life as lenny

the frog, the penguin, the piglet

2011-09-01T11:41:00.000-04:00

the frog

the penguin

the piglet

I hadn't picked up my crochet hooks for more than 10 minutes all summer long. Partially because when I sat in front of the tv I wanted to do nothing more than sit! And partially because its hot in the summer!

Last month I scored big on craigslist--4 kitchen size garbage bags FULL of yarn for $20. Half of it I ended up donating to Bradford Woods for kids crafts. I wouldn't have had anywhere to put all of it anyway...as it is yarn seems to be in almost every room of the house. A couple weeks ago I sat down one night and finished a scarf I'd started months ago. Then I got excited again and started trying to making a pig hat. This is not a new idea- people make animal shaped hats all the time. Once I finished the basic hat I found a really simple pattern online to make the ears and nose, then it turned into a pig! I think my favorite part is the tails from the ear flaps. The pig got me excited about animals so I made the penguin and the frog. Since I'm not one for following patterns it took a little while to figure out just how to create the features. But now I know and they should be much easier to replicate. Hopefully I'll have a whole bunch of different animals for upcoming craft fairs!

NAWGJ USAG Judge

2011-03-03T08:52:00.001-05:00

When I was a little girl my dad practically had to drag me out to the car after gymnastics class. I'd beg my teacher-- "please, just one more?...I want to show my dad" :) Of course showing my dad was just a ploy to let me continue to play. I competed for 5 years when I was in middle school and high school. High school gymnastics was great cause I was still working out at the gym I grew up in--thank you Genie:) I was never amazing but I loved it--so much so that I was chosing to do two-a-day practices sometimes alone. I missed gymnastics when I was in college! Coaching/Teaching at summer camp was not always awesome in the moment but I loved it and then coaching at the Y in Ligonier was amazing! I remember my head coach there talking about becoming a judge but I didn't think it was something I would ever be qualified to do. My head coach in Martinsville is also a judge and there's a high demand for judges these days so she encouraged me along :) Lots of studying, lots of hoops to jump through and here I go... Saturday will be my first meet to judge. Am I nervous? You bet I am--I don't want lots of inquiries my first meet and I don't want to be way off but there's no wading into this field--you gots to jump right in to the deep end and hope your brain is filled with enough to keep you afloat.

big picture gal

2010-10-21T10:51:00.000-04:00

In the last fifteen minutes I realized something about myself...I am a big picture gal! I like to have a decent understanding of something before I dive in. I like to put a lot into something the first time around so that instead of recreating the wheel every year I can just tweak things. As a teacher I was ok not having all the answers. I'd just flat out tell my students I didn't know and to make sure they let me know when they found the answer. And to some degree I am ok not having all the answers but I like to know my resources to help me find the answers. Resources oh resources, where for art thou resources?
So now what? I know this about myself. What do I do with it...I'm not sure...

mysuzyhat

2010-09-19T16:33:00.000-04:00

Since I started crochetting people have been saying "you should sell that stuff!" I have always said it would take the joy out of making things. I am officially launching 'mysuzyhat' on etsy.com in the next few weeks. I turned a couple of my housemates into crochetting monsters and they have started selling at craft fairs. I made just a few things and helped out for one morning. See our booth...and one of my hats:) I actually sold a couple! Yeah for mysuzyhat!!!

isaac and noah

2010-09-14T17:19:00.000-04:00

What good am I if I don't post at least a couple pics of my favorite twin baby boys? Meet Isaac and Noah. One day I might be able to tell them apart:)

Noah found his thumb while he was getting a bath!

Bebo Norman's 'Borrow Mine'

2010-09-14T17:08:00.000-04:00

Bebo Norman=smile on my face.
I don't listened to Bebo nearly as much as I used too, although I still heart him and have a great appreciation for his music...especially LIVE when Gabe Scott is playing the dulcimer...AMAZING! Anywho, I was just looking for some ring tones and stumbled across Bebo's song "Borrow Mine". Today I am thinking about it in a different way.
The chorus is:
You can borrow mine
When your hope is gone
Borrow mine
When you can't go on
'Cause the world will not defeat you
When we're side by side
When your faith is hard to find
You can borrow mine

Maybe I am simply going through a pre-30's crisis? Whatever it is, I am grateful for those around me who continue to encourage and let me borrow their faith whether they know it or not. I have locked all the verses Emily has texted me. I hear Maureen in my head saying "God is sovereign." Patrick talking about Ebenezer. Sandy's perfect cups of coffee. Quint talking about seeds. Jim singing From the Depths of Woe. Zan's blog! Sarah's caring and listening ears. Dawson family 'squeezers'. Melanie's affirmation. Jo-Jo puppy dog kisses to wipe away tears. Plus sooooo many more. Amen and Amen.

Follow the link if you want to see the rest of the words to the song.
http://www.sing365.com/music/lyric.nsf/Borrow-Mine-lyrics-Bebo-Norman/2D912BF65D679B9D48256FAD0005FC85

NY Thruway

2010-09-08T12:43:00.000-04:00

This last weekend I headed up to Lake Ontario with my parents and one of my brothers. We've been making this trip my whole life though this time it looked a little different! I drove, Dave sat in the front, mom and dad sat in the back---weird! Part of this journey is stopping at the Rest Area that is in between the Thruway. You walk over the Thruway on an enclosed bridge to get to the restrooms and food.
As we walked across the bridge late Friday night I heard a little boy say "woah!" I turned to look and sure enough he was standing at the window next to his dad facing down and a semi truck had just driven under the bridge. It's so silly and exciting. As the trucks drive under the bridge you feel like you are right on top of it. Hence the "woah!" from the little boy. If you have never experienced this sensation you must add it to your bucket list:)

elephant

2010-08-26T15:21:00.000-04:00

That elephant appears to be growing...and my spoon is not big enough. I am a very tired woman and its so much more than not getting enough sleep. My heart needs a vacation from caring too much. There has to be a ~~better~~ different way.

ode to the little things

2010-07-22T09:38:00.003-04:00

It is often the little things that make me smile the most... like when I hear/see an "ah-ha moment" happen or people leave "Black-eyed Suzy's" on my desk. It's also the little things that really wear on me and weigh me down. The last 7 days have been fully loaded from before dawn to well after dusk. Lots of little unexpecteds...I got to use a weed trimmer the other day for long enough that my hands were numb when I finally ran out of gas. I have been advised to not let the little things get to me because they pile up. The piling has certainly been happening and I am eager for a little break. There is light and its not just at the end of the tunnel it is all along the tunnel...some days it just burns brighter than others. God doesn't give us more than we can handle, right?

The other night I was reminded of a great nugget of metphorical wisdom....here it is:

What's the only way to eat an elephant?
--One spoonful at a time.

team building?

2010-07-14T00:32:00.003-04:00

Probably the most challenging group of people to facilitate adventure education experiences for are facilitators themselves. Though I haven't done this recently its on the forefront of my mind. I often wish that I could be on the receiving end of facilitation. There are so many things that I see in myself that I know I should be better at. I have been facilitating for almost 13 years now and I most certainly do not have it all worked out. With every new group of people comes its own joys and well, not so much joys. My goal is always to take care of people and there are days that I fail miserably... sometimes because I am stuck, sometimes because I simply just miss, and quite honestly sometimes on purpose. Lately I have felt the weight of the world on my shoulders. Like it is always my fault and that I am always the person that needs to adjust to those around me. Today, actually yesterday since its almost 1am, that weight has been even heavier. I feel like I can do no right and that is hard to swallow because I know it's not true. Ugh. Defeat.

Vision...round two

2010-04-11T18:57:00.003-04:00

"Be Thou My Vision O Lord of my heart"
Due to a series of corporate groups I have recently been helping to facilitate the concept of vision and personal mission has been fresh on my mind. I have never succeeded at writing a personal mission statement. It's something that just seems impossible to put into words. And quite frankly its something I want to share...to do together with someone...but that's not happening anytime soon.
This morning I went to yet another new church. I was so encouraged to sing Come Thou Fount and Be Thou My Vision mostly cause they are like a "blankie" to me:) Singing those words this morning was a gentle reminder of my vision and my purpose for life. My passion is people and challenging people of all ages to want to grow. My vision and my purpose has already been written... Matt 28:18-20.

