Lexi's Thoughts

Europe... Here We Come!

2010-05-02T07:32:00.000-07:00

I still can't believe that this is actually happening. Seeing my family this weekend, they are talking all about what I am going to see and I just sit there not thinking that its true.

Lori and I have been busy planning our days and what we are all going to see. So exciting. We just signed up for a cooking class in Rome. How cool is that? We get to cook a four course meal, eat it, and they pair up their 4 best wines to the food as well! We wanted to do this since it is something different than just the typical sight-seeing! Oh, and did I mention that the Chef is quite handsome as well!! Nice bonus :)

London---Venice---Florence---Rome---Athens---Santorini---Crete---London---Bristol--- London------- HERE WE COME!!! :)

30 = Europe

2010-01-27T15:54:00.000-08:00

I have been having mixed feelings in regards to turning 30 this year. I never thought that this day would actually ever arrive. I imagined my life to be so different at this stage but I have been able to do alot in my time so I am grateful for that and trying to focus on that.

Something super exciting. I am going to Europe this May. My friend Lori and I are travelling around for 3 weeks. We are flying into London and meeting up there. She is coming from BC while I am coming from Toronto. We will spend a couple of days there and then travel on Italy and spend about a week there. Then we swim all the way to Greece and spend about a week there and then fly back to London and visit a friend of mine in Bristol and then fly home. It will be busy but fun and so much to see!!

Cant wait. The countdown begins..... (not for my birthday... :(...)

My Crazy Up and Down First Month

2009-09-19T07:57:00.000-07:00

Well, it has been over a month since my big move to another city! What a crazy one it has been. I have to say that it has gone better than I thought it would. Probably because I have gone home almost every weekend. I know I know... I am a sucker. This past week has definitely been a tough one for me. People kept telling me that about a month in, it would really hit me that I no longer live in St. Catharines. They are pretty much bang on. Part of my lonliness has been my neglect of wanting to go out and meet people. It is such an exhausting task that I have no desire to do but I know that if I want to make the best of my life here, I just HAVE to do it. So, I am excited to tell you that I am attempting a church tomorrow morning. One that I have heart great things about. So, that will be my first step....

I have to say that what makes it easier being here is the love I have for my apartment. It is so cozy and I love being here!! My landlords are great and I love the area I am in. It feels alot like home when I walk the streets so it makes it an easier transition.

Here are some pics of my apartment that I love so much!!

This is the picture of my livingroom where I spend alot of my time!! When I first moved here, I was OBSESSED with watching "Friday Night Lights". Such a great show! Just waiting on my season four.

This is the back part of my living room and I didnt know what to do with the space so I bought a carpet and put it in the middle of the floor. I think it works well.

Here is my wonderful kitchen. It is a little changed since this picture was taken. I attempted to paint and I did it a green so it looks alot more cozy now!! I love it.

So that is my life. Work, home... It will get better. I know!

Packing up, yet again!

2009-07-02T17:27:00.000-07:00

I remember when I bought my condo, I said to myself, "No more moving". And... here I am again. This time, I have to be more organized since it is in a new city. Away from my parents home, away from my sisters and away from my friends.

I have always talked about wanting to get out of St. Catharines and move away. First it was Kitchener, then Saskatoon, then Calgary, maybe Vancouver, maybe Prince George and now it is ACTUALLY happening for me. Only this time, it is one of my destination cities. Kitchener. Now, it is not too far from home so it isnt like I am going away that far... so I cant complain too too much. I know I will come home and visit my friends and family and I know that they will come visit me but it will be wierd to not call "St. Catharines" my home anymore. Sometimes I just sit there and think about the fact that this is it. No more will I live here. Crazy to think about.

But then I think about what a wonderful opportunity this is for me and my career. I have been getting the chance to open a whole new office and people listen to when I talk, give advice and they trust me. It is so nice to have respect and enjoy the work I do. I also get to work in an office with some great guys who want to see me grow in my work and that is so encouraging!

When I finally move in to my new place, I will post some pics of it!

A Tribute to my Baby Sister

2009-06-10T06:56:00.000-07:00

I am so excited to tell you that my baby sister, Suzanne Wilson, will be graduating Teacher's College today. She has been going to Brock University for 5 years now and today, we get to see her walk across that stage to receive her diploma. I am so proud of her.

Suz is one of the strongest woman I know. She is brave, hard working, stubborn as heck, but the most giving and generous people with a kind heart for everyone she comes into contact with. We got closer because we lived at home the longest. She just got married last December to her highschool sweetheart. I was so excited to be a part of her day.

I have always been involved in her life. Poor girl. When I was in Grade 12, I did a school co-op in her Grade 6 class. And then I was the Youth Leader in our church when she was in Youth. She always said she didn't mind but I am not sure if she just said that to be nice! She will always hold a special place in my heart!

Suz was always our little baby. Rachel, Julie and I used to play house and the best part about it was that we had a real baby to play with. Suzie was our little "toy". Sometimes I feel bad for her since she was so far apart in age from Rachel and Julie and I were so close in age and in relationship that I think Suz missed out but we now all have a good relationship where we can be open with each other and just enjoying being together!

Suz, if you are reading this, I LOVE YOU and I AM SO PROUD OF YOU!! You did it. You accomplished school and I KNOW, that you are going to make an AMAZING teacher!!

My Apartment

2009-06-01T03:55:00.001-07:00

I rented out my place!!! So excited about that. I was stressing about it for a while since I am moving in 2 months. It just doesn't seem real that I am actually leaving. I have been talking about wanting to move to Kitchener for so long and now that it is actually happening, I am scared. I am scared to be away from my family and friends but I know that this is the best thing for me at this point in my life.

So, thanks to all who were praying for me through this decision and journey! I feel at peace with everything and it all seems to be working itself out and in good timing!

Definition of Me

2009-05-21T18:27:00.000-07:00

S - sleep deprived
T - trying to find a renter
R - ready to wake up 3 months from now
E - envious of people lying on a beach right now
S - stoked for the weekend
S - singing
E - eating a freezie b/c I refuse to turn on the a/c
D - determined

The Biggest Loser

2009-04-29T10:52:00.000-07:00

So, my new favourite show is definitely "The Biggest Loser". I had never really watched it before but my friend Aly was here when the premiere was one and she made me watch it and now I am hooked!

For those of you who don't know what the show is about, it is about couples that go on the show together to lose weight. Such a great concept because not only do they win money in the end, but they lose weight and also learn so much about who they are deep inside their insecurities and the person that was there but they could just not find. And as an audience, you get to learn different ideas on eating and exercising!

So, the purple team was my favourite from the beginning. It was a mother/daughter team. Kristin (daughter) was kind of annoying because she talked so much but her reasons for doing the show was so sincere that you couldn't help but love her.

And then there was the brown team. They are the only team that has made it to the end. We are now on our last 4 contestants. This is a father/son team. The father had not been under 300 pounds since he was 11 I think. And the son was the youngest and most heaviest person they have had on the show. He has now lost half of his weight. I am definitely cheering for the son. His father, he is a good game player. He has manipulated this whole show just to make sure that his son made it to the finals. Pretty brilliant.

And then comes the green team. This is the one team that I have despised this whole season. Tara (on the left) has won every challenge and though that would make her a good player, she is one of the most arrogant players. There is just something about her that bugs me! Her friend Laura went home because she had pulled a muscle and tore something so she pretty much was sent home because she would of made it worse staying and that really wasn't fair to the other players who needed to be there.

The thing with this show that is just so cool to watch is seeing the transformations that come from it. Seeing the way there were to the way they are now is incredible. The one person has lost over 180 pounds! Is that not just unbelieveable!?

Early on in the show, you get to choose which trainer you would like. There is Bob or Jillian. Bob is the nice/mean trainer. He works you hard but he seems to be kinder. Then there is Jillian who is B-R-U-T-A-L! She works you hard and she yells at you and tries to keep you going that way. She would probably make me cry all the time.

For those of you who are interested, there are only 2 more episodes. This week they have to go home for one week and then they come back to the Ranch and have to get weighed in. And then the following week (May 12), it is the F-I-N-A-L-E!! You will find out who the Biggest Loser is and who wins $250,000!!

Make sure to check it out!!

