts at the November Open Mic Night, including Sunset Riot, the Profit, and Sonic Solo. This time we rented out a local youth center with proper lights and a stage. We had over 45 people there from our youth group and the community!

10 women who came to watch "Secret Life of Bees" on the big screen at the ministry center for Ladies Movie Night.

12 kids who came to "Cupcakes and Kindness" (copyright Brendi Gordon). After decorating cupcakes, we piled all of the kids into the church bus and went to visit some older members of the congregation. We sang at each house and gave them enough cupcakes to put them in a sugar coma!

30 members of Trek youth and their parents who came our summer kick-off BBQ at Terrigal Beach. It was so hot outside most of us swam and played in the ocean. Some of the guys played footy, too.

59 cupcakes decorated and consumed by members of the Gosford congregation this weekend!

70 meals served this past Friday night at Donnison Street Soup kitchen.

Visiting one of the elementary schools to see the Christmas Program. (Amber on the left was in the play. Lauren and Grace go to school there, too) Amber being a duck with her kindergarten class.
Trek Junior Boys playing footy.
Chillin at the beach and the bbq with some gorgeous girls! Trekkers with their 3rd place medals!!! They're kind of a big deal.

The girls table decorating cupcakes at Cupcakes and Kindness.

Singing while visiting and dropping off the cupcakes.
The Trek girls loving Sunset Riot at Open Mic Night.

Take Me Out to the Ballgame...

2009-11-12T19:31:00.000-08:00

Last Saturday, I got to do one of my favorite things: go to a baseball game!!! Baseball is not popular in Australia at all. There used to be a professional teams, but the Australia Baseball League ended about 10 years ago. Now, the only "professional" baseball you can watch is every year at the Claxton Shield. The Claxton Shield is a tournament of the state teams that lasts from November to January, and is played at various locations around Australia. The winning state receives the honor of having the best baseball team and the Claxton Shield, of course. Dan Mowday, a fellow baseball enthuasist, told me about it, and he didn't have to do too much convincing to get me there. We also invited Jamie and Sammie from Warringah to join us. We went and watched the New South Wales Patriots play at their home field (Sydney Olympic Park) against the Queensland Rams (New South Wales' bitter enemy in all sporting events.) Even though the game was played at where Olympic baseball was played, it was a pretty small park. It was liking going to an NCAA college baseball game or a double-A game. The NSW Patriots smashed the Rams in both games of the double header, winning by over 5 runs each time. It was perfect Spring baseball weather--warm in the afternoon, but cooler as the sun began to set. I completely forgot I was in Australia during the game! They started off the game with the national anthem, and played "Take Me Out to the Ballgame" during the 7th inning stretch. But, the annoucer's accent and the presence of meat pies at the concession stand brought me back to reality. Even though Dan and I didn't make it back to Gosford until almost midnight, it was a great way to spend a Saturday night. I definitley plan to go again next year!

Jamie, Sammie, and I loving baseball at the Claxton Shield.

The Grove

2009-11-08T18:11:00.000-08:00

I've finally moved into my own place: The Grove. It is located in Woy Woy (which means big lagoon), which is just 15 minutes south of Gosford. It is on a penninsula, surrounded by Brisbane Water, which leads out to the ocean. The apartment is attached to a main house that is owned by one of the members of the Gosford congregation. I have 2 bedrooms, kitchen, dining area, living room, and a bathroom, where the washer and dryer are located. It is very roomy and comfortable! Just the right size for me. The great part is there is a dock in the backyard of the main house that I can use at any time. It has a gorgeous view of the bay. I'm still working on settling in and making it home, but I am so thankful that God blessed me with this place!

Dock

Kitchen

Living Room

Dining Room and Kitchen.

My Room

Happy Halloween

2009-11-08T18:00:00.000-08:00

I have experienced my first Halloween in Australia! Halloween is not a widely celebrated holiday in Australia. Not nearly as many kids dress up and go trick-or-treating, and finding a carving pumpkin is almost impossible. I went over to Amanda and Dean Edginton’s house for dinner and to hang out. (Dean is the coordinator for the Short Term Australian Missions Program (STAMP) that is run out of the Gosford Church of Christ.) He and Amanda moved here in June. Since I’ve been here, they have become great friends.
I somehow managed to find a big orange pumpkin to carve. Neither Dean or Amanda had ever carved one before! I, as the expert, showed them the proper techniques. We first each submitted possible designs. We voted on the best one, and then got to work. An hour later, we had created a very spooky jack-o-lantern. Dean and Amanda loved the pumpkin so much that I left our finished product with them. I think I have won 2 Aussies over to my pumpkin-carving ways!

I just couldn't be bothered...

