Let me first preface this blog by saying it may sound like a pity party. I guess that would be fair. I have just found myself in "the perfect storm." Overall, I really enjoy living in Hong Kong. But I knew going in that the hardest part for me would be missing home...my friends and family. I guess that is obvious. And I also knew that another factor to that is time does not stand still. Just as I am living life and changing because of it, so are those that I love on the other side of the world. Well, today marks the extreme of this changing.
I have one very good friend who is having a baby today...and I have one very good friend who is in the process of losing her baby. Both were expected. It is times like this that I just ache to be home. While I would love to be there to meet that newborn face and congratulate my friend in person, I knew that waiting until that little girl is a few months is one of the sacrifices I was prepared to make for this move. It's the other life altering event taking place that I'm having a hard time getting a grip on. I knew that it was a very real possibility that I would never see that sweet little five year old face again this side of heaven, in the back of my mind I thought I would get to kiss her one more time this summer. That still may be true. She has certainly surprised us before and surpassed expectations. But even if that were true, knowing what that family is going through and not being able to be there is heart wrenching. Having walked with them through this for the first 3 1/2 years, I have invested a lot of "blood, sweat and tears...and prayers." Now it looks as if their journey is almost over and their broken hearts scream to me across the miles. And I am stuck in the predicament where all I can do is pray. But isn't that the most I should be doing? It doesn't feel like it.
So now it's just a matter of offering my emotions, my concerns and most importantly, their circumstances to Our Heavenly Father. This is not about me...it's ultimately about Him. His timing is perfect, His peace is perfect, and He comforts the brokenhearted. I am determined that as this all plays out, I will trust in His promises, His complete sovereignty, and His love for us. Again, sorry for the pity-party. Sometimes writing things down makes you feel better and it is easier to process:)
Tuesday, January 7, 2014
Friday, January 3, 2014
Our 2013 Christmas Letter
So in order to save some trees and some postage, I decided to blog our Christmas letter. I love getting updates from friends and family, and this blog has been a great way of keeping our loved ones in tune to what we are up to...but there may be a few things you didn't know about the Puffenbergers' 2013 :)
We had a wonderful year as we wrapped up our first year abroad and began our second year in HK. I would say that after returning from the States last January, things in Hong Kong started to feel more at home, as we became much more familiar with our surroundings and where to find things. It also helped that Sarah was that much older, Marina was more acquainted with our children, and Andy and I were able to find some more time for ourselves. Our children were also comfortable in their schools, and began to thrive in their new settings. Yes, I'd say by last January, our family was breathing a collective sigh of relief.
Miss Sarah Jane has probably done the most changing this year. She has become such a little personality all her own, making us laugh and take notice of her. I have thoroughly enjoyed her growing up...sometimes just sitting back and watching her play with her toys and "read" her books. She loves to receive attention from her siblings, but there are definitely times she simply wants to be left alone. Sarah is already our "go with the flow" kid, having logged more miles than most adults. But her pleasant demeanor has made her such a joy, and we are so thankful that the Lord completed our family with Sarah.
Abby continues to amaze us with her energy and zest for life! Her smile is infectious, and she makes a lot of friends on the train:) She has become accustomed to her new HK schedule: getting out the door by 7:15 to catch the shuttle, to make the train, to get on her 7:50am school bus, and then to do that in reverse and be home by 12:30 for lunch. She enjoys school, swimming and even got to snorkel this Christmas. Abby loves to color, play pet shop, and does her best to keep up with her siblings.
Josh is maturing right before our eyes and loving his life in HK, while missing his friends and family in the States. He loves school and learning, enjoys playing soccer and basketball, and will start some tennis lessons after Christmas. He is always looking to jump in our little pool, and loves to take bike rides along the promenade with his dad and sister, Emma. His front teeth have finally grown in, and I believe eating his vegetables is paying off where his height is concerned. He's also thoroughly enjoyed watching the Buckeyes play with his daddy, even when they break his heart:)
Emma has made the hardest transition...missing her friends the most. She, as well as all my children, have been blessed with some amazing teachers, and she has thrived in school. Emma is playing the piano and basketball for school this winter season. She has made some good friends who are in her class for the second year and continues to be our comic relief and peacemaker. We are also amazed at her depth of character, as she grows in her faith....and she still loves roller coasters!
Grace is thoroughly enjoying middle school and an increase in independence...especially living in Hong Kong, as she has learned how to navigate trains. She continues to play soccer throughout the year, and played basketball last winter. This year, she is trying her acting skills and is playing the part of Miss Hannigan in the school's January production of Annie. We love how she is growing and maturing in all areas of her life, and it is such a gift to see how she interacts with her siblings. A highlight for her was going to Malaysia on a school trip.
We were able to do some more traveling this year...going to the Philippines for missions twice, Beijing with our Aussie friends, and closed the year with Phuket, Thailand with our guests for the month, Ron and Rebecca Werner. We feel incredibly blessed to have had the experiences of seeing different parts of the world and learning about different cultures. The Lord has been very faithful and present as we navigate this journey, and we are excited to see what He has in store for us in 2014. Thank you to those who have reached out to us, especially during this season. It is so encouraging during our "lonely-missing home-tired of this pace-in need of more space"moments.
We had a wonderful year as we wrapped up our first year abroad and began our second year in HK. I would say that after returning from the States last January, things in Hong Kong started to feel more at home, as we became much more familiar with our surroundings and where to find things. It also helped that Sarah was that much older, Marina was more acquainted with our children, and Andy and I were able to find some more time for ourselves. Our children were also comfortable in their schools, and began to thrive in their new settings. Yes, I'd say by last January, our family was breathing a collective sigh of relief.
Miss Sarah Jane has probably done the most changing this year. She has become such a little personality all her own, making us laugh and take notice of her. I have thoroughly enjoyed her growing up...sometimes just sitting back and watching her play with her toys and "read" her books. She loves to receive attention from her siblings, but there are definitely times she simply wants to be left alone. Sarah is already our "go with the flow" kid, having logged more miles than most adults. But her pleasant demeanor has made her such a joy, and we are so thankful that the Lord completed our family with Sarah.
