This chapter...

The end of this chapter of my life is fast approaching.

I find that as the pages are being completed one by one, part of me wants to continue on writing just a while longer. Yet as every chapter does, it will come to an end, a closing.

Thinking about this upcoming end, I feel reluctant to leave the place where transformation and change has occurred. However, in the midst of the apprehension of this ending, there is also hope. Hope in a the beginning of a new chapter and the opportunity for continuing aspects of previous chapters.

I feel torn :) I so long to return home to my family and friends, and yet I also long to remain here and continue in the new relationships and work that I have done. Seasons of life are wonderful, but the difficult part is the transition! But I am thankful for this season and the knowledge I have gained and grown from.

No matter what the season, the place, the people or the culture- there is always much to learn and a faithful and patient teacher to provide the lessons!

In coming to Romania, something I knew in theory but lacked in fully realizing, was this: my trials and struggles would not be any different here than what they would be at home.
Struggles and trials root themselves in the heart, and where I go, my heart goes! :)

For example, anxiety and worry are rooted in not trusting the Lord, or struggling to savor and seek the Lord could be rooted in a heart that is distracted by worldly things and not focused on that which is eternal. Changing location, setting and even culture will not change those struggles of the heart. I have found this out in an amazing way here, and even though there may be new struggles that result because of cultural differences, it comes down to the heart.

While here, it has amazed me how the Lord has created within me a greater desire for Him, a desire for a heart that is fixed on things above, on Him. What does it mean to truly "long for God" to long for Christ's return?
I feel as if my heart is coming alive to the truth that "God is most glorified in us when we are most satisfied in Him"!

My heart arrived at this question- do I long after God?

Do I desire him above all earthy things?
Is my prayer for His will and not my own?

But what brought me to this reflection I realized was not the different culture or a new location, but the truth that my heart was not satisfied and is not satisfied unless it is being filled with His truth, His love, and His grace!

No matter where we are, God is faithful to refine us and teach us and discipline us as His beloved children so that we may be transformed through His sanctifying work! The issue of complacency is not a result of location, but of the heart. I have learned that here in Romania, and am so thankful to go home, knowing that He who began a good work in us is faithful to carry it out to completion.

I want to run this race that is set before me with passion, with perseverance and with faith, with eyes fixed on Jesus!

In this chapter, this season of my life, there has been much change. The change is not external, nor is the change a result of "Romania" per say. Change has happened because of God's grace and work in my heart, it is being transformed and renewed day by day.

In God, my heart finds its satisfaction, peace, mercy and its ever increasing joy in realizing it belongs to Him- no matter the place, the season or the chapter of life.

Therefore we do not lose heart. Though outwardly we are wasting away, yet inwardly we are being renewed day by day. For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all. So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen. For what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal.

2 Corinthians 4:16-18

Northern Ireland

It's true, Ireland is a beauty like none other.



With the sea to the east and the mountains in the west, I am surrealy snuggled up in a cozy, stone, church parish in the midst of a dream, finding it necessary to pinch myself.



Just walking outside the door, down the street and around a corner, finds me catching my breath to the glories of God's creation! It is so beautiful!!



I do not have much time, but I just wanted to share some Irish proverbs I have found that were interesting. There is so much beneath the surface here in Northern Ireland, and it has been quite the adventure learning about this culture and it's people as well. I am currently reading a book entitled "Angela's Ashes" that is a memoir of a poor Irish family during the early-mid 1900's. I look forward to hopefully sharing more later.



Also, it has truly been wonderful to be here, visiting with a friend I used to work with at the Christian bookstore. There are some strong, godly brothers and sisters in Christ that I have been privileged to meet here as well, and it has just been so refreshing and encouraging! I did not realize how much I need this time till I came here!



Well, I am off to spend time with youth at a drop in center called JIMS!



I will leave you with the Irish proverbs :)

• A friend's eye is a good mirror.




• Life is like a cup of tea, it's all in how you make it.




• Need teaches a plan.




• The longest road out is the shortest road home.




• There is no need like the lack of a friend.




• What fills the eye fills the heart.

Kregel Parable workers reunited!
Love this girl dearly..

Megan, myself and Becca at Tullymore park :)

Beggar Boy

Iron sharpens iron,
and one man sharpens another.

Consider it pure joy...when you face trials of various kinds...

"...trials of various kinds"- this phrase has left me thoughtful tonight as I begin to write and share some thoughts.
How appropriate that this verse is worded in such a way, leaving opportunity for whatever you may fill in the under the category of "trials of various kinds".
Weariness, poverty, pessimism, hopelessness, anger, thoughts....
Last weekend something happened, minor and seemingly insignificant, yet unique; it remains on my mind.

This past Saturday, Dorothy, Anita (my host sister) and I went to a Hungarian town here in Romania, called Odorhe. It was really a nice town, and we began our outing by going to a shop where Dorothy has previously purchased beautiful, hand-made, traditional Hungarian clothes. It was a small store, and the daughter was there, in charge of the shop. Anita speaks fluent and very good Hungarian and was able to talk with the girl for a while. She was quite shy, but very sweet.
We then went to walk around the city and see what other shops were awaiting our browsing! While walking, a young boy of maybe 8 years began to follow us and talk with us. He was a beggar. You could tell by his face, his clothes and his manner that he was very poor. This boy spoke in Hungarian, and thus neither Dorothy nor I could understand a word he was saying. He was very persistent and aggressive and his words were laced with frustration and a demanding tone. He wanted money, and he knew we had it. He continued to follow us as we went into a store. As we were walking up the steps, myself being last, he got in front of me and stuck his arms out length-wise, bracing himself to block me from entering the store. As I went to gently move his arm- he turned around and hit me! I was so shocked at this and taken aback. I myself was frustrated that I could not talk with him. But we walked in the store, and that was the last of him.