2009-10-26T19:54:00.000-07:00

I just couldn't be bothered is my favorite Australian phrase. You can use it for anything you don't want to do, and it's okay! Why didn't you clean the house? I couldn't be bothered. Why didn't you hang the washing on the line? I just couldn't be bothered. Why didn't you go to work today? I just couldn't be bothered. Okay, well, sometimes it's not okay, but you can get away with a lot using this one little phrase. So, in answer to your question, "Jenny, why haven't you updated your blog in 2 weeks?" I answer, "I just couldn't be bothered until now!"

Two Saturdays ago, some of the young adults in the Sydney area put on a Teen Only Event, called Only Jesus (OJ). In Australia, most youth groups include students in jr. high, high school, as well as young adults. Camps, area-wide youth worships, and youth activities are for anyone from ages 12 to 30. But every other month, the young adults like to give the teens an opportunity to have an event that is just for them, which is where OJ comes in. The theme of OJ this year has been purity. This particular OJ took place at Marubra Beach in Sydney. It started with soccer and ultimate frisbee on the beach. Then, we joined together for singing and a short talk about purity. The teens, then were divided into boys and girls for discussion groups. We finished the activity off with a sausage sizzle. We had about 8 teens from Gosford, along with 4 young adults to drive and chaperone.

Everyone getting ready to play soccer.

Micah, Me, Jamie, and Amanda spectating.

A good game of ultimate frisbee on a very windy day.

This past weekend, we had another youth event in Warringah (a suburb of Sydney) called Youth and Young at Heart (YAYAH). All the youth, young adults, and not so young adults get together the last Sunday of the month for a worship time led by young Christians. After worship, we have a meal together and a time of fellowship. The church that hosts this event each month has 2 HIM workers working there, also--Jamie and Sammie. Sunday night after YAYAH, I stayed with these girls instead of going back with the Gosford group. We spent the evening chatting about anything and everything, and just catching up on each others' lives and work. The next day Jamie and Sammie showed me around Manly (even though it was rainy and cold) and we went to an aquarium, called OceanWorld. We got to see lots of fish and sharks that are found in the waters of Australia. OceanWorld also has some reptiles and insects. While we were there, we watched a show about lizards, and were able to touch a blue-tongued lizard, a dragon lizard, a turtle, and a snake! We finished the afternoon off with coffee before I caught the train back to Gosford. Spending a night and a day with Jamie and Sammie really encouraged and re-energized me to start another week. I am so blessed to have them so close by!

Holding a boa constrictor at OceanWorld

Shark attack!

Manly Wharf

Saturday Adventures

2009-10-14T17:08:00.000-07:00

This past week I had the pleasure of staying with another family from the church--the Moads. I met the Moads when I was on campaign 3 years ago, so I knew them already. Staying with them was such a blessing! Last Saturday, they gave me tour of the Central Coast and showed me some great spots. We started the morning with a HUGE breakfast of eggs, bacon (really ham), English muffins, and hashbrowns. Then we set off north to Norah Head, where there is a gorgeous lighthouse. There, we walked along the beach and watched the waves crash into the rocks. The next stop Crackneck, which is a cliff that over looks the ocean. We also took a 3 km bushwalk along a trail to the top to get another view of the ocean. Along the walk, we say a blue-tongued lizard and tons of beautiful Australian wildflowers. We were starving after all of our walking, so went to a bakery and got meat pies for lunch. Meat pies are exactly what they sound like--little mini pies with different kinds of meat like beef, sausage, or lamb. I had a sausage roll with bacon and cheese with diet coke of course. We dropped everyone else back at home and Sallie Anne and I went for coffee at Terrigal Beach. We ended up at great cafe looking right over the water. We had delicious coffee and split a lime tart, which was similar to key lime pie, so it made my day. I had a wonderful day spending time with the Moad family and getting more acquainted with my new home!

View from the top of Crackneck.

Moad family in front of the light house at Norah Head.

Tim, me, Sallie Anne, and Sara in front of the lighthouse.

Jay, Tim, Me and Sara at Norah Head.

Sara and I

The lighthouse.

Goodbye September

2009-10-06T03:53:00.000-07:00

I have been so bad about blogging the last few weeks, please forgive me. But somewhere between going to Camp Revive and housesitting and surviving a dust storm, September ended and October came!

