What I did on my Christmas Vacation or Family, Friends and Food

I'm finishing up a week of vacation, sitting at the airport. There are so many wonderful blessings to share and I've been trying to think how to get it down in an organized way. The celebration actually started the week before I left St. Louis, while I was still supposed to be working but managed to get in some fun, too.

• Friends and Food - the DHQ women officers (minus 1) went out for a night on the town. We started at The Chocolate Bar. It's hard to describe but included gourmet cheeses and lots of chocolate choices. If you come to visit, we are going there! We then went to see Wicked! It's a fun musical, but probably not my favorite. The fun was being with my friends and we somehow avoided work talk the whole evening.


• Friends - I was on line searching for a Handel's Messiah concert in town and didn't find one. That's a sad part of being away from Riga and Chicago. But, I did find a Rutter 'Magnificat' concert. Carla Voeller and I went. It was beautiful and in a magnificent concert hall. Besides Magnificat, the chorus also sang a lot of traditional carols. I love them and haven't had much opportunity to sing them this year. We were both in heaven! I had an amazing moment of worship when we all joined in singing "O come let us adore Him". I'd never felt the spiritual impact of these words like I did that evening. I don't know if it was the beautiful sound in the concert hall or what moved me specifically. I found myself praying as I was singing "Lord, let this be true worship for all in this room." I believe there were some who experience the true adoration of Christ during those moments. This will become one of my St. Louis traditions.


• Food - well, sort of! The Friday before Christmas I went with an ensemble to play on a radio show (6-9 AM!!!!) I also was the spokeswoman for the Army that morning. We had such fun and while we were in the studio, a local restaurant brought in the most delicious food. Not breakfast food, but still - we all ate it! Another place to try some day.


• Family and Food - Then I was off to Livonia to be with my family. I decided to fly, rather than drive 9 hours on my own. That was nearly a disaster because of fog and snow, but I made it. However, my luggage didn't. Eventually, Chris and I went to the airport to look for it (24 hours later) and there it was, sitting with dozens of other abandoned suitcases. Oh well, it got there before Christmas with all presents safely packed. It really was nice to be with my family for the first time in 3 years during Christmas. They had finished most of their corps activities, so we actually relaxed and were stress free. I got to see Abbie and Matt in the Christmas musical. Sunday afternoon we had a Diaz family (extended) party. About 30 of us, who never all get together at once. That was so great and where the food came in - lots of it. I'll post a couple of pictures later. Christmas Day we opened presents together and it was fun and very exciting for the kids. Much different from my Christmas in Latvia, where I usually opened gifts on my own. I was a little afraid that the kids might have outgrown the fun and joy of gift-giving since I'd left. Not a chance! They were up early, excited about the Santa gifts and grateful for all they received. Since in Latvia I always spent the day with the Smiths, I missed them. They called and made my day complete! Later we went to the corps to join in with one of the corps family gatherings for a really good meal and fellowship. Again, a nice and relatively relaxing day. I was simply enjoying being with my family during those days.
• Friends and more food - I spent the last few days with the Jordans in the Chicago area. We had a big party with loads of food and lots of friends over one evening. We did a bit of shopping and a lot of eating. I also got to spend time with Gortons while there, which made my weekend even more special. My vacation ended with Sunday morning worship at Oakbrook Terrace. As always, I love being there and am so grateful for the corps family who still make me feel like I belong.

Now it's New Year's Eve and I'm lounging at home enjoying my last bit of vacation with some quiet, peaceful time on my own. If you have made it this far - how about your opinion on my continuation of this blog? I really did it to journal my Latvian adventure. As I'm 6 months past that, is anyone interested in my St. Louis life?

Praying you will experience joy and peace as we enter a new year.

Winter Wonderland or something like that

Whew! So much has happened since the little TV episode. (if you go to www.myfoxstl.com and click on Tree of Lights Campaign, then go to their videos link, you'll see me and a number of Army highlights. The best one happened this morning, click on their morning show then to the video of the bed jumping - yes, it is Army related. That's my friend Will with the painted face - our communications director.)

That same weekend on Sunday, I started at the Euclid corps for morning worship. I preached and was blessed by the people, as I always am. I look forward to actually getting involved in the corps and being a real part of their family. I ran home from there to dress warmer because I had to meet a Missouri Senator who was going to do a little bell ringing for us (yes, on Sunday - against my better judgment. "all opinions given here are mine and do not represent TSA.") I was the token Army person to ring with him. It only lasted 20 minutes and was really a photo op for him. Then I changed clothes (in the car!) and drove to St. Alphonsus Church on the Rock to hear my cousins gospel choir concert. That made my whole day. The music was amazing, the Spirit was powerful, one of the singers reminded me of Aldona! It was a new thing for me to be able to worship with my extended family. We went out for a long dinner afterward. I'm so grateful to be living near them. So, that was a wonderful day, bell ringing and all.

Last Friday I had one of those 'God' moments. I had a message from a woman named Lynn, who didn't even know where she had gotten my number from. "Maybe I had called her or maybe a common acquaintance had given it to her" She didn't know why she was calling me either! "Maybe to work on Dred Scott?" She is his great, great granddaughter - very cool! http://www.sos.mo.gov/archives/resources/africanamerican/scott/scott.asp. Well, I knew why she had called, even if it wasn't the original intent. I called her back and told her that I was hoping to be involved in the planning committee for Global Day of Prayer in St. Louis and I knew she was on the committee. http://www.praystl.org/ That got her very excited and we talked for several minutes. I attended their planning meeting on Monday evening. The plans are great. But, even more moving was the prayer time at the end. I felt like I was back in Latvia during a prayer conference. The Spirit was definitely working and speaking to people in that room. I don't know exactly where this will lead, but I feel like it is one of the connections from what I experienced and learned in Latvia to what I'm doing here in St. Louis.

Lots more happening, especially in my spiritual journey, but that's for another time. I finish with a little nature trip. We had a 'snowstorm' this weekend. I understand that is a relative term, based on where you live, but I've been making fun of St. Louis for a few days and will refrain here. Anyway, on my way home from church on Sunday I drove through the World Bird Sanctuary. Yes, you can laugh. It sounds crazy, but the snow was beautiful and I thought it might offer some nice pictures. Wow! It was beautiful and while I didn't see any birds, I did come across elk and bison (big ones!) Check out my pictures for the rest of the story.

During these busy days of Christmas, take some time to consider what it is all about - Who it is all about. Immanuel - God with us - even if you are counting wet kettle money or packing up from toy distribution. God is with us!
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st louis winter 07

So, my role puts me kind of 3rd string when there is something to be decided or done around divisional headquarters. Today is our big media day for the Tree of Lights Campaign. Generally, the 2 above me handle all PR stuff but today neither were available when an urgent call from the TV station came in. They wanted to do on site interviews at a few of our Army locations - could we provide an interviewee? I got handed that an hour before the filming began and with our regional social services director headed out. Since I was to be the voice of the Army, all along the way the RSSD was filling me in on what services we provide (remember, I've been in this position 3 months today!) But, back up. First, I didn't have my proper uniform - skirt and tunic. I had trousers (for my UK friends!) and an epaulet blouse. We all decided that would be fine, but in the rushing to get ready I lost a button in a very prominent spot! No one had sewing kit or pin - AUGH!!!! I ran out the door saying "I'll figure it out!" My quick solution - grab my tunic and wear it with my slacks. Not my favorite look and not especially attractive for a TV shot, but better than the alternative! I was afraid that was a sign of things to come, but fortunately the rest of the afternoon went fine. I didn't sound completely clueless and besides, they are editing most of it out anyway! And I got to visit our Booth Manor, seniors' residence, which I hadn't seen before. And I got to have a good talk with the RSSD, which I hadn't done before. And now, I'm leaving the office to study for my sermon on Sunday. A pretty good day, I think!

I just bought the new Jars of Clay Christmas CD - LOVE IT!

Catching up

thanksgiving07

Here are the photos from Thanksgiving and my weekend in Chicago. I had a great time at the Staff Band reunion. The pictures will show there were only 3 women in the alumni band, all horn players and good friends. It was fun to be with Sherry and Jenny and my other 'old' friends. You'll also see that I got to put the angel on the top of Jordans' tree. Rachel picked me to do it this year, since I've been away so long!