Choosing by Alli Rogers

2010-04-03T09:08:00.003-04:00

I guess I need to chose
but today I am confused
and losing ground
Is this some part of plan
The rise and fall of man
I can't be sure

When I am away from my source of peace
something fills that space in me
And it feels like I don't need you

It's easy to get by
when I don't even try to
find the truth
Today I learned that faith
is not to be obtained like a place I can go

It's more of a choice than a feeling
And more a wound than healing
The act of believing in you

And I guess I need to choose
but today I am confused and losing ground

But maybe this is where I grow
When I admit that I don't know
When belief becomes the only way to you

I just heard this song on pandora and wow! What really hit me is the statement about peace. Holy cow, have I experienced that lately. I have been away. Wow, have I been away and allowing that space to be filled by something else. Today I am choosing not to be filled with something else but to allow that peace to come from the only one who can really give it.

singles group

2010-03-28T18:43:00.002-04:00

I am still in shock of what I experienced this afternoon. Recently I have been thinking about how I really need to make some friends outside of work. No offense to those that I work with...it's just time my life didn't revolve around BW. Last Sunday we'd noticed that there would be a singles potluck this afternoon. I had gone back and forth in my head about going but when one of my housemates volunteered to go with me I had a rekindled desire to take the plunge and go to the singles potluck. It was NOT what either of us expected and I am soooooo glad I didn't go it alone. It wasn't weird or creepy or anything we just happened to be probably 20 years younger than every other person who attended. No offense but this was not what I was hoping for... so my small attempts to find a social network outside of BW and closer than Ohio must continue. This makes me miss college...ugh. How are people suposed to meet each other anymore???

where do I stand on war?

2010-03-27T12:22:00.003-04:00

Yesterday I went to visit a fairly local milatiary base.There are many groups that come from this base that I assist in facilitating and we wanted to gain a better understanding of what these people do so that we can provide a better experience for them at the Woods. It was super interesting but somewhat hard to swallow. Way back in my college days(I know that was oh so long ago:) there were a lot of let's say debatable issues that were kind of in my face. One of those issues was war vs. peace. I took a confident pacifist stance... now I am there but not quite as confidently. One of the first things I saw on base were some high powered guns...ugh. Interesting to see but that threw my brain into a tizzy for the rest of the day. As I listened to these men and women share about what they do on a daily basis to enable the US to defend and fight my stomach was unsettled. I was forced to contemplate my assistance in empowering these people to essentially be more effective at sending people off to war.
What IS my role? Am I indirectly supporting war? And should I stop? Or is war a fact of humanity and by helping these people do their jobs more effectively am I indirectly helping protect those who fight every day? Though I am answerless, my convictions are not strong enough to stop doing what I am doing... but I wonder if they should be? What do you think?
On another note I did get to ride in a hummer AND sit in the driver's seat...pretty sweet when I don't think about why hummers exist in the first place...see pics...

on coaching...

2010-02-11T19:58:00.004-05:00

Those who can't (anymore), teach? That's what people say, right? I was a gymnast for 11 years, competing for 5 of them. At the ripe old age of 17 I retired. Eleven years later gymnastics is still a rewarding part of my life though it's had many faces. I have taught at summer camp, taught after school programs, coached competitive gymnastics in PA for 3 years, and now coach recreational classes as well as girls who compete in Indiana.
I LOVE gymnastics. I love that I can still do a round-off back handspring(much to the dismay of all my girls...and my boss:) and that I can still climb up on a balance beam to do my old high school routine. And though I'd love to be physically capable of doing all the things I could do so many years ago gymnastics bringing a different satisfaction than it used it. There are days when my girls drive me up a wall...but there are nights like tonight that things just click.
I went to practice tonight frustrated about life and wishing I could unhurt people I have hurt. I listened to the song Brand New Day on repeat all the way to the gym and I decided when I walked in the door that it would be a great night. IT WAS! Though the girls were not angels by any means, they allowed me to focus my energy on helping them get better. I am trying so hard to praise the good they do and gentlly explain how to get better. One of the girls inparticular takes correction pretty hard. In our last 5 minutes we worked through a bar skill she's been struggling with. I cannot express how proud of her I still am. She got something she felt so defeated by and really all it took was a lot of praise and encouragment. She left the gym with a huge grin on her face tonight...and so did I.
I have said many times before that my passion is helping people grow...my girls are so small and young but they are growing...and the reward I feel for being part of that growth far exceeds the reward of do a backhandspring!

Brand New Day by Joshua Radin

2010-02-11T09:14:00.003-05:00

I kind of stumbled on this song. A friend had given me all her CDs to listen to on my christmas baby tour and I had left this one in my cd visor accidently. Apparently it wasn't hers...another friend had left it at our house and it ended up in the stash I got at christmas.
Anyway...I am a music girl...the words that other people write are often the words I can't formulate. I have been listening to this song over and over for the last few days still trying to let them sink in. It's so simple, so true and so often hard for me to remember. In the midst of pain there is so much good and it's how I handle my time, my words, and my thoughts that will determine the outcome of each brand new day.

Brand New Day
by:Joshua Radin

Some kind of magic
Happens late at night
When the moon smiles down at me
And bathes me in its light

I fell asleep beneath you
In the tall blades of grass
When I woke the world was new
I never had to ask

It's a brand new day
The sun is shining
It's a brand new day
For the first time in such a long long time
I know, I'll be ok

Most kind of stories
Save the best part for last
And most stories have a hero who finds
You make your past your past
Yeah you make your past your past

It's a brand new day
The sun is shining
It's a brand new day
For the first time in such a long long time
I know, I'll be ok

This cycle never ends
You gotta fall in order to mend

It's a brand new day
It's a brand new day
For the first time in such a long long time
I know, I'll be ok

sara groves

2009-12-15T00:14:00.002-05:00

If you have never listened to Sara Groves before, now would be a good time to start! Emily, my bff, has loved Sara Groves for probably as long as I have loved Bebo Norman. Whenever I visit Em I know Sara Groves is going to be in at least one CD player. Last night a group of us went to a concert and it was AMAZING. Her music and style are really good but its her lyrics that get ya. It's as if she has made sense of all the things I cannot seem to express.
As of last of last night my favorite song is Maybe There's a Loving God. Check out the lyrics here: http://saragroves.com/lyrics/allrighthere/maybetheresalovinggod
Another joy of the concert was being introduced to Melody Olson. She's been singing back up vocals for Sara and just this month released a CD of her own. I listened to the last song on the disc on repeat for a good long while on my way back to Indiana. Here it is...
Remember the Way You Love
Melody Olson
like a girl in a crowd, lookin around, strangers eyes in the middle of the night, you've got the truth and lies swimmin in my mind, and i am wondering whose got a skeleton to hide
keep me close, keep me calm, cloak my soul with magnificent hope, I'll remember the way you love
see the girl in the crowd, and the light pours down, and the summer breaks through the darkest cloud, the orphan and widow cry, and you say that I, can look for you there and I'll find you every time
keep me close to your heart and i will soar on the wings of the dawn, I'll remember the way you love,
you gave your only son to be the one the saving one, you gave your only son to be the one, the saving one, keep me close to your heart and I will soar on the wings of the dawn, I'll remember the way you love, I'll remember the way you love, I'll remember, I'll remember

Meet Mac

2009-10-18T16:13:00.003-04:00

So getting Oreo was pretty stinkin exciting for me...but this is AMAZINGLY WONDERFUL!!!! Bebo(my old chevy) served me well for the last seven years. He needed to retire a long time ago but I just couldn't get something new until I had a little stability. With some temporary help from mis padres I was able to score a 2009 CRV yesterday. Crazy, right? I have been coming up with every excuse possible to drive him in the last 24 hours. I feel like I have waited forever for such a nice vehicle though in the grand scheme of things I haven't hardly waited at all. Regardless, I am so excited that for a good while I won't be wondering if I am actually going to make it to my destination when I get in the car. Not only will Mac make it but it will be a comfortable journey along the way. YEAH!!!!! Oh, and yes HE has a name...which is Mac. This one didn't fall out of my mouth like Bebo and Norman but I think it suits him and corny as it may sound Grma Brough's maiden name was MacDougal. She'd like it too:)

fall festivals

2009-10-11T23:31:00.002-04:00

There is one thing that I never did while I lived in Ligonier. Anyone familiar with Fort Days may gasp at this...I never went to the Fort Days parade. I was always working at camp(and honestly I didn't mind). I know it was/is a big deal and I know it would have been fun with all the kids and all the staff who came back for reuinions but eh. My favorite part about it was the lawn chairs literally lining the street the day before so people could lay claim to their spots. I wish I had a picture. This statement is on the Chamber of Commerce website "PLEASE, for safety reasons, do not place any chairs along the parade route before 6pm on Friday." Mind you the parade does not start until 11am on Saturday.
This weekend in Martinsville was the Fall Foliage Festival. I knew there would be a parade this afternoon because my girls from gymnastics were walking in it. Ironically I was working so I couldn't be in it with them or go. But this morning as I drove to church I noticed lawn chairs along the road in various places. Now, it wasn't quite as dramatic as good ole' Liggy, but it certainly took me back to my favorite little town. One of these years I will make it to a fall parade. We'll just have to wait and see what state that happens in!