Facebook

2009-04-02T04:23:00.000-07:00

So, Facebook. Not sure what to think about it. I have decided to get rid of it. Part of me wishes I had not done it but I was realizing how nosey I was becoming. You start to realize that everything becomes all about "Facebook". People start to get offended if you don't accept their friend request and it caused more hurtness than it was supposed to at the beginning. I started because I thought it would be fun to connect with Bible School friends that I never got to see anymore.

I am not dissing anyone who has it or enjoys it. I think it was alot of fun to see what is going on in others lives but for me personally, it was becoming unhealthy. Not that I was spending so many hours on it, but I just wanted to return to the "email" world instead.

So in the blogging world, I will probably continue this more. Not that anyone really reads this but it is still fun to do.

Quote of the Day

2009-02-26T10:26:00.000-08:00

"You gain strength, courage and confidence by every experience in which you really stop to look fear in the face. You are able to say to yourself, 'I have lived through this horror. I can take the next thing that comes along.' You must do the thing you think you cannot do." Eleanor Roosevelt

A Great Story and Nice Reminder!

2008-12-01T09:51:00.000-08:00

The Cab Ride

So I walked to the door and knocked. 'Just a minute', answered a frail, elderly voice. I could hear something being dragged across the floor.

After a long pause, the door opened. A small woman in her 90's stood before me. She was wearing a print dress and a pillbox hat with a veil pinned on it, like somebody out of a 1940s movie.

By her side was a small nylon suitcase. The apartment looked as if no one had lived in it for years. All the furniture was covered with sheets.

There were no clocks on the walls, no knickknacks or utensils on the counters. In the corner was a cardboard box filled with photos and glassware.

'Would you carry my bag out to the car?' she said. I took the suitcase to the cab, then returned to assist the woman.

She took my arm and we walked slowly toward the curb.

She kept thanking me for my kindness. 'It's nothing', I told her. 'I just try to treat my passengers the way I would want my mother treated'.

'Oh, you're such a good boy', she said. When we got in t he cab, she gave me an address, and then asked, 'Could you drive through downtown?'

'It's not the shortest way,' I answered quickly.

'Oh, I don't mind,' she said. 'I'm in no hurry. I'm on my way to a hospice'.

I looked in the rear-view mirror. Her eyes were glistening. 'I don't have any family left,' she continued. 'The doctor says I don't have very long.'
I quietly reached over and shut off the meter.

'What route would you like me to take?' I asked.

For the next two hours, we drove through the city. She showed me the building where she had once worked as an elevator operator.

We drove through the neighborhood where she and her husband had lived when they were newlyweds. She had me pull up in front of a furniture warehouse that had once been a ballroom where she had gone dancing as a girl.

Sometimes she'd ask me to slow in front of a particular building or corner and would sit staring into the darkness, saying nothing.

As the first hint of sun was creasing the horizon, she suddenly said, 'I'm tired. Let's go now'

We drove in silence to the address she had given me.It was a low building, like a small convalescent home, with a driveway that passed under a portico.

Two orderlies came out to the cab as soon as we p ulled up. They were solicitous and intent, watching her every move. They must have been expecting her.

I opened the trunk and took the small suitcase to the door. The woman was already seated in a wheelchair.

'How much do I owe you?' she asked, reaching into her purse.

'Nothing,' I said

'You have to make a living,' she answered.

'There are other passengers,' I responded.

Almost without thinking, I bent and gave her a hug. She held onto me tightly.

'You gave an old woman a little moment of joy,' she said.

'Thank you.'

I squeezed her hand, and then walked into the dim morning light. Behind me, a door shut. It was the sound of the closing of a life.

I didn't pick up any more passengers that shift. I drove aimlessly lost in thought. For the rest of that day, I could hardly talk. What if that woman had gotten an angry driver, or one who was impatient to end his shift?

What if I had refused to take the run, or had honked once, then driven away?

On a quick review, I don't think that I have done anything more important in my life.

We're conditioned to think that our lives revolve around great moments.

But great moments often catch us unaware-beautifully wrapped in what others may consider a small one.

PEOPLE MAY NOT REMEMBER EXACTLY WHAT YOU DID, OR WHAT YOU SAID,

~BUT~

THEYWILL ALWAYS REMEMBER HOW YOU MADE THEM FEEL.

Updates

2008-08-21T12:36:00.000-07:00

Just yesterday my mom was bugging me about not updating this more. I guess with the whole "facebook" world, blogging has been put on the back burner of alot of people. I still like it though. I am just really bad at it.

There has been alot of things happening in my life lately. One of the most recent activity has been the death of my grand-father. I have to say that I have been blessed with all four grand-parents for 28 years so I know that I have nothing to complain about. Grandpa was a fixture in our family and it wont be the same without him. I will always remember him sitting quietly at the lunch/dinner table just watching his family, or laughing at one of the jokes my Grandma told. He loved his music so he would always get our family to sing "Praise God from whom all blessings flow" for our prayers. You will be missed Grandpa.

This summer has been BUSY with weddings and weekend getaways. I have 3 more weddings and then I get a break for a while. That will be nice.

One thing that has been so great is having so many Bethany friends around. Alex and Carla moved to Ontario so it has been so great connecting with them again and alot more often. Rhea and Jarvis moved to Ontario for a year so spending time with them as well will be so great. Hopefully more people will come and visit. And just this week, my dear friend Lori and her awesome twin sister Doris came through my area so I was able to meet them for dinner. It has been so nice and refreshing.

My health has not been so good. Its such a downer when you are feeling icky ALL THE TIME. I am hoping that I start feeling like myself again and soon.

Thats enough for now. I will try to blog more often. See ya!

Friendship

2008-07-04T05:52:00.000-07:00

"Life is too short to wake up with regrets. So love the people who treat you right. Forget about the one's who don't. Believe everything happens for a reason. If you get a second chance, grab it with both hands. If it changes your life, let it. Nobody said life would be easy, they just promised it would be worth it. Friends are like balloons; once you let them go, you might not get them back. Sometimes we get so busy with our own lives and problems that we may not even notice that we've let them fly away. Sometimes we are so caught up in who's right and who's wrong that we forget what's right and wrong. Sometimes we just don't realize what real friendship means until it is too late. I don't want to let that happen so I'm going to tie you to my heart so I never lose you."

I have really been thinking about my friendships lately. The ones that slipped away. The ones I have lost and the ones that continue strong. It is crazy how much you depend on those friendships. Without some of my friends, I dont think I would of made it through this last year of my life. I think it has been one of the hardest and most challenging and emotional year for me. There were times when I would ask myself, "How the heck am I going to get through this week?" But then I would be surprised by my friends who would totally step up and be there for me.

Thank you to those who were those friends to me!

A Speech from Bill Gates

2008-05-15T09:42:00.000-07:00

Rule 1: Life is not fair - get used to it!

Rule 2 : The world won't care about your self-esteem. The world will expect you to accomplish something BEFORE you feel good about yourself.

Rule 3 : You will NOT make $60,000 a year right out of high school. You won't be a vice-president with a car phone until you earn both.

Rule 4 : If you think your teacher is tough,wait till you get a boss.

Rule 5 : Flipping burgers is not beneath your dignity. Your Grandparents had a different word for burger flipping: they called it opportunity.

Rule 6: If you mess up, it's not your parents' fault, so don't whine about your mistakes, learn from them.

Rule 7: Before you were born, your parents weren't as boring as they are now. They got that way from paying your bills, cleaning your clothes and listening to you talk about how cool you thought you were. So before you save the rain forest from the parasites of your parent's generation, try delousing the closet in your own room.

Rule 8: Your school may have done away with winners and losers, but life HAS NOT. In some schools, they have abolished failing grades and they'll give you as MANY TIMES as you want to get the right answer. This doesn't bear the slightest resemblance to ANYTHING in real life.

Rule 9: Life is not divided into semesters. You don't get summers off and very few employers are interested in helping you FIND YOURSELF. Do that on your own time.

Rule 10: Television is NOT real life. In real life people actually have to leave the coffee shop and go to jobs.

Rule 11: Be nice to nerds. Chances are you'll end up working for one.

If you agree, pass it on. If you can read this - Thank a teacher

Encouragement

2008-04-07T19:42:00.001-07:00

"For I know the plans I have for you declares the Lord.
Plans to prosper you and not to harm you. Plans to give
you hope and a future." Jeremiah 29:11

This verse is my comfort. Whenever I am struggling or
questioning God's calling in my life, I repeat this verse
over and over in my head and it always gives me a great
sense of peace.