The next week was extremely busy with Christmas activities. Monday - Wednesday I spent the evenings helping with Toy Lift. For those who don't know, it's a gift program for prisoners and their children. The toys are wrapped, packaged and shipped all over the country for children of inmates. It's a huge program and uses hundreds of volunteers. Fortunately, it was also very organized and I just helped out where I could. I also went to the St. Charles county Tree of Lights kick-off. Again, we have a great team who put these events together. I like to support their work. Thursday evening the divisional staff went out for dinner and the theater, "A Christmas Carol." We had a nice evening together and the women loved the theater so much, we are going again next week! To see 'Wicked' - can't wait! It's part of my Christmas present to me. I also got some of Aivis's photos framed - my other Christmas gift to myself!

After that busy week, I flew to Chicago for a day to meet my brother, Steve. He's in town for a week and I only had a day to be with him. We went shopping and ate with friends. It was a nice day. I flew back on Saturday morning and went straight to a movie theater, where canned goods were being collected for the Army. The theater management does this at all of their locations and it's huge - about 1/4 million cans. The theater I was at collected over 12,000. It was a great deal - 5 cans=free movie, 10 more=movie pass for later. Again, the volunteers were so great - we are fortunate to have such good community support. And then, Sunday I was at the Quincy corps. The morning worship was a blessing and especially because I was with some good friends. Even though I was preaching for the 1st Sunday of Advent, I managed to get some Latvia stories in and they seemed to appreciate that. I can't help talking about Latvia! After lunch, I helped them out with their Christmas visits to the Veterans Hospital. I haven't done that for a few years. It was fun to be with the corps people and as always, I was blessed as I talked with the patients. So, you can imagine I'm a little tired today. The only event was our DHQ Christmas party, which was a lot of fun. The rest of the week I'm in the office and very glad for that. Hope you are finding opportunities to celebrate this season and especially to see God at work, even in your busyness.

fall07'

fall07

These are a few photos from my numerous trips to Southwestern Missouri this month. I'm the coach for the corps down in that area and have had a great time visiting them and getting to know about their work. But, it is a 4+ hour drive each way and I'm glad it's done for a while. And as you can tell by the photos, I was getting a little bored with the trip.

Christmas started for The Salvation Army in our division early in November. We had our Tree of Lights kickoff, which was excellent. We have a good team here. I've been helping out playing my horn for a few events. It's been a few years since I did that and I can tell! I've aged a bit, including my eyesight. It's much harder to read the music these days, especially if I'm supposed to be moving at the same time I'm playing. I tried to play in the Thanksgiving Day parade while trying to stay on a moving float, but am afraid I just blurted out some horrible sounds. I'm sure it was funny to watch but maybe not the best PR for us. I'll post some pictures later. I've decided to let the younger ones do that next year, I can walk along beside and hand out candy!

After that I traveled to Chicago to spend Thanksgiving with the Jordan/Arnold family. The dinner was excellent. I do love this holiday and since it is uniquely American, have definitely missed it. The rest of the weekend has been casual, hanging out with the Jordans - until this afternoon. The Chicago Staff Band 100th anniversary concert event starts. I've decided to play in the Alumni band (after the parade I'm seriously considering I've made a mistake!), so have a rehearsal then the CSB concert tonight. And tomorrow more of the same. It's nice to be home for this, as I'm sure I'll get to see lots of old friends. I'll post some pictures later. Happy Thanksgiving to those of you who it applies to. To the rest - I am thankful for you and your interest and frindship.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY LATVIA

my first day in Riga (August 04)

and Happy Birthday Sian!

this was when Sian and I first became friends - 3 years ago!

and on one of our last days together in Latvia.

Pray for Latvia, please. Read Sarah's blog to give you some clear direction: http://ilsters.blogspot.com/

Corps I visited since last post: Maplewood, Marion, Carthage and Mattoon
Corps I'll visit in the next few weeks (that I'm aware of now): Springfield, Branson, Joplin, Carthage, O'Fallon, Euclid
Topics that came across my desk today: Disaster work, Development and Advisory Boards, Social services, service extension, Mission Planning Council, homosexuality, complaining people, Come Join Our Army, Christmas cards, Camp, pastoral care and encouraging the field, Christmas events, Vital Signs (corps reviews), job descriptions, Officers' councils, and more but I can't remember now what it was
Blessings today: Benny who visits every day with a big smile, Mary who takes care of me, Carla who listens and makes me feel good, Vicki who is patient with me, the fall colors, lots of smiling children 'trick or treating' at my house, getting to know my coffee shop girls, talking with my sister and more but I can't remember now what they were

Here are some pictures from a few different events and especially showing you my daily drive to and from DHQ. And for my non-American friends, a few Halloween pics. Commentary included and comments welcome.

fall 07

fall 07

Sighs, Cries and Joy

Last week my good friends (the Stuarts) lost their mom and grandma. The funeral was beautiful, a real testimony to God's faithfulness and Jean's faithfulness to Him throughout her life. But, still my friends are sad and my heart hurts for them. I know something about losing a parent and that pain isn't easily removed. In fact, some of sadness and loss remains even 10+ years later. I pray that they will also find joy and peace, knowing that Jean is at rest and her body is healed forever. There is hope even in grief.

Officers' Councils was amazing, if I say so myself, since I was responsible for it. God's faithfulness came through in so many ways. Everyone pitched in and made the week go smoothly. The Holy Spirit was evident from the first meeting and His work continued all 3 days. We had time to pray, worship, learn and laugh. All of it was needed. I especially appreciated the retired officers. They are a wonderful group, who offered support, encouragement and friendship. I am so glad they were with us and look forward to good times with them in the future. I also loved working with the DHQ staff - what a great group of friends. God has put us together for a purpose and I'm excited to see how that works out. And the officers in the division were great - positive, friendly and responsive. It will be a blessing to visit them and support them.

Latvian friends (you know who you are!) I really have missed you these days. We sang songs that we also sang in Latvia, I've been telling stories about you and well, I miss you! I'm not very good at communicating but it doesn't mean I've forgotten you. I pray for you often and think of you daily!

Once again, I am so thankful for God's faithful and loving work in me and around me. In spite of challenges in 'transitioning', I know God's presence and guidance. He's in it all!

Looking for a new name

Any suggestions for a more up to date and relevant title for my blog? Although most days I still feel like I'm somewhere in between Latvia and the US.

Let's see...what's been happening since I last updated? Do you have a few hours? Here are some of the highlights:

• Men's camp was fun to be part of - I loved hearing the men sing. Have to admit I didn't stay 'til the end, though. I was beginning to feel like I was in the way. Reports are that the Spirit moved wonderfully among them.
• I've visited 5 of the corps for their Sunday meetings, so far. They are as varied as can be, kind of like the 7 corps in Latvia! I'm hoping to choose a corps to soldier at by the end of the month. Pray that I make the right decision.
• We had a great United Meeting here in St. Louis at the Temple Corps. Their worship team is amazing and it was a good opportunity to meet lots of the people from the division.
• Our DHQ staff retreat was exactly what we needed - a spiritual retreat and lots of fun. It was a wonderful start to our team working together. I'm so glad that our DCs see this as a priority. We have some big challenges ahead and unity will be extremely important. The Lord was faithful in meeting with us. We laughed a lot, too!
• Last weekend we had a city fund-raiser at Grant's Farm. It was super - fun working with other DHQ employees/officers; great music (70s & 80s), including a chance for a couple of our young adults to play with the band - they were amazing and impressed the pros too and a good PR moment for the Army.
• Sunday morning I went to the Gateway corps, where I was corralled into playing in the band and then stayed for the best pot-luck lunch I have had in a long time. This corps has lots of retired officers, many who are important in my life. It was good to be with them.
• And the best thing I've done so far is attend the Multi-cultural Conference this past weekend. I can't begin to explain how powerful and inspiring it was. 2 of the best speakers I've ever heard challenging us about building multiethnic congregations - all Army leaders need to hear them. Great worship led by the St. Charles worship band, including Brian R., a phenomenal musician who I haven't heard in years. And lots of fun catching up with old friends and even meeting some new. Maybe I'll write more later.
• Had my debriefing interview at THQ on Friday. I blabbed on and on, although I didn't intend to - are you surprised?! It was a good meeting.
• This week is a little overloaded with Officers' Councils preparation and starting tomorrow evening I'm attending a Christian Community Development Seminar for the rest of the week. It should be very good, but maybe not the best timing.
• I'm adjusting to life in the suburbs. That includes living in a large house, commuting up to 1 hour, 1 way every day (that means getting up in the dark and often coming home in the dark), figuring out how to maintain a lawn when I'm never home, trying to get rid of a skunk who seems to be living under my house (we've called an expert in for that!) And trying to avoid eating fast food for most meals. To handle that, I've joined Curves and am excited about feeling healthier and having more energy.
• Want to pray? Pray for our officers, especially our meetings together next week. We need unity of vision, they need to know they are cared for and supported and we all need to worship and pray together. I'm expecting the Lord to do something great among us - pray toward that end, would you?
• Finally, I've been reading Nehemiah - what a great book! I'm finding great inspiration from his life and from the rebuilding of Jerusalem. That historical story seems applicable to much that is happening today. Need a good read? Try it!

