I apologize for the fact that it seems I may have fallen off the face of the earth the past couple of months. I had an exciting update planned last month about a new job and a new apartment that I was thrilled about sharing with you...but sadly those plans fell through just a short while ago and it was hard for me to find the 'umph' to write the disappointing news. I should have pushed ahead and asked for your prayers, but my sadness at the unexpected change, as well as my pride, got in the way, and for that I am sorry. Thank you for faithfully lifting me up this summer.
My plans were to stay in Prague for another 2-year term working as the Youth mentor for all of Europe - something I had been looking excitedly forward to since the Lord laid it on my heart at the beginning of the year. Due to unforseen (except by the Father) circumstances and the poor economy, budget cuts had to be made in the organization, and my new job was one of the casualties. I was pretty devastated to say the least, but understanding that the Lord knew this would happen all along and that He is ALWAYS faithful, I had to trust Him. However, the future remained a dark, cavernous black hole. I had vague possibilities of jobs in this part of the world, but there was nothing specific the Lord was leading me towards except the official end of my term and a previously purchased plane ticket back to my grandparents in Kentucky on August 6. It was coming up fast and I still had no peace or direction....until this week. =)
I know I was getting impatient waiting on word from Him, deep down thinking, Hello! I want to be obedient, so why don't You tell me what I am supposed to do already! After discussing all my options with my family and with colleagues here, it was as if a big burden was lifted and a sudden peace descended in it's place. I was skyping with my mom when...I just knew. The Lord was telling me to go to seminary at Southwestern in Ft. Worth. That's all I really know right now, so I am trying to be obedient with that word from Him. I will start with the basic core classes with the intention of completing the 20-hour requirement to go career with the Board. If He says to stay, I will continue towards a degree in counseling so I can work in an official Member Care capacity with MK Youth overseas. Of course, these are just 'my' plans for now and the Lord may have something else in mind...He'll let me know as I continue to seek His face in all of this.
For now I have begun the application process, but really feel led to wait until the Spring semester to begin classes. Finishing my term here August 6th, moving to the States, and starting classes barely 2 weeks later is frighteningly rushed. My current plans are to spend part of the fall in Cyprus with my parents - I kind of like them - and they, of course, don't mind their grown up little girl living with them for a while. =) It will be a little scary being a student again after several years of being out of school, but I am really excited about it. (I'm kind of a nerd!)
I never could have survived this far, much less completed a successful term in this administrative role here in Prague, if I didn't have this support base lifting me up and encouraging me. Thank you for helping make this time in this wonderful city one of the best, most rewarding periods in my life.
I love you all,
Steph
Would you please join me in lifting these requests to the Father on my behalf...
-- The rest of this term - packing and goodbyes during my last few weeks in Prague. It's going to be really hard to leave this amazing home.
-- Travel and adjustment to the States on Thursday - a sweet time of refreshing and renewing as well as lots of sorting, repacking and visiting!
-- Spending the fall in Cyprus - that I would be able to find work or at least a means of supporting myself until I start classes and try to find a job in January.
-- The spring!! - choosing and registering for classes, moving to Ft. Worth, settling in, starting classes and finding a job to live on.
-- Always - that I will keep Christ as my true love and passion and that I will be obedient in whatever the Father has for me.
Monday, August 3, 2009
Thursday, March 5, 2009
Visit HOME!
Last week I got to spend 4 days in Cyprus with my parents and it was wonderful. Just wonderful. Great food, both my Momma's and my Lebanese shwarma place...Sam's. Incredible weather (though I must insert here that most weather is more incredible than the sleety, snowy, cold Prague that I left) with the mixture of the salty sea breeze and the fire-grilled souvla smoke permeating the dry air. *Sigh* What else? Ah...the singing...fun singing by all - around the piano at multiple homes, on stage a couple of times, and with the congregation at church. Sweet times.
Alas. It was too short. And now I am back to the daily grind in a rather dreary, still chilly Prague. But I am back with my HS girls, my teenagers, my Hands On buddies, my crazy job, and my subsitute teaching at the school. At least life is never dull. =)
Love to you all.
