Ice Dams

As my cousin prepared to leave her house for the year, we walked through a document of information on how to care for various parts of the house.  Some pieces of information were seasonal--what to do when it starts to snow or when everything starts to thaw.  I was told to watch the amount of snow on the roof and be aware of ice dams.

It's an understatment to say that we've had a lot of snow already this year.  There are multiple feet of snow piled on the corners and everywhere possible.  Mailboxes are just barely visible.  As I drove in and out of the garage, it looked like a lot of snow on the roof, but I didn't stop to calculate how much was probably resting there.

Last week, as I sat ensconed in warmth inside my house, preparing for Christmas I heard a soft new noise, kind of like dripping.  It's not the first time I've been startled to hear a new noise in my house, so I didn't feel too concerned (first problem).  As I finished packing, I figured I better identify where the noise was coming from before leaving for a few days.

As I walked around the front entry, I found that the noise was coming from the front door, where it was leaking in the house---not a good sign.  I called my parents, asking for their help over the phone and then went up on the roof to investigate.  To even get up on the roof, I had to clear a bunch of snow from the balacony and garage roof.  I then created a path up the roof toward the front entry area--no real fear of falling since there was probably 1-2 feet of snow covering the entire roof, preventing sliding.  So, to fast forward just a bit...my father and I spent around 24 'man-hours' on the roof, clearning the snow, chopping at some icy areas, installing heat tapes, and putting salt on the ice. I was so thankful to have his help!

As I look back, I wish I had better known how to prevent the problem.  I wish I had seen the ice building up and recognized it as the ice dam it was, creating problems inside the house.

I had all the information I needed.  I was told to watch for ice dams, and I was watching.  I just didn't know how to identify an ice dam.  I knew I needed to avoid them, but didn't know how to recognize them. My watching was kind of pointless.

I fear sometimes that's how I live my spiritual life.  I know I need to watch out for the attacks of the devil.  He's cunning and is seeking to destroy followers of Christ.  I know that he is the father of lies.  And yet, as I try to stand guard and be prepared, I don't always know how to identify his attacks. 

Just like others driving by my house probably easily recognized the ice dam forming on the front of my house, others often see attacks in my life for what they are before I understand.  That's why we need each other.  We help each other do the work of standing guard and of dismantling the ice dams (attacks of the enemy).  Alone the task feels daunting and impossible, but in community, our enemy doesn't stand a chance!

I pray that God will continue to open my eyes to be prepared and stand strong against satan.  I pray that he will enable me to stand beside my brothers and sisters and lovingly encourage and support them.  What will you do?

White as Snow

I recently wrote the following in an email update:

It’s been wonderful to be in Minnesota this winter to enjoy the brilliant white snow (and family, new friends, and so many other wonderful blessings!). During the big snowfall (8 inches) last week I was with my sister and her family in Hutchinson, MN. As it began to snow shortly before lunch, I wondered how long it would take until the grass was no longer visible. It took only a few hours. As we went out to play in the snow later that afternoon after snow blowing the driveway, I marveled at the incredible beauty of the snow. My drive back to the Twin Cities was incredibly beautiful. I wondered at how the landscape had been transformed.


Isaiah 1:18
“Come now, let us settle the matter,”
says the LORD.
“Though your sins are like scarlet,
they shall be as white as snow;
though they are red as crimson,
they shall be like wool.


With such a perfect picture of the pure whiteness of snow, I found myself meditating on the incredible gift of forgiveness. I pictured my sins like the blades of grass. They stuck up, completely visible, before the snow began falling. The snow covered them in such a way that they were no longer visible. How wonderful to imagine! But even greater is that not only are our sins forgiven and cleansed, we don’t ever have to worry about them again. Unlike the grass that will certainly be visible with the coming of spring, we don’t have to worry that God is going to bring up sins he’s already forgiven. They’re cleansed, taken care of, for good. Wow! What amazing grace!