The Cost of Declaring His Glory

Today we learned that Colonel Bo Brekke was shot and killed in Pakistan. (www1.salvationarmy.org) All of the other things I had thought about writing seem petty and insignificant, compared to this...in other words, all about me. Then I read this article on the Urbana website. (click on title for link) It's long but worth the read.

So many lessons God wants us to learn. But, first pray for the Brekke family and friends. I cannot imagine their pain and sorrow at this time.

Remember Rich Mullins - the "Awesome God" guy

click title

New Liepaja Corps

Here are some great photos from the dedication of the new corps building in Liepaja. (go to page 4 of the gallery and click on Liepājas korpuss. Check out those 2 beautiful corps leaders and their new hair dos! Velta and Ilona - I'm so proud of you!

http://ieva.class8.be/main.php?g2_page=2 photos by Ieva

So much to say

and so little time because I'm sitting at Panera since I still have no internet at home. Anyway, I'm quickly writing to ask for some prayer support:

• Our divisional officers are meeting for the next 3 days for a spiritual retreat - pray for our relationships with each other to be developed and for unity in vision for the division
• 3 officer friends in this division with serious health concerns - they are each trusting the Lord and have great faith, but need to really feel His presence during hard days
• Just came from a Kroc center meeting for the Quincy community. I have a strong feeling that we need to surround this place and the leadership/steering team with prayer.
• Steve and Ketsia can use your prayer support (www.xanga.com/haitisteve)
• Me - starting well and figuring out what the priorities are and what can wait (much more to write about that, but later)

Now for some fun - here are some crazy family pics (and videos) from my vacation:

family

Yes, I'm still here and every day my intention is to update. I could tell you all of my excuses, which would also serve as reason for not writing any personal notes. But, you would probably just say 'blah, blah, blah' - just write! So, here goes.I've been in St. Louis for just under 2 weeks. It's been a whirlwind which included:

• my sister and family were wonderful and came for the first weekend to help me get settled. The boys and Steve moved a lot of boxes and furniture and made sure the cable was working. Abbie, Chris and I unpacked boxes and decided what should go where. I could use them for a few more days. I'm so grateful that they found time to come.
• Chris and I attended a family wedding in St. Louis. That was a special treat, because we hardly ever see my mom's side of our family. Some of them live just minutes from me now. My oldest cousin, Pat, was close to my mother and was moved to tears when he saw me. Not because he was so glad to see me but because I look just like my mother!
• neither my phone or internet work in the house so for the first few days before I went to the office I felt like I was without my life line. Of course, I can survive without those things and that time let me get some good rest and do more unpacking. The house is beautiful and has lots of room for company. (yes, that's an invitation)
• I do have some friends down here and have been able to meet up with a few and get some tasty meals already. Thanks to Polsleys and Davises for welcoming me into your homes.
• Friday was my first day in the office and well, that's going to be a good challenge. I think the divisional team is going to be great to work with. There is a lot that falls on my desk and right now the learning curve is more like the upward ride on a very steep roller coaster. I just hope there will be some leveling before any downward action. I keep reminding myself this is only my 4th day in the office. I am not an expert in anything and I still can't even find my way around the building! This task(s) will require lots of prayer and dependence on the Lord for wisdom and strength. On the other hand, there are lots of exciting possibilities and good people who are here to support me and the work from this department. I've met with several of the staff who are within the divisional secretary's responsibility. They know their jobs, are happy to be in them and I'm looking forward to seeing them in action. (I get to go to Men's Ministry camp next weekend!)
• Finally, here are a couple of pictures from the Missionary Debriefing and Renewal conference. The whole group and our amazing leaders, Bob and Linda in our daily setting. This was one of the best gifts I could have been given on my return to the States. I'm so grateful to the Army and especially, to the Lord for working it all out in such a meaningful and helpful way.

To the Thursday night English-speaking Bible Study Group

the rest of you can read this, too! It's Thursday evening and I just finished spending an hour worshipping with a group of missionaries. We were singing songs in English, most of them familiar to our group. As we were singing, I realized what day it was and that this was as close as I would ever get to being part of a group like ours was. I felt like this was a little blessing the Lord gave me. I did occasionally sing in Latvian, too. I don't want to forget. Just wanted you to know I'm thinking of you all and while we were singing I was praying for you. Oh, one more difference tonight - the sun was setting over the Rocky Mountains as we were singing. Beautiful and a reminder - "How Great Is Our God"!

A challenge

garden of the gods"

Here's the game - tell us what you see when you look at these photos from the Garden of the gods. I made a few comments, but leave the rest to your imagination. Leave a comment on Picasa or here. Also, check out the new Picasa map feature. I love Picasa!

Debriefing and Renewal

I'm in heaven! Well, I walked through the Garden of the gods and I imagine there will be a place something like that in heaven! If you've never been there, it should be on your list of 'must see' places. I flew into Colorado Springs this morning and had a few hours before I had to be at this Debriefing and Renewal conference. Between here and there is the Garden of the gods. It has been a beautiful day and I took advantage of it. (I'll post pictures tomorrow.) The rock formations are amazing and awesome. This garden is definitely evidence of THE Creator, in spite of the name. Besides the curious rocks, there was a lovely scent of pines trees and forest flowers. I breathed it all in and thought, this is exactly what I need. I've loved having time with family and friends, but I need this time for me before I go to St. Louis. Oh yes, I think the conference will be good, too. I've already made connections and realize again what a small world it is - especially among people in ministry. I met someone who knows my friend, Kjell in Sweden; Malcolm from Riga and who knows who else - we could play that 7 degrees of separation game. Also, there is an Army couple just returned from Spain who of course know Brad and Heidi. I'm looking forward to lots of wonderful stories of how God has worked in over a dozen different countries, a number of different organizations and with a wide variety of personalities and gifts. I'm looking forward to what God has to say to me, too!

Newly painted Pestisanas Armija building in Riga
(RHQ, Riga 1 corps and my flat housed here)


Beautiful Art Nouveau faces taken by Ieva


The last couple of days my heart and thoughts have been in Latvia. I guess I've been home long enough that it's hit me, I'm not going back. Monday evening was a fun get-together at Dani and Jeremy R.'s house, with Brad and Heidi, Lindsay, Steve and Ketsia and the Jordans. I brought pictures (actually, my laptop because I haven't gotten around to printing any yet.) It struck me while Lindsay and I were talking about her summer in Chile and how she felt going 'home' and then leaving again. Later, I was showing her some of my Latvia pics and while our experiences are so different, I felt like she got what I'm feeling. Torn between here and there (thus my blog title remains.) Last night I had dinner at Bob and Maribeth S.'s house. They are so great and show real interest in my life in Latvia. They sat through my picture presentation and I think that 2 nights in a row were too much for me. On the way home, I was overwhelmed with my emotions. Then today I was on Messenger with Dace. I don't think she could tell (then again, maybe she could) but it was another emotional moment. Of course, this is normal. And when I go to Colorado next week for a 'reentry' conference, I'm sure I'll experience more emotions.