Pictures...
On the way up to the mountains.
A beautiful turnoff.
Up at the Flans - their living room and cozy loft.
Making coffee. Probably our 7th cappucino. =)
Snowball fight with my daddy. =)
Limassol at sunset.
Driving back into town.
At the airport...before goodbyes.
Friday, February 13, 2009
Yeah...I know...
...I am terrible at this.
I can't believe it has been a year since I last updated.
(Thanks, Matt, for rubbing it in. Haha! But hey, it worked!)
I will do better!! Well, I will try.
There is little point in my trying to catch everyone up on a year...so I will just post some vids and pics until I get into the hang of actually blogging again.
Singles' Retreat in Riga, Latvia in September:
Singing in the hallway with dearly missed friends...
New Years, 2009:
This is the insanity that is Prague at New Years...
My Padawans:
My most incredible teenagers performing Lifehouse's Everything Skit a few weeks ago - they are the best that a director and big sister could ever ask for...
I can't believe it has been a year since I last updated.
(Thanks, Matt, for rubbing it in. Haha! But hey, it worked!)
I will do better!! Well, I will try.
There is little point in my trying to catch everyone up on a year...so I will just post some vids and pics until I get into the hang of actually blogging again.
Singles' Retreat in Riga, Latvia in September:
Singing in the hallway with dearly missed friends...
New Years, 2009:
This is the insanity that is Prague at New Years...
My Padawans:
My most incredible teenagers performing Lifehouse's Everything Skit a few weeks ago - they are the best that a director and big sister could ever ask for...
Wednesday, February 13, 2008
Therapy and songs...
To steal my roommate's word, the conference here in Prague a couple of weeks ago was therapy. It was SO needed, and so incredible. Not much else does it justice. I am so thankful for it. And for dear friends:
Fun at St. Barbara's cathedral in Kutna Hora.
Sigh...my living room full of people I love!
My sisters and me on the windy Charles Bridge...
Love. =)
Now the songs...there are 3 and they are dear to me right now.
Jesus I am Resting
Jesus, I am resting, resting,
In the joy of what Thou art;
I am finding out the greatness
Of Thy loving heart.
Thou hast bid me gaze upon Thee,
And Thy beauty fills my soul,
For by Thy transforming power,
Thou hast made me whole.
Jesus, I am resting, resting,
In the joy of what Thou art;
I am finding out the greatness
Of Thy loving heart.
O, how great Thy loving kindness,
Vaster, broader than the sea!
O, how marvelous Thy goodness,
Lavished all on me!
Yes, I rest in Thee, Belovèd,
Know what wealth of grace is Thine,
Know Thy certainty of promise,
And have made it mine.
Jesus, I am resting, resting,
In the joy of what Thou art;
I am finding out the greatness
Of Thy loving heart.
Simply trusting Thee, Lord Jesus,
I behold Thee as Thou art,
And Thy love, so pure, so changeless,
Satisfies my heart;
Satisfies its deepest longings,
Meets, supplies its every need,
Compasseth me round with blessings:
Thine is love indeed!
Jesus, I am resting, resting,
In the joy of what Thou art;
I am finding out the greatness
Of Thy loving heart.
Ever lift Thy face upon me
As I work and wait for Thee;
Resting ’neath Thy smile, Lord Jesus,
Earth’s dark shadows flee.
Brightness of my Father’s glory,
Sunshine of my Father’s face,
Keep me ever trusting, resting,
Fill me with Thy grace.
Jesus, I am resting, resting,
In the joy of what Thou art;
I am finding out the greatness
Of Thy loving heart.
My Reedemer is Faithful and True
As I look back on the road I've travelled,
I see so many times He carried me through;
And if there's one thing that I've learned in my life,
My Redeemer is faithful and true.
My Redeemer is faithful and true.
My Redeemer is faithful and true.
Everything He has said He will do,
And every morning His mercies are new.