May God continue to draw us nearer to himself. May we be quick to seek his forgiveness and the forgiveness of others. May we live in the security that our sins have been made white as snow…not by our own effort, but through the work of Jesus Christ on our behalf.

As a snowstorm hit Minnesota this past weekend dumping 16-20 inches of snow on the area, it was amazing to continue to reflect on this idea.  The 'whiteness' of the snow is overwhelming at times--there's so much of it!  It's being trucked out of the city and off the roads. 
 
It is neat to picture Christ 'dumping' his righteousness on us (not trying to take lightly that incredible gift), in such amounts that we can't question whether our sins have been forgiven.  They're removed, forever...with pure whiteness, holiness.  Whoa!

Combustion

I love living in a house with a fireplace!  It's wonderful to curl up on the couch in the afternoons/evenings to enjoy a good book or get some school work done while enjoying the comfort of a fire. 

As I sat watching the fire the other night, it occurred to me that the logs are never coming back out of the fire. There isn't anything that can be done to take the ashes from the fire and somehow recreate the logs for the next fire.  They've undergone a change and because it was a chemical change, it can never be undone.

Hebrews 11:28-29
Therefore, since we are receving a kingdom that cannot be shaken, let us be thankful, and so worship God acceptably with reverance and awe, for our "God is a consuming fire".

What an incredible thought!  God is a consuming fire.  If I think about it, we are to be changed when we're in the presence of God.  It is my dear hope that the time I spend in God's presence deeply affects me, at the core and very being of who I am.  I hope and pray that I am so changed that I am unable to return to the woman I once was.  I want to be radically different.  Perhaps it won't always be visible on the outside, but I want there to be a difference.  This change isn't something that I can somehow drum up or create on my own.  It comes only by being in the presence of a holy and loving God.

How is God changing you?

God, I pray that you would radically change my heart and mind, that I would allow you complete access to my life.  I pray that I would be changed in such a way that I would be unable to return to what once was.  Please draw me closer to you. 

Unclogging the Pipes

I've heard it said somewhere that the distance between my head and heart is only 18 inches.  An 18 inch journey.  So why does it seem so much longer?  Why is it so hard for information clearly known in the head to penetrate the heart?  Perhaps there's a clog somewhere.

Recently, the blower furnace where I'm living started to fill with water.  I figured the sound I heard wasn't normal.  I worked with my dad and brother to try and figure out the problem.  It turns out the problem wasn't within the furnace, but in the pipes once the condensate left the furnace.  Somewhere in the 40 feet of pipes between the furnace and the basement drain there was a clog. 

Because the pipes made many twists and turns at the top of the journey to the basement, we were unable to resolve the clog from the top, even with using draino.  The next step was creating a better access point from the basement which allowed us to insert a snake in the pipe and ultimately to resolve the issue.  Initially the water coming through the pipe was black, full of suspended crud and dragging along more solids.  We filled a spaghetti sauce jar with the sediment from the pipes.  Icky black stuff that clearly wasn't good for the health of the pipes.

I think the same thing often happens in our lives.  There's so much we know floating around in our heads that doesn't get down and impact our hearts.  We know the truth, but we struggle with accepting it and allowing that truth to transform our lives.  It leads me to conclude that I need some serious plumbing help.  I need to cry out to God asking that he clean out the path between my head and heart allowing his truth to pentrate my heart and radically affect my life.  Perhaps there are lies deeply embedded that need to be uprooted or sin that needs to be confessed and forgiven.  I'm sure my heavenly Father is excited to get started.

Laura's Literary Development

During my birthday this week, I pulled out photo albums and scrapbooks from elementary school.  It was neat to flip through the pages looking at pictures I'd drawn, stories I'd written, and a variety of thoughts about life.  It made for lots of laughter:)

1st Grade:

The Blue Butterfly
Ond day I was sitting in the grass and I saw a butterfly in the sky.  It was cute and blue.  I tried to catch it but I missed.