One of the things I haven't done is mention some wonderful gifts I received when I left Latvia:

• A CD rom with lots of pictures, music and a very special farewell video from my friends in Latvia. If you want to see it, I'd love to show you! Thanks to Ieva for putting it all together.
• A music CD from Edgars of Shawn McDonald (http://www.shawnmcdonaldmusic.com) which I love listening to. Thanks, Edgars!
• A collage of pictures from the girls to hang in a special place in my new home. Thanks, girls!
• 3 beautiful photographs of Latvia, taken by Aivis, also to be hung in a special "Latvia corner" in my new home. Thanks to Sarah, Aivis and the Riga 1 corps.
• A mug with two important faces smiling at me - Sian and Abigail Evie. Thanks, Zoe and Graeme!

Back to Monday evening...it was great to spend time with Brad and Heidi. Good timing to have them home from Spain while I'm here. I love being with all of the people who were there. It felt like a noisy family reunion. We ended with a very big game of Boggle and I have to confess I'm the Boggle Queen! (comes from having a boring life, so I do a lot of crossword puzzles!) Tuesday started with a root canal! Yuk! And the most unpleasant of experiences. 1. I was having a bad allergy day - that's bad when your head is tilted back and down for over an hour. 2. When the dentist covered my mouth with a piece of rubber material it also covered my nose for an instant. I had a little claustrophobic response, also called inability to breath through my mouth or nose. 3. After working for over an hour the dentist said 'you'll have to come back in a week, so I can finish.' Problem - I'll be in Colorado, then on to St. Louis. So, I'll be finishing on Friday. Sounds like fun - what a way to spend vacation. Today Steve, Ketsia and I went to see "Bourne Ultimatum" - I loved it but was a bit confused at the end. I have a couple more relatively lazy days and then on to Colorado. If you think about me, pray for those days. My desire is to figure out how to apply all that I experienced and learned in Latvia here, especially as I move to new and very different opportunities in St. Louis.

Family

The last week has been spent with family. Here are the highlights...

• tonight sitting in the family room with Steve, Ketsia, Matt and Abbie enjoying a movie and time together (the rest of the family are at a funeral which I'll refer to later.)
• talking about Latvia for my sister's Home League program as her last resort because their field trip was cancelled due to the funeral. The second choice was a joint Diaz/Merritt program but Ketsia had to have 4 wisdom teeth pulled and Steve's 1st priority was to take care of her. So, that left me. It was fun, the group was great and very interested. I was glad to be helpful.
• Listening to Chris's pastoral guidance with the mother of a murdered young man, whose funeral is tonight at their corps. Feeling proud of her and sympathetic to her difficult task.
• Last night we had our traditional Thai restaurant meal with my aunt Char and cousin Tim, Brigit and Myles and Cash (newest addition to the family).
• Playing 'Bang' - a card game - with Matt, who knew all of the secrets, Steve and Steve. Matt won every time but we all had fun.
• Enjoying our Monday evening get together with lots of extended family members, some who I haven't seen for years.
• Being at the corps Sunday with all of my family. Playing horn next to my sister in their corps band (because they were desperate). I'm not sure we've ever played together. Watching Steve and Chris lead their corps people, especially during the pastoral prayer time. They are great. Enjoying lunch at 'Kings' with a good number of the corps family, along with our family. The Dearborn Heights people welcome us as if we belong. It's a joy to visit there.
• Attending a funeral for my aunt LeEtta (actually a cousin, but best friends with my Grandma throughout their lives and mine.) Our extended family were together, which rarely happens and resulted in the Monday party. Hearing about my aunt LeEtta from the corps people. We thought that since she was 90+, most of the corps people would not come out. The chapel was full, including a band. We heard stories from former Girl Guards (my age), Sunday School members and Songsters. LeEtta influenced several generations of people at the Royal Oak corps and it was a huge blessing to hear those testimonies.
• Driving up to Michigan with my brother and sister-in-law in the middle of the night to get to the funeral. Those 5 hour drives always give us time to catch up and have some good conversations.

I thank God for my family and for this time we can spend together. Thanks for listening!

An amazing weekend

Yesterday was a lazy, recovery day for me. I had a great weekend but it took a lot out of me. The end of the week included a doctor and a dentist. (the dental hygenist said I had good oral hygiene!) I also spent time with good friends who are sisters and their families - Gortons and Yoders. In fact, I met the Seilers (chief secretary) and she immediately thought I was one of them. But, to make my sister happy, as soon as she learned who I was she said "You are Chris Merritt's sister." Chris thinks that doesn't happen very often, but being out of the territory for 3 years has changed things. Anyway, back to the events of the weekend.

I was reminded of what I really love about this territory when I went out to CBLI on Friday. It was the summer mission team program and the best one I've seen, both from the program side and from the missional effectiveness side. The passion of the youth and young adults was strong - whether they had been in a far off country or visiting little corps in Wisconsin and Michigan. They get it! A lot of that is because of Chris, Kristin and the other leaders who have influenced them. I loved the fact that each team memorized scripture together during their summer. They taught us lots of songs and shared powerful testimonies. I've known a lot of these 'kids' from birth or a very young age and watched them grow up to be godly, maturing and confident disciples of Jesus. Of course, they are not perfect and I'm sure their parents and corps officers could tell some stories - but there is definitely a lot of hope for the future of the Army and the kingdom, in this territory and beyond. One funny thing happened, well I thought so anyway. The worship team had us singing "Heaven Came Down" and the whole room (about 500 people) started clapping just like we used to 20 years ago. I burst out laughing. I never thought I'd sing tht song again, and if I did I was sure it would be in a nursing home not in a youth meeting! Personally, I have to admit I felt a little disconnected and it was hard not to be in the middle of it all, but reality is that life goes on and I'm thrilled to see the great things the Lord is doing. I went home tired from seeing so many people and trying again to have those little conversations.

Saturday I had a very nice time catching up with Bill and Sue Harfoot and then met Gortons to go out to camp again. It was the final program for the children and youth programs. The kids were cute and there were a lot of proud parents. The best part of the evening came at the very end. The teens and young adults had memorized a recently popularized speech, describing the character and life of Jesus. (sorry I can't give you a better description, I tried to find it online but couldn't. Can anyone help me?) They quoted it with power, passion and at a very high volume. I got chills as they described our Lord with certainty and faith, acknowledging their belief in Him and proclaiming Him as Lord to all of us. It was an amazing ending to a good evening. Here are a few pictures.


august07

Dace at the Art Museum

This is Dace...
This is a pig! (no offense meant to Dace)

Alive and in America!

I safely arrived on Friday evening, about 1 1/2 hours late but with no complications, including the Warsaw connection. Thanks to all of you who prayed about that. Just a little about my last days in Riga before I move on to current experiences. On Thursday (has it only been 6 days? Wow!) I had a delicious lunch with the Riga 2 crowd. Ilona RT fixed one of the most tasty meals I've every had. If you get invited to eat something she's cooking - say yes! And Ilona and Evelina made me some great cookies, traditional Latvian, to take with me. I just ate the last one yesterday. I have to admit I didn't share them very freely. That evening the Smiths and I went to the Big Lido. I had my last pankukas. We had a nice time together. Later, Veronika and Marina came over for a while. We had a good talk and said goodbye. Friday I finished my packing and cleaning then to a good bye coffee break for Linda Silina (off to a mission trip, then something new) and me. After some nice food and words, I was on my way to the airport. The girls said goodbye at the office, then followed us to the airport to say goodbye 'one more time!' The Smiths and Larssons stayed with me for lunch (at Lido!) and then it was the last goodbye. It was hard to say bye but I was tired of being in 'farewell' mode and ready to get on with the move. While in line to check in I met a couple also headed to Chicago (then on to San Francisco). She had looked into all of the travel rules and got opposite answers from what I did. She put me in a little panic but it all worked out. We continued to talk when we got on the bus to the plane, then while we waited in Warsaw. They were an interesting couple and if I was headed back to Latvia, we could probably have become friends. For you in Latvia, they are going to be featured in a couple of magazines soon - Ieva, Sieviete and Apelsinu (OK, maybe not spelled correctly but you know what I mean!) She will be on the cover of at least one - red hair and called Airina, I think. He's from the UK and of Indian heritage. Read their story, it should be interesting. I think they kept me from dwelling on leaving and getting too introspective. That was a good thing. I had a great group meet me at the airport - Chris and Steve and kids, Lisa and girls and Joe and Kristin. The 3 little girls came running and calling my name as soon as I got through the door and I felt well welcomed home! My sister's family stayed for the weekend. It was good to be with them without any pressures of schedules. And they helped me get on to a normal routine right away. No lounging or jet lag for me! Well, for a couple of days anyway. On Sunday we went to CBLI for church - it was good but a bit overwhelming to see so many people at once. I headed to OBT afterward for their day camp musical and to see people there, then to Jordans for a while. A very nice Sunday but I was tired. So Monday was my lazy day - and piggish - I ate lots of junk food! Some of my initial impressions of being at home:

• my cell phone is a portable PC - EEK! I have not figured out how to use it and feel overwhelmed by it. If you try to call me, be patient! My car also has some high tech things I've got to figure out. If you know me or you look at this blog, you understand that I'm not very good with technical stuff.
• I had Twizzlers (thanks, Kristin and Lisa!) and a Portillos hot dog and what ever else I eat, I've had my favorites!
• I went to get my driver's license replaced and had a Latvian 'de ja vu' of my immigration experiences as I walked in to the Secretary of State's office and saw the numbers above the desks. I brought something to read, expecting to wait for a long time. The whole process took less than 30 minutes, really! No hassles, no questions.
• Today I went to THQ and was amused when I realized the smell of THQ never changes! It's not bad - just unique. However, I did have some strange feelings as I realized I could quickly settle in to my routine there - coffee break with Carol and Kristin, lunch with the IT crew and visits to the usual offices. Again, not a bad thing, just interesting to think about.
• I get tired easily when I've been having lots of those quick conversations with people I haven't seen for at least a year. I wish I could sit with each person for an extended time and really get caught up. I can't easily or quickly answer the question "Are you glad to be home?" So, if you really want to hear the answer, let's meet for coffee or a meal together.
• I don't really have a plan for my holidays and I'm finding that stressful - how crazy is that? Why can't I just relax and enjoy having no responsibilities or people needing me?

When Sergejs said goodbye to me, he said in English "Let God bless you. Let God use you in your new work". I guess you could call that a missed translation, but I think they were important words for me. I know God wants to bless me and use me. The question is, will I let Him? During this holiday time, I'm looking for God's blessing every day and He is faithful!

this is it!

Tomorrow at noon I leave RHQ to go to the airport. My flight is at 2:40. And I'll be in Chicago at 7:35 p.m. Lots to write but no time, energy or brain left. I'll try to write soon after I get home. Unless I'm enjoying my vacation too much! Love to all who have lived with me in Riga through this blog.

more last things

Saturday was a great farewell party for the Smiths, Oltermans and me. Thanks to everyone who did the planning and work - Sarah, Dace, Ilona RT, Ieva and Olesja plus a few extras in the kitchen and other places. I'll post pictures and you can also check out Ieva's gallery (see side bar). The pictures describe our fun better than I can. I think it was one of the best farewell parties I've been part of. Lots of food (Latvian - mmmm), games (Latvian - hmmm) and noise (all languages!) Sunday was my last time at Riga 1 and it was a good day. I seemed to attract the kids at the beginning. Angelina and Josh were very interested in what I had in my bag - not very interesting to me. I was holding Josh during the worship time and it hit me "this is the last time I'll sing these songs in Latvian" and got a little weepy. Josh noticed my tears and patted me on the back and gave me a kiss on the cheek. Then he went back to clapping and swinging with the music. A little later I gave my testimony and again got a bit weepy (only because Erika was crying!) When I went back to my seat, Josh came over grabbed my hand and put it around his waist for me to give him a hug, held it for a while then went back to playing with Sian. I suggested to Sarah that he has the gift of discernment but she thinks he is a bit young for that. He definitely is very special and very sensitive. One of my favorite memories will be singing "Blessed Be the Name" and feeling like that praise was filling the hall. We didn't have a huge crowd but it sounded like it. It was beautiful and I'm sure the Lord was pleased with our offering. The song ends with this phrase "You give and take away but I will always say 'Blessed be Your Name!'" The truth in that line really struck me. Yes, this was a moment of taking away, but the last 3 years have been a gift. And so, I know that there is more to receive and yes, more to be taken away. But, through it all I can say "Blessed be Your Name!" Sarah had a time of prayer for me, which was very special. I had the feeling that I needed to be open and soak up all the prayers, love and blessings that were coming during those moments. I also received some beautiful "Aivis" prints of Latvia to hang in a special place in my new home.

More and more individual goodbyes have come - Olesja (pray for her, she is on a mission trip to India), Arturs and a number of the corps people. Of course, by Friday the good byes will come for everyone. Tonight Ieva and I went for dinner and then she came over for tea. We had a nice walk through Old Riga and good conversation along the way.

Tomorrow is house cleaning with Marika and Erika and who knows who else? Will be fun! Lots of photos here!

2007_07_21

musings about life - amusing or not

Taken from Ieva's Gallery (see side bar link)

• One of the things I've learned from reading Palau's book and 2 Corinthians is to trust God with the little things more often. Palau says "Often it's the little problems, not the big ones, that reveal the weaknesses in our character." This is so true for me. I'm great in a big crisis but the little worries of the day get me frustrated, nervous and distracted from what's important. So, I've been working on this. I know that part of it is my understanding of prayer - is God really concerned with whether I lost my keys or forgot to do some task? Well, that's a question I'll leave for you to answer. I am sure He is concerned with my reaction to those little problems. Here's my experience this week...Monday I had to get 2 documents prepared for the shipper to use for Latvian customs. One had to be translated, the other notarized. I thought all translators were away this week and I had a bad experience with a notary public previously. My first reaction was to be worried about getting this done. My 2nd thought was to practice what I've been studying. I decided to trust these 2 things with the Lord and see what happened. I walked in to the office and there was Olesja, returned for 1 day to do some things in the office. She had the letter written in 2 minutes. Next I was off to a notary public, who turned out to be as friendly, helpful and efficient as could be. Small miracles! Next little problem I'm trying to trust the Lord with is my flight home - Lot Airlines which doesn't have the best reputation. But, I'm looking at it as the end of this great adventure! Maybe I'll get some extra hours in Warsaw. I hear it's a nice city.


• After my things left Riga, I was told it would take 15-20 days to get to the states. My plan (admittedly procrastinating) was to finish the forms for Latvia and then do the ones for the US. I was headed to that task on Thursday morning when I had an urgent email from the US shipping company. "This is an emergency, please get your forms completed now." I won't comment about how she'd been trying to call my soon-to-be cell phone number in St. Louis and couldn't figure out why I wasn't answering, but hadn't tried to email or use the Latvian phone number listed in my correspondence. Anyway, I filled out the forms and faxed them to her and asked to be notified whether they were OK or needed some editing. A few hours later the same woman called to say my forms were fine and..."please hold..." "Your shipment has just arrived in the States." Yes, that's just 2 days after they left Riga. When I reminded her of the suggested shipping time, her response was "Well, in a country like Latvia I expected it would take much longer." I didn't say anything, which I think was great restraint on my part. The good news, my stuff arrived at US customs and will be in St. Louis before I leave Riga!


• One zoo story from last week - you know how in the old days and I suppose in some countries today pregnant women are kept hidden? No, I'm not advocating that - stick with me...in Latvia pregnant women often continue to wear what they wore pre-pregnancy - short shirts and low, low riding trousers. Now I know from Zoe's experience that maternity clothes are expensive here, so I'm not making any judgments. And Latvian women start out tiny, little things anyway. By the end of pregnancy you often see very large bare bellies walking down the street, protruding from those tiny women. Really, that's not what my story is about. I saw the most disturbing pregnancy at the zoo. Have you ever seen a pregnant camel? At first I thought the camels had some kind of disease, their humps were flopping over, one on each side of their bodies, but then Johanna pointed out their extended sides. The strangest sight I've every seen and there were 3 of them. I'll be happy never to see it again.