"life giving"

2009-10-08T22:41:00.002-04:00

I had an interview today...as the interview-er for a change:) It was a good interview. I hope she ends up coming. Something she said really left an imprint on me though I honestly don't even remember the context of exactly why she said it. It was the phrase "life-giving." Which probably doesn't sound revolutionary in itself but man it really hit me.
A friend/co-worker and I often talk about vision and how stress and politics muddy the once clear waters of why we do what we do. Listening to this young woman talk kind of cleared the waters for me again. She shared about being very interpersonal and how exciting it is to hear/watch participants have those 'ah-ha' moments. As I listened, I distinctly remembered writing my cover letter for the Woods. I wrote about my desire and passion to be a part of growth in others whether that be through adventure education, coaching gymnastics, teaching, a/o mentoring. Today I have been remembering how being a part of that growth in others is life-giving to me and how I need to look wide-eyed so I can recognize when it's happening no matter how small.
I have to admit it was a rough night at gymnastics, LOADS of energy spilling out everywhere BUT they actually trust me now. Three months ago they didn't want me to spot them, now they are nervous without me close by. Honestly it does my heart good to feel needed and well, wanted. The best part of the whole thing is this great cycle of giving life. In enabling/challenging others to grow, I am encouraged, rejuvenated, and also given the opportunitiy to grow. What goes around certainly comes around!

So what is it that is 'life-giving' to you?

Oreo

2009-09-26T15:07:00.002-04:00

Meet Oreo...the bunny formerly known as Jadzia. For some reason I finally got motivated to get a rabbit. I had done some research about rescuing a rabbit a while back but it seemed complicated. Last weekend I decided it was time for a little more digging. I found an animal shelter online about half an hour away with a couple rabbits. When I called Tuesday evening they still had the one I wanted and there was just enough time for me to get there and fill out the paperwork. But by the time I arrived he had been adopted! Booooo! The lady at the shelter let me play with the 4 other rabbits in need of a home and a short 30 minutes later I was walking out the door with Oreo! She's a Giant Lop, so she doesn't quite fit in the cage the way Izzy did. I tried to give her a small area to be free in but she doesn't really like to be barricaded so now she's just free in my room. She's pretty spunky and docile at the same time. She runs around the room, jumps up on anything she can, and then takes a load off behind my futton. She's not exactly a cuddler but she'll get there:) Here she decided to burrow in some yarn. At one point all I could see was her rump sticking out:)

in one moment

2009-09-09T17:27:00.002-04:00

I spend a lot of time thinking. I think about where I am and where I want to be, who I am and who I want to be. My thoughts often end in defeat--either by falling asleep or the conclusion that I have no idea what I need to do to get where I want to be geographically and on the inside. Last night I was catching up with a friend and we got into that very conversation. In one fleeting moment she said she didn't want to do youth ministry again it's time for something else. In that moment I realized, neither do I. Whoa! Did I really think that? I am still a little bit in shock of this realization.
Since I graduated from high school (ten whopping years ago), until I moved to Indiana, I have been doing youth ministry. And up until last night I had every intention of getting involved with the youth ministry in my church here. I heart teenageers, there's no question about that, but I am weary. Weary and defeated because more of the time than not I feel the weight of the world on my shoulders. And so as a step in the right direction I am going to find something for me to do...for me. I don't know what it's going to be, let's hope it's something good.

it can be done

2009-08-23T22:53:00.004-04:00

Over the last few weeks, I have spent a lot of time working. It's almost been like working at summer camp again because the days run into each other and I never seem to get out of the stack I am under. Maybe it's purely because I'm female...but there have been many ups and downs...really downs that cause the ups. I am continuing to learn about the people I work with and well frankly how we can be a team under pressure. We had a REALLY big program last week, big in numbers and big in significance. This program caused a lot of anxiety and frankly conflict. I have been overjoyed to know that all our hard work paid off. Rumor has it we "hit it out of the ball park".

contentment and brokenness

2009-07-18T20:45:00.002-04:00

In the recent weeks I came to a realization...I am more content in my job than I have ever been before. Granted I haven't been in my position very long but it's still an exciting realization. This all came to mind because I work with people who are discontent and my heart has been so broken for them that I almost feel guilty about being content. Ironic, right?
My heart also breaks because I know they don't share my freedom in Christ...and that's where it starts. Don't get me wrong I have been a christian and very discontent...but I have never been alone. I simply just don't know how it is that people make it through each day without that. Hmph.

balance

2009-06-16T19:05:00.002-04:00

Life really is about finding some kind of balance, right? Balance between work and play, giving and receiving, moving and stopping. Its not easy. Since my "promotion" I have stayed late in the office more nights than not...though I have been told to go home. I just want to get settled in my space as well as with people. When I go home I just want to sleep or just sit and look at my freshly painted walls. One of these days I'll get settled...eventually I'll find a rythmn.

lilies

2009-06-16T19:03:00.002-04:00

I love lilies, especially orange ones. Just like in my header. They have been popping up all over the place. I am sure they won't last long but you can be sure I will enjoy them as long as I can!

family gatherings

2009-05-28T19:51:00.003-04:00

It's hard to describe the "Leonard Reunion" so people who aren't Leonards can actually understand the insanity. In simple words it's a long weekend of extended family time (between 50-75 people). We have been going to the same camp on Lake Erie for I think almost 20 years and having this reunion for over 40 years. This year's theme was Tresure Island. We play games, eat lots of good food, sit around campfires, pretend to be much more phycially fit than any of use actually are, and get reconnected. It's on my calendar for life.

wanting to learn again

2009-04-22T01:21:00.003-04:00

Tonight as I sat and listened in on an adventure group I realized something...I want to learn. It was quite a revelation for me. I haven't had that genuine desire in a LONG time. Don't get me wrong, I have been motivated by deadlines, the need to impress and as a teacher the needs of my students but I cannot remember the last time I wanted to investigate and learn on my own.
What's on my mind you ask? The Leadership Challenge by Kouzes and Posner and the Johari window.

Leadership is: "The art of mobilizing others to want to struggle for
shared aspirations."--Kouzes and Posner

Hmmm...

Sweetly Broken

2009-03-28T21:11:00.004-04:00

I learned this song(the words below) last week in church. I'd never really thought of brokenness as a sweet thing before but really being broken before God is pretty sweet--that's when I let go of the things making my life miserable. Coming to Indiana has been tricky for me on every level imaginable but mainly in my job. I have spent so much time thinking and rethinking and second guessing my every move that I was losing the joy in what I love doing. I had a good cry the other day and then a good talk with my supervisor. Both incredibly healing. I wouldn't say that I'm all better inside but I finally let go of some things that have been getting in the way. Today I worked with a group of college students and thoroughly enjoyed every minute of my time with them. It was one of my most fulfilling days since I moved to Indiana. And for that I am very thankful!

Jeremy Riddle - Sweetly Broken
To the cross I look, to the cross I cling
Of its suffering I do drink
Of its work I do sing
For on it my Savior both bruised and crushed
Showed that God is love
And God is just

At the cross You beckon me
You draw me gently to my knees, and I am
Lost for words, so lost in love,
I’m sweetly broken, wholly surrendered

What a priceless gift, undeserved life
Have I been given
Through Christ crucified
You’ve called me out of death
You’ve called me into life

And I was under Your wrath
Now through the cross I’m reconciled

In awe of the cross I must confess
How wondrous Your redeeming love and
How great is Your faithfulness

close your eyes and just listen

2009-03-09T14:37:00.004-04:00

Everywhere I have lived I have had to adjust to the local "sounds".
In college it was the non-stop commotion.
At camp in Ligonier it was frogs, squirrels, Izzy shifting in her cage(my rabbit), birds, kids running around.
In town in Ligonier it was cars driving by, the old house settling, people walking their dogs.
In Guatemala it was the neighbors little dog yipping, firecrackers in the street between 5am & 6am, guns shots, roosters, lots of honking car horns.
Back at home it was mom playing the piano, dad watching politcal stuff on "his" tv, the phone ringing, and someone yelling "come quick, there are deer in the back yard"(even though this is a daily occurance).
Here at Bradford Woods it's the pileated woodpeckers, the coyotes, and small animals running through the dry leaves.

What kinds of things do you hear on a daily basis?

The Manna House Porch

2009-03-07T13:00:00.003-05:00

Last week during training we were asked to think about our favorite place. We wrote some notes, drew pictures, and then wrote poems. I'm actually kind of proud of my poem. I know it's not a masterpiece but I like it so I thought I'd share.