Abby continues to amaze us with her energy and zest for life! Her smile is infectious, and she makes a lot of friends on the train:) She has become accustomed to her new HK schedule: getting out the door by 7:15 to catch the shuttle, to make the train, to get on her 7:50am school bus, and then to do that in reverse and be home by 12:30 for lunch. She enjoys school, swimming and even got to snorkel this Christmas. Abby loves to color, play pet shop, and does her best to keep up with her siblings.
Josh is maturing right before our eyes and loving his life in HK, while missing his friends and family in the States. He loves school and learning, enjoys playing soccer and basketball, and will start some tennis lessons after Christmas. He is always looking to jump in our little pool, and loves to take bike rides along the promenade with his dad and sister, Emma. His front teeth have finally grown in, and I believe eating his vegetables is paying off where his height is concerned. He's also thoroughly enjoyed watching the Buckeyes play with his daddy, even when they break his heart:)
Emma has made the hardest transition...missing her friends the most. She, as well as all my children, have been blessed with some amazing teachers, and she has thrived in school. Emma is playing the piano and basketball for school this winter season. She has made some good friends who are in her class for the second year and continues to be our comic relief and peacemaker. We are also amazed at her depth of character, as she grows in her faith....and she still loves roller coasters!
Andy and I celebrated our 15th anniversary in June and took a trip to Macau without our children. Andy continues to enjoy his job with W.L. Gore as he develops relationships with Asian associates. I have also found my groove. I have formed some friendships that I have thoroughly enjoyed and have found more time for excerise and reading.
We were able to do some more traveling this year...going to the Philippines for missions twice, Beijing with our Aussie friends, and closed the year with Phuket, Thailand with our guests for the month, Ron and Rebecca Werner. We feel incredibly blessed to have had the experiences of seeing different parts of the world and learning about different cultures. The Lord has been very faithful and present as we navigate this journey, and we are excited to see what He has in store for us in 2014. Thank you to those who have reached out to us, especially during this season. It is so encouraging during our "lonely-missing home-tired of this pace-in need of more space"moments.
Friday, December 27, 2013
A Month of Firsts
Well, December is almost over and it has been a busy time with a lot of new experiences.
Hong Kong Christmas
This year we decided not to go home to the States for Christmas. We went last year because the kids had three weeks off and Sarah was so little and changing so much. But the kids have two weeks off instead of three this year. And last year was insanely hectic to the verge of unenjoyable, trying to see everyone and get through jet lag, only to turn around and come back and be in decent shape to start school again. Our decision was made a little easier knowing that both sets of grandparents were going to visit at some point during the year, and our good friends had asked/offered to come for the month of December. So we seemed to be set and ready to have a different kind of Christmas...but as it got closer I missed the impending anticipation of going home and seeing everyone. Plus, I realized this was the first time I have not seen my family at some point for Christmas...ever. I battled through bouts of disappointment, but knew that we would still have a great time and having our friends come to visit really helped alleviate the "pity party." I spoke to another friend at church who was dealing with the same thing, and we both came to the same conclusion...you don't compare Christmases, you simply be grateful for the Christmas you have...even if it's different. Things were also put into perspective for me when I took Abby to the bus stop the week before Christmas. I spoke to a sweet helper who comes to the bus stop every day and who has befriended our Marina. She asked about Marina and I told her that she was getting ready to go home to the Philippines for Christmas. The helper said how lucky Marina was...that she hadn't been home for Christmas for 20 years.(Helpers receive one week vacation per year, and the employer gets to decide when). Wow.
So we have been able to keep most of our traditions here in Hong Kong...Christmas tree-ordered and delivered, stockings and ornaments, church Christmas Eve service, and even Christmas cookies and Christmas morning rolls (although I had to make the bread dough from scratch since I couldn't get our Rhodes dough balls). The weather has obviously been warmer than we are used to, although the two weeks before Christmas we got into the 40's. We clearly have "Hong Kong blood" because it felt like the 20's...we were freezing. It could also be that we don't have heat...Andy went to bed a few nights with a hat and gloves..sorry, I didn't get that pic:) There are a lot of lights (although Andy misses putting his lights up) and lots of "Merry Christmas"...but there is not a lot of meaning behind the greeting. There are also a ton of poinsettias...so things look beautiful and sometimes (ok, many times) over the top...but we definitely have the Christmas spirit.
Waiting to go downstairs Christmas morning
Christmas dinner with friends
Phuket, Thailand
One of our Christmas gifts to ourselves was a four night, four day trip to a resort in Phuket. It was spurred on by a great deal through a friend, and we thoroughly enjoyed two two-bedroom villas between five adults and five kids. Its very challenging to find that kind of room anywhere in Asia, so we took advantage of it. This was the first beach vacation since living in Hong Kong, and we made the most of it. Of course, to keep the trip affordable, we had to take some unconventional flights...leaving at 11:30pm and 5:30am...but it all worked out rather well.
Our first full day we went on a boat tour of some beautiful beaches surrounding the mainland of Phuket. Even though the first boat trip was a bit rough, the gorgeous fine white sand beaches and scenery made up for it. We got to feed some monkeys and enjoyed a lovely Thai and international lunch by the water. All of the kids (even Abby) got to snorkel, and we had some time to beach it while Sarah and I took a snooze in the shade, enjoying the ocean breezes.
The second day we took a wonderful elephant ride and had an amazing time seeing the jungle on the back of a very large pachyderm! The kids had a great time on the ride, and then we got to feed and take pictures with our new friends. Sarah LOVED the elephants, even getting excited looking at the pictures.
The rest of our time was spent enjoying Thai food, playing in the pool and enjoying the beach at the resort. We soaked in the wonderful weather...80's and sunny everyday! This vacation was a wonderful distraction from missing our friends, family, and all the fun snowfall at home. And we felt extremely blessed to be able to enjoy it with our friends.