Later, I asked Anita what he was saying to us. She said that he was mad that we were ignoring him, and he knew that we had money, and thus wanted us to give him some.
To be honest, the first thing on my mind after he hit me was not "poor little boy", but "how dare he.." yet as we were walking around inside the store, my mind wandered to wondering. A boy at that age, hitting strangers, where did he learn that? It is nearly certain that he sees that type of behavior at home, or even gets beat himself. They beg for money and must bring home all that they receive in order to give it to their parents, who then most likely spend it on alcohol or other harmful substances. I could imagine this little boy, 8 years old, going home with empty pockets, and being beaten for his failure of not bringing back money.

Now that, that changed my perspective... and my attitude.
Instead of feeling mad, I began to feel deep compassion and sadness for such a life. A life void of childhood innocence, instead of playing on the street- he is begging on the street... a life void of nurturing love, a life void of happiness and joy. I wish I would have been able to talk with him, and first ask him what he needed money for- if he would say food, then I would buy him food. I have made this my resolve to do, if I am approached again while here. But now all I can do is pray for this little boy. And pray that maybe some other person will take time to listen or reach out to him.

So as I face these various trials, trials of a communal poverty, of elderly pessimism, or of hopelessness, I find so much strength in the knowledge that although I am not capable of meeting all these needs and changing hearts, I know who is capable. The end of Romans 12 says to not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good....
Although this was seemingly not "my trial" it was my trial. It was difficult to respond first, in the midst of the moment, with love and compassion. Yet it taught me to take time to understand and to listen...and it tested my faith in coming to the Lord with this concern and heart-felt compassion and sorrow for the little boy. During my time here, there are certainly moments when it is hard to love mercy, do justice, to walk humbly, and to "never be lacking in zeal, but keeping spiritual fervor, serving the Lord.

Please pray, as I have two months left, that I will continue to grow in the knowledge and grace of the Lord, especially through these trials of various kinds! Please pray for this little beggar boy, and the others that I will encounter during my time here. Please pray that His glory and His love would evident in my life, every day and that I would continue to be humbled in loving others, considering it all a joy! :)

The rest of the day however was very enjoyable. From Odorhe we went to Korand, another Hungarian village, which is known for its pottery. Anita and I had a great time, sauntering for nearly 3 hours in all the road-side stores! It was quite chilly, and near the end of our shopping, we were ready to meet Dorothy at the shop where she purchases pottery to sell at the International Cafe. When we arrived, the store owner greeted us with an invitation to tea and gagos (fried doughnuts). Her store was absolutely exquisite, and she had the nicest pieces I had seen the whole day. She was also quite the business woman- she treats customers like kings and queens!! But it was so nice.. I will always remember her saying in Hungarian to Dorothy- "Hum Hum Dorothy"- meaning "eat, eat"!!! haha, and she kept saying to me in English- you lookie boy here! :p!!!
It was a great outing, and really enjoyable. Anita and I have become even closer friends over the past days, and I am so deeply thankful to the Lord for this budding friendship! She has become a confidant and listener of some of my more private and sensitive thoughts and feelings. And it has been such a joy to have someone to share those things with here, to share in honesty and love with the bond of Christ uniting us! Most certainly praise to the Lord for this time here with Anita and her friendship which has been sharpening and edifying!

The exquisite pottery shop in Korand.

This owner on the right, and her daughter on the left :)

Golden

A Golden Birthday
22 years
February 22, 2009

This year, my birthday was spent here in Romania! It was quite a blessing and joy to spend my golden birthday in such memorable circumstances. Although absent from my friends and family in the US, I am so very grateful for the family and friends that the Lord has placed in my life here.
The first birthday surprise was 2 ginormous packages from home!!! I was so floored to see them, and Rachel and mamma took joy in hiding them and ushering me into my room blindfolded to reveal the suprise packages. They were full of goodies from home- oreos, french vanilla coffee cream, marshmallows, syrup, my retainer (hehee) and gifts for the family here as well. Squeals of excitment, laughter and smiles was the noise coming from my bedroom as I opened the package with Rachel and mamma!! Thank you family for making my birthday here so special, even so far from home- (special thanks especially to Dennis and Renee! love you two!).
Morning of my birthday- Anita decorated the table with american placemates and candles. As I lit each candle we discussed memories from other years of life. It was so nice to reflect and share fun and special memories with her and Rachel! Anita also shared with me that every birthday she chooses a psalm for that year- I loved that idea and have decided to implement it as well! I chose Psalm 92 for various reasons.
The rest of the day held- a delicious lunch, a visit from friends, encouraging messages and cards, phone conversations with everyone in my family, and watching a movie! It was truly a wonderful birthday, and really when it comes down to it, I am thankful for another year- hours, days, months- time, to fully grow in the knowledge and joy of the Lord being my portion and my all!
This a section from Psalm 92, which I chose for the year, that illustrates well my prayer for the remainder of my life, that I may be like a cedar of Lebanon... bearing fruit in old age for His glory.
Psalm 92:12-15

The righteous will flourish like a palm tree,
they will grow like a cedar of Lebanon;

planted in the house of the LORD,
they will flourish in the courts of our God.

They will still bear fruit in old age,
they will stay fresh and green,

proclaiming, "The LORD is upright;
he is my Rock, and there is no wickedness in him.

Thank you!!

Love and joy,

Lauren

"Don't let the bed bugs bite"

"Good night, sleep tight. Don't let the bed bugs bite!"