• I threw out a favorite pair of sandals today which I figure are more than 10 years old. The sole on one is completely separated from the shoe. I could probably repair it but as I only paid $12 or so I think I've got my monies worth. I did love those sandals and haven't found anything I like as well.


• Since my DVDs and most of my CDs are gone and I'm in my flat most of the day, I've been listening to recordings of Norridge Citadel's meetings. They have been sending them for a couple of years and I haven't been able to keep up. I also received recordings from Flint Citadel and Dearborn Heights. I won't deny that I immediately listen to the DH CDs, as I get to hear my sister and brother-in-law. But those only come one per month. Norridge sends a whole month's worth at a time. I still have several I haven't heard and this week I'm catching up. I've heard Doug Rowland, Darryl Leedom and Jesse Collins preach so far. I also love to hear the worship time and the band. I have only one complaint - Pete McBride's offertories are usually deleted. No offense to the preachers or other worship leaders, but I'd really love to hear Pete's piano creations each week.


• And finally, (aren't you glad?) tonight is the divisional welcome for Neal and Patty Richardson, my new DCs. I am sorry I can't be there but they are definitely in my thoughts and prayers. The pilgrimage camp follows for the rest of the weekend and it's the first big thing for the new divisional team (minus me.) I've been praying that this will draw the team together in a powerful and purposeful way and that they will all get a vision for what God wants to do in the division. Then I'll come along in a couple of months and join in with them physically. I'm joining them in prayer right now.

The boxes are gone...

Today the movers came and took away my things. Everything except what I can put in two suitcases and a carry on. I don't know what I'm supposed to be feeling, but except for a headache and tired I'm not feeling much of anything. OK, that's not true. The removal of most everything from my house exposed lots of dust and dust 'elephants' (too big to be called bunnies.) So, my main emotion is disgust and a longing for a maid! I think the headache also is caused by the dust. During and after the movers, I spent a while in Sarah's office just catching up. She's been away for a while on vacation and at camp. It was nice to talk but I think she was wishing I would leave so she could get some work done. The moving company is great. They are helpful and friendly and seem to be efficient. They said my things were going straight to the airport and I haven't had any calls from them, so I assume they had no trouble with customs. Why would Latvia want to keep my stuff? When it was all gone, I realized that I really don't put a lot of value on my personal property. I mean, it could all disappear and the things I would miss the most are my photos and books. I do have a lot but none of it is very dear to me. So, the question I have for myself is why do I keep so much? I guess most of it has a memory behind it of someplace I've traveled, someone I've met or of my family and friends. The memories can't be taken away (unless you read Lesa's blog of Monday, July 16 -http://www.xanga.com/Emjaymom) Sunday and Monday were wholly devoted to packing. I didn't have to do it all, the movers would have done whatever I left. But, as long as I had to sort through it, it was easier just to pack it away and get it out of my sight. Also, it will be much easier when I unpack if I know what I put in each box. The movers were surprised I hadn't left something for them to do, except the pictures. So, they double packed some things. They are well protected. I did have a momentary panic this afternoon, wondering if I might have packed something I really need, like my passport...just checked and it's still here.

On Saturday, the Smiths and I went out to our camp near Liepaja. It's about a 3 1/2 hour drive each way. The day couldn't have been anymore perfect. We got to the camp with enough time to walk down to the sea (Baltic) and then come back for lunch. We joined the Riga 1 and 2 corps Family Camp, which also included some other corps and several people who don't attend a corps but have some connection to someone at the camp. Ilona RT did most of the organizing, with help from Ieva and Sarah. It was a great camp - about 45 people of all ages. Everyone seemed to be enjoying themselves. After a really good Latvian soup lunch, there was a concert by some young women. They were good, especially their guitar playing. It was a nice, restful hour. I wandered around the camp taking pictures, some of them are linked below. I have never been to the camp and thought I should see it once before I leave. I'm glad I did - I think I've found a project to support when I get home. It's a beautiful place, but needs a lot of work. If you are interested, let me know. I'll show you all of the pictures and give you some project ideas. We were back at the beach for the last couple of hours. Then I suddenly realized I was going to have to say my final good bye to a few of the people - 2 new captains: Ilona and Velta and Lt. Aldona. All 3 were difficult. There I was on the beach with tears running down my face. It was also the Smiths last time to see those people, so we were all feeling a bit emotional. But, all in all a very nice day with good friends.

Thursday and Friday were spent with another good friend, Johanna, from Sweden. We met when she was a cadet and came to Riga 2+ years ago. We've had a special connection ever since and try to see each other whenever I'm in Stockholm. This time, she came here. I decided to leave my farewelling work and just spend time with Johanna. Thursday we walked around the old city and then came home for the evening. While we were out, we heard an interesting music performance. I heard a pan pipe and was sure it was a group from one of the central Asian countries. I dragged Johanna over to see and she said she thought they looked like american Indians. I couldn't believe it, but when one of them took his tom tom drum and started dancing around I had memories of Nebraska and Black Arrow. Then one of them came out with a cowboy hat and I had to admit they didn't look Asian. I went to see their albums and saw they were identified as Indians, but the contact information was for Germany. Someone explain that to me. I didn't buy an album but you can see some pictures. Friday we went to two places I've never been - a Latvian cemetary and the zoo. The cemetary made me think of Miriam - she loves to walk through cemetaries and I would never have gotten her out of this one (actually many connected to each other.) It was really interesting but can't be properly explained. Latvians take their cemetary plots very seriously - gardens and benches included. And no, I didn't take pictures. The zoo was, well, OK. The older I get the less I like seeing animals caged or in small confines. Maybe it's my own fear of being closed in and controlled? (no psychoanalysis please) But, the time to walk and talk was special. Even though we haven't seen each other a lot, it's been a nice friendship which will be hard to keep up from such a distance.

So, there you go. 5 days in Latvia and only 10 more to go. I caught up on blogs and internet gossip today and realized that a lot of my friends will be having babies soon after I get home. That should make it fun to get around and visit! Saturday is the farewell for me, Smiths and Oltermans. I thought it was just Riga 1 but now understand that everyone is invited. So, lots of goodbyes coming up. Thanks so much for your prayers during these days. You are getting me through - with the Holy Spirit's help, too! (see pictures in previous post)

Fun days in Latvia

Photos here. Words coming...


Johanna and Bernati"

Saturday was an organizing and packing day. I got a pretty good start and feel like the job is manageable. Sunday was my turn to preach at Riga 1 and my last time. I didn't expect many people but since the girls planned to be there and to lead the worship, I expected a good time. And it was. We had a pretty good group, about 35, and the worship was great! I preached from 2 Corinthians, inspired by the book I mentioned a couple of posts ago (Stop Pretending by Luis Palau). Dana translated, which was nice because she knows me and so it's easy to keep the flow. I came home intending to do some more packing but was exhausted and actually took a nap in the afternoon and then lounged the evening away. There was someone playing music either in the corps or just outside most of the night and I was awake. Wonder if my new house will be quiet? Yesterday and today were devoted to sorting and packing. I now have most of the sorting done, so it will be easy to put things in boxes. The house is a disaster and I have company, Johanna from Sweden, on Thursday and Friday. Tomorrow I'll be at the office for a while and then come home to clean the house up a bit.

(My life sounds really exciting these days, doesn't it?) Here are a few pictures to see just how exciting it is!


july 07"

Latvian Preschool in Chicago

Check this out! http://www.starins.org/

How to avoid packing!

Sorry to scare you Ieva. I am experimenting with the look of my blog. I don't think I like this one but it will do for a while. I have to come up with a new name and focus if I'm going to keep up the blog when I move to St. Louis. I don't think that life as a divisional secretary will be quite as exciting as the last 3 years have been, so I need some help. I want to keep writing but about what? And, suggestions for new names are welcome. No, Henrik, I'm not going to call it 'Meet me in St. Louis!'