10K Run
Well, if you know me at all, you know that I am not a big fan of running. I really want to be a fan, but all the years of "having to train" for soccer and other sports have ruined my enjoyment of just plain running. Well, now that I am done being pregnant (an excuse that I have used a lot), and the weather is almost always great, it seemed I should try again. When we came back after our summer in the States, I began running with my neighbor. She had started running the previous year with a Dutch friend, who had just moved back to The Netherlands. We are compatible runners and enjoy each other's company. Then we decided to do a run together. There are runs all the time, so we picked out one in February that was set in the city. Well, we were online trying to sign up, and in between her signing up and me signing up, the run closed. I'm not sure who was more disappointed. So, we decided to keep training and find something else. She was already signed up for a run the weekend before Thanksgiving, that I bowed out of because of our trip to the Philippines. So as we were still training, another run came up in mid December. Another new friend had signed up with my Aussie friend, and because of circumstances beyond her control, she had to stop training. I asked if I could take her place, and she graciously gave me her spot. This seemed divine intervention...and I kind of did it without thinking. I didn't think about how busy I was that very week, but that was probably a good thing or I wouldn't have signed up. So the morning of the race was a little dreary, and the promise of a downpour was glaring at me. Because of the rain, I told my family not to come...so I went by myself, meeting a few other people I knew.
As I'm driving in the taxi, I'm wondering what my goal should be...what is realistic and how disappointed I will be if I miss my goal. It was also getting cold, with a slight drizzle. But when I got there and met up with people I knew, I started to get amped up and felt better about just getting it done. In fact, the anticipation was worse than the actual run. I ended up meeting my goal, and got finished before the downpour began. I did enjoy the race, and am signing up for another one in March...but here's hoping that I will be less nervous and I will catch "the bug" that everyone raves about.
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Hong Kong Christmas
This year we decided not to go home to the States for Christmas. We went last year because the kids had three weeks off and Sarah was so little and changing so much. But the kids have two weeks off instead of three this year. And last year was insanely hectic to the verge of unenjoyable, trying to see everyone and get through jet lag, only to turn around and come back and be in decent shape to start school again. Our decision was made a little easier knowing that both sets of grandparents were going to visit at some point during the year, and our good friends had asked/offered to come for the month of December. So we seemed to be set and ready to have a different kind of Christmas...but as it got closer I missed the impending anticipation of going home and seeing everyone. Plus, I realized this was the first time I have not seen my family at some point for Christmas...ever. I battled through bouts of disappointment, but knew that we would still have a great time and having our friends come to visit really helped alleviate the "pity party." I spoke to another friend at church who was dealing with the same thing, and we both came to the same conclusion...you don't compare Christmases, you simply be grateful for the Christmas you have...even if it's different. Things were also put into perspective for me when I took Abby to the bus stop the week before Christmas. I spoke to a sweet helper who comes to the bus stop every day and who has befriended our Marina. She asked about Marina and I told her that she was getting ready to go home to the Philippines for Christmas. The helper said how lucky Marina was...that she hadn't been home for Christmas for 20 years.(Helpers receive one week vacation per year, and the employer gets to decide when). Wow.
So we have been able to keep most of our traditions here in Hong Kong...Christmas tree-ordered and delivered, stockings and ornaments, church Christmas Eve service, and even Christmas cookies and Christmas morning rolls (although I had to make the bread dough from scratch since I couldn't get our Rhodes dough balls). The weather has obviously been warmer than we are used to, although the two weeks before Christmas we got into the 40's. We clearly have "Hong Kong blood" because it felt like the 20's...we were freezing. It could also be that we don't have heat...Andy went to bed a few nights with a hat and gloves..sorry, I didn't get that pic:) There are a lot of lights (although Andy misses putting his lights up) and lots of "Merry Christmas"...but there is not a lot of meaning behind the greeting. There are also a ton of poinsettias...so things look beautiful and sometimes (ok, many times) over the top...but we definitely have the Christmas spirit.
Christmas dinner with friends
Phuket, Thailand
One of our Christmas gifts to ourselves was a four night, four day trip to a resort in Phuket. It was spurred on by a great deal through a friend, and we thoroughly enjoyed two two-bedroom villas between five adults and five kids. Its very challenging to find that kind of room anywhere in Asia, so we took advantage of it. This was the first beach vacation since living in Hong Kong, and we made the most of it. Of course, to keep the trip affordable, we had to take some unconventional flights...leaving at 11:30pm and 5:30am...but it all worked out rather well.
Our first full day we went on a boat tour of some beautiful beaches surrounding the mainland of Phuket. Even though the first boat trip was a bit rough, the gorgeous fine white sand beaches and scenery made up for it. We got to feed some monkeys and enjoyed a lovely Thai and international lunch by the water. All of the kids (even Abby) got to snorkel, and we had some time to beach it while Sarah and I took a snooze in the shade, enjoying the ocean breezes.
The second day we took a wonderful elephant ride and had an amazing time seeing the jungle on the back of a very large pachyderm! The kids had a great time on the ride, and then we got to feed and take pictures with our new friends. Sarah LOVED the elephants, even getting excited looking at the pictures.
The rest of our time was spent enjoying Thai food, playing in the pool and enjoying the beach at the resort. We soaked in the wonderful weather...80's and sunny everyday! This vacation was a wonderful distraction from missing our friends, family, and all the fun snowfall at home. And we felt extremely blessed to be able to enjoy it with our friends.
10K Run
Well, if you know me at all, you know that I am not a big fan of running. I really want to be a fan, but all the years of "having to train" for soccer and other sports have ruined my enjoyment of just plain running. Well, now that I am done being pregnant (an excuse that I have used a lot), and the weather is almost always great, it seemed I should try again. When we came back after our summer in the States, I began running with my neighbor. She had started running the previous year with a Dutch friend, who had just moved back to The Netherlands. We are compatible runners and enjoy each other's company. Then we decided to do a run together. There are runs all the time, so we picked out one in February that was set in the city. Well, we were online trying to sign up, and in between her signing up and me signing up, the run closed. I'm not sure who was more disappointed. So, we decided to keep training and find something else. She was already signed up for a run the weekend before Thanksgiving, that I bowed out of because of our trip to the Philippines. So as we were still training, another run came up in mid December. Another new friend had signed up with my Aussie friend, and because of circumstances beyond her control, she had to stop training. I asked if I could take her place, and she graciously gave me her spot. This seemed divine intervention...and I kind of did it without thinking. I didn't think about how busy I was that very week, but that was probably a good thing or I wouldn't have signed up. So the morning of the race was a little dreary, and the promise of a downpour was glaring at me. Because of the rain, I told my family not to come...so I went by myself, meeting a few other people I knew.