My Redeemer is faithful and true.
My heart rejoices when I read the promise
'There is a place I am preparing for you.'
I know someday I'll see my Lord face to face,
'Cause my Redeemer is faithful and true.
My Redeemer is faithful and true.
My Redeemer is faithful and true.
Everything He has said He will do,
And every morning His mercies are new.
My Redeemer is faithful and true.
And in every situation He has proved His love to me;
When I lack the understanding, He gives more grace to me.
My Redeemer is faithful and true.
Everything He has said He will do,
And every morning His mercies are new.
My Redeemer is faithful and true.
Worth It All
I don't understand Your ways
Oh but I will give You my song
Give You all of my praise
You hold on to all my pain
With it You are pulling me closer
And pulling me into Your ways
Now around every corner
And up every mountain
I'm not looking for crowns
Or the water from fountains
I'm desperate in seeking, frantic believing
That the sight of Your face
Is all that I'm needing
I will say to You
It's gonna be worth it
It's gonna be worth it
It's gonna be worth it all
I believe this
It's gonna be worth it
It's gonna be worth it
It's gonna be worth it all
I believe this
You're gonna be worth it
You're gonna be worth it
You're gonna be worth it all
I believe this
You're gonna be worth it
You're gonna be worth it
You're gonna be worth it all
Fun at St. Barbara's cathedral in Kutna Hora.
Sigh...my living room full of people I love!
My sisters and me on the windy Charles Bridge...
Love. =)
Now the songs...there are 3 and they are dear to me right now.
Jesus I am Resting
Jesus, I am resting, resting,
In the joy of what Thou art;
I am finding out the greatness
Of Thy loving heart.
Thou hast bid me gaze upon Thee,
And Thy beauty fills my soul,
For by Thy transforming power,
Thou hast made me whole.
Jesus, I am resting, resting,
In the joy of what Thou art;
I am finding out the greatness
Of Thy loving heart.
O, how great Thy loving kindness,
Vaster, broader than the sea!
O, how marvelous Thy goodness,
Lavished all on me!
Yes, I rest in Thee, Belovèd,
Know what wealth of grace is Thine,
Know Thy certainty of promise,
And have made it mine.
Jesus, I am resting, resting,
In the joy of what Thou art;
I am finding out the greatness
Of Thy loving heart.
Simply trusting Thee, Lord Jesus,
I behold Thee as Thou art,
And Thy love, so pure, so changeless,
Satisfies my heart;
Satisfies its deepest longings,
Meets, supplies its every need,
Compasseth me round with blessings:
Thine is love indeed!
Jesus, I am resting, resting,
In the joy of what Thou art;
I am finding out the greatness
Of Thy loving heart.
Ever lift Thy face upon me
As I work and wait for Thee;
Resting ’neath Thy smile, Lord Jesus,
Earth’s dark shadows flee.
Brightness of my Father’s glory,
Sunshine of my Father’s face,
Keep me ever trusting, resting,
Fill me with Thy grace.
Jesus, I am resting, resting,
In the joy of what Thou art;
I am finding out the greatness
Of Thy loving heart.
My Reedemer is Faithful and True
As I look back on the road I've travelled,
I see so many times He carried me through;
And if there's one thing that I've learned in my life,
My Redeemer is faithful and true.
My Redeemer is faithful and true.
My Redeemer is faithful and true.
Everything He has said He will do,
And every morning His mercies are new.
My Redeemer is faithful and true.
My heart rejoices when I read the promise
'There is a place I am preparing for you.'
I know someday I'll see my Lord face to face,
'Cause my Redeemer is faithful and true.
My Redeemer is faithful and true.
My Redeemer is faithful and true.
Everything He has said He will do,
And every morning His mercies are new.
My Redeemer is faithful and true.
And in every situation He has proved His love to me;
When I lack the understanding, He gives more grace to me.
My Redeemer is faithful and true.
Everything He has said He will do,
And every morning His mercies are new.
My Redeemer is faithful and true.