I was fortunate to attend Camp Revive in Melbourne. Camps in Australia are not just for teens, but also for young adults, so I was a participant at the camp. Because students here go to school all year long and summer is only about 6 weeks in December and January, lots of camps happen throughout the year on weekends. Five of us went to this camp from the Gosford—three young adults and two teens. We drove down to Melbourne in a massive road trip of two 10-seater buses and a minivan filled with 25 teens and young adults from the Sydney area. We arrived at the camp after spending 12 hours in the car on Friday evening. The camp was extremely uplifting and encouraging, even though it rained all weekend long. The theme was “Here I am to Worship,” which focused on how we can worship God with our every day lives and not just on Sunday mornings. There were excellent speakers, times of singing, and lots of fellowship. I was fortunate to meet and get to know many teens and young adults from all over Australia. I also was able to spend time with Jamie Canham and Sammie Marshall, two HIM workers in Sydney who also went to OC. The camp lasted until Sunday afternoon, then we got back in the bus and headed home. We arrived back to Gosford at 2 am Monday morning. Despite the long drive and the bad weather, I really enjoyed Revive and learned how to better worship God on a daily basis.

Spending 24 hours in a bus and loving it.

Me, Cam, and Emma representing Trek Youth.

My new Melbourne best friend, Amber.

Craft time with Jen, Allison, and Jamie (another HIM worker from Sydney).

A few weeks go, I woke up to very red and hazy sky. A freak dust storm had blown In the night before. Everything was coated in dust and the sky was foggy until late afternoon. I have been told I this never happens and it won’t happen again while I am here! Even after the air cleared, a fine layer of red dust covered everything including my freshly washed clothes! I ended up washing them twice and just using the dryer. The good thing was I felt right at home seeing all that red dirt along the street and on my car—just like being in Oklahoma!

I'll leave you with some of the signs that Spring is in full swing here on the Central Coast! These are all in my backyard!

Night Hike

2009-09-21T19:02:00.000-07:00

Monday, I was invited to go on a night hike by the Krause family. The hike was organized by the Cub Scouts, which Jacque (Cub) and Sebastian (Joey) are both members of. So, Mel and I loaded up the two boys (ages 10 and 6), Tanesha (4), and baby Phoenix (4 months) to hike from Rumbalara across town to the Ridgeway in the dark! The kids were so excited to bundle up in their jumpers (jackets) and bring their own torches (flashlights). We also packed a back pack of fruit and water to for the long journey. The group of about 50 kids and parents departed at 7:00 and finished the hike 2 hours later. The kids did great, even little Phoenix who stayed awake almost the whole time enjoying the ride on his Mum's tummy. Tanesha made it almost the whole way on her own, and only had to be carried the last 15 or 20 minutes. By the time we got in the van to head home, all the food was gone and half the kids were asleep! It was a great way to spend time with some of my favorite kids!

Sebby, Tanesha, and I excited to start hiking!

The Jrs.

The whole Krause crew--Tanesha, Seb, Mum Mel, baby Phoenix, and Jacques

Open-Mic Night

2009-09-14T18:56:00.001-07:00

Every other month, the Trek (the Gosford Youth Group) hosts an open-mic night at the ministry center. Evan, the youth minister, advertises it in coffee shops and has the teens take fliers to school to pass out. The purpose of the event is for the teens to invite their friends and bring in people from the community. Local musicans and the musicans within our group are invited to play at this event. Usually there are also skits, comedy acts, and videos. Last Saturday was the open-mic night for September. It started at 6:30 pm with a bbq dinner, and the music kicked off about 7:30. This open-mic night was mainly a hip-hop/rap music, featuring music preformed by 4 different Christian rappers, including the youth minister Evan. The evening wrapped up with Evan giving a short devo on Hope and concert ended at 9:30 pm. The teens really love these nights because it's a cool event to invite their friends to and a fun atmosphere to hang out in. The best part is that the music is uplifting and has Christian messages. We had over 50 teens/young adults there from our group, other congregations in the area, and the community. I can't wait to see how many more people we have in November!

Claire, Amanda, me, Tim and Hannah enjoying the music.

Jamming out.

Hanging out with the adults at the back.

Tim, Me, and Amanda

The audience.

Two of the rappers performing.

The one on the left is the Profit, aka Evan the youth minister.

Cameron, Chloe, Hannah, and Laura enjoying the bbq before the show.