As I'm driving in the taxi, I'm wondering what my goal should be...what is realistic and how disappointed I will be if I miss my goal. It was also getting cold, with a slight drizzle. But when I got there and met up with people I knew, I started to get amped up and felt better about just getting it done. In fact, the anticipation was worse than the actual run. I ended up meeting my goal, and got finished before the downpour began. I did enjoy the race, and am signing up for another one in March...but here's hoping that I will be less nervous and I will catch "the bug" that everyone raves about.
Thursday, December 5, 2013
Our Filipino Thankgiving!
We get all kinds of reactions when we tell people we are going on a family missions trip. Some people think they are just for adults-what could children possibly do to help? Others have shared their concern for the kids safety. Still others have gone so far as tell me the children will just get in the way. All of these are personal opinions...not to be judged. For us, we felt that one of the huge opportunities we have living in Hong Kong, being part of the school community that we do, is to get involved in missions. It is something that Andy and I have always felt strongly about, not just for us, but for our kids...for us as a family. This past Thanksgiving we got to experience that blessing again, as a family.
We left for our third missions trip to Manila, Philippines in shifts. Abby, Sarah and I left Wednesday evening with nine others. Andy, the older three children and our helper traveled with two teachers after school on Thursday. Our family spent time with the KIM (Kids International Ministry) organization last spring and we were all eager to get back. We went with the same leader from our last trip, his two children, two friends from his church, two teachers from the school, and an American family and their helper who were our friends before we even moved to HK. Before leaving, my prayer was that we would be prepared for what we were going to experience, that we would glorify the Lord's name, and we would be changed. Since we had just been there 7 months ago, I knew better what to expect and I was eager to jump in!
The organization is located in the middle of a squatter village and it has had a huge impact in trying to break the cycle of poverty and despair in their community. They have had a large hand in starting a school that serves over 200 children, and is in the midst of building an early learning center for babies and toddlers. The also opened an orphanage about 200 yds from the missions center that has over 50 children, and a home for girls who were in at risk and abusive situations. Finally, they provide feedings to other squatter villages twice a day, seven days a week.
These are just the things that we were able to be involved in for a short time, and doesn't mention the medical clinic for women with at risk pregnancies or the other children's home in the southern part of the Philippines. We all went on at least two or three feedings, serving at least 100 people. These people are amazing and their joy is contagious. Yes, it is heartbreaking to see these mothers who are doing their best to care for their little ones, as they send their shoeless children for the food. But most often what was remembered was the gratitude.
One night, after dark, we decided to do some "street ministry" We visited a group of children who were being cared for by a few adults, who worked for another organization, giving them food and singing with them. They were children with no home, who would be sleeping on the streets. As our van pulled up, you would have thought we were rock stars, as they ran to our door. I was pulled off by a little girl who grabbed my hand and didn't let go for the next 30 minutes. She was a little younger than Abby, with short brown hair and a ponytail on top. She was also in pajamas...and even though it was dark, I could see her bright smile. She broke my heart...clinging to me like she had known me all her life. We started to play games with the kids, and she got together with a friend for a partner. We spent about an hour with this group of about 30 kids, singing songs and playing games. They laughed and danced and sang their hearts out. Before we left, we prayed for the couple of adults who were there serving them. Then we were gone. It was pointed out to us that the few adults on the other side of the road, sitting on the curb, were the pimps, ready to take advantage of when these children were left alone...that thought makes me sick.
Another night we (the women and older girls) got to go to the girls' home and have a spa night. We painted nails and braided hair and talked to these beautiful girls. One girl that I remembered from our previous trip shared that school was hard...then she proceeded to tell me the courses she was taking. I told her that I thought Calculus was hard too!!! These girls are so intelligent, and even though they have been hurt in the past, the Lord has pulled them out and placed them in a loving situation with doors open to opportunity. It was interesting to see the walls of distrust break down the longer we were there. First, most of the girls didn't want their nails painted...but they would paint our nails (I gladly accepted). Then they started to take us up on our offer, and then ask us to braid their hair...their thick beautiful hair. It was a wonderful night.
Finally, I spent a good bit of time at the children's home, specifically in the nursery. I was able to bring Sarah and Abby with me. They had a ball playing, and the kids were fascinated with them. They took to Abby because she was older...and they loved on Sarah since she was little and couldn't resist their hugs...too much! The home just received five new little ones...including twin 3 year old girls who were beautiful, but extremely hesitant. I wondered what they could be thinking...they were too young to understand that living with their mom wasn't safe...but it was their mom? And you could see the other kids checking them out. I was only too happy to play with some of the older adjusted children who had been there awhile so that these new little friends could begin making connections to the workers who would be there on a consistent basis. Of course, I also got to help with some little babies. One little 5 month old boy would not go to sleep, so I was only to eager to rock him. And then the next day I helped with another little peanut who was only a month old, but two months premature. None of my kiddos had ever been that small out of the womb. The whole miracle in this is that it did not cause me to want another baby of my own...praise the Lord!
My children were able to play with the older kids at the orphanage and they really stepped up at the feedings...passing out food, making kids laugh, giving out stickers and toys...they never ceased to amaze me. I never heard complaining from them and they already talk about going back. They did a great job of spreading hope and joy to these people who struggle daily for the simplest of things that we take for granted...food, water and shelter...not to mention a means to provide for one's family. Andy and I were so proud of them. This experience of doing missions as a family is priceless. It has spurred on more discussion and challenged us individually as well as a family...how can we show gratitude and where are we spending our resources of money, time and energy?