I don't know about you, but I have often said this phrase without the faintest clue that bed bugs really and truly do exist! And they are actually called "bed bugs"!

I have had the privilege to encounter these hungry little pests. In the wee hours of the morning, I have actually become their favorite meal! Ahhh!! Yes... imagine now, sleeping the first night after realizing what had biten you, it was so difficult to fall asleep! I am not so sure that it was the best idea to research bed bugs, but now I know all about these creatures :). They are not a result of the lack of cleanliness. Bed bugs actually are an increasing problem in the States, even at 5 star hotels. What happens is they hitch a ride on your clothing and go where you go basically! My thought is that I possibly meet these little dudes when working with the kids, the elderly... but really they could have come from anywhere.

So yesterday, I located some bug killing spray in hopes to terminate my new roommates! I came home and cleaned the whole room- vacuumed, dusted, and sprayed the bed, floor and mattress! It has been quite the experience :) But really, I would appreciate prayers in this area. More so for my sanity, and ability to fall asleep. I realize that this is an anxiety and worry I need to give to the Lord, as silly as it seems! I do not want to be ruled by the fear of things biting me at night. And really, how bad is it?! I mean, its not like they are poisonous or of any health threat! This is just another area where I can ask the Lord for His protection, His peace, and leave it at that :).

Well, this was not a topic I ever imagined writing about,but it just part of the adventure!

Here are two photos, of a much more pleasant sight than the one above! The snow is still falling here, and I can never get over how beautiful it is. Tonight, we were walking home from gospel choir, and sparkling, glittery, large snowflakes were floating gently from the clouds...God's blessings are abundant when a heart is delighted in Him!

Love and joy family and friends!

Firmly Planted

But his delight is in the law of the LORD...

He will be like a tree firmly planted by streams of water,

Which yeilds its fruit in its season...

And its leaf does not whither;

And in whatever he does, he prospers.

Psalm 1:2-3

Saturday, February 7th was my first time hiking in Romania! The day was a perfect day. With the sun shining brightly, and the temperature at nearly 50 degrees, I was comfortable clothed in merely a long sleeve shirt and vest! Myself, along with 5 others made a 41/2 hour trek throughout the hills and forests overlooking the valley of Sighisoara. We were accompanied by one of David's friends, Tibi who was a biologist/ecologist. He was an expert on the land, the inhabitants and the trees and offered a great deal of interesting facts and knowledge! David calls him the "froggie" expert, as that is his specialty! hahaha :) He has conducted a great deal of research on frogs and is one of the most knowledgeable about that species here in Romania! So we were quite well accompanied on this adventure.

As you can see from the pictures, the trees were graceful giants... kings of the fields. The oldest one with which I am pictured at the bottom of the blog is 800 years old. I could only imagine what that tree has "seen" throughout its lifetime.

I just loved hiking, and it was a refreshing time for me to be in God's creation. There were times I just stopped to listen, to breathe, to stoop down and look at a leaf, or touch some moss on a tree.... I realized I had not really taken much time to be in nature over the past few months, and I have greatly missed it. I think it is something I did not realize I missed until I began to experience it again! So I am thankful for my hiking class, and that the Lord knew, yet again, just what I would need during my time here... he is so faithful.

Well, it has been a while since I have last written, for which I apologize! It will be hard for me to update on all that has happened over the past week and a half! But here are some majors..

One of the clubs in which I work with is the kids club. The age group I work with is 7-10. This past week I had the opportunity to lead the lesson time for the week (Monday and Wednesday). I was able to choose any topic I wanted, so I decided on the Golden Rule.

Monday rolled around, and I had prepared a lesson with the aid of a flannel graph, as well as various activities. Well, by the end of the 2 hour time.. I felt quite discouraged. The time definitely did not go as planned! I had gone into the lesson with a certain idea of how it should go, and NOTHING went as hoped! Ahh, so yes, its a good thing my days are so busy, and I was unable to afford myself time for pity and tears :). But looking back, I think I was a little hard on myself, and they are kids... kids can be unpredictable at times! And the Lord, so caring, provided Anita to encourage me when I came home (she is a teacher ;) ). So on Wednesday,with new ideas and some experience under my belt now, the time was quite different! I had them act out the parable of the Good Samaritan, and they each had a part and a prop. They were so precious and enjoyed the time immensely! The activities went well, and I was so thankful!

Its interesting to realize that both the trials and the successes of this experience had much to teach, and I know that there was much to learn from the errors. Through mistakes, there is alot that can be learned!

In regards to my main work with the elderly, this next week will mark the beginning of my involvement in leading groups, activities, and teaching English classes! (little did I know I would have the opportunity to actually teach!) Tomorrow Sandy and I have planned a devotional on the parable of the soil and I have created bingo board with the names of trees, seeds, etc of which we can play! I also was able to find some new and interesting chair exercises to spice up the aerobics time, and hope to soon locate some upbeat music to help get them moving a little more :). Tuesday will be our first English lesson, and this week we will beginning two craft activities- making a calendar and creating cards! I am so thankful for a woman named Morag, who is here from England. She teaches many English classes and has a great amount of resources that I am free to use! It has been such a great help and she is so giving! I am excited to see how these elderly ladies learn and how the class goes.