My Newest Purchase

2008-03-14T18:13:00.000-07:00

Well, I decided to step out of my comfort zone and do one of the
biggest things ever. I purchased my very first home. It really
happened quite quickly. I wasnt really looking at buying. Where
I was currently living, my roommate was getting married in May
so I was going to have to move out anyways and I had decided
that I wanted to live on my own again, so I was trying to decide
whether I wanted to rent or buy so I was just surfing the net to
see what was out there and out popped this place. That happened
on the Monday and by the Friday, I had put in my offer.

Below is the picture of my kitchen. When I got it, it was a mint green.
That had to definitely go and I have ALWAYS wanted my red
kitchen so I finally got it.

The next picture is taken from my front door looking into the
rest of my place. The living/dining room. Its a pretty small
place but it is really comfortable. It has a nice fireplace and
balcony. I still have to get a picture for above my fireplace. It
drives me nuts to see the empty spot above the fireplace but
I want a particular picture so I have to be patient.

The next picture isnt all that exciting. Its just my bathroom.
That room was painted a peach/yellow colour. YUCK! So I
painted it a nice taupe/brown colour. Well, I didnt paint it.
My dear friends who actually enjoy painting, did it.

I would show you my bedroom but its not that exciting. Its
really small and its pretty much just my bed in it.

So there you have it. I am now officially part of mortgage land.
Not quite sure how I feel about it but it is pretty cool to own
something and to have some sort of investment.

My last couple of months...

2008-02-09T13:30:00.000-08:00

Lots has happened to me these last few months.

December - Was a very tough month for me. I had just returned
from Jamaica. Again, one of the most amazing experiences ever.
Then I was home at the beginning of the month and the month
pretty much consisted of Christmas and planning my baby sisters
wedding. The wedding was very mixed emotions for me. First, I
had to sing, which I havent done since leaving Fairview Church.
That was a very huge moment for me. I know it meant so much
to Suz so I did it. It was so great to be up on stage again. Reminded
me of something I forgot about myself. Another tough thing was
knowing and dealing with the reality of having my little sister
married before me. Dont get me wrong. I love my life. I have done
things and have gone places and have not been scared to do
things on my own. But it has been hard when people say things
about it to you all the time. But it is getting easier.

January - Lots of changes. I decided to buy a condo. That was a
very huge and exciting step for me. I get possession of the place on
the 29th of Feb. I have to do some painting but other than that, it is
ready to move right in.

February - This month has been good so far. Next Friday I am going
on another missions trip. This time with an organization. I am helping
lead a College & Careers Missions Trip through my church. We are
heading to Mexico. I am looking forward to getting away and again,
getting involved in another culture. It will be nice to feel apart of a
team and not just be by myself. Jamaica was great, but it was lonely
at times. Then when I return from Mexico, it will be busy with packing
and getting ready for another big move.

Thanks everyone for praying for me. I am hoping to seek some answers
in questions that I have asked God everyday to answer. I am really
still working on trusting Him and trying to seek Him in all I do.

Till next time... (I will try to update more often)

My Christmas

2008-01-03T17:18:00.000-08:00

My Christmas was so great this year. Not only did we get
to celebrate Christmas, but we got to celebrate my little
sister getting married. What a GREAT day that was! Suzie
was a beautiful and very happy bride. The picture below
is of her friend Ashley, myself, Suz, my oldest sister Rachel
and my other older sister Julie. We were the bridesmaids.

Below is a picture of my family.

Dave and Suzanne Wilson

My other special time was being able to celebrate Christmas
with my friend Jessica from Saskatchewan. We were able
to spend Boxing Day just the two of us. We did the whole
Niagara Falls tourist thing. I took her to the casino for her
very first time and she ended up winning $100 in the
quarter slots. Beginners luck.

Hope everyone elses Christmas's were good.

Busy times...

2007-12-21T13:01:00.000-08:00

M E R R Y C H R I S T M A S!

Just wanted to wish you all a very happy holiday!!
This Christmas is a little different for me because
my baby sister is getting married. Her wedding is
on Friday, December 28th. What a special day that
will be for my family!

Blessings...

Jamaica

2007-12-08T11:26:00.000-08:00

First off, I have absolutely no excuses for not updating
this sooner. It came from pure laziness. Also, not being
in front of a computer added to it. But here you go. An
update with some pictures and I will try to answer the
questions that some of you may ask me. This first pic
is of me my first Sunday. I went with one of the schools
that YWAM offers. We went to a beach called "Doctor's
Cave". Later I found out that it is the same beach that
my little sister is coming to on her honeymoon and the
end of this month. CRAZY. Anyways, that was the start
of an amazing 5 weeks.

The picture below is one of me and Kristine. She was a
dear friend that I met on the YWAM base. She is on
staff there for the next 2 years. She was one of the first
people I had met when I arrived. We clicked right away
and she helped me through some tough times. The times
when I asked myself why I had chosen to come to a
country knowing nobody and when I would ask God why
He was making it so difficult for me. Never mind that I
asked Him to stretch me and challenge me, but I never
thought He would do starting my first day. Kristine was
a great listener and she was also ALOT of fun.

In one of my previous posts, I had mentioned that my
friends were on a cruise and they had stopped by and I
got to spend the day with them. Well, the picture below
is one of me, Victor and Annelise. It was such a special
and refreshing day for me. To be around people that
knew me and reminding me that I was blessed to be able
to be here and to experience a new culture.

Below, is the building of CUMI. The place where I had
the opportunity to volunteer two days a week. What an
amazing experience that was. I met some great people
and got to be exposed to a whole new way of living.

A couple of times, me and April (one of the Canadian
girls volunteering a year of her life to work in Jamaica
with MCC) went to a local orphanage that a few of the
clients from CUMI did the laundry. While they were
doing that, we would go and play with the kids and hold
the new born babies. Below is a picture of one of the boys
that were there. They are just the most adorable children
and they just want to be held and hugged.

If I had to sum up my 5 weeks into one word, I would
have to say, WOW. From my first day to my last day,
God used me. During the time, I would ask God why he
brought me here. I didnt feel like I was making much of
a difference but looking back now, He used me in small
ways. I was able to organize an office for a lady who just
couldnt find the time to do it. I was able to work with
people who felt like the world was out to get them and I
was able to make them smile and laugh. I was able to
hold a precious newborn baby who was unwanted by a
parent. I was able to show them a little compassion and
love in the little way I could.

People here at home ask me what my highlight of the trip
was and I answer them this way. I had three highlights. I
couldnt really pin point it to just one. Number one, YWAM.
What a blessing that place was. It was more than I had ever
imagined it was going to be. I met some AMAZING people
and I was exposed to an amazing organization and maybe
one day I can be a part of. I was encouraged in their faiths.
I remember telling people back home about some of the
faith stories I was able to experience being there. I keep
saying, "When these people pray, God really answers them"
I ask myself, why does that not happen back home? The
only answer I can come up with is that they truly believe
that He will answer. They dont doubt. They pray and pray
until it happens. I would have goosebumps everytime I
would sit through a chapel service there. They worship with
everything they have. So incredibly powerful. Number two
was volunteering at CUMI. I had such a great time getting
to know the clients. They were fun and we had some good
laughs together. Also, meeting April and Suzanne was such
a treat. And to think, they only live 1 hour from me here in
Canada. They were a blessing. Number three was having my
friends come and visit.

I have been back for 1 week already. It has been a very hard
and emotional week for me. Trying to figure out life and to
continue the path that I had started in Jamaica. You set all
these goals when you are away from home and then when you
get home, it seems impossible. Life gets in the way. Routine
gets in the way. I just pray that God will use me here like He
did in Jamaica. Even if it is through the "small ways".

Thank you to all who were praying for me. Jamaica was a
life changing experience for me and I am so blessed by the
support I received and the love I felt when being there. If you
have any questions or want to know more, please ask! Thanks
for all who read this!

Week Two and Three

2007-11-17T06:45:00.000-08:00

Hey there everyone! I apologize for not updating sooner. I never
get alot of time on the computer so I always seem to forget to
update. So sorry to those of you who read this.

Things are going so great here. I have learned and experienced
so much in the last few weeks. It is hard to believe that I have
less than 2 weeks left here in Jamaica. It makes me sad to have
to leave this amazing culture.