Finally, I would do a disservice if I didn't share what we learned about Tacloban and surrounding areas that were directly affected by the typhoon. KIMS has been inundated with donations and now the challenge is getting the means to take it to the affected areas. So they have been sending teams down to "ground zero" to serve and take supplies. When we talked to the head of KIMS, he had just gotten back from a short trip down there...and to say he was shaken to the core would be an understatement. He shared two specific stories that I cannot get out of my mind. One, he spoke to a father who had lost his daughter in the storm. He was hiding in a tree with her as the winds were raging. He was squeezing his little girl so tightly, that he actually suffocated her. He didn't even realize that he was killing her until it was too late. The devastation is real and overwhelming. Complete villages were just washed away. I don't know what the media is reporting in different parts of the world, but as usual, the farther away we get from this event, people are going to forget. The head of KIMS couldn't emphasize enough that this was such a dark place...not just complete devastation and loss..but just plain evil. He shared another story of his departure. While he was at the airport he witnessed a man trying to smuggle 10 little girls out of the country in order to sell them into sex trafficking. He had told the authorities that two of them were his daughters and the others were cousins and friends. As he continued to get questioned, they also questioned the girls and found out that they didn't know each other. He was immediately arrested. Unfortunately, he will be an exception to the rule. I don't pass these stories to depress you...simply to share the anarchy that is happening and that you would be motivated to pray.
So we walk away from another trip to Manila, changed. Sharing this experience as a family bonds us closer together and deepens our individual faith, as well. We seem to be blessed more than we have blessed others...being given the gift of perspective and the joy that comes from serving. I highly recommend serving with your children in any capacity...the "fruit of your labor" is beyond comprehension.
We left for our third missions trip to Manila, Philippines in shifts. Abby, Sarah and I left Wednesday evening with nine others. Andy, the older three children and our helper traveled with two teachers after school on Thursday. Our family spent time with the KIM (Kids International Ministry) organization last spring and we were all eager to get back. We went with the same leader from our last trip, his two children, two friends from his church, two teachers from the school, and an American family and their helper who were our friends before we even moved to HK. Before leaving, my prayer was that we would be prepared for what we were going to experience, that we would glorify the Lord's name, and we would be changed. Since we had just been there 7 months ago, I knew better what to expect and I was eager to jump in!
The organization is located in the middle of a squatter village and it has had a huge impact in trying to break the cycle of poverty and despair in their community. They have had a large hand in starting a school that serves over 200 children, and is in the midst of building an early learning center for babies and toddlers. The also opened an orphanage about 200 yds from the missions center that has over 50 children, and a home for girls who were in at risk and abusive situations. Finally, they provide feedings to other squatter villages twice a day, seven days a week.
These are just the things that we were able to be involved in for a short time, and doesn't mention the medical clinic for women with at risk pregnancies or the other children's home in the southern part of the Philippines. We all went on at least two or three feedings, serving at least 100 people. These people are amazing and their joy is contagious. Yes, it is heartbreaking to see these mothers who are doing their best to care for their little ones, as they send their shoeless children for the food. But most often what was remembered was the gratitude.
One night, after dark, we decided to do some "street ministry" We visited a group of children who were being cared for by a few adults, who worked for another organization, giving them food and singing with them. They were children with no home, who would be sleeping on the streets. As our van pulled up, you would have thought we were rock stars, as they ran to our door. I was pulled off by a little girl who grabbed my hand and didn't let go for the next 30 minutes. She was a little younger than Abby, with short brown hair and a ponytail on top. She was also in pajamas...and even though it was dark, I could see her bright smile. She broke my heart...clinging to me like she had known me all her life. We started to play games with the kids, and she got together with a friend for a partner. We spent about an hour with this group of about 30 kids, singing songs and playing games. They laughed and danced and sang their hearts out. Before we left, we prayed for the couple of adults who were there serving them. Then we were gone. It was pointed out to us that the few adults on the other side of the road, sitting on the curb, were the pimps, ready to take advantage of when these children were left alone...that thought makes me sick.
Another night we (the women and older girls) got to go to the girls' home and have a spa night. We painted nails and braided hair and talked to these beautiful girls. One girl that I remembered from our previous trip shared that school was hard...then she proceeded to tell me the courses she was taking. I told her that I thought Calculus was hard too!!! These girls are so intelligent, and even though they have been hurt in the past, the Lord has pulled them out and placed them in a loving situation with doors open to opportunity. It was interesting to see the walls of distrust break down the longer we were there. First, most of the girls didn't want their nails painted...but they would paint our nails (I gladly accepted). Then they started to take us up on our offer, and then ask us to braid their hair...their thick beautiful hair. It was a wonderful night.
Finally, I spent a good bit of time at the children's home, specifically in the nursery. I was able to bring Sarah and Abby with me. They had a ball playing, and the kids were fascinated with them. They took to Abby because she was older...and they loved on Sarah since she was little and couldn't resist their hugs...too much! The home just received five new little ones...including twin 3 year old girls who were beautiful, but extremely hesitant. I wondered what they could be thinking...they were too young to understand that living with their mom wasn't safe...but it was their mom? And you could see the other kids checking them out. I was only too happy to play with some of the older adjusted children who had been there awhile so that these new little friends could begin making connections to the workers who would be there on a consistent basis. Of course, I also got to help with some little babies. One little 5 month old boy would not go to sleep, so I was only to eager to rock him. And then the next day I helped with another little peanut who was only a month old, but two months premature. None of my kiddos had ever been that small out of the womb. The whole miracle in this is that it did not cause me to want another baby of my own...praise the Lord!
My children were able to play with the older kids at the orphanage and they really stepped up at the feedings...passing out food, making kids laugh, giving out stickers and toys...they never ceased to amaze me. I never heard complaining from them and they already talk about going back. They did a great job of spreading hope and joy to these people who struggle daily for the simplest of things that we take for granted...food, water and shelter...not to mention a means to provide for one's family. Andy and I were so proud of them. This experience of doing missions as a family is priceless. It has spurred on more discussion and challenged us individually as well as a family...how can we show gratitude and where are we spending our resources of money, time and energy?