Worth It All
I don't understand Your ways
Oh but I will give You my song
Give You all of my praise
You hold on to all my pain
With it You are pulling me closer
And pulling me into Your ways
Now around every corner
And up every mountain
I'm not looking for crowns
Or the water from fountains
I'm desperate in seeking, frantic believing
That the sight of Your face
Is all that I'm needing
I will say to You
It's gonna be worth it
It's gonna be worth it
It's gonna be worth it all
I believe this
It's gonna be worth it
It's gonna be worth it
It's gonna be worth it all
I believe this
You're gonna be worth it
You're gonna be worth it
You're gonna be worth it all
I believe this
You're gonna be worth it
You're gonna be worth it
You're gonna be worth it all
Sunday, January 13, 2008
Since Christmas...
My family came for Christmas and it was the best present I could have received. We cooked together, played games together, worked puzzles together, saw Prague together, enjoyed the Christmas markets together, ate tons of food together....clearly the theme this year was "TOGETHER". And it was wonderful - the Lord is SO GOOD. I was so sad to see them go. But a fun New Year's celebration was had by all and that was a welcome distraction from the grief (yes, even after all these years of continents separating us, I still can't say goodbye to my family). I will post the links to my facebook pictures so you can all see the madness of the holidays. =)
Then it was back to work...I was spoiled after a whole week off and it was hard to get back into a routine at the office. From now until March we have back to back (and overlapping!!) conferences hosted at the office and so that means a lot of planning and organizing and making things happen! But I like being busy and having lots of people in and out. The most exciting conference coming up is for all new folks - that's me! And all my training friends! In Prague for 4 days of fun meetings and hanging out! I really can't wait...I love having something to look forward to. =)
The Lord blessed me, though, with a much-needed distraction during this anticipation of the conference - a 2-day ski trip in the Krkonose Mountains in Northern Czech!! The Brummitts (Greg and Andrea), my roommate (Natalie) and I drove up Wednesday evening, skiied Thursday and Friday, and came back to Prague Friday night. We stayed in a quaint, rustic, completely snowed-in penzion cabin owned by a sweet old Czech man and his son (and their dog, of course) and cooked our dinners on a little raclette grill in our tiny 70s-inspired room, and had breakfast prepared for us downstairs in the little dining room. Quite the adventure. We're calling it the Brummitt Family Ski Trip - after getting our van stuck in the snow, teaching Natalie how to ski by taking her to the top of the mountain =), and squeezing together in really close quarters, we really are a family. We still love each other and no one broke anything on the slopes. =) The Lord is good!
I'll post just a few of those pics - even though no one looks good all wind-chapped and tired. =)
Breakfast on day #2 - we were so tired! =)
Sleepy smiles...but ready to hit the slopes again! =)
Frozen smiles on the ski lift! =)
View of the gorgeous Krkonose Mnts from the top of the lift.
Our ski town, Spindleruv Mlyn, from halfway down the slopes...ah - such beauty!
Christmas pics: http://obu.facebook.com/album.php?aid=2020921&l=9bffc&id=82201110
New Year's pics: http://obu.facebook.com/album.php?aid=2020922&l=e3b00&id=82201110
I hope you all have had as wonderful a start to 2008 as I have. And as nice as the holidays were, I really am ready to be back at work doing what I know I have been called to do - ready to be a light to those around me here in Prague - ready for 2008 to be the Lord's year.
Blessings and grace to you all.