Last week, God gave me an AWESOME treat. My friends were
on a cruise and they had a stop over in Ocho Rios, Jamaica. So I
took a taxi to Ocho and I got the spend the days with them. It
was such a nice treat to be able to see some familiar faces. I think
that is what gave me a whole new outlook on my time here. I was
so proud to be able to show them a bit about the Jamaica culture.
Annelise and Vic, Jason and Tammy, thank you so much for
spending the day with me. It was such a special time for me.

The weather here hasnt been the best. We are still getting parts
of the hurricanes so it is quite rainy. I think it has rained almost
every day since being here. But this weekend the sun is shining so
I am hoping to get some sun.

I am keeping quite busy. I just finished organizing a ladies office
here. That was quite alot of work but I accomplished it so that is
great. Then I have continued to volunteer at CUMI. I am really
enjoying doing that. We were able to stop in at an orphanage a
couple of times. Totally sad and devastating to see these children
who just want affection. We spent most of the time in the baby
nursery. Holding all the new borns. Some of them are so tiny that
you could hold them with one hand. I wish I could take some home
with me but for obvious reasons, I cant.

Sorry about not posting pictures. The computers we work on dont
allow you to download anything so it will have to wait until I get
back.

God is so great. He has challenged me in my faith more than I ever
thought He could. He has stretched me beyond my comfort zone
which I shouldnt complain about since I asked Him to do that. I
have met some amazing people here. I have been able to experience
and absorb myself in a new way of living. It has been surreal to me.

Thanks you for all of your support. It means so much to me! Love
you all!

I will try to post one more time before I leave! Till then...

Week One

2007-11-03T16:15:00.000-07:00

First off, thank you everyone who posted. It is nice to know
that I have support. Well, my first week is done and I am
still alive. YEAH! What a week it has been. I always knew
that I was an emotional person, but my goodness.

On Sunday, I went with a team of people and we hung out at
a beach here in Montego Bay. It was such a beautiful day. I
got burnt of course. Then on Monday I got to meet more of
the staff and touch base with the director of YWAM. I spent
the day just reading up on YWAM and get myself more
familiar with what they are all about. She also arranged a
place for me to serve outside the walls of the YWAM base. I
am volunteering at a place called CUMI (Community for the
Upliftment of the Mentally Ill). I will be volunteering there
every Tuesday and Friday. So on Tuesday I went there and
met 2 Canadian girls. April and Suzanne. We totally hit if off.
Then the rest of my time I will be staying at the YWAM base
helping out where its needed. This week and next, I am doing
some office organizing and some painting for the maintenance
guys. Friday I got to go to a daycare and carry newborn babies.
Talk about the cutest most precious sight.

This time has been more challenging and overwhelming than I
ever thought it would be. I have felt God's presence in the ppl
I have met and interacted with. The amount of love that YWAM
pours into their relationship with God has been so overwhelming
and encouraging to me. They seek Him in absolutely every
aspect of what they do here.

Thanks again for everyones thoughts and prayers. I have both
needed them and felt them. Please keep them coming. I will try
to post pictures next time!

In Jamaica

2007-10-27T11:30:00.000-07:00

Good day everyone! Greetings from Jamaica.
My time in travel was pretty good. My flight to Philidelphia was
great because I slept the whole way. The flight to Montego Bay
was pretty long but we made it safely so I have to be grateful for
that. Once I arrived at the airport, one of the staff from YWAM
picked me up. The city is beautiful. Some parts are pretty run
down but I love the culture. Once I got here, I realized that I
forgot some pretty important stuff. Like towels, sheets, flashlight,
alarm clock, soap etc. Dont know where my mind was when I was
packing.

To be honest, it has been EXTREMELY hard being here. They drop
you off in your room and there you go. Not checked in on once. It is
very lonely right now. Not alot of people around this weekend. So it
has been very sad. Missing family and friends. Not really having much
communication. So last nite, I went to bed at like 8:00pm because I
was so exhausted (which could be affecting my emotions) and I just
prayed that God would bring someone in my life to make me feel
more welcome than I have. Today as I was walking around the base,
I started talking to this lady Nancy and she helped me today. She
drove me into the city and I was able to pick up some stuff I needed
and to just chat with someone and to share how I was feeling.
It felt good.

I dont want you to be reading this and thinking that I am all sad.
God is going to use me here and I just have to be patient in letting
Him show me where that will be.

Thank you all for praying for me. I definitely need them. I get
computer access here so I will try to update this as best I can.
Thanks everyone!

Time. . .

2007-10-22T11:52:00.000-07:00

Where does the time go?? I can not believe that I am leaving
in less than a week. This past weekend has been a very hard
and emotional week for me. There are such mixed emotions
in my decision to go to Jamaica. Excited to experience all that
God is going to teach me down there, yet scared to death to
be alone. But then I have to remind myself that I will not be
alone. I have such an amazing support group praying for me
and reminding me that this IS where God wants me to be.

Last nite, my Life Group got together and had a potluck for me
to send me on my way. Becky had decorated her livingroom in
greens and yellows (the colour of the Jamaican flag, had no idea)
with balloons and she made little flags and had signs up for me.
It was quite overwhelming to see the support and encourgement
they all gave me. Just to be surrounded in prayer and knowing
the sincereity behind it just gave me a sense of peace that I can
not even explain into words.

So, as the days are fastly approaching, I just thank God for
answering my prayers and showing me strength in myself and
through my friends. Though, all my prayers have not yet been
answered and some decisions still need to be made, I feel that
God will answer those in his timing, still trying to teach me how
to completely trust Him.

Thank you to those of you who are praying for me! I will try to
keep this blog updated as best I can.

Countdown begins . . .

2007-10-11T05:55:00.000-07:00

Well folks, the countdown is officially starting. I have only 15 days
left of leaving for the craziest trip of all time. Plans have changed
just a bit since I last posted. When I first decided to head down to
Jamaica, I emailed SO many different places to volunteer and work
with. Finally, I got the biggest answer to prayer. YWAM emailed me
back and they want me to volunteer with them. Which means that
they will take care of me and make sure I am fed and I have a nice
place to sleep. Before that email, I was freaking out a bit. You know,
having the panic attacks, questioning why I was doing this in the
first place, that sort of stuff.

I was talking to my one friend and she said to me, "Lexi, do you
really think God would of put all this stuff into place if He really didn't
want you to go?" That really made me think differently. After I had
made the decision of going regardless, that is when everything just
kept happening for me and my emails were being answered and so
many different people were telling me that they had been praying for
me from the beginning. That was such a powerful moment.

As of right now, things arent 100% organized but I am getting there.
Thanks for those of you who have been praying for me. They are
definitely being felt. I will keep you posted on updates.

Thanks.

JAMAICA

2007-09-25T12:14:00.000-07:00

Not sure if anyone reads this anymore but I still enjoy
writing entries every now and then.

I had this crazy idea in my head that I wanted to take
a leave of absence from work and go and serve in another
country for a period of time. So, I went into my boss
and asked her if I could get a LOA from work for 5 weeks
and to my surprise, she accepted my request.

As of October 26th, I am heading off to Montego Bay,
Jamaica for 5 weeks. I will be working at SOS Village for
that period of time. I am excited to see what God will
have me do down there. This will be a very stretching
and scary experience for me since I am doing this all on
my own.

There has been a number of ups and downs in the whole
planning process. Trying to trust God that I made the right
decision and this is where He wants me.

If you remember, please keep me in your prayers as I
enter this life changing experience.

Silly Questionares!

2007-09-05T12:05:00.000-07:00

5 Things that you cannot live without for under $10/each:
* Sea Salt & Lime Rice Cakes
* Mentos
* Non-fat Caramel Macchiato from Starbucks
* Blush
* Deodorant

5 of your favourite movies:
* Pretty Woman
* The Notebook
* Dirty Dancing
* Beauty and the Beast
* Sweet Home Alabama

5 +5 = 10 baby names that you love (5 for a girl, and 5 for a boy!) (maybe you'll give others good ideas!):
* BOYS: Hayden, Jesse, Jake, Will, Tyson
* GIRLS: Abby, Rhyann, Samantha, Ramona, Libby

5 songs you could listen to over & over & over:
* Things Do Change – Scott Normandy
* A Moment Like This – Kelly Clarkson
* Matt Redman
* Tim Hughes
* John Mayer

5 people who have influenced your life in a positive way:
* Christine Raymer – dear dear friend
* My sisters – Rachel, Julie and Suzanne
* Phil Siebert – BBI’s Chorale Director
* Becky Kirkby – dear old friend that reappeared
* Annelise Buma – dear friend

5 items that stay in your purse all the time:
* wallet
* pen
* mints
* sunglasses
* deodorant

5 moments when you knew everything had changed FOREVER:
* Had a conversation with Jeff and decided to lead a Mission’s Trip
* Decided to go to BBI
* When my parents transferred me to a Christian School for Grade 8
* February 14, 1995
* Being an Aunt for the first time

5 obsessions you have right now:
* Young and the Restless
* Saving money
* Losing weight
* Being busy
* Trying to please everyone around me!