Finally, I would do a disservice if I didn't share what we learned about Tacloban and surrounding areas that were directly affected by the typhoon. KIMS has been inundated with donations and now the challenge is getting the means to take it to the affected areas. So they have been sending teams down to "ground zero" to serve and take supplies. When we talked to the head of KIMS, he had just gotten back from a short trip down there...and to say he was shaken to the core would be an understatement. He shared two specific stories that I cannot get out of my mind. One, he spoke to a father who had lost his daughter in the storm. He was hiding in a tree with her as the winds were raging. He was squeezing his little girl so tightly, that he actually suffocated her. He didn't even realize that he was killing her until it was too late. The devastation is real and overwhelming. Complete villages were just washed away. I don't know what the media is reporting in different parts of the world, but as usual, the farther away we get from this event, people are going to forget. The head of KIMS couldn't emphasize enough that this was such a dark place...not just complete devastation and loss..but just plain evil. He shared another story of his departure. While he was at the airport he witnessed a man trying to smuggle 10 little girls out of the country in order to sell them into sex trafficking. He had told the authorities that two of them were his daughters and the others were cousins and friends. As he continued to get questioned, they also questioned the girls and found out that they didn't know each other. He was immediately arrested. Unfortunately, he will be an exception to the rule. I don't pass these stories to depress you...simply to share the anarchy that is happening and that you would be motivated to pray.
So we walk away from another trip to Manila, changed. Sharing this experience as a family bonds us closer together and deepens our individual faith, as well. We seem to be blessed more than we have blessed others...being given the gift of perspective and the joy that comes from serving. I highly recommend serving with your children in any capacity...the "fruit of your labor" is beyond comprehension.
Abby and her new friend, Hannah, at the children's home
Beautiful smile
Grace and Emma serve the food
Josh passes out stickers
Abby loves on the baby
The children loved the stickers
I enjoyed holding sweet babies, too
Sunset over Manila
Marina and Sarah enjoying mango (Yum!!!)
Malaysia! By Grace
The week of Nov. 11-14, I got the privilege to go to Malaysia! This was just one of the many trips that were happening this week- some in Cambodia, Indonesia, Philippines, and Thailand! I chose Malaysia because it was recalled as a "fun trip" not a service one. Not that I don't want to serve, just spacing out the 2 service trips that I have to do in middle school (6th and 8th grade). I thought that since 7th grade was the "fun year", considering I'm not leaving the next year, nor arriving this year either. So Malaysia was the trip to go on:)
When I was packing my bags for the trip (which was like a week before, due to excitement!), I thought about my friends in the U.S, and how their parents would never in a million years let their child go to Malaysia by themselves. But fortunately, living in Hong Kong, Malaysia's pretty close, and being the oldest, I think I can manage it:) But I also thought about being able to not loose anything- like my passport and HK ID card. I'm known to loose things sooooo I was promising to my parents that I would pay EXTRA attention to those;) Finally, Monday morning approached us. I was sleeping over at my friend, Caroline's house, because she has a car, and she's one of my closest friends in HK. I was waking up at 4:30am to catch our flight, feeling a mixture of sleepy, anxious, and super excited!
Caroline's car approached the airport, and I grabbed my big duffel bag, and carry on. Before we arrived to the airport, we stopped at an MTR stop and picked up my mom. Of course, we had to do this because she hadn't of said enough goodbyes already:) We found our group of about 40 students, and the adventure began. Well, actually the adventure doesn't start until your parents leave ;) , so we had to wait until our bags were checked in, and we were headed to security check. I said goodbye, and we were off. WE, being the whole group, but specifically my 2 friends: Caroline and Dawn.
Finally we were on the airplane (Cathay Pacific), and 3 and 1/2 hours later were in Malaysia!!
Yayy! My 3rd out of 5 countries I would be going to before Christmas! We started out by going to a Chinese restaurant, eating spicy food (#yum). Since their were only six 7th graders, we all just hung out together. They all cracked me up! After lunch, we took about a 30min bus ride to the amusement park! This was the largest indoor amusement park in the world (literally)! I had an AWESOME time going on the rides, eating lots of snacks, and hanging out with the 6 of us! My 2 favorite things was the DNA mixer, where your basically sitting normally, and then it twists you backwards, forwards, all for about 7 minutes. It was awesome! The second one was the Haunted House. Even if it WAS scary, it was hilarious to watch everybody's reaction after. Even in it was awesome (especially when the 3 boys screamed like girls!). After the 3 hr. experience in the amusement park, we headed out for dinner. We had seafood. Mr. Jacus, my science teacher is an HILLARIOUS guy from Michigan (BOO0o) , and loved the shrimp. He had 7 SHRIMP on his plate, and it looked like he was reaching for more. Funny moments that day, but their was way more that I was going to be able to experience throughout the day.
Day #2! Waking up at 7am with Caroline as my roommate, I was tired, but not exhausted. We had breakfast, and was on the road to Taman Negara, about a 2-3 hr. road trip, depending on traffic. We arrived to the place where we would be four wheel driving to the water fall!!! I was SUPER excited, cause I had never actually done 4WDriving before. When we arrived, me, Caroline and Dawn and this 8th grader hopped on to the 4WD. We had no idea how bumpy the ride was, but I found that out when I let go for a second and almost fell off. After the drive, we walked to the waterfall, and swam into it. Well, actually it wasn't a very long swim due to it being EXTREMELY COLD! :0
We had spicy chicken for lunch (Mr. Jacus said it was better then the shrimp so you can imagine how much he ate ;), and of course: A bottle of water. Its very important to stay hydrated in 90F+ degrees!
After the waterfall, we rode back, and went back to the bus where we drove another 1-2 hours to the place where we would be zip lining and white water rafting! :) I was thrilled, cause once again, I have never been white water rafting! ( I have been zip lining). When we FINALLY arrived, we unpacked because fortunately the place happened to be a hotel as well (lodges), so we dropped our bags off at the room. Then we took a tutorial "class" on how to zip line and white water raft down the river. After listening to instructions we did it:) It was amaaazzziinnngg. After that, we cleaned up, had some free time, and had dinner. Before I knew it, I was sleeping...a lot. I was tired. But it didn't feel very long before...