Much love,
Steph
Then it was back to work...I was spoiled after a whole week off and it was hard to get back into a routine at the office. From now until March we have back to back (and overlapping!!) conferences hosted at the office and so that means a lot of planning and organizing and making things happen! But I like being busy and having lots of people in and out. The most exciting conference coming up is for all new folks - that's me! And all my training friends! In Prague for 4 days of fun meetings and hanging out! I really can't wait...I love having something to look forward to. =)
The Lord blessed me, though, with a much-needed distraction during this anticipation of the conference - a 2-day ski trip in the Krkonose Mountains in Northern Czech!! The Brummitts (Greg and Andrea), my roommate (Natalie) and I drove up Wednesday evening, skiied Thursday and Friday, and came back to Prague Friday night. We stayed in a quaint, rustic, completely snowed-in penzion cabin owned by a sweet old Czech man and his son (and their dog, of course) and cooked our dinners on a little raclette grill in our tiny 70s-inspired room, and had breakfast prepared for us downstairs in the little dining room. Quite the adventure. We're calling it the Brummitt Family Ski Trip - after getting our van stuck in the snow, teaching Natalie how to ski by taking her to the top of the mountain =), and squeezing together in really close quarters, we really are a family. We still love each other and no one broke anything on the slopes. =) The Lord is good!
I'll post just a few of those pics - even though no one looks good all wind-chapped and tired. =)
Breakfast on day #2 - we were so tired! =)
Sleepy smiles...but ready to hit the slopes again! =)
Frozen smiles on the ski lift! =)
View of the gorgeous Krkonose Mnts from the top of the lift.
Our ski town, Spindleruv Mlyn, from halfway down the slopes...ah - such beauty!
Christmas pics: http://obu.facebook.com/album.php?aid=2020921&l=9bffc&id=82201110
New Year's pics: http://obu.facebook.com/album.php?aid=2020922&l=e3b00&id=82201110
I hope you all have had as wonderful a start to 2008 as I have. And as nice as the holidays were, I really am ready to be back at work doing what I know I have been called to do - ready to be a light to those around me here in Prague - ready for 2008 to be the Lord's year.
Blessings and grace to you all.
Much love,
Steph
Wednesday, December 19, 2007
Pictures I promised in my last post...
Andrea & Greg Brummit and me - sharing a gigantic sausage at the Namesti Miru Christmas Market near their apartment.
When my daddy came to visit on his way to a conference in Germany.
Andrea and me at our friend Evča's graduation prom.
My cozy living room all decorated for Christmas!
Monday, December 17, 2007
Still alive!
So...I don't know what my deal has been - not posting in a couple months and all - being busy is my excuse, but its not really a good one. I'm sorry, friends!
So what have I been up to?
- I am on the worship team at church, leading the choir (yup, all 8 of them!) and sometimes leading worship. It can get a little overwhelming with just two of us on the rotation, but I am grateful to be involved.
- I teach voice lessons once a week to little Sabrina, my 8 year old buddy that I met at church. She's pretty darn adorable - and absolutely LOVES to sing. Volume and 'heart' are definitely not an issue for her - pitch, on the other hand....well, we are working on it. =) She knows the "Sunday school" version of Jesus, but not who He needs to be in her life...I am also slowly building a relationship with Sab's mom, Jana, who is very anti-church in every way, so please pray that I will have opportunities to share with her as well as Sabrina.
- I auditioned for the International Choir of Prague in September and have been singing with them ever since. Its about 25 adults from all over the world who love to sing - and in English. =) Its been one of my main chances to interact with non-believers as we rehearse together every Wednesday night, and then go out to a local bar or little pizzeria after just to chill after practice. We had a Christmas concert with two performances - the choir had no idea it was proclaiming the gospel to our audiences in most of our songs...and I have had a chance to share the Truth with the couple who leads the choir on several occasions. He is GOOD - I covet your prayers for more chances to be a light - to Laurie, Brendan and Sarka in particular.
- On Sunday nights our office hosts an English Club for Czech kids, and helping out with that has been one of the most enjoyable and rewarding aspects of life here - we have about 25-30 kids each week that come to practice their English through singing (that's what I lead, if you couldn't guess! haha!), reading, and playing - with a Bible story and craft-time added to the mix. This past Sunday was their Christmas Program - and the gospel was presented through them to their parents. It went so well, and we are praying that the seeds of Truth that were planted will take root in each life.