In the still quiet of the night
I feel the comfort of being home
I sit on my porch in my hammock chair
I swing and I rock and take it all in
I watch the fog overtake the valley
I gaze at the stars shining so bright
I remember the sounds of the day gone by
People laughing, singing, shouting, and asking "on belay?"
I reflect on my day, letting go and breathing the fresh air in
I sit back, relax and settle in
A new day will soon begin

two sides to everything

2009-02-28T12:14:00.003-05:00

We (the new staff I am in training with) went on a short and sweet night "hike" the other night. We were to walk alone and then find a place in the grass to relax and reflect for a bit. As I walked down the hill through the woods I initally thought about how much I hate walking alone in the woods at night. I'm not exactly sure what I'm afraid of...I don't really think someone/thing is going to jump out and eat me...I guess it's a fear of the unknown. Then I thought about how much I love caving. One of my goals in life is to spend the night in a cave...just to say I've done it. I like big caves and small caves, massive rooms and birth canal type tunnels. Generally I'm a happy, relaxed camper as soon as I enter a cave. I feel freedom in the security of the walls around me.

The flip side of this is the insecurity and frustration that the four walls of a classroom instill in me. I almost feel claustrophobic as a classroom teacher. My favorite teacher moments were reading stories or playing math fact games...outside and away from walls!

There has to be a balance...right?

This is the entrance to Bear Cave. The first cave I ever entered almost 15 years ago. My heart smiles just looking at it!

8 minutes and counting

2009-02-22T14:44:00.002-05:00

I officially have 8 minutes left on my computer at the library BUT lots of people are asking how I'm doing in Indiana. I'm doing well. It's an adjustment on many levels--different place different style of programming and teaching, having guy roommates(not in my bedroom but everywhere else), no computer, no time for internet...or time to drive to town to get on the internet, christian bubble is for sure gone, church shopping again--regardless of all my adjustments I think I'm doing better than average. I'm making an effort not to spaz...which we all know is very hard for me!
Time's almost out...more later!

so much fun!!!

2009-01-29T10:36:00.002-05:00

I worked an adventure group over the weekend at camp. IT WAS SOOOOO MUCH FUN!!! It was a family retreat, 50-60 people, all from one church, ages 5 to probably 70. We pushed the tables back in the dining room to make enough room. The first game was Rock, Paper, Scissors baseball...and wouldn't you know there were adults who'd never played rock, paper, scissors before!!! We also played "Scoot your Buns" and "Have You Ever" both along the lines of musical chairs. And I can't leave out "Look Up, Look Down" a game that takes no skill...other than screaming. The hour we spent together was more fun than I have had in months. To see grown adults not just playing these silly games but loving them was incredible. I especially loved overhearing the grandparent-types reliving the games over breakfast the next morning.
I also had a great experience with this group on the "Pamper Jump." It's called pamper b/c you're held up by your pampers:) I belayed for 11 adults half of which were NOT going until their friends coerced them. Their faces were all priceless as they reached the platform and realized they were jumping off a platform 20ft in the air...that felt like 40 or 50.
My time spent with this group is a highlight of my 10+ years facilitating adventure education!!! Thanks Beulah Pres.!!!

And there was much rejoicing!!!

2009-01-22T13:57:00.001-05:00

Today the good news is that I found a job...temporary and not exactly the ideal I had hoped for but a significant step in the right direction. In a few weeks, I will be moving to Indiana, ~30 miles south of Indianapolis, to a place called Bradford Woods. Throughout the year they host adventure education and environmental education groups. On top of that during the summer they run camps for kids with special needs. All of their ropes courses and climbing tower are handicap accessible to a certain degree, something I have never dealt with before. I will be working directly with the adventure and environmental education groups facilitating and teaching. I spent more of my time at Ligonier in the office and supervising than actually facilitating groups so this will give me the opportunity to brush up on rusty skills. Honestly, I'm not exactly sure what to expect, and I am trying to keep it that way. Training starts Feb 16.

It Is Well With My Soul

2009-01-19T12:34:00.004-05:00

Since I can remember I have been singing the hymn It is Well with My Soul by Horatio G. Spafford. I have always found solace in the words and especially enjoyed belting it out in a cafeteria packed with college students who felt the same way. But yesterday was different. The words I have loved so many years actually registered in my brain.
You see, singing these words has helped me put things behind me. Not exactly a turning point, but the opportunity to consciously decide to let go of stupid hurts I'd been holding on to and forget them. I always thought the song was just about moving on after painful experiences.
But yesterday I couldn't get the words "whatever my lot, Thou has taught me to say, it is well, it is well, with my soul" out of my head. "My lot" has varied over the years sometimes good, sometimes bad, sometimes ever changing but regardless it has been well with my soul. God's sovereignty has not fluctuated with my roller coaster. He is constant. At the beginning, middle, and end of every part of my life.
So now when I sing this beloved hymn it won't just be time to put something behind me. It will be a reminder of God's constant sovereignty and the fact that deep down even if I don't feel it, it is well with my soul.

big huge ugh!

2009-01-16T18:20:00.002-05:00

I had a face-to-face interview last week. I wasn't sure what they thought of me but I was really excited...about the place, the facilities, the people, the chance to work outside the Christian bubble again, and most of all the job description. I felt like they wrote it for me. Driving home I felt peace. I tried so hard not to get too excited because well, employment just hasn't gone in my favor lately. Today I found out it didn't exactly go my way. I got an offer...just not for the job I wanted. Now I have so many more unanswered questions than when I started this whole job hunt last summer. Have I been searching for the wrong thing all along?

Psalm 119:28 My soul is weary with sorrow; strengthen me according to your word.

Wilderness First Aid training

2009-01-15T20:46:00.006-05:00

If you ever think about going into the wilderness...STAY HOME! No just kidding, but that's kind of how I felt while my brain was being overloaded with information about how to care for injured people in the wilderness. I think the hardest concept to grasp was that I may actually need to use this information to safely evac someone and maybe save someone's life. I did very well on my multiple choice test but it was just sooooo much info to take in. Most of us wanted concrete instructions, unfortunately or maybe fortunately, they weren't to be given. The most popular answer to all of our questions was "it depends" because there are so many variables to take into consideration.

The pictures are our attempts at splinting a knee. We decided mine was too short so we tried Mark's. His didn't turn out to well either but we processed a ton of good ideas and things I wouldn't have picked up on had we gotten it perfect right away.
Jim started the class by stating that 'once you have the knowledge expect God to use you.' Overall, I'm a bit anxious about using my new knowledge. But I also know that God won't throw something my way He can't handle through me. That's when I take a deep breath:)

the joy of the season

2008-12-26T21:23:00.002-05:00

Apparently a few years ago I started a tradition--canceling Christmas. On my way home to Cleveland from Ligonier after the Christmas Eve service at church I got sick. Me, the one who doesn't get sick, didn't even make it to the bathroom at the rest stop. This week my niece got sick and spent two days on the couch. She declared she was up to having Christmas in the morning though, so everyone ran out and finished shopping. Only then to wake up to my oldest brother Jim throwing up during the night. Well, then my other brother Dave decided he couldn't listen to it...or smell it without joining in, so he wrapped his daughter up in a blanket and drove home in the middle of the night. Mom, Dad, and I spent Christmas afraid to come within 10 ft of Jim. Good times in the Leonard house.

yo hum? not not really

2008-12-19T00:27:00.002-05:00

I wouldn't exactly say that an interview is yo hum, actually it's very exciting, but I'm trying not to set my hopes too high. I had a phone interview last week which went well and just set up a face-to-face interview for after the holidays. What's the position, you ask? Essentially it's an assistant adventure director(though not the official title)...which basically means spending a good amount of time "in the trees" facilitating and/or building ropes courses in addition to all the office work that it takes to maintain and market that kind of operation. I think what I am most excited about is caving. I have loved caving since the first time Quint took us to Bear Cave when I was a freshman in high school and then even more when I took a caving class with Tanya and Jack at Malone. Simply put, caving is special. There's something about crawling around (literally--no hand rails permitted)underground with a flashlight discovering life you'd never see above ground--whether that be in the cave creatures or in the people surrounding you. Anyway, I guess the caving program at this place is in need of a little TLC...which I'd gladly give...I just need Gabe's to sell coveralls again! I'm feeling good about the job; I just hope and pray this is it!

Elliana and David..."my" newest babies

2008-12-10T16:52:00.014-05:00

I never would have thought in my season of unemployment I'd be in St Louis helping my friend's sister-in-law with her babies. Elliana and David are 8 months old. Though David is very healthy Elliana was born with a condition that made her lungs not work correctly treatable only by lung transplant. She came to St Louis in June and received her new lungs August 15. Mom and babies are staying in Ronald McDonald housing since home is actually Louisville, OH. Elliana's body has accepted her new lungs slowly but surely and has been out of the hospital for just about 4 weeks now. You can see from the pictures just how far she's come! Dad(Rob) is home working in OH but has visited whenever he can but that means Mom(Gina) needs help! Caring for twins is hard in itself but when one of them is a frequent hospital visitor, has a feeding tube, and LOTS of meds an extra set of hands is a must. Which is where I come in. For the most part I hang out with David...feed him, play with him, laugh at him, and cuddle with him. He's quite a bundle of giggles when you get him going! Unfortunately for me whenever I hold the phone camera up to take a picture or video he stops laughing and just stares at the phone--he does not perform on demand! We've had a lot of fun together...including all the times he's peed on me when I change his diaper...I'm get accustomed to boy diapers.