I've been reading 'Stop Pretending' by Luis Palau. It is an excellent study of 2 Corinthians and would be a great small group study, especially for people in ministry/leadership. One of the things he says that really struck me is "When I start my day with a positive, joyful prayer to the Lord as the Apostle Paul prayed (2:14), I can even be with people who are negative without being negative myself." That is not a new thought but I guess it is something the Lord needed to get my attention about. I realized that I more often pray "Lord, this is going to be a hard day, please get me through it." Instead, I want to pray as Paul did "Thanks be to God who always leads us in triumph through Jesus Christ." Positive, victorious, hopeful not beaten down before I start. I tried it today and it was one of those days! Well, a mixed up day I guess. The morning was spent trying to sort out some problems with the living arrangements for some of the new captains, not so much the practical stuff as the attitude stuff. Tonight I was supposed to go to see the new Die Hard movie with Marika and Linda, but that didn't work out. When I got home from the training school, I had a frustrating discussion with Ronalds about my toilet which still is not working. I was feeling more defeated than victorious. And what I really needed to do tonight was start packing. The movers come in 10 days! Fortunately Ilona RT caught me on messenger and convinced Ieva and I to come over for fresh baked strawberry cake. Hmm - packing or cake with I. and I.? Packing will eventually get done, spending time with friends is much more valuable these days. And I can always pack tomorrow - unless the sun is shining!

Ieva found some new faces for me in Liepaja:

4th of July

independence day 07 Happy Birthday Ieva and Happy Birthday USA! Ieva and I went for a walk tonight and she encouraged me to find more faces in Riga. Here they are. Someday I will do a sermon or some kind of study using all of these faces I've collected.

A people on the move

Karen Shakespeare shared this poem with us. Dana translated it and we used it for Covenant Day. I need it today - maybe you will, too.

God's People? Why Abraham?

"I will make you into a great nation and I will bless you;
I will make your name great, and you will be a blessing.” Genesis 12:2

Why should one be called and not another,
if you are indeed the God of all peoples?
Why are some singled out for your favors?
Why Abraham?

Abraham was called
not to have but to give
not to acquire status but to serve;
not to be elite, but to be the first true universalist.
Abraham was called
to leave the known for the unknown;
to be a wanderer in the land of promise;
to have no foothold but a burial place.
Called to be blessed;
much more he was called to be a blessing.

Is this then what calling means.
To be a people on the move,
not clinging to the tried
the safe,
the known;
but traveling,
responding to a half-heard voice?

To be a people on the move
whose goal is not their own salvation
into some exclusive heavenly club,
but the fulfillment of your purposes
for all humanity,
the salvation of the world?

Edmund Banyard: Turn but a Stone

Dieva cilvēki? Kāpēc Ābrahāms?

Es tevi svētīšu un darīšu lielu tavu vārdu, un tu būsi par svētību.
I Mozus 12:2


Kāpēc viens tiek aicināts, Bet cits – ne,
Ja Tu patiešām esi Visu cilvēku Dievs?
Kāpēc ir daži,
Kas izvēlēti Tavai labvēlībai?
Kāpēc Ābrahāms?

Ābrahāms bija aicināts
Nevis saņemtu, bet lai dotu,
Nevis, lai iemantotu slavu, Bet lai kalpotu;
Nevis lai būtu elitē, Bet lai būtu pirmais patiesais universālists.
Ābrahāms bija aicināts
Pamest zināmo nezināmā dēļ,
Lai kļūtu par ceļotāju uz apsolīto zemi.
Viņš bija aicināts ne tikai būt svētīts,
Bet lai pats būtu par svētību.

Vai tad aicinājums nozīmē,
Ka mums jābūt cilvēkiem kustībā,
Ka mēs nedrīkstam turēties
Pie drošā un zināmā,
ka mums jāiet tur,
Kur mūs aicina svārstīga balss?

Būt cilvēkam kustībā,
Kura mērķis ir
Nevis personiskā glābšana
Kādā ekskluzīva debesu klubā,
Bet lai piepildītu mērķi par cilvēcību
Un glābjošo vārdu?

Weekend wanderings

It's been a fun and relaxing kind of weekend - totally at my control, which is so unusual. As I look at the Midland divisional calendar, I know it will be highly unusual for the next few years. Friday evening Olesja and I went out for dinner, walked around a bit and landed at Coffee Nation for coffee and a long talk. She starts her vacation this week, so won't be around much until after I'm gone. It was so good to sit and talk, about memories from when we first met, our small group and what the future holds. Olesja is extremely gifted and also deeply committed to faith and mission. The Lord will use her in amazing ways, I'm sure. Saturday was a 'me' day. I got up slowly. with a pot of coffee and some reading. But, then the sun peaked out and I decided I needed to be outside. I grabbed my camera and my credit card, and off I went. There are a few special souvenirs I want to take with me and I know there are some interesting sites I've still got to capture on camera before I go. I had no idea where I might end up but headed toward the Art Nouveau district. There are several buildings being renovated and I did get some new pics. I went towards my favorite building which just happens to have a coffee shop next to it. A latte and kuka were a lovely mid-morning treat. And as I sat there, watching tourists walk by, I looked out on one of the more beautiful buildings with interesting gargoyles and designs. I enjoyed it for a while, but then my mind went to the contrast I was experiencing from my outing last Saturday in Bauska. There I had been sitting outside the corps with many people who lived in much less luxurious settings, with little of the world's comforts and many difficulties in their lives. And yet, they were smiling, singing and enjoying fellowship together. But, what really struck me is the need to spend more time caring for those who are in 'Bauska' situations and less time sitting in tourist spots, drinking coffee. Don't get me wrong, I love doing that and it is refreshing, but not what my life is about. And I don't want to ever forget that or get too comfortable in coffee shops. Of course, I did also go to the souvenir store and buy some things for myself, so I guess I wasn't too moved by my earlier contemplation.

Today Graeme was the preacher at Riga 1. We didn't expect a lot of people, but most of the youth group was there, so it was a lively and good meeting. Graeme shared some good thoughts from Joshua 1 - one of my favorite passages and there's always something new to learn there. We had some salvationist visitors from Norway. They joined me and the Smiths at Cili Pizza for lunch. Riga is a popular tourist spot and we often have guests in the summer. It's fun to get to know them, talk about common acquaintances and realize again how small our Army world is. I walked them down to the tram through the rain, but again the sun peaked out. So, I showed them my favorite free tourist spot- the glass elevators to the top of Hotel Latvija, and then into the restrooms which have the best view. Come on over to Riga and I'll treat you to the best!
art nouveau riga"

I love this picture! Thanks to the Kozlovska sisters for this one. (click on it for better view)

Latvian summer celebrations

To find out more about summer solstice celebration in Lativa go here: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/J%C4%81%C5%86i

I've had the most interesting 2 days, after a week of trying to get some things done and get my energy back. These 2 days were perfect days, in fact. It is Ligo Jani Festival(see link above). This is my 4th summer here, but the first time I've been here for this holiday. I was told it's mostly about drinking and it's best to be away, but while there is definitely that part you can celebrate summer without that. On Saturday, the Smiths and I went to Double Coffee for a very long breakfast which led into ice cream before we left. It was really relaxing and fun. Sian and I did a lot of giggling. And we hardly talked work which was great. In the evening I drove to Bauska for their Jani celebration. Ruth asked me to come so they could say good bye to me. There were about 40 people there, mostly women and mostly older than me. Ruth taught me something really important while I was with them last night. She told me that many of them are either alone or have husbands who would be home drinking all night. So she has this event every year to give them something special and a safe place. I guess we often think that kind of group doesn't need special attention, but I understood that her heart is with them and this is what she can do to help. I still hope and pray that someday there will be some help available for the men and women who are dealing with alchohol problems (both the acoholic and families). But, until then this is something we can do and it costs us very little time, money or even energy. I wish I had been more sensitive about this sooner. Back to the party - we had devotions, I gave my testimony and got a beautiful wreath of flowers to wear. Then we sang, first Christian songs and then folk songs about Ligo and Jani. It was fun to try to sing along. Then the food - traditional sausages on the grill (I had 2!), pierags, delicious caraway cheese (why haven't I had this before?) and Kvass (a popular drink - YUK!) I switched to something like cream soda quickly.