When I am not running around from one event to another, I am in the office... 9-5: planning conferences, setting up meetings, playing travel agent, working on visa applications, sitting in staff meetings, working on correspondence...oh the list is endless. =) I am still learning on the job, but I do enjoy it more because I finally feel like I know what I am doing! That's not to say that it's easy - no, it's still stressful at times, and more often than not, I'd rather be outside (even when it's below freezing!) building relationships and enjoying the outdoors.
In the midst of all this is the excitement and anticipation of CHRISTMAS!! My favorite time of year!! My family arrives on Friday to squeeze into my apartment with me, my roomie and her best friend...and its going to be fabulous. =) We will run out of hot water, have to sit on the floor to eat dinner, and never get to do laundry....and I can't wait!! =)
I love you all and am grateful for your friendship and prayers - even when I forget to post!
Pictures are coming in the next one...
Much love,
Steph
So what have I been up to?
- I am on the worship team at church, leading the choir (yup, all 8 of them!) and sometimes leading worship. It can get a little overwhelming with just two of us on the rotation, but I am grateful to be involved.
- I teach voice lessons once a week to little Sabrina, my 8 year old buddy that I met at church. She's pretty darn adorable - and absolutely LOVES to sing. Volume and 'heart' are definitely not an issue for her - pitch, on the other hand....well, we are working on it. =) She knows the "Sunday school" version of Jesus, but not who He needs to be in her life...I am also slowly building a relationship with Sab's mom, Jana, who is very anti-church in every way, so please pray that I will have opportunities to share with her as well as Sabrina.
- I auditioned for the International Choir of Prague in September and have been singing with them ever since. Its about 25 adults from all over the world who love to sing - and in English. =) Its been one of my main chances to interact with non-believers as we rehearse together every Wednesday night, and then go out to a local bar or little pizzeria after just to chill after practice. We had a Christmas concert with two performances - the choir had no idea it was proclaiming the gospel to our audiences in most of our songs...and I have had a chance to share the Truth with the couple who leads the choir on several occasions. He is GOOD - I covet your prayers for more chances to be a light - to Laurie, Brendan and Sarka in particular.
- On Sunday nights our office hosts an English Club for Czech kids, and helping out with that has been one of the most enjoyable and rewarding aspects of life here - we have about 25-30 kids each week that come to practice their English through singing (that's what I lead, if you couldn't guess! haha!), reading, and playing - with a Bible story and craft-time added to the mix. This past Sunday was their Christmas Program - and the gospel was presented through them to their parents. It went so well, and we are praying that the seeds of Truth that were planted will take root in each life.
When I am not running around from one event to another, I am in the office... 9-5: planning conferences, setting up meetings, playing travel agent, working on visa applications, sitting in staff meetings, working on correspondence...oh the list is endless. =) I am still learning on the job, but I do enjoy it more because I finally feel like I know what I am doing! That's not to say that it's easy - no, it's still stressful at times, and more often than not, I'd rather be outside (even when it's below freezing!) building relationships and enjoying the outdoors.
In the midst of all this is the excitement and anticipation of CHRISTMAS!! My favorite time of year!! My family arrives on Friday to squeeze into my apartment with me, my roomie and her best friend...and its going to be fabulous. =) We will run out of hot water, have to sit on the floor to eat dinner, and never get to do laundry....and I can't wait!! =)
I love you all and am grateful for your friendship and prayers - even when I forget to post!
Pictures are coming in the next one...
Much love,
Steph
Wednesday, August 22, 2007
Thursday, August 16, 2007
Precious...
This is one of the most precious things I have ever seen! Watch and be challenged!
I hope you enjoyed it! =)
I'm so sorry I haven't updated this in a month! Work, I thought, was calmer during the summer....but I was wrong. We have been so busy - the media office, dwindled as it is, has been videoing and interviewing all over Central and South Europe, and they're planning a music video shoot for next week here in the city. The accounting office is going full speed as usual, trying to keep up with new personnel to the region (PTL!) and job changes and all that great stuff.