Well, I also have some prayer requests:

• There is a sweet woman here, who is not a follower of Christ. She is a volunteer and we have had some interesting conversations so far about the Lord and religion, etc. Please pray that the Lord would season my words with truth and grace, and that he would soften her heart to the gospel and salvation through Jesus.
• I listened sermon today, and was truly convicted. It was on Romans 12:11, "Do not be slothful in zeal, be fervent in spirit, serve the Lord" ...it was entitled "Boiling" and given by John Piper. The message was just what I needed to hear. So please pray that for me... pray that I would not be slothful and lazy, but fervent, hardworking and passionately serving for the glory of the Lord!
• Also, I talked with my family and my grandfather's memory continues to worsen. Please pray for my family and for him as they go through this increasingly difficult time... I love my grandfather so much, and he has been such a testimony of service to the Lord. Of all the things he has forgotten, I will never forget playing hymns on the piano in the living room, and him singing along... singing the truths that have been etched on his heart, that he had not forgotten.

Well, before I sign off, here's to some randomness...

• Chocolate Finetti and peanut butter on bread with coffee is my morning ritual... mmmm, yum!
• Almost every day I listen to the song "Your love is strong" by Jon Foreman
• I really miss playing the piano.
• I have been having alot of dreams lately.
• When Ceausescus was the dictator- "often needed blood transfusions. To this purpose he selected healthy young boys from villages, had blood taken from them, and then had them killed." (From Hole in the Flag a book about the Revolution which I am currently reading) This is just one of the many horrible things he did during his time as dictator..
• It has been strange for me not to have classes all throughout the day!
• Everyone roller blades here :)
• Today I sat in the dining room and watched a shepherd and his sheep on the hill across the way for nearly 30 min.... it was intriguing. I learned more about being a sheep ;)
• I am in a gospel choir here! Its fun to be a part of a choir again...
• The instant coffee here is delicious.
• Toilet paper is scented here- it smells fruity! :)

Well, as we say here "o seara buna" ! (have a good evening)

Blessings and Joy,

Lauren

Nothing by chance.

Let's begin today with an interesting, new found discovery I have made..

I love oranges! 

Insignificant information? Well, let me explain :)

Before coming to Romania- I greatly disliked eating oranges... I loved orange juice, but could live quite comfortably without going through the "trouble" of peeling an orange! hahaha

Fast forward to today... oranges have become, hmmm... turkish delight to my taste-buds! I crave them, and furthermore, they have been my lifeline in helping me fight these little bugs of sickness!

I did not know what I was missing!

Some other interesting discoveries/ observations:

• European chocolate is much better than any American chocolate, I am in chocolate paradise here!
• The pace of life here is very relaxed. I operate now on a schedule called- "Romanian Time"... flexible and laid back
• The majority of Europeans know multiple languages. Hungarian, German, Romanian, English, and Spanish have been some I encounter here daily. It has motivated me to learn more languages.
• I can do without a shower for 3-4 days! haha :)
• I have talked more about Obama here in Romania, than in the states.
• Baby powder is a grease buster.
• Romanians have amazing bread, and eat alot of it.
• A smile is universal :)   (Of which I am so grateful!)
• Observation is a valuable way to learn!

Well, this is my second week here working with the elderly programs and kids club. I have a rough schedule of my weeks- although it is always liable to be changing and adapting with the flow of things! I have found it to be quite a rigorous schedule- some days about 9 hours long! 

I had my first Romanian lessons yesterday (Tuesday) and will have 3 lessons a week (Tuesday, Thursday and Friday). There is another student in the class with me, of which I am so grateful! The other student is named Richard and he is from Germany. I do not know much about him quite yet, but he is a volunteer here in Sighisoara. It is nice to have someone else to learn with in the class.  The Lord has provided many people for me to interact with and new people to befriend. The teacher is very sweet, and she is from Moldova and has a sister who lives in Ukraine and my mom is from Ukraine, so that was a fun connection. So much cultural diversity! People have said that I am learning Romanian quickly, another area in which to thank the Lord. But I am excited to see how future lessons go, and would appreciate continued prayers in this area!

I think something that has most certainly blown my socks off these past few days, I have come to realize during the solitude of my evening devotions and time of reflection and prayer. Proverbs 16:9 says, 

"The mind of man plans his way, But the Lord directs his steps."

So few words, "nothing is by chance", yet so profound.

 I have come to realize this in a fuller sense here in Romania.

Yesterday, as I was leaving my Romanian lesson, Dorothy was coming out of the office. She asked me where I was going. I shared with her that I was about to make my long trek out to the apartments where one of the elderly clubs is located. She asked if I would rather like to get a cup of coffee with her and then she could drive me to the club. Hard decision of course, so I "reluctantly" agreed... its like pulling teeth to get me to agree to a cup of coffee!! hahaha ;)

Over coffee, Dorothy prefaced the time with "I have some news that I think will excite you." She placed on the small table a yellow sticky note that had a name and number jotted down. "This is the number of a horse therapy program located in a village about 20 min. from here." Dorothy has shared that she likes to "tailor" the experience for a student according to their likes and needs. "Sometimes this happens in more specific ways than others!" She shared how she thought I may enjoy going out there once a week to volunteer. And not only was this program 20 min away, it is in a village where she has access to a "getaway" cottage, or a place to relax. She said she would be willing to take me out there weekly to visit, and she would go to the cottage to get some much needed rest! "But the Lord directs His steps...."

The Lord is most certainly directing and leading me in ways I never imagined. This past fall I never imagined to be offered to opportunity to work with a horse therapy program after graduation. Yet through various situations, it has become a reality. Then I come to Romania, where little is known about horse therapy... yet 20 min away, resides a horse therapy program! 