The recent big news is that if all goes as planned everyone will be home in Louisville in time for Christmas! They are suposed to make the long drive home this Saturday.

The other exciting news is that two kids also staying in the Ronald McDonald house got their heart transplants a couple week ago and will also be home--all the way home--for Christmas.

scrapbooking joy

2008-12-01T01:15:00.002-05:00

A few years back a good friend of mine became a Creative Memories consultant and got me motivated to scrapbook again...of course the creative memories way so my pictures wouldn't be destroyed over time! When I went to Guatemala I packed away all of my supplies and equipment and thus my scrapbooking fun--booo! In the last couple years my niece started asking about when she was a baby so I decided to dig it all out. We started on an album together, she picked one out at Target(much cheaper than creative memories:)...a REALLY simple one. I had a bunch of baby pictures so she picked out some she wanted to use. I laid out the pages and she'd pick out stickers. At this point her book has become a bit more elaborate and she LOVES it...which makes me want to keep adding to it. She took it to her moms, to church, to school...and has shown it to anyone that will look at it. On Thanksgiving she read it to everyone like it was story time:) It's been so fun for me-to work on it with her and hear about how she shows it off! I think this is my scrapbooking dream come true:)

vision

2008-11-25T16:35:00.003-05:00

In the months since I left Guatemala I have been trying to find a job and a new home. I can't say that has happened yet but I'm getting better. For all of about 24 hours I was a teacher last week in a charter school. The whole situation was little odd to say the least and my snap decision to accept and then unaccept the position did not help matters. I can safely say I remembered quickly why I don't want to be a teacher...don't get me wrong I adore kids/teenagers but being the person responsible for their education is not who I want to be. The director of the school told me I need to pray for direction...I didn't have the guts to say I have been for months.
This afternoon I was thinking about what I want to do and how maybe I need to settle somewhere whether the job is really what I want or not cause I'm not just looking for a home I'm looking for a community. Its hard to not have one after living at camp and working at CAG.

I am reminded of a simple song we sing at camp...it is my prayer...

Lord, I want to know Your vision though I’m in a foreign land
Grant me heartache for the hungry and the grace to understand
Lead me to the ones who suffer, those whose hearts cannot find rest
Lord, I want to know Your vision Put me where I can serve best

power tools

2008-11-12T17:52:00.004-05:00

I think I finally understand the empowerment/need men have for power tools. I wanted to build a cornhole set for some friends and had mentioned it to my dad. This morning after mom was out of the house he asked if I wanted to get to work. That we did...and it was fun. It was entertaining to watch/try to follow my dad's train of thought on how he does things. I was surprised at the tools my dad brought out. He's had them for a LONG time and they are still in great shape! Apparently investing in great tools is worth the money twenty years later. I must admit I was a little intimidated when I first pulled the trigger on the circ saw but I improved a lot as the day went on. I'm a big fan of a jig-saw...I think that's what it was. I used it to cut holes. And unlike Tim-the-tool-man-Taylor I don't need more power!

buckeyes...the edible ones

2008-11-10T00:01:00.003-05:00

My eight-year-old niece is to say the least opinionated when it comes to food...even candy! We saw buckeyes(peanut butter balls) in a checkout line not to long ago and she claimed she didn't like them. This is peculiar because she lives and breaths for Reeses peanut butter cups. I decided it was time for this kid to make buckeyes. So this afternoon I pulled out the peanut butter, butter, and powdered suger. At first she wasn't a fan but then suddenly she was begging to lick the spatula. I thought for sure she would get a tummy ache before we even dipped them in chocolate! The good news is that I don't think she got sick...the weird news is that she didn't like them coated in chocolate, so she went home with a container of chocolate-less buckeyes!

speak

2008-11-08T15:42:00.003-05:00

What an incredible book! It's been a few years in coming but I finally read it, well actually I listened to the audio book. Either way it was great. Without ruinng it...it's about a girl who enters high school without friends because she called the cops at a big summer bash. As a result she becomes selectively mute and pretty much quits life...except art class. This book is her story...how she copes and eventually learns to speak for herself and her peers.
If you have any inclination for adolescent literature, or wonder what teenagers are dealing with, read this book!!!

dishwasher success

2008-11-03T18:19:00.003-05:00

YEAH!!!! Apparently a little fire was all it took. There is officially a new functioning dishwasher in the kitchen. It's pretty:) and it washes dishes! Apparently that's a fairly new concept...the fact that the dishwasher not only sanitizes but also washes!

shukos

2008-11-03T18:04:00.003-05:00

I just made shukos for dinner and though they weren't quite the same as the ones off the street they were good and a quick spruce up to hot dogs. Yummy guacamole, cooked shredded cabbage, ketchup,and mustard smothering a plain old boiled hot dog on a toasted bun. Mm. Mm. Good.
There were a lot of great things about Guatemala but I think the best was how it opened my eyes to worlds outside my own...shukos included:)

dishwashers

2008-10-27T15:37:00.002-04:00

Did anyone else know that home appliances are simply complicated? My parent's dishwasher has been out of service for quite a while now. They went looking for a new one not to long ago and came home with nothing. So yesterday I decided to do a little online research and then take my mom shopping. I spent upwards of 3 hours trying to learn about dishwashers...the brands and features, which ones people like and don't like, and why. Ugh. This morning we went to a local appliance store and sears. The old dishwasher...is not just old...it's ancient...18!!! Helping mom understand that things have changed a bit since her last purchase was half the battle:) Then trying to decide where the silverware rack should be, where the vent should be, what kind of buttons, big handle or small, is an adjustable rack really necessary? what kind of drying system does it have?...the list goes on but I think, just maybe, she picked one out.
...to be continued when there's a functioning dishwasher in the house...:)

Painting Pictures of Egypt-Sara Groves

2008-10-23T10:39:00.003-04:00

Sara Groves is sooooooooo good! I remember the first time I heard this song...my college roomie played it for me. I also remember thinking.."yeah it's good"...and then moved on. But now I understand. And though I will never fully comprehend what the Israelites felt when they were fleeing Egypt, I can relate. It's hard to move foward when you don't know where you're going.

Painting Pictures of Egypt by Sara Groves
I don’t want to leave here I don’t want to stay
It feels like pinching to me either way
The places I long for the most are the places where I’ve been
They are calling after me like a long lost friend
It’s not about losing faith It’s not about trust
It’s all about comfortable when you move so much
The place I was wasn’t perfect but I had found a way to live
It wasn’t milk or honey but then neither is this

I’ve been painting pictures of Egypt leaving out what it lacked
The future seems so hard and I want to go back
But the places that used to fit me cannot hold the things I"ve learned
And those roads closed off to me while my back was turned

The past is so tangible I know it by heart
Familiar things are never easy to discard
I was dying for some freedom But now I hesitate to go
Caught between the promise And the things I know

If it comes too quick I may not recognize it
Is that the reason behind all this time and sand?
If it comes too quick I may not appreciate it
Is that the reason behind all this time and sand?

two years of guate crammed into a five minute video

2008-10-06T12:56:00.006-04:00

It's taken a while but I finally finished a fairly decent video giving a taste of my life in Guatemala...especially as a teacher at the Christian Academy. It's about five minutes...I don't know how long it will take to load.