Sunday we had no church because many people are away. I'm sorry we didn't plan something (not the corps, but those of us who were around) but I invited the girls over for the day. We started with a walk to Old Riga with our cameras (see photos) and after a few hours we returned to my flat for food and lots of it. I bought a lot knowing that the girls can eat and they brought some too. Most of it is gone! We watched a movie, played a couple of games and now the day is over. And so is the weekend, so to work tomorrow. I have to get going on all the farewell stuff. But an absolutely perfect in every way 2 days.

Check out the movies and photos:

midsummer movies

mid summer

more memories of commissioning

Here are a few things I want to remember about these special days in Latvia:

• This is what I read in my devotions every day during the week: Father, protect me from the onslaught of things, both good and evil, that will bid for my attention this day. (from Disciplines for the inner life) What better words could I have?
• The cadets' uniforms arrived and fit! But, there were no epaulets, stars or red patches with them. The epaulets and stars arrived later, but not the patches. Lisbeth bought velcro for the epaulets to attach. Chris and I rummaged through the office looking for old patches or something to be substituted. We found red hat bands. I gave them to the cadets and said 'do what you can with these.' The next morning they had beautiful red patches with 'P's. They are so clever!
• Sergejs' great big smiles as he marched down the aisle and as he received his commission
• Arturs words of thanks to me and the many flowers I received from corps people and friends
• Seeing Velta from a distance in her red trimmed uniform and thinking it looked natural. Vic saying "she looks like she was born for it!"
• Ilona's 3 handsome sons surrounding her after commissioning, so proud of her!

Want to read more? Check out these blogs: Henrik - http://www.andersennews.blogspot.com/; Graeme - http://www.pilgrimsoldier.net/; Zoe - www.pilgrimsoldier.net/zoe

And have you read your latest copy of Global Exchange? You should always read it. Morag Yoder is the editor and she's good. But, especially July-September, 2007, p. 6ff. Thanks, Morag!

my photos

commissioning 1

1st 2 days - before I got too busy to take photos!

How do you feel? That's the big question that people have been asking and I guess I've been asking myself, too. I feel really blessed and cared for by God. Not just through this week but over the last 3 years. Specifically, about these days. . .
Thursday was our first big event. We had an open house at the training school. Everyone who had any connection to the cadets' training was invited. About 20 or so came. Ilona Rasa-Trupa, Dana and the cadet ladies put the food together. Wonderful Latvian treats. Thanks to them for all their work. Don't think the men and I were lazy, though. We were at Riga 1 setting up for commissioning. Commissioners Poke and Kristina Frisk (Chief Secretary) were with us for all 4 days. After the open house, we went with Goran and Chris to Lido (you'll hear that name often, too) to go over the plans for the rest of the week. It was an excellent first day of our big Commissioning!
Friday was an especially sacred day. We came back to the training school for the Covenant Service. This was a private meeting, only the cadets, Larssons, Pokes, K. Frisk, me and translators – Guna and Dana, along with Sergejs wife, Aižan. The program was simple but moving. Three testimonies helped focus our thoughts. Interesting that they all shared a common theme – fathers. Kristina and Guna talked about their calling and their fathers' encouragement. I talked about God's commitment to us during difficult days and shared about my parents. Each of us were able to testify to God's faithfulness to us. A good message for the cadets to hear at this important hour. I could sense the cadets were starting to feel the seriousness of the next hours/days in their lives. Already they were starting to act like officers/leaders, instead of cadets/students. I noticed it most in Arturs as he translated for Guna, in an almost professional manner and then as he, along with Ilona, movingly read a beautiful poem about God's call on Abraham's life. (I might post it later.) We sang a beautiful song, tune by Paul Fleeman - “The Cross is not greater than His grace”. (If you want a copy of the melody, I'll be happy to share.) Then Chris prayed a powerful prayer over each of the cadets. Vic Poke challenged them with some words from scripture, then on to the covenant signing. What an amazing privilege to sit at the table as they signed and witness this commitment with my own signature. We ended with one of my favorite songs to sing with them, “Blessed Assurance” to the new tune, of course!
Of course, we couldn't be serious all day. After lunch at, you guessed it, Lido – we went to Riga 1 for commissioning rehearsal. I have never enjoyed this part of commissioning but we did OK. They listened most of the time and Vic was sure of what he wanted, so that made it easier. We also laughed a lot. The day ended with dinner at the Steak Haus with our guests from Sweden. This included Brittmarie Karlsson and Lisbeth Mansson. Brittmarie has been a good support to me and our training from the beginning. Lisbeth is the officer appointed to take my place. She came to see more about us. (more later) Of course, after dinner we had to have coffee and dessert so Chris and I took charge. We went to the Hotel Latvia to see the view from the top and finished the evening with nice fellowship and treats in the hotel. A long but important day.
Saturday morning we all were back at the Training school to celebrate with the families and special friends of the cadets. We also invited Henrik and Lisbeth to join us. I'm so glad they were able to come for the weekend. Of course, as soon as Lisbeth saw we could use a little help, she joined in. Thanks, Lisbeth! The cadets were each given 4 tickets for this luncheon. One of these was for the person they had chosen to receive the Silver Star. A special recognition for the parent or significant person who had helped them through life. It was so much fun to get to see and meet the family of the cadets. Sergejs' sister and father were lovely. Velta, Ilona and Andrejs/Irina had children there and for V. and I. grandchildren, too. Arturs' mother was with him. In addition, they all invited people who had been spiritual parents for them. It was beautiful and inspiring to hear their stories. Some of those present are not Christians and we pray that some word or the simple witness through the life of the cadets will draw them to Christ. I have to mention the lunch – good homemade Latvian food. I was a happy girl! I rushed home from there because I had to write a speech for the evening. A phrase that stuck with me from my scripture reading during the week had been 1 Corinthians 2:16b “We have the mind of Christ”. I prayed that my words would reflect the mind of Christ. And so we moved into the actual Commissioning and Ordination Service. So far I had remained fairly unemotional – or perhaps my emotions were held in check until later. There are Vic and I standing in front of a hall full of people as Janis Mucinieks marches in proudly bearing the flag. Then it's the cadets turn – Arturs first. Unexpectedly my eyes welled up as he came down the stairs. I would have held it together but Vic chose that moment to lean over and say “This must be a very special moment for you.” And there you go...I didn't lose it but only barely. The cadets were so excited marching in, some could barely keep from flying through the hall. Fortunately, that made me laugh and I got a grip. A bit later I got to present the cadets to the TC and the Army in Latvia. I'll put that talk up later. Then Sergejs, Arturs and Dace did a fun drama. That followed with the cadets reciting the doctrines and then the commissioning/ordination. We had chosen a special verse for each cadet and that was shared during their individual commissioning moment. Vic gave a short challenge to the cadets and the congregation and we had a good time of response and prayer. And then...finally the cadets had snuck out the back door and reentered wearing their red 'captains' trim. We greeted them loudly and they were presented with arm loads of flowers and gifts. Then a nice reception, organized by Ilona RT and catered by Katrina. Sunday was a day of worship. Sarah and her team did a great job and we sang the best songs! The theme for the meeting was 'Called to be holy'. 2 cadets and Ros Poke gave their testimonies based on that theme. Arturs, Velta and Ilona did a hysterically funny drama - who taught them to act?! Vic preached a clear message to all of us about the need to be filled with the Holy Spirit in order to live a holy life. There was a great response and I believe some important decisions were made. Following the meeting more food and fellowship, put together by the same great team. One sad thing - it was time to say good bye to Guna, Andre and Manuela. And we were done.
For me the rest of the day included lunch, at another Lido (!), with Smiths, Andersens, Ilsters and Dace. Then a nap, followed by a good time at Ilsters' house with them and Andersens. I had to really say goodbye to Henrik and Lisbeth this time. Who knows when we will meet again. But, I finish for tonight with my new life theme “We'll always have blogs!”
Check out this wonderful website for Ieva's pictures from the week.(check out her other pics, too) http://ieva.class8.be/main.php?g2_page=3 Specific thanks and probably more reflection will come later.