My job has been ever-expanding and modifying since I got here - most recently I have been the house/apartment-hunter for the RL and his family who are looking to move to a spot in the city with cleaner air. And while I was researching realty companies for a house for them, I might as well be given the job of finding apts for our incoming personnel, right?! =) PTL I found an apartment for the new Jgirl that will be here in October...and guess what? Its in MY building! =) How convenient is that?! The Lord provides. And I am ever-learning. About the Lord, about this job, about my amazing colleagues that double (whether they realize it or not!) as my family here, and about myself. So, needless to say, work-wise, life is never "boring", even if its not always "fun". =)
Home-wise (I'm not sure that's an actual word!), I find that I continue to relish being home in my apartment. It truly is just me and Natalie now. Kristin, our friend who was here working on Prince Caspian, has returned to VA and now its just the two old fogies at home. =) Not for long though! My best friend from Cyprus, Elizabeth, is coming to visit next week, and I can't wait to see her. =) I'm re-reading Piper's Don't Waste Your Life...and probably should have a long time ago. I am continuing to make friends at church, and I am praying these friends will, in turn, lead to relationships being built within the local community. That is still hard going here.
Just wanted to catch you all up. I so appreciate your emails, your prayers and your friendship!
Much love,
Steph
I hope you enjoyed it! =)
I'm so sorry I haven't updated this in a month! Work, I thought, was calmer during the summer....but I was wrong. We have been so busy - the media office, dwindled as it is, has been videoing and interviewing all over Central and South Europe, and they're planning a music video shoot for next week here in the city. The accounting office is going full speed as usual, trying to keep up with new personnel to the region (PTL!) and job changes and all that great stuff.
My job has been ever-expanding and modifying since I got here - most recently I have been the house/apartment-hunter for the RL and his family who are looking to move to a spot in the city with cleaner air. And while I was researching realty companies for a house for them, I might as well be given the job of finding apts for our incoming personnel, right?! =) PTL I found an apartment for the new Jgirl that will be here in October...and guess what? Its in MY building! =) How convenient is that?! The Lord provides. And I am ever-learning. About the Lord, about this job, about my amazing colleagues that double (whether they realize it or not!) as my family here, and about myself. So, needless to say, work-wise, life is never "boring", even if its not always "fun". =)
Home-wise (I'm not sure that's an actual word!), I find that I continue to relish being home in my apartment. It truly is just me and Natalie now. Kristin, our friend who was here working on Prince Caspian, has returned to VA and now its just the two old fogies at home. =) Not for long though! My best friend from Cyprus, Elizabeth, is coming to visit next week, and I can't wait to see her. =) I'm re-reading Piper's Don't Waste Your Life...and probably should have a long time ago. I am continuing to make friends at church, and I am praying these friends will, in turn, lead to relationships being built within the local community. That is still hard going here.
Just wanted to catch you all up. I so appreciate your emails, your prayers and your friendship!
Much love,
Steph
Tuesday, July 17, 2007
I'm still here...
Well dear friends, I apologize for the lack of communication the last couple of weeks. Since AGM our office numbers have dwindled significantly with families going Stateside for vacation, meetings, health or funerals. Not all happy ocassions. But the Lord has provided just enough (He always does) to keep the skeleton of the office going strong! I would be among those skeletal members just chugging along with work as usual. RH, my boss, is still in the States and will be until the end of August, so much of my work is sent through email...and most of it is computer-related, so it keeps me busy.
We did have a couple of days off the week after AGM and so I got to take a couple of day trips to areas outside of Prague...those trips are always fun adventures. A 3-hour bus trip on a hot day with the windows closed (breezes can make you sick...don't you know that?!)