Dorothy, myself, and Kim (a peace corps volunteer who works with Veritas) headed out to the village Rondula. The horse program was started by a German couple, who welcomed us into their home when arrived. They live in the German church parish. Dorothy is fluent in German, and as they welcomed us to sit at their table, conversation began. The wife lit the candles and served us coffee, while their almost 2 year old daughter looked across the table with those curious beautiful little eyes. She was adorable, and decided to befriend me as soon as we stepped outside to visit the animals! The couple is a strong Christian couple who is living daily relying on the Lord's grace and provision. A struggle, the husband shared, as he is used to providing with his own hands and resources. Last year they had a fire which burned much of thier buildings, and he also suffered from an injury that has limited his working ability. Currently, they are in a limbo period, waiting till spring to begin any riding programs, as well as in need of much financial support and aid. Yet, they welcomed me to come whenever I would like, and Dorothy and I have discussed a once a week outing. Another thought is to somehow get the children in the Veritas program connected with this couple, thus networking the children in need of this type of therapy, as well as providing people for the couple to work with!! 

This opportunity is so amazingly exciting for me, and I wish I could share it with each one of you, in person! Maybe to give you a picture- a big smile, sporadic clapping of the hands, expressive hand motions, jumping up and down, the WOW type expressions that accompanies any excitement, and lots of joy! So much is lost in just typing this all out here in the blog! But, this is most surely just beginning and a new adventure! For it is the Lord who guides and directs our steps... I give Him all the praise and glory, for every good and perfect gift is from above. I find such peace in the knowledge that He knows the depths of our hearts. In all of this, Philippians has greatly encouraged me this week in all situations as I look to set my heart and mind on things above, on Christ. I want to leave you with this part of scripture...

More than that, I count all things to be loss in view of the surpassing value of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord. 

Philippians 3:8

Please pray that I will set earnestly my heart and mind on things above, and that I will press on towards the goal daily in knowing and walking humbly with Him. 

Love and joy friends and family!

 

Prayer...

Loving Lord and Heavenly Father,

I offer up today all that I am, all that I have, all that I do, and

all that I suffer, to be yours today and yours forever.

Give me grace, Lord to do all that I know of Your holy will.

Purify my heart, sanctify my thinking, correct my desires.

Teach me,

in all of today's work and trouble and joy to respond with

honest praise, simple trust, and instant obedience,

that my life may be in truth a living sacrifice,

by the power of Your Holy Spirit and

in the name of Your Son, Jesus Christ,

my Master and my All.

Amen

~Elizabeth Ellilot~

Pics, Pics, Pics :)

Here a just a few of the many photos I have taken in the past week.

Because of the lengthy time it takes to upload, there are only a couple

If you would like to see more, I have 2 albums on my facebook of the trip so far :)

Here is a link:

http://www.facebook.com/home.php?#/album.php?aid=2084871&id=208702167

Welcome to Sighisoara- House on the Rock where there is an international cafe, offices, and where my classes will be held!


The beautiful town of Sibiu.

The Huntington group and I picture with the ice cream man!

My favorite little car, perfect size, with the perfect adornment- cappuccino!

One of the churches in Sibiu.

Two shepherds on the roadside, sporting traditional shepherd wear!

Me on the grounds of a fortified church, on the way home from Sibiu.

Melissa with a woman who is working on a hand crafted curtain- it will take 6 months to complete!

Two sweet, energetic children and I playing :) Love them..

On our way to Sinia- we stopped at a roadside market and bought mittens!

Pushing "Vern the Van" up the mountain side!! Melissa and I named him ;)

The monastery in Sinia.

The gorgeous fairy-tale castle!

Look at that view!

The final group picture with Huntington and Sandy and I below..wonderful people!

But God...

Sickness has returned, with a vengeance this time around! Alas, it must be the "bugs" here in Romania are not the same as in the Sates! It has been unseasonably warm here in Sighisoara. Two days ago, I was strolling town without the need of my winter jacket! I was walking with David, the man with whom I will be working under during my internship with the elderly programs, and was commenting, "Wow, what a nice day this is!" and his reply was, "Nice for who? All the bacteria comes alive now, talking, dancing, and infecting people!" Haha, he has quite the humor, and I just laughed with him, thinking I was invincible to this, and just enjoying the day. Well, guess what, the next day rolls around and at least 4 people are sick on the Veritas staff, and then myself! haha.. oh the party bacteria is having in my body right now!

Last night I found myself quite homesick. There is just something about wanting to be home when one feels awful and ill. I have not been sick in so long, and now within the past month, this is the second time! Before bed, the combination of being sick- not just physically, but also homesick, brought quite the waterfall of tears. I was in need of comfort and consolation. I am so thankful for this family here, and they have taken great care of me, but I needed comfort for my soul.. and who knows my soul better than my Lord?!

So, I would like to share a story now. I had waited to do my devotions till bedtime. As I curled up under the covers with tissues at hand, I opened up the devotional I am reading by Amy Carmichael. My heart skipped a beat as I read the scripture it was focusing on for that devotional- Psalm 73. Now, this is not just any Psalm for me, this has been a Psalm that is special and close to my heart. I was amazed yet again at how the Lord was ministering to my heart, my soul... his comfort was tangible, a soothing balm for my pain. Though my flesh and my heart may fail, God is the strength of my heart, and my portion FOREVER! Forever, now when I am sick, now when I am lonely, now when I am joyful in His comfort, now as I realize I can be content, no matter what the situation, because he is my portion- forever!

Here is the devotional, I would like to share with you, in hopes you may find encouragement as well :)

Psalm 73:26- But God.

These words have been like strong hands lifting up, bearing up, countless thousands of souls. "My flesh and my heart faileth: but God is the strength of my heart and my portion for ever." Many who will read this note are well and strong and joyful in their work, thank god for that. Sooner or later, however, to most who follow the Crucified, there comes a time when flesh and heart fail, and if it were not for that "But God", we should go under. Will those, to whom they are not the needed words to-day, take them and store them safely in the wonderful storehouse which God has given to us all-memory? And when they are needed they will rise up and speak.
That failing flesh and heart belongs to the time when "there be many that say, Who will show us any good?" Feelings and fears can be like a torrent of rough water and we see no way to cross it. "But God" makes all the difference then, "for Thou, Lord, has never failed them that seek Thee."