I woke up to Day #3! Day # 2 was known as "Wet Day", well today was known as "Wet Wet day!"
We had spaghetti breakfast (#random?), then were off to Taman Negara, to the next hotel. We got there, found our hotel room, and headed down to the floating restaurant to eat lunch. After that, we took a "water taxi" to the Longest Hanging Canopy Walkway Bridge in the World. I was anxious to go:) We went, and after that, we got back on to the water taxi. The teachers gave us a lovely surprise of splashing us throughout the ride. But, it was fun, I enjoyed it:) We rode to the Asilly people who were a tribe that lived on a tiny island. We learned the way they live, and how they managed to live life by cooking and feeding themselves because after all, they were in extreme poverty. We left the place, and decided to play in the river for about 20 minutes. Then, we headed back to the hotel, and washed up for the night walk. Ahhh yes the moment I've been waiting for. When we headed to the trail. I was amazed but slightly creeped out about the things I saw. We was an aardvark, a tarantula sized spider, elephant (wild) watching, a goat, pigs, termites (if they bite your skin, then their teeth get stuck in your skin), and of course, the mosquitos came for a visit as well. Finally, when it was over we went back to the hotel and "zzzzzzz" I was asleep. Today, was probably the most action-filled day.
The last full day! :( Noooo! When I woke up, I knew we were doing three main things: Cave exploring, chocolate shopping, and going to a fancy banquet! But of course we had to drive there first. It was back to Kuala Lumpur. 3 hours. We arrived at the cave, and had a wild adventure. Bats, rock structures, and cave crickets. Beautiful sites too, because the caves were in the middle of the jungle. After the caves, we went to a restaurant that had a shower, so we showered in it because we were covered in mud and bat poo! I have to say, I don't think I've ever smelled worse then that day haha!:) We showered and rode the bus to chocolate shopping! We got there and right away started to shop. I got mint chocolate, and Hot Spicy chocolate (that I would later trick my dad with ;). Right after the shopping, we headed to the banquet. It was amazing! There was singing, dancing, and most of all, the food was excellent. We watched the show for about 1 hour, and headed out back to take pics of the Twin Towers in Kuala Lumpur. It was a great sight that I will never forget. We went back to the hotel that we stayed the first night, and didn't go to bed at first actually...we played the card game: "Cheat", until 1am. It was SO fun! Then we went to bed, and all of a sudden I regret playing till that late.
I was tired! We had breakfeast, and sadly had to go to the airport to catch our flight :'( As much as I wanted to stay, I knew that my family missed me, and I missed them. As the plane landed in HK, I still felt like I was Malaysia, but sadly we weren't:(
Even today, I miss Malaysia and all its wonderful memories. It is a place that I will never forget.
Tuesday, November 12, 2013
Time Well Spent
I have always felt very blessed with the children God has entrusted us with...and I find it a little unique that we have quite an age gap (age 1 to age 12). I often feel like I am comparing the joys and challenges of babyhood to pre-teenhood because they are so similar:) But, I am also reminded of how fast our children grow up and how I need to soak in every moment, because it will soon be gone.
My oldest just left on a school trip to Malaysia yesterday. If I'm honest, I don't think I knew where Malaysia was located until we moved to HK last year. She was thrilled to go, and I was happy for her. I tried not to think of what it meant for me...to have my little girl in another country without me or her father. If you were to have told me two years ago that we would have let her do this, I would have laughed. But after surviving last year, when my three oldest children moved with my husband without me, a month before I moved...this was a no brainer. I do miss her terribly, but I know she is having an amazing time doing some awesome activities in a spectacular place. Its also hard for me to realize she is old enough to be doing this, but that's when I remember she is not even in elementary school anymore with her long braided pigtails and her bangs that are growing out since I cut them too short.
Its because of these feelings that today I changed my plans. I was supposed to go out this morning, but instead I decided to just stay home and play with Sarah. Of course, there were other things I needed to get done...phone calls, mailing packages, email. But, all that could be done, and was done, during her nap. No, I just spent most of my morning playing with and watching Sarah. Trying to soak it all in. And that child is hysterical. Her faces and the way she can get into trouble is so funny. I don't take the time to do this often enough, I'm sorry to say. I have never been great at just playing with them at this stage. But because I am a little bit older and maybe wiser than I was with my oldest, I have and will continue to enjoy this little blessing while she lets me:)
My oldest just left on a school trip to Malaysia yesterday. If I'm honest, I don't think I knew where Malaysia was located until we moved to HK last year. She was thrilled to go, and I was happy for her. I tried not to think of what it meant for me...to have my little girl in another country without me or her father. If you were to have told me two years ago that we would have let her do this, I would have laughed. But after surviving last year, when my three oldest children moved with my husband without me, a month before I moved...this was a no brainer. I do miss her terribly, but I know she is having an amazing time doing some awesome activities in a spectacular place. Its also hard for me to realize she is old enough to be doing this, but that's when I remember she is not even in elementary school anymore with her long braided pigtails and her bangs that are growing out since I cut them too short.
Its because of these feelings that today I changed my plans. I was supposed to go out this morning, but instead I decided to just stay home and play with Sarah. Of course, there were other things I needed to get done...phone calls, mailing packages, email. But, all that could be done, and was done, during her nap. No, I just spent most of my morning playing with and watching Sarah. Trying to soak it all in. And that child is hysterical. Her faces and the way she can get into trouble is so funny. I don't take the time to do this often enough, I'm sorry to say. I have never been great at just playing with them at this stage. But because I am a little bit older and maybe wiser than I was with my oldest, I have and will continue to enjoy this little blessing while she lets me:)
loves her apples
favorite spot to "read"
nap time!
a pic without her knowing
she caught me
playing with her Noah's Ark
My sweet and silly Sarah Jane
Sunday, November 3, 2013
To Drive or Not to Drive?