This past week the insanity that is my apartment hit a record high. =) Kristin, our new friend who is here shadowing the producer of the new Narnia film, Prince Caspian (yeah I know, its awesome!!) has been staying with us. Laura is still here... Natalie's friends were stopping through and stayed with us...and though my visitors (yes I had visitors!!! yay!!) did not sleep at my place, there we can count more friends added to the mix! Much fun though. John Clinton was here from Norman as the conductor of the Oklahoma Youth Orchestra as they stopped in Prague on their European tour...what a blast I had with him. =) Then Kevin and Heather, dear friends from Cyprus days, came to see the city and I had so much fun taking them to eat and helping them plan out their sightseeing. Now, it is calm and peaceful at my apartment. I am the only one here until next week...and though I am a huge E on the MBTI, I fear I am becoming more and more introverted. I am loving the aloneness. Is that a word? I'm not sure. But even if its not, I am loving it. =) I will be glad when Nats gets back from her European train adventures, but for now, I relish in the peace that the Lord has given.
And now for a few pics of the last few weeks. More can be seen on facebook by following this link.
http://obu.facebook.com/album.php?aid=2016205&l=e83af&id=82201110
The hotel complex at AGM in Greece...high of 114...but look at the place! It was worth it. =)
Poor RH getting his head shaved in the auction...is hair went for $11,000!!! And since he's the top dog, it was quite the highlight of the evening!
View of Cesky Krumlov, a gorgeous town about 2 and a half hours south of Prague between it and Vienna, from the top of the tower in the castle...
Winding road from the top of the mountain where the castle is built into the rock...view of the cathedral St. Vitus...popular name here in Czech Rep!
Laura, Andrea and I in front of the fountain in the palace gardens at the top of the cliff...
Taking a rest in the shade! =)
Back in Prague - a painter on the Charles Bridge...
John Clinton, dear Norman friend, conducted the OYO that performed a concert in Prague on their European tour...and I got to spend the whole day with him! =) Can you tell I was happy? =)
I had best be getting myself on to bed...its late...and tomorrow is another day at the office.
Much love to all of you,
Steph
We did have a couple of days off the week after AGM and so I got to take a couple of day trips to areas outside of Prague...those trips are always fun adventures. A 3-hour bus trip on a hot day with the windows closed (breezes can make you sick...don't you know that?!)
This past week the insanity that is my apartment hit a record high. =) Kristin, our new friend who is here shadowing the producer of the new Narnia film, Prince Caspian (yeah I know, its awesome!!) has been staying with us. Laura is still here... Natalie's friends were stopping through and stayed with us...and though my visitors (yes I had visitors!!! yay!!) did not sleep at my place, there we can count more friends added to the mix! Much fun though. John Clinton was here from Norman as the conductor of the Oklahoma Youth Orchestra as they stopped in Prague on their European tour...what a blast I had with him. =) Then Kevin and Heather, dear friends from Cyprus days, came to see the city and I had so much fun taking them to eat and helping them plan out their sightseeing. Now, it is calm and peaceful at my apartment. I am the only one here until next week...and though I am a huge E on the MBTI, I fear I am becoming more and more introverted. I am loving the aloneness. Is that a word? I'm not sure. But even if its not, I am loving it. =) I will be glad when Nats gets back from her European train adventures, but for now, I relish in the peace that the Lord has given.
And now for a few pics of the last few weeks. More can be seen on facebook by following this link.
http://obu.facebook.com/album.php?aid=2016205&l=e83af&id=82201110
The hotel complex at AGM in Greece...high of 114...but look at the place! It was worth it. =)
Poor RH getting his head shaved in the auction...is hair went for $11,000!!! And since he's the top dog, it was quite the highlight of the evening!
View of Cesky Krumlov, a gorgeous town about 2 and a half hours south of Prague between it and Vienna, from the top of the tower in the castle...
Winding road from the top of the mountain where the castle is built into the rock...view of the cathedral St. Vitus...popular name here in Czech Rep!
Laura, Andrea and I in front of the fountain in the palace gardens at the top of the cliff...
Taking a rest in the shade! =)
Back in Prague - a painter on the Charles Bridge...
John Clinton, dear Norman friend, conducted the OYO that performed a concert in Prague on their European tour...and I got to spend the whole day with him! =) Can you tell I was happy? =)
I had best be getting myself on to bed...its late...and tomorrow is another day at the office.
Much love to all of you,
Steph
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