My Week of Vacation

2007-08-13T11:50:00.000-07:00

I just finished my week of vacation. It was so nice to
relax and catch up with some great friends. My week
started off by spending the weekend at my friends
Jeff and Christine. I had not seen them in so long so
it was so nice to spend this time with them and their
beautiful daughter Eva.

On the Saturday evening I organized a bbq. My sister
and her family and Alex and Carla with their children
came and we hung out. It was so good to have all my
girls together. The one picture above is the 3 girls.
Bella, Eva and Olivia. There are all basically the same
age so it was so cool to see the different stages they
are all at.

Then on Sunday, my best friend Steph and her mom
Ann and I went up to their trailer and spent some good
times trailering. (If that is even a word). It was so nice
to wake up and spend the majority of the day outside
with some fresh air. Much needed sunshine in my life.

Then on Thursday to Saturday, I had the privilege of
attending a Leadership Conference called the Summit.
It was one of the most challenging and life changing
experiences that I have ever encountered. God really
spoke to me and I learned so much about myself. As a
leader and as a Christian.

I had such a fantastic week off. Relaxing, exciting, and
challenging. We need those every once and a while!

ROWING!!

2007-07-18T17:31:00.000-07:00

I started rowing in June and I absolutely love it. Not only is
it great exercise, but it is also a lot of fun. To be completely
honest, I did not like it at first. It was hard and it was really
difficult to catch on to. But once you get the hang of it, it is
so nice to be out on the water.

Below is the picture of me just having completed my first
race. BRUTAL! I was hurting. It was soooo much harder
than I ever imagined it to be. You are using all of your leg,
arm and stomach muscles, full force for like 5 minutes non
stop. It may not sound that long, but it definitely is so
intense.

Below, the picture is of us rowing out to the start line. I am
the third from the back. 3C, Starboard. That is my official
title!

For those of you thinking of ever getting into rowing, I
definitely recommend it. Such a great experience.

Why does God make us question?

2007-07-09T13:13:00.000-07:00

Is it just me, or does others question why God lets us question
His existence? Lately, I have just been struggling with what God
has in store for my life. What path is He taking me down? Is He
even with me? Does anyone "really" hear God's calling for their
lives? Don't get me wrong. I know and I believe with all my heart
that there truly is a God, but I am having a hard time believing
that He is with me right now. As I sit in a church service, I listen
to the words of the songs that the congregation is singing, and do
people really focus on the words they are singing or are they just
singing for the sake of the music? For those of you who know me,
know that I love to sing. I love to worship and leading worship but
lately, I have just been sitting back and reflecting on the words
and the meaning behind them. People are always telling me that
every Christian questions why they believe and what this faith
thing is all about. I guess I never really took the time to question
it myself. I have been feeling God teasing me. Putting things in my
life and then snatching them away from me. Maybe for good reason
but why does He do that. Is it even God doing it or is it just easier
to blame Him? These are the things that I have been questioning.
Does anyone else questions these things?

2007-06-22T10:47:00.000-07:00

"Whenever trouble comes your way, let it be an opportunity
for joy. For when your faith is tested, your endurance has a
chance to grow. So let it grow, for when your endurance is
fully developed, you will be strong in character and ready
for anything."

James 1:2-4

Random Facts About Me

2007-06-13T14:49:00.000-07:00

Since I was tagged by Shara, it's now my turn to
share 7 random facts.

Here are the rules… Each person tagged gives 7
random facts about themselves. Those tagged need
to write in their blogs the 7 facts, as well as the rules
of the game. You need to tag seven others and list
their names on your blog.

1. I can't stand the sound of people chewing gum. It
absolutely grosses me out.

2. I hate when people bite their nails in front of me.
Who wants to watch people eating their fingers. So
unattractive.

3. I love the smell of a clean house. The smell of Mr.
Clean and Vim. I know, I am wierd.

4. I still sleep with the blanket that was first wrapped
around me when I was born. 27 years old. It looks
pretty shaggy but I just can't give it up.

5. I can't stand painting. It totally sucks. It takes way
too long and I just don't enjoy it one bit.

6. I could go out for dinner every night. There is just
something about it. I think after a while you would get
tired of it but I just really enjoy the conversation and
the atmosphere.

7. I would give anything to be in the praries right now.

Now I get to tag 7 people...let's see....I tag: Bonnie,
Janelle L, Tania, Cyndy, Naomi, Cyrstal, and Karina!

Scott Normandy

2007-05-25T10:21:00.000-07:00

Last night my friend Scott had his CD Release Party. It
was a great time! For those of you who like music, check
out his website. www.scottnormandy.com. Scott
Normandy is a mix between John Mayer and Dave
Matthews. It is a great album, and if you are interested,
you can buy it over his website.

Scott Normandy just got signed on with a really great
and down to earth manager that is based out of Montreal.
Scott Normandy is going on tour this summer and is
having a CD Release Party in both Montreal and Toronto.

Check out the website.

In memory of...

2007-05-05T10:18:00.000-07:00

In memory of Aiden Douthwaite who
passed away this past week!
4 years old.

The SDI Test

2007-04-30T16:14:00.000-07:00

Has anyone ever done this SDI test before?? It is such a great
test that helps you realize your personality and how you deal
with conflict. They are categorized in 3 colours. Blue, Red and
Green. There is also a fourth category called Hub. In personality,
the blue is the feeler, the worrier, the one is always concerned
about the other person. The caregiver. Red is the assertive and
aggressive one. The "Let's just get in done", or the "Let's just
make a decision and move on". Green is the thinker. The over
analyzer. The person who think EVERYTHING through and
does not just make harsh decisions.

Lexi was Blue-Red. My higher number was in the blue category
but I have some red in me. That didnt really surprise me.

In conflict, the blue is the person who doesnt like to deal with it.
Would just rather get rid of the problem by agreeing. The one who
is always concerned that the other person is feeling okay and
putting their feelings aside. Red is the one who likes to deal with
the conflict right then and there. Lets talk it all out and fix this.
Green is the one who needs to withdraw from the conflict and
really think about it and try to come up with the best answer.

Lexi was hard core blue. Totally didnt surprise me.

If anyone ever has a chance to do something like this, it is so worth
it. It is neat to see how you deal with situations and just to learn
your friends personalities and how they deal with conflict. You
really start to learn about each other and how to approach them
in the way your friends need to be approached!

Anyways, just wanted to share that.

Bella Joyce Jehan

2007-04-20T07:39:00.000-07:00

Okay, so seriously. Is she not the cutest kid ever!
She just turned one on the 9th and Mike and
Julie had a birthday party for her and their place
was packed with people. I guess it is a good thing
that they are
moving into a more
larger home. Bella
does the cutest
things. Everyone
time she sees you,
she says "Baby". And
then she points her
little finger at
everything. She loves
seeing pictures of
babies and especially
of herself. I was over
at Mike and Julie's last
night and we were
looking out of their
bedroom window and
Bella was getting so
excited to look outside
and see birds. There is this little piece of bird poop on
the window and Julie was telling me that she gets so
excited everytime she sees it. She also loves my
earrings. At her birthday party, Julie gave her her first
piece of cake. First Bella was just staring at it but then
Julie put a bit of icing in her mouth and then she realized
that she actually enjoyed that so then she started eating
it. Usually, the child has chocolate and icing all over their
mouth but Bella was very clean and polite. There was also
like 40 people watching her and I think she liked the
attention it gave her. It is scary to think sometimes how
much I love
her. I can't
imagine how
much more
I could love
someone else.
Like my own
kids. She has
such a great
personality
and I think she
is going to have
a good sense of
humour. She is so funny at times with all of her little things and
her face expressions. When she goes in for a kiss she pouts
those lips so big and just leans in forward. She is the squeshiest
little girl ever. She has the best legs that get squeezed for often
by my crazy family. As you can tell, she is a very loved child!
Keep them coming Mike and Julie. I am waiting patiently....