It's been a busy last few weeks...I think I say that every time I write. But all of a sudden I find myself writing November on the calendar and wonder where the time has gone. I think it has been a little bit easier to lose track of time here because of the lack of seasonal change. It's still in the 80's, I'm still wearing shorts, and I still have my air conditioning on. Thus, to me it still feels like early September, not November.
So after getting back from Beijing, we hit the ground running to catch up on what we had missed. The kids had some make-up work and we all had some work in getting back in the groove. I'd say it took about a week. A week after we got back, a friend of mine invited a group of us to go down to Stanley for the day to do some shopping and have some lunch. Everyone talks about Stanley, but I had never gone before and was excited to go...especially if she was driving. It's also not the easiest place to get to by public transportation, which has been a deterrent for going in the past. This was a great opportunity! So the four of us left around 10am from the kids school and got down there in about 30 minutes. This was definitely faster than I anticipated. Hong Kong is not that big, but Stanley is on the south side of the island. When you factor in traffic and windy roads, locations that generally "appear" closer, can take a long time to get to.
We had a GORGEOUS day! It was a beautiful, sunny day, upper 70's, and the skies were so blue. It was amazing to sit at lunch with my new friends, remembering what I was doing just a year ago, and thinking how far I have come. Last year, I wasn't able to be out for the day, certainly not by myself without baby in tow. I even remembered thinking how I was looking forward to a time when I could be out with friends and not worry about my three hour nursing window. It was refreshing to finally be in that place. It was freeing..
Being in Stanley also brought up another question that my husband and I continue to get often. "When are you going to get a car?" People cannot believe that we don't have a car when they hear where we live...which is a bit out of the way and a little bit of a distance from the kid's school, and far from our church. And of course, when they hear our family size, that's when the jaw drops. Last year I couldn't even fathom getting a car. I was on information overload and the thought of learning something else new...like driving on the left, wheel on the right, was overwhelming for me. It was also amazing to me that I could get anywhere I needed to be by trains, taxis and buses. Navigating the public transportation was empowering to me and helped build my confidence and get more comfortable in my new surroundings. BUT, that doesn't mean it isn't exhausting or easy, or even useful when we want to go to some more remote locations. So, a year removed and we are back to that question..."To drive, or not to drive?"
There are so many factors on both sides of the argument that make this a challenging decision. We have made it a year without one, the cost (of gas, insurance, tolls, maintenance), lack of parking, not to mention a little bit of fear (see previous post about my car accident in taxi). These are valid...but now the other side of the coin. Easier to get to places like Stanley and Sai Kung, less exhaustion (quality of life) and more options...all ring true to me as well. So...we will keep discussing, revisiting, and I will keep you posted. For now, we will continue our adventures on the trains, buses and taxis. They do make for great stories.
Finally, the kids were able to go trick or treating again this year. We may live in one of the few areas in all of Hong Kong where this takes place. The kids had a great time going around the neighborhood with Andy and some friends. This was the first year Grace did not go...which was timely since I needed to be at a parent's meeting for her upcoming trip. But our Indian princess, cowboy, fairy and cow all had a good time.
So after getting back from Beijing, we hit the ground running to catch up on what we had missed. The kids had some make-up work and we all had some work in getting back in the groove. I'd say it took about a week. A week after we got back, a friend of mine invited a group of us to go down to Stanley for the day to do some shopping and have some lunch. Everyone talks about Stanley, but I had never gone before and was excited to go...especially if she was driving. It's also not the easiest place to get to by public transportation, which has been a deterrent for going in the past. This was a great opportunity! So the four of us left around 10am from the kids school and got down there in about 30 minutes. This was definitely faster than I anticipated. Hong Kong is not that big, but Stanley is on the south side of the island. When you factor in traffic and windy roads, locations that generally "appear" closer, can take a long time to get to.
We had a GORGEOUS day! It was a beautiful, sunny day, upper 70's, and the skies were so blue. It was amazing to sit at lunch with my new friends, remembering what I was doing just a year ago, and thinking how far I have come. Last year, I wasn't able to be out for the day, certainly not by myself without baby in tow. I even remembered thinking how I was looking forward to a time when I could be out with friends and not worry about my three hour nursing window. It was refreshing to finally be in that place. It was freeing..
Being in Stanley also brought up another question that my husband and I continue to get often. "When are you going to get a car?" People cannot believe that we don't have a car when they hear where we live...which is a bit out of the way and a little bit of a distance from the kid's school, and far from our church. And of course, when they hear our family size, that's when the jaw drops. Last year I couldn't even fathom getting a car. I was on information overload and the thought of learning something else new...like driving on the left, wheel on the right, was overwhelming for me. It was also amazing to me that I could get anywhere I needed to be by trains, taxis and buses. Navigating the public transportation was empowering to me and helped build my confidence and get more comfortable in my new surroundings. BUT, that doesn't mean it isn't exhausting or easy, or even useful when we want to go to some more remote locations. So, a year removed and we are back to that question..."To drive, or not to drive?"
There are so many factors on both sides of the argument that make this a challenging decision. We have made it a year without one, the cost (of gas, insurance, tolls, maintenance), lack of parking, not to mention a little bit of fear (see previous post about my car accident in taxi). These are valid...but now the other side of the coin. Easier to get to places like Stanley and Sai Kung, less exhaustion (quality of life) and more options...all ring true to me as well. So...we will keep discussing, revisiting, and I will keep you posted. For now, we will continue our adventures on the trains, buses and taxis. They do make for great stories.
Beautiful Stanley
Finally, the kids were able to go trick or treating again this year. We may live in one of the few areas in all of Hong Kong where this takes place. The kids had a great time going around the neighborhood with Andy and some friends. This was the first year Grace did not go...which was timely since I needed to be at a parent's meeting for her upcoming trip. But our Indian princess, cowboy, fairy and cow all had a good time.
Abby, Sarah, Emma and Josh
Our cute little cow making her new "fishy face"
Getting ready to go!
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