So friends, may we seek Him who does provide, in quite tangible and consoling ways. May we tell of His deeds and testify of His goodness and faithfulness morning and night!
"But as for me, the nearness of God is my good; I have made the Lord God my refuge, That I may tell of all Your works."- Psalm 73:28

Here are some highlights from this past week, in case any are interested! It might be lengthy, but it is Saturday, which provides time to do some much needed updating! I just wanted to forewarn :)

I can't remember where I left off, so I will start with Tuesday!

Tuesday, January 20

• Trip to Sinia- Students from Huntington headed back home today. We woke up in the morning, and I tagged along with them for the first leg of the trip. The van took us to a beautiful town called Sinai, which is home of a gorgeous German castle, nestled at the foot of breath-taking mountains. The drive there was about 3 hours, and we stopped at a roadside market on the way. When we arrived in Sinia, our first thing on the agenda was to drive to the top of the mountain for a picturesque view. However, the road up was icy, so icy poor Vern the Van could not make it up. Vern actually got stuck halfway up, on a patch of ice! Problem solving time-So here we were, stuck halfway up the mountain, 9 women... option one- back down the steep hill..hmmm, not the best idea. Option two- get out an push...a better idea! Finding this situation quite comical, we got out and pushed. We were quite the sight! But we were able to push up the van to a place where we could turn it around, and head back down to safety!
• Monastery- we then visited briefly a beautiful monastery. We walked into the church and the sound of singing monks greeted my ears. The inside was adorned in gold, intricate sculpting, and magnificent paintings. It was beautiful, but breath-taking beautiful was also awaiting us...
• The Castle- we walked from the monastery to the castle on a cobble stone old carriage path. It was intriguing to think of the carriages that had traveled that very path, and who the passengers must have been! The path opened up to the view of a fairytale sight- the castle. But the location of the castle was most resplendent- mountains, trees, amazingness!! It was lovely.
• Dinner- we then ate dinner at a restaurant near the castle and enjoyed a traditional meal with soup, and some form of meat. It was delicious.
• Train ride- The time for goodbyes had now arrived, and Sandy, my new friend and translator from Sighisoara, and I gave hugs and bid our farewells as we boarded the train. Bittersweet times.

Wednesday, January 21

• On the job-My second day on the job was quite full. There are a total of three elderly programs that I will be involved in. The first is every morning, Monday-Friday, from 10:00-12:00. It is held in a Nazarene church, and they play games and converse. The second program is held in the basement of the Veritas Director- Dorothy. Now, this is not just any basement. There is a separate entryway, which you walk through and are greeted by a room full of overstuffed-comfortable chairs, and a comfy ambiance. It is warm and welcoming. This group of elderly is all females, and they are fairly better off than the first group of elderly. The third group meets in an apartment that is owned by the Nazarene church. This group is also all women!
• After the morning time- I went to the Family Center, where I will be eating all of my lunches. These dedicated cooks serve food for the staff, elderly, and all the kids clubs that come. And the food is delicious!
• Little children-Following lunch I went to kids club, which is the second program that I will be working with. I will be with the 7-8 year old children, which is a good change of pace for me, and will give me the necessary variety while I am here!
• Teens-I also went to the teen club afterwards to get an idea of what they do, and how the program is run. However, I found this to be the most difficult for me as it was hard to communicate and they were not as accepting. But it was good to observe and have the experience.

Thursday, January 22

• Elderly club- 10:00 AM I opened the door to the church that has become quite familiar now, and sat down to work on a puzzle with a woman. I was slightly discouraged this morning again with the language barrier, and my lack of "ability" to encourage. But I was wrong at doubting, and not trusting the Lord to use me in spite of the language barrier. For after this time, I went with David on a home visit.
• The home visit- David and I walked a short distance, through a gate, to a small house where an elderly woman lived. She is struggling as her body is full of liquid, and she can barely move. She has already had 9 surgeries and has sold many of her things in order to pay medical bills. Not only is she dealing with this illness, but her mother just died last week and she was unable to attend the funeral. She also shared that her daughter passed away a couple of weeks ago, due to epilepsy and other medical issues. However, as I sat on her bed with this woman, she held my hand and told me through tears, her stories. I found that no matter what the language, physical presence, holding her hand and scratching her back, and mourning with her, the Lord can draw people together. Near the end of our time, she prayed for me, she prayed for ME!! Seriously, in the midst of her limitations, her sorrow and her pain, she thought of me and brought me to the Lord in prayer. I left there dumbfounded, humbled and inspired.