The Day With Santa
One day I rode with Santa in his sled.  It was so fun.  I almost fell out.  But Santa grabbed me.  It was a close one.  I loved that day.

One day Ted went to the fridge to get some grapes.  But there were no grapes left.  He went to the store to get some grapes.  The store was out of grapes.  So he had to wait a week.  Then he got to eat all the grapes.

2nd Grade:

A Star Story
It looks like it's sort of squished up there.  It looks like there's not enough room for 1 million stars.  I wouldn't like to be a star because it would be squished.   I think it would be fun because yu might see a lot of things.  You might get sort of bored though.

The Castle of Gold
Once there was a castle of gold.  It was beautiful.  You would love to live in it.  The king and queen held a lot of parties.  You would have a marvelous time.  I probably would too.  You would love to own it.  So would I.  But in those days you would have your head cut off.  You would be sorry.  The End

3rd Grade:

I've Got the Touch
When I went to school I nibbled on my pencil while I was doing my homeowkr.  It began to turn to ice cream.  I was so surprised I almost ran back home to tell my mother.  I did not finish my homework because I did not have a pencil.  So I had to borrow one frmo my friend.  I went to band and started to practice my lesson but my flute turne to ice cream!  I ran out of the room and put my teeth o the handle of the door.  Oops!  I forgot about my touch.  The door started to turn to ice cream.  Oh, no!  I ran back to class.  It was time for lunch.  I ate my lunch in the classroom.  I went home early because I did not want to find out what would happen next.
(written after reading The Chocolate Touch)

BCA 7 Years In Review

As I prepard to share with churches and supporters about my ministry at BCA, I thought it would be neat to compile pictures from my time in Romania.  You can see the school years labeled.  Some years are missing because the pictures are on CDs in Bucharest.  It's amazing to think about each of the lives that has been impacted by BCA and by my life.

Many thanks to my dear friend Elizabeth Hunnicutt who gave permission for me to use her song, "Finally Feel Like Living".

Doing Junkie

I'm a 'doing junkie'.  It's not something that entered my conscious thought until recently.  I like to be doing things, especially things that seem good.  As I returned to the US this summer, I brought with me great ideas of what I would do during my time here.  I looked forward to getting involved in a church and finding other service organizations that needed willing hands.  I had a picture of what I thought this year in the US would look like, but my expectations have been very different from the reality of this year.  (Isn't that generally the case with expectations though?)

From the first week I stepped into Hope, I knew I was supposed to attend church there.  I got connected with a small group and started looking for other opportunities.  As I explored different avenues, it was as if I would get to the point of expressing interest and then feel like God was asking me not to pursue that opportunity any longer.  I was looking for ways to build relationships (a good thing, right) and serve (good, right) and felt a check in my spirit. 

This kind of confused me.  I had all this time to use and I was trying to use it well, trying to find places in which to invest.  Why wasn't it working out the way I imagined?

As I drove home from church last week it was like I caught a glimpse of the gift of rest God is giving me in this season.  It has felt sometimes difficult to accept and at the same time like a tremendous blessing.  I'm the type of person who sees a need and often jumps to remedy the need.  Feeling like God has called me to sit back and wait has been a challenge, but in that waiting, I've seen my tendency toward being a 'doing junkie' instead of turning to God.  I've filled the time and space in my life to avoid confronting deep heart issues.  In being 'forced' to slow down enough to hear my heart, I've given myself permission to listen and to begin to take steps to bring healing to areas that have been long ignored and neglected.  Now that I've seen this need, how will God act next to help bring wholeness in my life?

Tire Treads

As has probably become obvious, car maintenance is something relatively new for me.  I brought my car by a shop to have them listen to it...helping me to know if the noises I was hearing were 'nromal' or if they should cause me concern.  The technician was a great help.  He walked through checking for fluids--all levels good.  Then he started the car.  He came around to listen to the engine and diagnosed 'rod knock'.  I'm sure if you want to know more, you can find that on the internet somewhere, but please don't ask me to explain it to you.  It all made perfect sense as he was explaining it to me, but it seems to have vanished from my short-term memory.