Toronto Blue Jays

2007-04-11T15:26:00.000-07:00

Have I told you how excited I am that the Blue Jays are back!
I was just at the opener in Toronto and what an interesting
game it was. The Jays, of course, won the game 9 to 1 against
the Royals. A fan got kicked out of the game in the second
inning for grabbing the ball off the field during a live play. What
a dumb ass. And then in the 8th inning, a huge fight breaks out
just a few rows behind and over from us. They had to have
around 8 or 9 cops to break it up. I have no idea how and why
it broke out but whatever, it was entertaining.

The pictures above is a picture of Reed Johnson. He is by far
my favourite Jays player. So I was very excited when I found out
that he was playing in the game I attended. And of course, he
did a great job in left field!
LET'S GO BLUE JAYS, LET'S GO!!

What is with the weather??

2007-04-05T06:08:00.000-07:00

I woke up this morning to snow on the ground. WHAT IS UP WITH
THAT?? I refuse to believe that this snow is going to stay because
I am totally ready for spring. They shouldn't tease us like this.

I totally love the smell of spring. The smell of the snow melting and
the trees starting to bud. I can not wait.

Guess what I get to do on Easter Monday? BLUE JAYS GAME. It is
their first game in Toronto so I am very excited for it. My best
friends dad got 4 tickets so it is a date night with the dads. It is going
to be great.

Hope everyone has a great Easter. Eat lots of chocolate because I
know I will. Oh, and of course, for those of you who know what it
is, eat LOTS of paska!! So good. . . .

Girls Night!

2007-04-02T09:22:00.000-07:00

Saturday night, Carla and I decided to have a girls night. Alex and
Jackson were in Port Rowan helping out with his dad so I drove up
to Kitchener to spend some time with the girls. Olivia is just the
most adorable girl. She is only 9 months old and she is walking
around and climbing stairs and getting into stuff. She, of course,
went through my purse and was very interested in my sunglasses
and lip gloss. It was very cute.

We ordered in some pizza and then put Olivia to bed and then
the boys came home. Jackson was playing shy with me until I
let him take about50 pictures and then I was his new best friend.

It was a great time to spend with my friends. I am so glad that
they are living closer to me. It will be so great to have them
near by and see them more often than I have.
Thanks for the fun night Carla! I hope you have a good and
safe week!

Happy Birthday Cyndy!

2007-03-30T08:25:00.000-07:00

Happy Birthday Cyndy! I can not believe that we have known each
other for only 8 years. It feels so much longer than that. For those of
you who don't know Cyndy, she was my roommate at Bethany Bible
Institute in Saskatchewan. We have had some crazy memories. Ups
and downs, laughs and tears. When I think back on all of our
memories Cyn, I cherish them dearly. I am so excited to see how God
has directed you in your life. You seem so happy and content.

Thank you for being my friend. I hope that you have a wonderful
day filled with everything you love to do. Being with your family
(some of them), probably shopping, eating chocolate, eating apple
crumble, and we definitely can not forget your diet coke.
Love you Cyn and happy birthday!

M E X I C O ! ! ! !

2007-03-14T21:12:00.000-07:00

As promised, here are a few photos from Mexico. We were there for
1 week. It was so nice and relaxing. We layed on the beach for most of
the week. We did 1 day trip to Xel-Ha (it was a snorkeling park) and
for the rest of the time, just stayed at our resort. Both Val (other girl
in the pictures) and I had to keep telling ourselves to relax. We both
work full time and our schedules are quite packed so we weren't used
to just sitting or lying there without having our days planned out.

Below, the building is the hut we stayed in. There were 4 rooms in
one building and our room was on the second floor facing the woods.
It was a very nice view and we spent alittle time out there. The
beaches were great. White sand and beautiful clear water. The water
was more clear away from the resort so we walked along the beach
one day and just enjoyed the scenery.

In the evenings they would have these dancers who did a mix of
swing and ballet. It was so neat. They would of course, include the
audience. Thank goodness I was not picked to go up in front of a
hundred people to show them that I have no dance moves at all.
It was quite entertaining at times.

So, do I recommend a week away in Mexico?? I certainly do. It
was such a great time and the weather was perfect and the food
was great. I totally felt safe the whole time and our particular
resort was so wonderful!

There it is. If you want to know more, please ask!

Happy Birthday to me!

2007-03-06T16:33:00.000-08:00

It is official. I am now 27 years of age. I can not believe how
fast life has flown by. Yesterday, my family cooked my 2
favourite meals and we got to hang out for the evening.
It was so nice.

Yesterday was such a great day. I got to work (after a week

away in Mexico), and there was a present sitting on my desk

from my dear friend Annelise. Of course the day started off

with a long meeting (which wasnt so bad) and then when I got

back to my desk, a beautiful bouquet of Mexican Flowers were

sitting on my desk (thanks Jeff). And then my sister Julie and

my niece Bella got Gerber Daisies sent to me as well. It was so

nice. I wish it was my birthday everyday.

So tonight, a bunch of my close friends are going out for dinner

and then to see a local band (New World Son) at a Martini Bar

downtown.

Thanks to all my friends for being so great and encouraging

this past year!

(I will post Mexico pictures soon!!)

How can someone be so cute??

2007-02-20T19:40:00.000-08:00

I just wanted to share some great pictures of my newest
niece. She is just the best little girl ever. Yesterday I went
over to hang with Mike and Julie (my sister, also in the
pictures) and I had Bella laughing so hard. It sounded like
one of those dolls where you press a button and the doll
giggles.Anyways, just wanted to tell you all how much I
love my Bella. Also in the picture on the top right is my
other niece Lauren. Also the most cutest little girl. She has
been starting to talk so it is so fun to hang out with her. The
things that girl comes up with is so hilarious!

We actually had snow in Ontario so Julie took Bella for her
first toboggan ride. As you can see from Bellas expression,
she wasnt exactly excited about it.

Love you Julie, Lauren and Bella!

One year ago . . . .

2007-02-12T21:55:00.000-08:00

I can not believe that it has been one year since my Take Flight team left for Uruguay. What an experience that was? For those of you who don't know what this was, let me explain it to you. The highschool that I attended all those years ago has this program called "Take Flight". It is a discipleship training program for graduated students. It is basically a chance for these students to grow as leaders in the church and in the community. This past year, the programming team asked me if I would like to help lead the trip and I just couldn't turn down such a great chance to help these students grow and mature in their relationship with God.

Not only did I grow as a leader, but seeing the change in the students was such an encouragement to me. Remembering back in November when I first met the team, to remembering back when we said our final prayer in March, I can not believe the transformations I saw. Not only in the team but in myself. Myself, along with my good friend Jon Nauta led the team. Suzanne Klassen helped co-lead the team and then we had 9 students. Rory Schafer, Steve Postma, Jeff Komadoski, Craig Falk, Ben Ellens, Ben Janzen, Kara Gossen and Kate Riediger. They have all been such a blessing in my life.

Oh remembering the times. All the kissing (it is the culture to always greet one another with a kiss on the cheek). The interesing food we got to try and enjoy for the most part. The "crazy" kids who liked to attack some of the members of the team. Rory getting chased with grass and yelling in spanish "No more". The door to door experiences were so challenging yet so very
rewarding. The culture is so giving and welcoming.

The second week we got a chance to do more hands on work at a local church. We helped clean up the yard and do some painting and cementing. We did some more door to door evangelism. In the evenings, the kids in the area would come and sing some songs and play some games. That week was my birthday and the church we worked with made us some cakes to celebrate. I was so blessed by their generosity. They sang Happy Birthday to me like 3 times.

The last week before debrief, we got to work in a church with Alejandro. What an amazing man. The youth group was so great there. They have such a great ministry going on there. Again, we got to do more door to door. One of our translators got bit by a dog so that was pretty scary. She was very good about it. I would of completely freaked out.

I just wanted to thank the Take Flight team for being such a joy in my life. I have enjoyed getting to know each and every one of you. I have such amazing memories from our times together.

Please pray for the new Take Flight team leaving for Uruguay tomorrow. I pray for their safe travels and pray that they really touch the lives over there. I pray for the leaders, Brian Garden and Annelise Buma. Good luck guys!

My Vacation Spot

2007-02-12T13:19:00.000-08:00

After numerous weeks surfing the internet to find a good deal on resorts, we finally decided on one. On February 25th, we will be flying down south to the Sandos Caracol Beach Resort & Spa in the Mayan Riveria/Cancun MEXICO! I am very excited to go to a nice and relaxing place and not worry about work and life! I have never been on a vacation like this before so it will be a new and exciting experience for me!