Amazing Grace (My Chains are Gone)

2008-09-28T23:37:00.003-04:00

Visiting my aunt's church this morning I "learned" Chris Tomlin's version of Take My Life. After church when watching a football game(or so I thought) I looked around the room and realized everyone else was napping. Since I didn't give two-hoots about the Jets/Cardinals game I decided to find this song before it escaped my mind. One thing I appreciate about Chris Tomlin is that essentially he teaches how he plays various songs on worshiptogether.com...then someone kindly posts all those videos on youtube. I never ended up finding a demo of Take My Life but I did watch his video teaching Amazing Grace(My Chains are Gone). I've heard this song a thousand times and always assumed he'd written that last verse he sings:
The earth shall soon dissolve like snow
The sun forbear to shine
But God, Who called me here below
Will be forever mine...
Will be forever mine...
You are forever mine
Apparently, or at least according to Tomlin's research this was the original last verse and the "when we've been there..." verse was added 100 years after Newton wrote Amazing Grace. Who knew? Certainly not me! I really like this verse! I don't know how to explain why. Maybe it just brings a little affirmation that this whole job hunt/life change thing is gonna be ok. Anywho...

leaky eyes

2008-08-28T12:24:00.002-04:00

As I read a couple emails this morning my eyes just started leaking. Not because of a sappy message but because I am so incredibly thankful for my friends whose locations span the US and Guatemala. I've become so stinkin' numb because I feel like my life is simply on hold. Even as I write that I know it's ridiculous. My life's not on hold...there are plenty of people to love and serve every day whether I get paid for it or not. Yesterday a friend was saying that at the end of the day success boils down to two questions. #1 Did I love God today? and #2 Did I love people today? Maybe that's why this morning my eyes started leaking...I was on the receiving end of that love...it sure feels good no matter how great or small the distance between friends.

hugs

2008-08-22T21:22:00.004-04:00

My boss's 3-year-old daughter Mara has been playing an "I'm not going to hug Suzy" game since I got back from Guate at the beginning of the summer. Even though I got a few snuggles out of her (jic you didn't know snuggling is NOT the same as hugging:) and I knew it was all a fun little game we were playing I was excited for the game to end. I'm not sure what happened but the other day she just walked right over and gave me the biggest hug EVER. I think an x-ray would prove my heart was actually smiling during and well after that hug. I love being able to love my friends' kids and to be loved by them!

Where the Trees Stand Still

2008-08-13T23:57:00.002-04:00

Ask pretty much anyone who knows me fairly well why my cars' names are Bebo and Norman and they'll be able to tell you that I have loved Bebo Norman for a LONG time. I think it was my sophmore year of college when I really started to connect with his music. A friend burned his first couple albums for me. I ended up buying them because I had worn them out. When his third album came out I loved all of it except "Where the Trees Stand Still." I would always skip to the next song when that one came on. I guess because at that point in my life I could not in anyway shape or form relate. I loved college and I loved working at different camps in various different places. I really loved being in Guate and experiencing a whole different life than I was accustomed too.I never wanted the "trees to stand still" BUT in the last six months the song I had so quickly skipped over time and time again began to made sense. I haven't lived in the same building for more than 10 consecutive months since I went off to college almost ten years ago. For the most part it was the life I chose but now I want nothing more than for those trees to stop blowing by. When I made the decision not to return to Guatemala, I thought I knew pretty close to exactly what would come next. Not so much where I'd be, but what I'd be doing and the type of community I'd be doing it in. I didn't neccesarily think God would just drop it in my lap...ok maybe I did a little...but I certainly would have expected something to hope for by this point. Every day I find things to do, whether it be looking for a job, connecting with friends, or finally getting to some random projects that should have been done five years ago but I feel like I am just in this awkward state of limbo anticipating what could be next. Limbo is not fun. The other day a speaker at camp asked the campers how many of them wished they had the freedom to do whatever they wanted. All the kids eagerly raised their hands while their leaders laughed. Sometimes I think it would just be easier to have someone else decide what I was going to do tomorrow...and the next day...

Ode to the Job Hunt

2008-08-07T18:05:00.001-04:00

I'd love to write a poem of some kind but instead all I have to say is AAAAAAAHHHHHHHHH!!!!!!!!

yielding

2008-06-19T23:19:00.002-04:00

As I sat at a stop sign this morning waiting for the other person to go it dawned on me why driving here(in the US) is odd to me. Two things. They are "yielding" and the "right of way"; both of which have become quite foreign to me. I guess it's about time I assimilate back into US law:)

pretzels are good...

2008-06-01T22:59:00.002-04:00

I really do think that it is harder to return to one's "home" culture than it is to leave. I find this to be true in lots of little things...
I walked into Verizon Wireless, window shopped for 15 minutes, THEN discovered you have to "sign in" to be helped! And there are all these "new fangled" things you can do with your phone, who knew?
This morning after church there was a graduation celebration for the high school grads. I stood in line to get some snacks...there were pretzels!!!! I was beside myself. I hadn't eatten real pretzels in a LONG time.
I have searched the counter top for eggs only to discover them in the refrigerator.
I have enjoyed a tall glass of real 2% milk and eatten at Panera Bread.
I made rosa de jamaica...watched one friend gulp it down...and another barely even swallow.
I have been craving dobladas and wondering why I didn't actually get my last platanos at 4:00am the day I left:(
I haven't exactly come to terms with the fact that I actually need to stop at those big red signs that say stop.
Every time I get in a car to drive I need to remind myself how an automatic works.
I successfully drove my car(with very minimal braking action due to lack of braking capabilitiy) down the highway with my flashers on:)
I have accidently thrown my toilet paper in the garbage can 3 or 4 times already-hopefully I get over that sooner rather than later!
The little "-isms"...I'm sure there will be more!

El Salvador

2008-05-15T13:00:00.004-04:00

Annette(one of my roommates) and I hit the road over the week for a really quick trip to the beach in El Salvador. It was WONDERFUL!!! Sadly the sun wasn't really out but just sitting on an empty beach listening to the waves crash on the shore was phenominal. We ended hanging out with a couple guys who have been traveling all over Central America for the last couple months. It was fun to hear their stories and about all the places they'd been and frankly to talk to guys our age in English...outside the CAG/Union Church bubble:)

High School Uth Retreat

2008-05-03T21:55:00.002-04:00

How can one go wrong when they climb on a bus with high school students? Actually I can think of a tons of ways that could go wrong BUT that didn't happen this Uth retreat. This weekend was great. There were 16 students and 5 adults. It wasn't nearly as 'big' as last year but in some ways I feel it was was way more productive. There was some great bonding that happened over the course of 48 hours that will hopefully become the foundation of Uth next year. It makes me sad to leave...but on the other hand I know that wherever I end up I will start over with a new group of teens to drive crazy:) I guess that's the joy of never growing up!

Walls

2008-04-18T17:57:00.003-04:00

Some days I leave school thinking "why on earth did I ever want to be a teacher?" Today will not be one of them. Right now I am reminded why I did and why I now know that being a teacher is not my calling.
People have walls...mental walls, physical walls, emotional walls...walls that take a long time to tear down whether that be from the inside or outside. I remember adoring some of my teachers; not only were they good at what they did but they made me feel "safe" enough to make mistakes and "safe" enough to ask for help when I needed it. Some of my students felt comfortable with me very quickly and I knew that they knew I would always be there to help or just listen. Today I sat and talked with a student for 35 minutes about real life. He "let me in" just a little. I know he needs to verbalize what he's thinking and I know he wants to...but he's scared...scared of adults who appear like their out to get him, scared of failing in school, scared friends who run their mouths, scared of losing the control he has worked so hard to gain, and scared of himself. I can't say I blame him...nor can I say I have any answers...just ears.
It's days like this when I realize it is time for the "trees to stand still". It is time for me to find a home so that I am not constantly walking in and out of kids lives. I have spent this entire school year trying to tear walls down and now 6 weeks before I am leaving there is a glimmer of hope. And seems like that has happened everywhere I have lived.
Anyway...that's what I am thinking.

Adventures with Aaron

2008-04-11T17:44:00.005-04:00

Having Aaron around for a couple weeks was suberb! Especially the part about him catching the mouse:) We did get to take a nice little trip outside the city to Coban and Semuc Champey...which means nothing to you if you don't know Guate...in a nutshell we hiked, swam, jumped off 30ft cliffs, "explored" a cave, ate good food, bought cheap avocados, found an amazing orchid nursery, celebrated Aaron's birthday twice and even sang to him British style.

Mouse-capades

2008-03-31T11:52:00.005-04:00

This was our "pet" mouse. I named him/her Betty. It lived in our cupboards on and off for almost three weeks. I think it was Latino because its favorite thing to nibble on was avacados. We tried everything we could think of to kill it but it was too smart. Then Aaron came to the rescue. He moved something in the cupboards and Betty fell face first in between cans of soup. I wanted Aaron to kill it but he felt bad so he caught it in a butter container, we walked a good distance down my street and let it go. We haven't seen it since.

Semana Santa(Holy Week)

2008-03-24T11:47:00.003-04:00

One of the processions on Good Friday night in downtown of the capital city. The floats are carried through the city for between 4 and 7 hours!!! Some floats only need 4-6 but all the ones we saw this night had at least 140 men!!!

Women's Conference

2008-03-12T11:56:00.003-04:00

This is from a women's conference at Union Church last month. Sherry and I led worship for the evening session. The speaker shared about pottery and how we need to allow God to mold us into who he wants us to be.
It made me think about one of the wisest things I heard at Camp Gideon..."you can't pour anything out of an empty pitcher". Strikingly obvious, right? Way back in 1999, when Rusty first said that it just put my faith into perspective...if I don't "fill-up" on God, how prey tell am I going to pour Him out on those around me?