Friday, January 23

• An earlier morning for me- I rolled out of bed and prepared for the day in about 15 min... I am getting better at it! Tata (papa) and I headed to the Veritas staff meeting, located at House on the Rock. We read Psalm 25 and had time to reflect on the passage. Then, the group shared parts and aspects of the scripture that impacted and taught them something. I am looking forward to this time we will have every Friday morning together.
• Elderly club- Today I played more games and drank tea and played the piano a bit for the elderly. There is a woman in the group who knows a bit of English and I have enjoyed getting to know her better. She has two grandsons who live in the States, and she has learned English from talking with them! You are never too young to learn :)
• Meeting with Dorothy- Dorothy is very sick as well, but we took time to meet and go over my learning contract. I am excited to have some direction now and a better idea of what this next semester will look like. She shared with me that my arrival is timely, and even more so providential that I am interested in working with the elderly programs as it is time for some new program developments and such. I am excited to learn more about the needs of this elderly community!
• Apartment gathering- Dorothy then drove me to the apartment where the 3rd group of elderly meet. It is quite a ways from the other programs (7 min drive and 30 min walk from the Citadel). I walked in and was greeted by a quaint and nice apartment with three rooms, 2 bathrooms and a kitchen. The women were all squeezed into one of the rooms (about 20 of them). David introduced me to the group and they were so sweet. One of the ladies however asked how can I help them if I can not talk with them? This was a concern I knew they would present and can imagine how ridiculous it must appear to have someone come to help them who can not communicate. However, I know that this is where the Lord has me, and for a reason. I am not discouraged as I have already learned much from observing, and the Lord confirming my time here by His helping me in learning quickly, and granting creative ideas in how to help. I knew this would be one of the most challenging programs to be involved in, but I am most excited with this challenge in seeing how the Lord works.
• Long walk home- after this elderly club, I had an hour walk home, by far my farthest walk home! I had never taken this way, and after the first half, David had to go his way home, and I was left to navigate on my own!! hahaha, it was exciting, and I thank the Lord for giving me a sense of direction. I had no problems, and actually found the walk to be a great time to think and pray and reflect on the day, and the weather was still warm and comfortable. I truly enjoy all the walking that I am doing here!!

Sorry this was so long, but I hope it provides details and information that better helps my friends and family know what I am doing here. I long to remain connected and supply information for any curiosity one might have as to the happenings here. I love to hear back from you all as well, and how the Lord is working and sustaining in each of your lives.

Thank you again for your encouragement, especially during my time of sickness, and your prayers. I have seen the Lord answer prayer, and my heart is full of His joy..

But God...

Is the strength of my heart, and my portion forever..

JoY

Moments

Snowflakes falling,

Beautiful sight.

Goodbyes calling,

Life is bright.

Blessed in passing,

Moments a treasure.

Sincerity unmasking,

Love without measure.

This little poem was my attempt at expressing the depth of my gratitude for the special people and the special moments in life. Each person, each act of kindness, each sight of the fruit of the Spirit, each genuine tear and hug... each moment a treasure.

I am here in Sighisoara, typing on the computer in my room. I have found the place that I will lay my head the next months to be cozy and comforting. The room is on the main floor with the family, which I know is providential being the only student here for the semester. The whole family is on this floor, and it will provide lots of opportunities for connecting and being together. 

I have already fallen in love with this family. I was welcomed immediately at the door by 11 year old Rachel. She also loves horses, a bond in which we share and contributed to our instant friendship! haha ;) I am truly thankful however for her mutual goofiness and joy in spending time together... I can not wait to spend the rest of the couple of months getting to know her better.

Although the 40th student to stay here with the family, yes that is 40, the family has welcomed me with equal amount of Christ-like love, and of course that Romanian hospitality. I am yet again amazed by this family's hearts for giving, sharing, and can see in their eyes a care and genuine concern for each student. The mother and father, whom I will call mamma and tata... are amazing. I am truly blessed to be here. Although the father knows little English, we have communicated well through hand motions, facial expressions and our small vocabulary of either Romanian or English. He radiates love for those around him and has such a gentle spirit.   He laughs easily and connects quickly with the students.

There are two other American girls living here till Tuesday from Huntington college. It has been so fun having host-sisters and they are fellow social work students! We had a great time tonight playing jungle speed with Rachel, during which I almost lost my nose to an intense battle for the game piece! hahaha :) Laughter is so good... the kind that makes your belly hurt!!

Yesterday, I was able to visit a town about an hour and a half away, called Sibiu. There were about 20 of us Americans with a group from Huntington and a Nazarene college. It was a great outing, and fun to get to know the students. As the only Cornerstone rep, I hope I did justice for the school!!! 

Sibiu was a beautiful old city, so much history, with ornate buildings that have been restored. Sibiu was nominated as the city of choice in Europe along with Luxemburg, last year I believe, and it was a great honor for Romania. Thus, most of the renovation money went into this city. We went inside a German and Lutheran church, as well as shopped in the Piata Mare (large square) and the Piata Mic (small square). There was a large snow hill right in the middle where gleeful children sledded down its icy packed snow. Some of the guys from the Nazarene college even decided to join in the fun and slide down with the kids.. definitely receiving some funny looks from the parents ;).

Well, tomorrow is my first day of "school" and I am still uncertain as to what to expect. Yet I am learning more day by day to just go with the flow and be flexible. It has really caused me to step back and reflect more on the value of cultivating relationships. Time is one of the most valuable things you can give someone, and I am recognizing that more as I experience a slower pace here in Romania. Moments really are a treasure, and the extent to which joy and sincerity and love can be manifested through quality time is truly a gift.

Praise be to the Giver of every good and perfect gift...

JoY

P.S. Pictures to come when the ability to post them comes :)

P.S.S. I know I didn't write about the topics mentioned in the previous post, sorry about that, but I will make sure to either share later, or in person!

Noapte Buna- Good Night!

Turning a page..

Well tomorrow I will be turning a new page, beginning a new chapter of the journey.
I head to Sighisoara in the morning, bags packed and memories treasured.
It was quite the experience, attempting to arrange my transportation to Sighisoara. I will have to refrain from details however, as I must snuggle under the covers for some necessary sleep.
However, let me mention some topics of future discussion- partly for aiding my failing memory ;) and partly to provide a bit of possible suspense!

Here are the topics:

• A Day of Silence
• "Maid" in Missions
• Village Vulnerability
• Testifying Tongues

There is so much to talk and share... I already feel as though as I am behind in updating!