BUSTED!

2007-01-30T09:39:00.000-08:00

The day had finally arrived. The day that I had been dreading for the past 10 years. I got my first speeding ticket. I was just cruising along anticipating a visit with my dear friends Alex and Carla and I see a white car in the distance. Well, by the time I look down to see how fast I am going, it was too late. I see the bright red lights of the brakes and the car turns around to chase after me. By this time, of course, I go down to the speed that I should of been driving in the first place. Do you know how hard it is to actually drive 80km on a highway? Seriously. No one actually drives that speed. So he busted me for driving 110km. Yeah, I probably deserved it because I do have a heavy foot but I was looking forward to seeing friends I hadn't seen in like 2 years. I tried to use that excuse and I really thought it worked until I saw him walking towards me with papers in his hands. He had me sitting there for like 25 minutes. How horribly mean is that? So because of my obvious charm, I got away with a $40 ticket and 1 point against me. I should be grateful to him because he said it would of been a $340 ticket with 4 points against me because I was driving in a school zone. Oh well, I can laugh about it now.

Leadership

2007-01-23T14:53:00.000-08:00

"I can do everything through Him who gives me strength." - Phillippians 4:13

This verse has been going through my head for the last 8 months or so. My family has been going through kind of a tough time trying to understand the direction God has been taking us within life and within the church. I find it so hard not to put the blame on others mistakes and decisions and to really sit back and look at why God would of made this decision or put my family on this path. Is He trying to teach us something? Is He testing our faith? For me personally, I find it so difficult to just sit back and see where the pieces fall. I am a go-getter. When someone has hurt or disappointed people I love, I want to fix the situation right away. I don't have the patience to just sit back while they are hurting so bad. How do you get through a time like this?

Secondly, church. That word sometimes really freaks me out. How do you even choose the leaders in a church? I realize that no one is perfect and they are allowed to make mistakes, but at who's cost? Who do they think they are? What makes them think that they know better than others? One thing I don't get is how they can sit in a church service knowing full well that they have hurt or disappointed someone, and really ignore the situation and do NOTHING about it. This is something that I have been struggling with for months now. Around July, I made the decision to leave the church that I had been attending for the past 10 or so years. It was probably one of the hardest decisions I ever made because the congregation at the church was so amazingly supportive and encouraging, but I just couldn't sit in those services anymore.

Since then, I have been attending a great church. Yes, the church makes mistakes and it is far from perfect, but the difference is the leadership takes charge of an issue and deals with it right away instead of trying to hide it in a corner hoping that one day it will just be forgotten. They admit their faults and mistakes and as a congregation, they work on it and encourage one another.

I don't want you to read this entry and think that I am a bitter and unappreciative person when it comes to leadership in the church. I respect the role of a leader and I can't imagine how difficult it must be to have that kind of responsibility. I am simply saying that if you are a leader, it is your responsibility to deal with the issues in your particular church and not to hide and run away from them. That is the only way you will gain the respect you should have from your congregation.

My last 18 hours

2007-01-11T12:34:00.000-08:00

I would like to paint you all a picture of the last 18 hours of my life. I get home from work and while I am coming down the stairs to my apartment, I trip and fall. Not just one or two steps. Five or six steps. The steps at my place are nice and cemented tiles so there is no cushion to them. So there I am, lying at the bottom of my stairs in complete and total agony. Not only did I bang my head, but I have bruises all down the side of my left leg, my knee is completely bruised and bleeding, the heels on both of my feet are totally bruised and the side of my left hand is banged up. When I finally had enough energy to get myself up (probably 15 minutes of just lying there) I went on my bed to rest a little bit more. So when it came time to go to bed, I could not find a comfortable way to sleep so it took my like 1 and a half hours to fall asleep and even then, I kept waking up through out the whole night. So when it was finally morning I went to get into my car and realize that it was broken in to and all of my cd's stolen and my car completely trashed. Thank goodness they didnt break anything but how annoying is that?? The drivers door was wide open and the crazy thing is that it was parked under the carport and my bedroom window is right there. So I get in my car and now I am heading to the one place I dread the most in my entire life. The dentist. I am like a child getting a needle. I have to talk myself into sitting in the chair, opening my mouth and letting them do their thing. But I think my luck is starting to get better because I have no cavaties. YEAH!

So, there it is. The story of my life. I guess it is good when you get to the point of laughing at yourself. I actually find it quite amusing that this all happened to me in 18 hours. Gotta love it!

New Years Resolutions

2007-01-04T21:18:00.000-08:00

Is it just old school or do people out there still have New Years Resolutions?? I have been thinking alot about what I want to do differently in 2007. So, I have came up with mine. It is kind of lame and boring but I really want to get better at this. I want to really watch my spending habits and so I am writing down everything I spend money on and then at the end of the month I can calculate what I need to change and really watch. I have to say that I have been doing pretty good.

Now it is your turn. I want to hear what other people want to do differently in 2007. Tell me what your New Years Resolution is?

Christmas 2006

2006-12-28T23:40:00.000-08:00

I can definitely say that this Christmas was very different from any previous Christmas that I can remember. Lots of emotions for my family, high and low, and to me at least, it just didn't feel like Christmas. But none the less, I had a great time with my family. I got a ton of great gifts from my parents and from my sister Rachel (we draw names and she picked me). So, for those of you who like playing board games, come on over.

Christmas is such a good reflection on life. You get to thank God for coming into this world and letting us have a relationship with His Son. It really is just a miracle of life. Sometimes I think and wonder why people don't believe in God. I mean, how could they not? He has shown His powers in so many miraculous and obvious ways. I know we struggle sometimes in whether we believe that there is a God or not, but I think that that is what makes us stronger and more in love with Him and what he represents. If God can forgive us for all the stupid and dumb things we do in life, than why not? Forgiveness is such a struggle. I was just talking to my friend tonight about forgiveness and what it truly means. I think I struggle with forgiveness. There are alot of things in my life right now that I am working through and forgiveness is definitely one of the top on my list. How do you start to forgive someone when they really betrayed you? You can say you forgive but the question is, have you really forgiven them? You become so bitter towards the person who hurt you, that it starts changing the person you really are. I don't even know why and when I became that kind of person. Have I really been hurt that much in my life? I think that is the question I keep asking myself?

You know, these blog things can be dangerous because I feel like I ramble on and on and you become quite vulnerable. I guess that isn't always a bad thing.

Hope everyone's Christmas was good and enjoyable. Now comes all the running and exercise to lose the pounds gained from all the chocolates and candy and Christmas cookies. I really think I ate more chocolate this Christmas than I have my entire life. I don't even like chocolate!

Til next time...

One Year ago....

2006-12-23T14:52:00.000-08:00

One year ago at this time, my family and I were preparing our very first trip to Florida. It seems so long ago yet at the same time, it feels like yesterday! For those of you who don't know, my dad promised us (as kids) that when my youngest sister turned 5 years old, he would take us to Florida. Well, Suzie is now 21 so he was a little late. So when nothing was happening, I took matters into my own hands. I went on the internet and booked my family a condo and told them that I booked it for Christmas and that was that.

Going to Disneyland was amazing. We were like children again. It was so great. It was probably a little more fascinating because we had Josiah getting excited about everything. We had 9 adults and 2 children squeezed in a 3 bedroom condo for 10 days. I think the guys were about to go nuts with all the women but it was good for them. It was a good bonding time for our family. We felt a little sorry for the guys so one night a bunch of us went to see the Boston Bruins play and beat the Tampa Lightnings. We also got to see the Spring Training for the New York Yankees and the Toronto Blue Jays. It was so cool. It would of been better if all the players were there but we can't always get everything we want.

So, this year we are just hanging around. In the cold. With out snow. Not on the beach. Bundled in sweaters. Not in tank tops. Eating turkey, not freezies. Sitting in front of the fireplace. Not on the beach. But still enjoying each others company!!

MERRY CHRISTMAS EVERYONE!!