Anyhow...after giving me the car's death sentence (since there's no repair that can be done--just gradual deterioration) he also mentioned that my tires were worn.  I hadn't really paid any attention to my tires, just kind of relied on them functioning well.  He pointed to the 'wear line', showing me that the tires were already well worn and in need of replacement.  I didn't know such a line existed on tires.  I moved ahead with getting a quote on tires (learning what size tires my car needed).

As I've been slowly gathering information on tire prices at different locations, I thought about how this seems to parallel my life in the past few years.  There is much that I took for granted, assuming that I'd have the energy needed, that things were working well...  Only as I've slowed down to look have I seen how badly things were worn.  It's meant an adjustment to rest and refreshment, allowing myself to slow down and try living in different ways.

Rest doesn't just mean sitting around all day doing nothing, but it has meant a change in how I approach decisions and opportunities.  I've generally been the type of person that jumps at opportunities, expecting that I'll find the time and energy to fulfill my commitments well.  It seems that I've often not taken into account the reality of how I've been made.  I've been forced to stop and look at the tire treads on my car, to see that they're worn.

Some of the things that have brought me rest:
-not having to set an alarm clock some mornings--waking up to the sun
-physical labor of building a deck alongside family
-estended times of sitting with God without much of an agenda
-hanging with my nieces
-taking a walk around Lake Harriet with a dear friend and colleague
-visiting friends from college and enjoying long conversations
-sampling apple varieties that I haven't tasted in years
-enjoying the changing leaves
-space in my days to drive my grandpa to Rochester for a radiation treatment, ending the day with a trip to a family farm for a ride in a combine
-small group
-being able to stay up late without feeling guilty
-dreaming big
-listening
-playing cards with my grandparents

Before the snow comes, I need to make a decision and get my tires replaced.  I hope that in this year in the US, God will replace/renew those parts of my life that are worn down and enable me to walk forward in the full knowledge of his presence with me no matter what comes next.

Finally Feel Like Living

by Elizabeth Hunnicutt & Joel Hanson

I heard somebody say,

"The worst decision you can make

is to make no decision"

& I think they may be right,

I'm still trying to decide

Oh this feels like a collision

Cause what if I regret some choice along the way

What if failure finally catches me

If I want to fly

I'm gonna have to say goodbye

& start a brand new way of life

That finally feels like living

& I've got to to try

Stop holding on to all these lies

I'm tired of wasting all this time

I finally feel like living

I could wait until I know

just what to do & where to go

But I might be here forever

I could surrender to my fears,

like I've done for all these years

& never know if it gets better

There's a chance that I might miss

these old familiar walls

& these chains I couldn't even see

Oh I thought I was

But I wasn't living

I'm stepping out

Into a new beginning



I had the privilege of having lunch with a friend and talking about the future...the desire to walk a different path from this point, to move ahead in health and faith instead of remaining in ways that have become so easy and familiar.  I love that this song points toward that direction--the fear of leaving behind a life that has become comfortable and the tension of walking ahead into the unknowns.  It's a new beginning.

Beauty

I had a wonderful time in Portland, OR with dear friends.  It was wonderful to have time for enjoying company as well as the beauty of God's creation.  Amazing!

My Brother

I don't often get to spend lots of time around my brother.  Having moved into the Twin Cities, I'm now living only 20 minutes away from my brother Jason and his wife Megan.  I love being this close! 

The day my car died (the first time), it was my brother who arrived before the two truck and waited with me until it arrived, driving with me to the service station to talk with the mechanic.  He unloaded my truck and loaned me his vehicle for a few days.  Again, during the second bout with car troubles, my brother walked me through some basic testing as directed by the agency renting me the car--checking for a spark, listening for fuel pump, and testing fuel line pressure (all new things for me).  It helped to have two pairs of hands to walk through those tests.  I've so appreciated his calm demeanor and his shoulder to cry on while facing car problems.