Servant Day

2008-02-22T11:22:00.002-05:00

Servant Day is a big part of CAG life. Every year the elementary classes do a service project on school property, the middle school classes go somewhere local for a school day, and the high school classes go outside the city for 3 days. The sixth graders went to the church of one of the students to paint. I was very impressed with the actual work they did and their attitude the whole day. They worked hard and I don't remember hearing one person complain all day long!

the computer will fix it

2008-02-13T15:26:00.002-05:00

Sometimes I am frustrated at my students inability to use a computer...and then there's today. Apparently there is no need to learn anything about writing a sentence correctly because no one would read anything that was handwritten anyway. Huh, you say? So did I. Then the tune changed a little bit. Who knew that the computer would be able to fix every single mistake I make when I am writing? In fact, I believe what they tried to tell me today is that writers don't actually write anything. They type a few words into the computer and then the computer writes the book. Man, I wish I would have known that my computer would write a book for me! I could be famous by now!!
Oh the joys.

epiphany of a sixth grader

2008-01-22T17:04:00.000-05:00

Every week my sixth graders have spelling words that they have to do various things with-two of those things are to make an alphabetical list and then look them up in the dictionary. This afternoon in study hall one of the boys says "Ms. Leonard, I know why you make us put our words in order. They are easier to find in the dictionary that way." [pause...pause] "maybe teachers do care" [at this point i throw my arms up in the air, though I am glad it's only taken him 11 years to figure this out!!!]

The Birthday Song

2007-12-29T18:45:00.000-05:00

At the beginning of each month we sing this song at Impacto Biblico. It is a Spanish hymn for birthdays. My friend Sara thinks it is better than sliced bread. I have to admit I enjoy it too...but no one loves it as much as her!!!

Handel's "The Messiah"

2007-12-29T18:20:00.000-05:00

I sang in Handel's "The Messiah"...the Christmas portion. There were probably 100 people in the chorus, 40 musicians, and the 4 soloists. We rehearsed for 3 months every Sunday afternoon and performed twice-once in the national theatre and once in the Santo Domingo(pictured below). Though the music wasn't exactly my cup of tea it was really good for me vocally. I am so used to singing praise and worship music that it took me a while to adjust.
I had a hard time when I started thinking about all the people who were singing in the chorus(and the soloists) who probably had no clue what we were singing about. I know what it is like to just sing words...I do it a lot on Sunday mornings en espanol. But this was such a big deal! I was so encouraged by some of the CAG community who came and said they really felt the words. If you've never heard it I recommend reading the words. They are sooooo rich!

getting close

2007-12-12T11:08:00.000-05:00

The sun is shining and the days of the semester are dwindling. There are 4.5 days left of the semester which means...finals to finish writing and review sheets to go with them, lots of Christmas celebrations with Uth and an orphanage, one more Survivior dinner, a very exciting wedding to attend, and I will be coming "home" in a few short days.
Ironically I have mixed feelings about coming home. I am excited to see people...especially all "my kids" who I am sure forgot they were suposed to stop growing in my absense! But I'm not excited about traveling and packing and saying goodbye to all my friends here for what little vacation we actually get. And weird enough I get this weird nervousness in my tummy when I am going to see people I haven't seen in a while...have things changed?will they still love me just the same? I know it sounds silly but I am a bit of a freak and a spaz:)
I should probably go finish typing up those tests I am giving in the next few days:(

Little Blessings

2007-11-22T21:09:00.001-05:00

A good friend of mine sent me a card for Thanksgiving...which gave me warm fuzzies on the inside and turned out to be a really nice reminder of why those of us who call the US home celebrate Thanksgiving in the first place. Sometimes...okay a lot of times...it's really easy to get caught up in the tasks of holidays (and the short vacations from school:)
But today I want to share with you a few of the things I am thankful for here in Guatemala.
#1 a community and support system of believers like no where else I've been
#2 the handful of close friends here who take me as I am
#3 students who actually follow directions every so often:)
#4 exciting news that i will be getting another roommate & the school getting 9th grade English teacher next semester
#5 finding out that what feels like a burden has been a blessing to numerous people
#6 stumbling on a website that allows students to donate a bowl of rice for every correctly identified vocab word...and then finding out they do it at home for fun
#6 finding the place where i can buy turkey lunchmeat here:)
#7 making it to the top of what seemed like an impossible mountain to climb
#8 my babies- anne marie & erica- they turn 2 next week
#9 7th grade girls who ate my cooking, spent the night, and lived to tell about it
#10 YOU- No, you're not in here Guatemala but I am so thankful for the many blessing you all have showered on me. I look foward to seeing many of you over Christmas vacation!!! Blessings to you all. Enjoy your turkey...and the nap that must immediately following eatting your turkey!!!

Sleep Over

2007-11-15T22:51:00.000-05:00

I never had a big massive sleep-over at my house when I was growing up...I understand why now:) There are 9 7th grade girls downstairs watching a movie in the living room as I type. I am hoping they will go to sleep at some point in time before the movie ends because some of them tell me they need to be up at 5:00am to get ready! aahhh! It has actually been a great night, a little bit of spaghetti, a lot bit of junk food, and lots of time to chill out and chat. I don't teach any of these girls anymore. If I were to stay next year, I would have them again, but I don't plan on staying. I am going to miss them:)

going to school

2007-10-09T16:00:00.000-04:00

I tried to take some pictures while I was driving to school on a rainy Saturday. Not nearly as much traffic as during the week so it was "safe":) The last picture is the entrace gate to CAG. There is a guard who opens and closes the door for everyone between 7am and 7 pm. All guns have to be left with our guards...you think I'm kidding...but I'm not. It's not a super common thing, but when we play certain schools in sports kids come with body guards...and body guards often come with guns.

Uth Velocity

2007-09-14T12:36:00.000-04:00

We've changed things around a little, mainly combining middle school and high school into one night. It's going to take some adjusting mostly for the high schoolers but they'll get used to it. We're calling it Velocity because it means "change in position over change in time". We hope and pray our time together each week will challenge all of the teens to do just that.
The first night of Uth Velocity was great--themed Fear Factor. Next week--Gigana Hugana Banana Spilt Night. Mmm, mmm, good:)

Gymnastics

2007-09-14T12:14:00.000-04:00

I have always loved gymnastics...so when I was asked to do elementary gymnastics I was excited about it. Tuesday afternoon somewhere between 30 and 50 kids showed up on my 4 panel mats. IT WAS INSANE!!!! So I split the kids up, half on Tuesdays, half on Thursdays. Yesterday 25 kids showed up...AAAHHHH! Next week will be better because a couple high schoolers are going to help me. But there's only so much one can do with 25 kids who's ability levels range from not being able to do a forward roll to doing backhandsprings. I just hope the parents who are sitting in the stands watching don't think I am a horrible person because I make kids do push-ups when they midbehave! I guess I'll find out over the next few weeks.
One of the girls (in Kinder) takes gymnastics at the Federacion here in Guate. She goes for 3 hours a day. Let me tell you she is darling-toes always pointed, legs always straight, chin always up-I expect big things out of her and I guess so does her coach!

The Two Become "Bemily"

2007-07-27T08:20:00.000-04:00

Introducing Ben & Emily Croston...
The big day went off without a hitch. Em and Ben were glowing immediately upon seeing one another and didn't ever stop. The day was the perfect beginning to a marriage made in heaven.

I am Next Level

2007-06-15T19:56:00.000-04:00

What a view...of the sky and "my staff"!!! We are off to a great start with camp...aside from me completely forgetting to do the Cool Stretch! Kids come on Sunday...which is very exciting for everyone.

Being here has been bitter sweet. I am way more relaxed than I have ever been...but I wish I was a little closer to family right now.

"Home"

2007-05-31T15:48:00.000-04:00

What an incredible feeling! I have never been away from 'home' for this long before...sometimes 10 months felt like forever. It is good to be here, weird but good. I keep looking for the garbage can by the toilet and expecting people to speak spanish when I go out in public. Hmph.