Crazy story

2006-12-20T09:35:00.000-08:00

I just experienced the most stressful yet hilarious morning. I left my house nice and early for work so I stopped at Starbucks to enjoy a nice coffee. On my way to work I look at my gas gage and it made me a little nervous because it was pretty much at empty and the light was on but I totally thought that I would have enough gas to make it to Grimsby so on I went. Well, by the time I got to Beamsville I was getting a little anxious because I still had another 8 and some kilometres to go. So I decided to stop in Beamsville to get myself some gas. Just as I was pulling off the highway and up the ramp, my car dies. There I am, sitting in my car on the side of the road wearing heels with no gas in my car. So I get out of my car thinking that I am strong enough to push my car across the bridge, down the bridge and into the gas station. Not going to happen. I couldnt even move my car an inch on my own. So I start trying to flag people down to help me. I couldn't believe how many cars passed right by me without a second glance. So, because of my unbelieveably good looks (haha), a young guy pulls over and helps me push my car across the bridge, down the bridge and into the gas station.

My words of advice: If your gas light is on and your needle is at empty, go fill up with gas!

Countdown begins. . . .

2006-12-18T13:38:00.000-08:00

It is officially 1 week until Christmas Day. I cannot believe how fast December came and went. I have already been to at least 4 Christmas parties and I have 4 more to go (that is not counting our numerous family gatherings coming up). You would think I would be getting tired of them, but I am not.

Last night I had my Lifeteam Christmas Party and it was sooooo much fun (for those of you who don't know what Lifeteam is, it is like a Bible Study group that gets together on a weekly basis to encourage and strengthen relationships within the church and with each other). We played the game "Scruples" which is my new favourite game. We laughed lots and learned alot about each other. It was great! We also shared what we were thankful for this past year and what we were hoping for in 2007. It was really neat and encouraging to hear what my team was thankful for and also just to see what I said. I really didn't know what I was going to say until I was saying it. I think everyone in the group had said friendships. I was reading over my previous posts and I mention alot about friendships. I have come to realize just how important they are in one's life. I have been really blessed these last few months with amazing friends. I have made new ones and I have "rekindled" old ones. I think Christmas just brings this out in people. It is seasons like this when we think back on our year and reflect on all that God has provided for us. This has been one tough, challenging, frustrating, amazing, strengthening and encouraging year. Aren't those the best!

Sisters

2006-12-11T09:57:00.000-08:00

I just wanted to say how much I love my sisters! It is the best feeling knowing that they love you regardless of your mistakes and countless mood swings. We are all quite alike so sometimes we aren't the best of friends but we always come together when we really need each other.

So, thank you Julie, Rachel and Suzanne for being the most amazing sisters! I love you all so much!

Christmas Party

2006-12-11T06:51:00.001-08:00

On Friday night, I had my first Christmas Party at my place. It was alot of fun and it was good to have a full house. I love having people over. Here are a few pictures.

Have you heard of the game "Scruples"?? It is such a fun game and it is also a game where you can really get to know each other.

Above is my cousin David and his girlfriend Val. Thanks so much for coming both of you. Next picture is me and my friend Annelise. And then me and Steph.

Thanks everyone for coming! The food and the company was great!

Kamryn Loewen

2006-12-06T12:30:00.000-08:00

I had the pleasure to go out for breakfast with my dear friend Janelle this morning. Her and her husband Rod and their daughter Kamryn flew all the way over from Saskatchewan to celebrate Christmas with Rod's family. It had been a long time since I had seen any of them. Little Kamryn was only a baby last time I saw her and now look at her. She is all grown up and talking. She is saying cheese to the camera. Thanks Janelle for an awesome time. The talk was great and it was so nice catching up with you. I hope you have an awesome time with your family and getting to know your new niece!

My apartment

2006-12-06T12:20:00.000-08:00

I know I had promised some of you that I would post pictures of my apartment so here they are. I have been out for just over 2 months now and I love it. It has taken me sometime to really make the place feel like my own and I am still getting there. I have my dad over all the time with little jobs to do. So, there it is.

Confusion

2006-12-05T21:50:00.000-08:00

Life is so confusing and unpredictable sometimes. Just when you think you have life figured out, something gets thrown at you and you are caught off guard. Do all things happen for a reason? I always thought of myself as a pretty decisive person, but these days I can not seem to make up my mind about anything. There are so many things going on in my life that I know I have to deal with but I hate conflict and I am not a huge fan of change. It is times like this where we really have to rely on God's strength and not our own. Maybe God puts us in situations like this to learn how to trust Him and depend on Him. God is pretty amazing!

Too many thoughts. . .

2006-11-30T09:01:00.001-08:00

I was about to title this entry as "Thank God it's Friday", but then I realized that it is only Thursday. How much does that suck? Am I the only one who feels this week completely dragging?

Last night I kept waking up and falling back asleep, which also means that I had a number of dreams. Does anyone else wake up and feel like their dream was really happening? It is the most scariest thing because I had a dream that one of my friends died in a car accident. I actually woke up with tears. I guess that is a good thing about dreams, they aren't real.

Guess what tomorrow is??? December 1st. Which also means that Christmas is only 24 days away. Hopefully by then, (yes Cyndy) snow will be here so it will feel a little more like Christmas. It is already getting so busy with Christmas Parties and get-togethers. I love this time of year.

Yesterday, my friend had received a gift. An answer to prayer. It is so amazing how our God works. I am so encouraged by the power of prayer. God really does provide for us when we really pray and seek out His will for our lives.

So, there it is. A few of my thoughts for the day.

One more....

2006-11-29T11:50:00.000-08:00

I forgot to add Cara to my friends coming home soon. She has been working in Africa for the past year and she is also coming home in a few weeks. There is going to be alot of catching up to do.

Friends are coming home soon!

2006-11-28T12:20:00.000-08:00

My cousin Heidi has been gone for 1 year. She went off to Australia for teachers college. She is coming home on the 15th of December and I am so excited. It is crazy how fast this year has flown by. I havent been on any "crazy" adventures since she left so I am looking forward to it.

Well, my dear friend Steph has been gone for 1 week and she is coming home soon. She went to Edmonton to visit family and it has been very quiet over here. For all you out westeners, I hear you have lots of snow. Here in Ontario, I have been wearing a very thin sweater because it has been so warm. It is wonderful.

Halloween

2006-11-26T11:01:00.000-08:00

Here are my nephew and nieces. You will probably see pictures of them quite often because I think they are the most adorable children. This is on Halloween when they all dressed up.

Isn't it crazy to think how children can change your lives so completely. I don't know what we used to talk about before these cute children were born. I have such an awesome relationship with each of them. They are always so excited to see you and it feels so good. I guess children can do that to you.

Attitude

2006-11-25T09:05:00.000-08:00

Here is a quote I found and I really like it so I wanted to share it.

"The longer I live, the more I realize the impact of attitude on life. Attitude, to me, is more important than facts. It is more important than the past, than education, than money, than circumstances, than failures, than successes, than what other people think or say or do. It is more important than appearance, giftedness, or skill. It will make or break a company... a church ... a home. The remarkable thing is we have a choice every day regarding the attitude we will embrace for that day. We cannot change our past ... we cannot change the fact that people will act in a certain way. We cannot change the inevitable. The only thing we can do is play on the one thing we have, and that is our attitude ... I am convinced that life is 10% what happens to me and 90% how I react to it. And so it is with you ... we are in charge of our Attitudes.
- Charles Swindoll -

Friendships

2006-11-25T06:54:00.000-08:00

For the past couple of months, I have really been struggling with God's will in my life. How do you even know what that is? Do you just hear and feel what you want? Even if I felt a calling, would I do it if it didn't benefit me in the way I want it to? I really hope that I am not the only one who feels this way. These last couple of months, I have started to talk to old friends and I have been making some new friends. It has been pretty cool and encouraging. It is amazing how friendships work? I love the ones where you can just pick up where you left off. Those are the best ones. So, thank you to all my friends who have encouraged me, have been there for me, have frustrated me yet stuck it through and especially for those of you who have prayed for me.

2006-11-21T12:20:00.001-08:00

Here is a picture of my niece Lauren Thiessen. She is 2 years old and she is my sister Rachel's daughter! She is definitely a character!

Here is a picture of my nephew Josiah Thiessen. He is 4 years old and this is a picture of him in Junior Kindergarten!!

Here is a picture of my newest niece Bella Jehan. She is my sister Julie's first baby. Bella is so chubby and cute and she gets kissed ALL THE TIME!!

2006-11-21T12:20:00.000-08:00

Since everyone else is doing this Blog thing, I thought I would give it a try. It has been fun reading up on old friends and seeing what they have been up to.