Bushwalking

2009-09-08T02:47:00.000-07:00

I had my first experience in the wilds of Australia! Okay, maybe it wasn't that wild and dangerous, but I did go on my first bush walk. Bushwalking is what we would call hiking in the States. Yesterday (Mondays are my days-off), Amanda and I invited Jamie and Sammie, who are the 2 HIM workers in Warringah (a suburb of Sydney), to come up for some bushwalking and lunch. We woke up Monday morning to cloudy, overcast skies, which looked ready to downpour at any moment, but we decided to brave the elements. We decided to go hiking at the Rumbalara Reserve, which is actually in Gosford. Okay, so maybe we weren't as hardcore as we thought we were! We pulled up to the empty car park, looked at the map, and headed down a trail--first Amanda, then Sammie, followed by me, and Jamie brought up the end. We started hiking on along the trail and were met with tall trees and enormous rock faces, shaped by the elements. As we were walking, we were chatting about what was going on in our lives. We were talking and having such a good time, we lost the trail! We had to retraced our steps and went down another path. This path led us over a boulder and surfing down a hill of loose dirt. We continued along our walk up steps of packed dirt and logs. At one point, I placed my leg on one of these steps and the log went rolling down the hill, luckily Jamie moved out of the way. We finally reached the end of our trail, where we were met with orange, plastic construction fence blocking our way--never a good sign. We stepped over the fence and were met with a sign that said "Trail Closed." We went down a trail that was supposed to be closed due to erosion, which explains the unstable steps and the disappearing path! The view from the top was well worth it, though! We could see Brisbane waters and lots of little suburbs. After resting, we walked along the road back to where the car was parked. There, off, to the side was a piece of caution tape blocking off the entrance to the trail--we missed it because we were looking at the map earlier! After our exciting bushwalking experience, we decided one trail was enough and headed back to Amanda's apartment for lunch. We had a lovely afternoon chatting and catching up. I am so blessed to have fellow HIM workers so close to me.

The view from the top of Rumbalara.

McFellowship

2009-09-02T17:43:00.000-07:00

Here I am at week 2 and still loving every minute of it. The members of the church family are all still looking after me and helping me settle in! I have just moved in with the Mowdays for about 2 weeks, then I will go back to the Grittens to housesit.

One of my favorite parts of my week in Gosford is Wednesday night. Like most churches, they have their mid-week bible study on Wednesday nights at 7:30 pm. There is an adult class that meets at the community center, a teen class that meets at the ministry center (church building), and a few kids classes that meet in homes. I have been going to the teen class on Wednesday nights to get to know the kids better and become a part of the youth ministry. We usually hang out for about 30 minutes--listen to music, play ping pong and pool, just hang out and catch up. Then, we have some singing and a devo by Evan, the youth minister. Last night after the devo, we finished working on Twitter inboxes. They are basically envelopes all the kids are decorating so we can send each other encouragement notes. Around 9 pm, the parents start showing up to pick up their kids.

Some of the jr high girls and me.

Playing ping-pong and hanging out.

Making Twitter inboxes

Then the church joins up at McDonalds (a.k.a. Maccas) for a cup of coffee or a snack, hence McFellowship. Older members and adults come from their class and the teens come from their class, and we just have a nice time of getting together and catching up with each other. You know I love it because they have diet coke and it's a self-serve fountain, so I can get free refills!!!I don't usually get home until 10:30 pm, but it so worth it to fellowship with the church.

Loving diet coke. PS: that's a large...

I was reminded again last night how thankful I am to be working here with this congregation!

A Week of Firsts

2009-08-25T18:10:00.001-07:00

I am just finishing up my first week in Gosford. Everyone has been so friendly and kind, that I already feel like I am a part of the church. The goal of this week was to get over jet-lag and settle in, and I'm still working on both! I am staying with a family called the Grittens from the church. I will be staying with families and house sitting for about the first 3 months I am here, so I will be moving around quite a bit. This is has been a week of firsts for me.

1. First Australian Soccer Game: Dan and Mel Mowday took me to see the Central Coast Mariners last Saturday and they tied the Sydney team 0-0. It was still such a fun afternoon. I have been informed that that I will be going to lots of the games!

Dan Mowday, Me, and his wife Mel at the Central Coast Mariners game.

2. First time driving on the left side of the road! Even though I've been driving since I was 16, I have to really concentrate on it here. I have barely even listened to the radio while driving! gasp. Throw in round-abouts instead of traffic lights and you can imagine how different it feels. But, I am getting better everyday!

3. First Australian Car: I am so blessed to be able to buy a car from Dan and Mel Mowday to use while I am here. Her name is FeFe and she is fabulous Honda Civic. I epsecially love that she has 4 doors!
4. First trip to Big W: The Australian version of Wal-mart is Big W, and it is great! I have also already been to Target, so I feel right at home.

5. First Bible Study: Gosford Church has just started care groups or small groups. I have been invited to join two ladies groups. One meets on Fridays where we are studying 1 John and the other meets on Wednesday and we are doing a Beth Moore Study.

6. First Diet Coke: I had been here about 3 days before I had to go to the grocery store and get some diet coke. It doesn't taste exactly the same, but it does the job!

7. First Picnic: Last Sunday after worship, the Grittens (my current host family) invited me to have lunch with their family, which includes 3 awesome grandkids. We sat in a park looking over the bay, watching ducks, and having a great lunch of buns and bananas.

I am sure I will keep having firsts the longer I am here and I will keep you posted! I am so thankful to be here working with the Gosford Church of Christ. They are so warm and welcoming! I had so many cuddles (hugs), squeezes, kisses, and kind words spoken to me at church that I felt right at home.