The Person Who Never Rides the Rides

2007-05-14T19:21:00.000-04:00

This weekend I went on a retreat with Middle School Uth (at church). It was SWEET!!! We went to Xocomil (a water park). Aside from the fact that they don't allow girls to wear shorts on some of the rides, the park was really nice. We never had to stand in line long and the slides were all stellar. For me, the hylight was playing beach volleyball. Two of my 8th grade students(Erin & Lilia), Rene, and I attempted to mop the floor with some random people...which we did...sometimes:) I have certainly drawn crowds in my life but not from playing volleyball! We were the last people to leave the park.
We "camped" inside someone's house close to the park. We were going to camp outside but then it rained...wet ground...kids that have never put up tents before...and no tarps for under their tents...Jes and I decided tents could go up inside:) Sadly enough I couldn't even get a fire started...there's a first for everything. We ended up running into town, buying a pot, and boiling our hot dogs on the stove top...not exactly roughing it...but what are ya gonna do?
Rene shared with the kids about not being apathethic in their faith and accepting God's strength...you could tell that they were actually paying attention and really hit home. Heck, it hit home with me...and I got a new favorite song out of it...Building 429-No One Else Knows.
Amazingly enough when I told the kids to go to their tents at 11:30 they did it and I didn't have to get off my yoga/sleeping mat til morning.
Sunday turned out to be a long day...we spent over 4 hours hanging out at a tienda on the side of the road cause our van broke down. Eventually the tow truck and a new van arrived and we hit the road. The kids were all sleeping or entranced by their ipods so time flew by. When I finally got home after dropping kids off and dropping of the van I was wiped. I was so tired I actually watched a movie in Social Studies class today!!!
Oh yeah, the title of this blog, at the park Saturday afternoon it dawned on me why you usually convince someone to go to water/amusement parks who doesn't ride anything...to take pictures!!! We did not do that...and therefore I don't have any pictures:(

International Fair

2007-05-05T16:40:00.000-04:00

March 27 was the International Fair at CAG with 35 countries represented! The 6th and 7th graders worked most of 2nd semester to research, do a report, and put together a display for a country of their choice. A lot of them really got into it and worked really hard to show of their new found knowledge. Emily is pictured above fielding questions from the 7th grade Social Studies teacher about Japan.

Middle School Retreat

2007-04-19T22:17:00.000-04:00

Who would ever in their right mind get on a bus with 37 middle school students? Apparently middle school teachers:)

Yesterday was Middle School Retreat, meaning only part of one class first thing in the morning and then go to a water park for the rest of the school day. It was a blast! I love hanging out with my students outside of the classroom. Something happens when school is out...I don't know what...but I like it. We spent the day basking in the sun...and turning a nice crispy shade of red!

There were water slides that landed in amazingly hot pools of water... the kids didn't like it when I called it a pee pool:)

Pics from the big fingerprinting escapade

2007-04-19T21:36:00.000-04:00

Left to Right: The largest book known to man, Sherry, me

Rene trying to break in with the cool fingerprint ID machine.

The evidence...it's really my prints...I promise!!!

how great thou art

2007-04-10T22:25:00.000-04:00

About once a month I lead a few songs for our teacher devotions at school. I must admit growing up singing hymns in church has made me a little bias-I love hymns and the depth of their words. This morning we ended with How Great Thou Art. I found myself smiling as I sang with and listened to my co-workers belt out the the wonderful words. It's one of those songs that you can't just walk away from...it follows your thoughts and heart all day long. Today was no exception. It has been an uplifting day...just in the little things. And I know why...starting the day surrounded by other people who know just how great my God truly is.

Fingerprints

2007-04-05T12:47:00.000-04:00

I don't know why I assume that generally speaking people are willing to help others in need. And especially why I would think that the US Embassy would go a foot out of their way to help a US citizen in another country. Maybe it's just my irritation with this whole getting fingerprints process. I spent the last two days driving all over Guatemala City, going back and forth between various police stations, crime units, and the embassy. I have to say I am soooo thankful for the friends who accompanied me, or I guess I should said led me all over. I never would have found my way around and been able to communicate with any of the people where I was going although I actually made somewhat of an attempt to talk with the head of Interpol (international police). His solution which he repeated at least 4 times was for me to find a Guatemalan to marry:) Rene and Coqui were very amused by this, Sherry and I however were not. So now the process continues on Monday and hopefully it will be done on Monday...at least aquiring my fingerprints will be done.

Short Break

2007-03-31T14:31:00.000-04:00

Last week Crissie's fiance came to visit so Crissie and I took a day off from school so the three of us could go to Panajachel. Pana is a MAJOR tourist town--and well it's known for having lots of hippies. We drove up on a Friday morning and came back on Sunday. It was a blast! Panajachel is located on the edge of Lake Attitlan which is ironically high in the mountains/volcanoes. There are MANY towns around the lake and 3 volcanoes. We stayed at a bunglaloo in Pana and took a boat across the lake to a smaller town-Santiago. We did some street shopping, took some pictures, and took a slow boat ride back across the lake. I love being on the water--reminded me of lots of sailing trips on Lake Erie with my dad. Hopefully I have many more of those trips to come!

Chicks

2007-03-31T14:00:00.000-04:00

We watched a man pull baby chicks out of crates and throw them in the bed of his truck so all the women could look at them and pick which ones they wanted. That was something I had never seen before.

Living the Life...The Amazing Race

2007-03-20T20:12:00.000-04:00

Highlights of the Union Church High School Uth Retreat

Living the life...the kids were actually challenged spiritually! I didn't think my small group was going to talk at all but it turns out they were really open with me and each other.
New worship songs...friends of friends came down to be "the band" for the weekend. Not only were they great, but the kids really responded positively, and I learned some new songs.
The Amazing Race...I have no doubt in my mind that I am old and out of shape and I will never be on the Amazing Race:) We did a afternoon long race around the city(Antigua) where we stayed. I haven't run that hard since my last 10-mile run for cross country my senior year of high school! Of course it would turn out that I couldn't finish the last leg of the race because my leg cramped up so bad I couldn't stand up. Like I said...old.
Steal the Bacon X-treme...a Josh Carmichael creation for Next Level but sooooo perfect for this group of kids.
Papazitos...my new favorite pizza place in Guatemala.

2007-03-12T21:10:00.000-04:00

This is Norman... lovingly named after Bebo. He's been quite a blessing. Crissie is pulling out of our gate one morning before school.

Shoe-co

2007-02-27T19:12:00.000-05:00

I don't really know how to spell the word but it's pronounced shoe-co. Last week I had my first. It sounds a little awkward but it was really good. It's a hotdog with guacamole and cabagge. There's a particular corner that they are sold on not far from the church. When you drive down the street the men literally run at your car to get you to stop and eat. You pull over, order, they go make it and bring it back hot off the grill or pot, I'm not sure. Anyway It was an experience to remember and hopefully the first of many visits to that random street.

New/Old Friends

2007-02-27T18:58:00.000-05:00

Way back when...in October when I played for that Women's Retreat for my church...I met Sherry Alvarez. She led music with me for the retreat. She and I hit it off really quickly which has been a huge blessing. She and I did special music at church Sunday morning...let me tell you...I am a little rusty.
Sherry is hoping as well as myself and a bunch of people at CAG that she will be able to join the CAG staff for next fall. She's been down here teaching for 3 years now and hasn't quite found her niche in a school. We went to go look at a potential house for she and her husband-Javier. Right now they live as far away as they could on the other side of the city. I am REALLY excited about the potential of them being closer!!!

A New Car!!!

2007-02-17T22:49:00.000-05:00

Finalamente!! My roommate, Crissie, and I bought a 97 Honda Civic. We are both really excited about the potential freedom that it brings!

Ziping in Pana

2007-02-09T12:04:00.000-05:00

We wanted to go to the Nature Reserve in Panajachel. My roommates wanted to go to see nature...I wanted to go to ride the zip line:) We got all suited up and hiked up the moutain...to enjoy nature and then zip down 6 different cables. It was fun; not as fast as at camp but still a good time and an amazing view of Lake Attitlan. I curled myself up in a ball to go faster...the guys running it weren't happy with me:)

Prayer Request

2007-02-01T08:08:00.000-05:00

The sixth grade class at CAG. I took this pic in the first couple weeks of school. One of the students left back in October, another one came in December, and I think another will be heading back to the States in the next week. Which is actually the prayer request-Josiah's mom has cancer. Over Christmas she took a turn for the worse so the whole family was planning to leave at the end of Feb. A couple days ago things grew worse. As of this moment we believe the whole family will be going back to the States within the week. They have 4 kids -6th, 8th, 10th, and 11th grade, two of which are my students. All of the kids tend to keep things bottled inside.

Please pray for their safety, smooth transition, and an outlet to express what's going on inside. Their names: Tammy & Paul Kinney (mom & dad), and oldest to youngest-Luke, Erin, Ethan, and Josiah.

still at school at 7pm

2007-01-30T19:46:00.000-05:00

It's almost 7 Tuesday night and I am still at school! The joy of being a teacher! My roommate, Crissie, is the drama teacher at CAG. She has rehersal for the upcoming play(The Boys Next Door) so I stayed late to finish up writing a test...which I finished!
Life down here has become just that-everyday life. Lots of papers to grade, lots of tests to write and then grade...you get the idea. The time I get to spend with students always makes it worthwhile. It's kind of funny because I stopped helping with middle school Uth this semester. I just needed a break. Still every week the kids try to convince me to come-apparently they like me. I thought they would appreciate the break from me too; I was wrong.
I guess I should start attacking my stack of papers...