But in the past few days my heart has experienced much.... and I am grateful for the friendships that have formed, the life-giving, edifying conversations, the moments of discomfort that shape, the witness of God's moving through His people and His words of truth... its been amazing!

So, I am uncertain as to what Internet access will be like in Sighisoara, but I will update again as soon I have the ability to update. Thank you everyone for the prayers and support, the emails and the encouragement. I can not say enough how much that means and how it touches my heart and spurs me on during some difficult times.

And I will leave you with a favorite passage of mine from Scripture that testifies to the Lord's goodness and His faithfulness, and embodies what I hope to do not only with this blog, but also in my daily life... to tell of all His amazing deeds! What a wonderful God we serve..

Yet I am always with you; you hold me by my right hand.
You guide me with your counsel, and afterward you will take me into glory.
Whom have I in heaven but you? And earth has nothing I desire besides you.
My flesh and my heart may fail, but God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever.
Those who are far from you will perish; you destroy all who are unfaithful to you.
But as for me, it is good to be near God. I have made the Sovereign LORD my refuge; I will tell of all your deeds.

Psalm 73:23-28

Social Workers Unite!

----Welcome to today's feature presentation... Social Workers Unite.

Sit back and enjoy the broadcast.-----

So you know the poem that says, "visions of sugar plums danced in my head.."?? Well, yesterdays visions were quite different, instead of sugar plums they were visions and ideas of helping, empowering, and fundraising! hehehe, Its craziness when two social workers connect on the same frequency! For three hours straight, Heather and I bounced around ideas and thoughts with one another about helping various people and ministries here in Romania!

Stay tuned for the rest of this riveting message....

---Commercial Break---

A Social Work Joke- For Kicks and Giggles:

"A man went to a social worker and told him he wanted help because he thought he was a dog. When the social worker asked him how long he had been thinking he was a dog, he replied: “Ever since I was a puppy.” The social worker said: “OK, lay down on the couch.” The man said: “I'm not allowed on the couch.”

----Now, returning to our feature presentation... Social Workers Unite----

So, there is more to the story than just a simple three hour conversation about helping others.

The night before, I had quite the difficult time finding any sleep. Because of my cold, my body has been attempting to rid itself of all the yucky, through the nasal passage of my nose, or otherwise a substance called snot. :) This, accompanied with coughs and sneezes, afforded me no sleep. However, I found myself praying and talking with the Lord during this time. It was a tad bit frightening for me to be sick in another country, and it was easy to think of all the worst case scenarios. Scenarios such as- what if this gets worse and I have to go the hospital, what if I can't breathe...you know those crazy thoughts that sometimes our minds tend to think of! Anyways, I really had to surrender those to the Lord, and remember not to be anxious about anything. He never slumbers, He never ceases, He never fails... I could trust Him and focus on the truth and cast all my cares on Him, even these of worry! And finally sleep came..

In the morning, Heather and I were planning on joining Kathy (the director of a ministry called Living Alternatives-LA here in Cluj) to visit some women who had formerly lived in the House of Joy (the ministry of LA). However, because of my sickness, and the fact that the women had small children, I had decided I would not be able to join them. However, Kathy called and said that she could not get her car started, and we would not be able to travel that day. Heather and I were sad she was having car problems, but were grateful that I now would be able to still visit another time!!

So because of this time we now had, we started discussing ministries here and how we could help!

This is how it all began..

There is quite the need here financially. The House of Joy is a home that Heather worked at for 10 months back in 2005 and 2006.

Here is their mission statement-

"Living Alternatives Romania is serving Romanian women facing crisis pregnancy situations or those with pregnancy-related concerns; striving to provide them with life-giving alternatives for themselves and their babies.We are dedicated to communicating the truth of God's love and redeeming power to see these women restored to a life of peace, hope, and wholeness for themselves and their children."

Currently, the ministry is building a home, right by the YWAM base. The house is larger and designed specifically for the ministry, with a classroom, offices, playroom, medical room, and staff apartments. The thing is, there are three floors, and only one floor is payed for, and by "payed for" I mean just the structure. To finish the other two floors, just the structure, it will cost 80,00 euros (about $100,000). They are still in great need of finances and support.

Heather and I had ideas to bring out a media team from Cornerstone to record a advocacy video that the ministry could use during fundraising. It would be a great asset to bring to churches, universities, business, and people who may be able to provide financial support. We also had many other ideas, such as creating a catalog of items the house needs, in which people could choose an item they wanted to purchase. We thought about a doing some sort of beauty day during Prom or Homecoming day for high school girls. During this time we would find hairstylists who would be willing to donate their time, as well as have some speaker for the girls. Almost like a mini little conference with a biblical message and focus!

And the wheels kept rolling, but those were just some of the ideas.

So, this post is already getting really long, and I do not want to take up any more of your time! But I wanted to share a bit about this and bring awareness to this ministry and its need! I am sure there will be more to come, and more details to follow!

Love and Joy!

~Lauren

More pics from the past few days below...

The three of us on our way back in the taxi.

Heather emailing her mommy..

My beautiful little corner for the past few weeks.

The backyard view from our window.

The view from the front of the house.

I love this lone tree on top of the hill.

I put on my walking shoes for our trip to Zela and Dorin's!

My tour guide and friend.. Heather :)

So pretty...

Two smart cookies.

Cristina's midnight snack...corn in a can!

Heather showing off her beauties (bruises) from the fall down the stairs!

Ok, so there is a reason for me posting this scary photo :)

Heather and I made a deal that if I posted the video below, I had to post this picture!

I think I got the better end of the deal...hehehe ;)

"Showcase of the Bruises"

Starring: Heather Derrick