It's also been fun these past few weeks to work with Jason and Megan on their new deck.  They planned the entire project out and Jason did a great job enabling Megan and me to help.  It's not easy having two women waiting on you for direction while you're trying to figure out solutions to problems.  Jason handled it with much grace.  Late nights hanging out in their backyard working beneath floodlights are some of my fondest memories.  I love the physical work, but also the joy of working beside my brother and his wife.

In preparation for their annual cider party, Jason and I drove to Delano to pick up the apples.  Along the way we snapped a picture of a chicken, turned around to go to a dollar store, and enjoyed petting/holding all the animals at the apple orchard (along with a game of tether ball).  The cider party was a success!  It was special to see my brother engaging everyone who came--no matter what age or physical ability.  He taught about mashing the apples and then pressing them.  What a neat guy!  I'm blessed to call him my brother.  I look forward to more fun memories throughout the next months!

Turkey Baster and Too Much Oil

Go graciously provided a car for me to use this year.  During the first two weeks, it was towed twice.  The first time, it started just fine later that afternoon when the auto shop people got around to looking at it.  The next time it was towed, it ended up that the fuel pump had 'died'--a major repair for those like me who didn't know.  So, I am feeling a little gun-shy about my car.

After the second time in the shop, I thought I heard a strange noise in the engine, but not really knowing much about cars and not being familiar with this car I didn't think too much about it.  Last Friday I flew to Portland for the week, leaving my car behind (clearly).  My mom used it one day and mentioned that the noise sounded like the oil was low.  I had checked the oil right before it was towed the second time so didn't think that was the problem---but now I wasn't the only one hearing things.  I returned last night and decided to check the oil before even driving it home.  In the dimness of the parking lot lights, I thought for sure the oil was low--down to the bottom of the dipstick--not a good thing.  As I drove home, I called my mom and brother for advice.  After hearing that I probably shouldn't drive it anywhere before adding oil, I braved using the motorcycle this morning to go get some oil.  I opened the hood this afternoon and dumped some in after spilling some on the engine--funnels are great.  Her I was figuring that it would come up to the top to tell me it's full--like a gas tank, glass, any other reservoir.  But, I've since learned that isn't the way it works with oil--and if I'd stopped to think about it a bit I probably could have figured that one out.  But in the moment, I was so sure this was the right plan of attack that I didn't stop to do much thinking.  I then checked the oil again.  It had somehow jumped to now being over two inches about the 'full mark'.  I knew that wasn't a good thing either, but couldn't figure out how 2 quarts could have made that much difference.  So...I called my mom after doing some reading on the internet (quality information you know) and figured that again, before driving it I needed to remove the excess oil.  Having only once before watched my dad do an oil change, that seemed a formidable task.  So, I decided to try a new technique--a turkey baster from above.  When that didn't yield results, I attached a hose to the end of the baster and tried again.  (I still hadn't spent much time thinking about how far down the oil must be considering the length of the dipstick.)  In case you hadn't already figure it out, I didn't get anything out.  So, I called my brother to ask for his help in removing some of the excess oil.  He arrived on his white horse (cleverly disguised as an aging Volvo with a loud muffler) and taught me about removing the excess oil.  It's now been cleaned up and the oil level is back to normal.  I can only figure that it would have been wise to double check the oil level before adding additional oil this afternoon.  Apparently my initial look last night was faulty or God multiplied the oil that I added today.  Either way, there's still a funny noise that I'll take steps to figure out next week...maybe it's normal, but after not owning/driving a car consistently for seven years I've kind of forgotten what cars in normal condition sound like.  So...I feel like I'm taking a class on car maintenance and failing while trying really hard.  I'm learning there's so much to learn.  I'm almost at the point of being able to laugh at it all...almost.

Smashed Potatoes

2 Corinthians 4:16-18 (The Message)

So we're not giving up. How could we! Even though on the outside it often looks like things are falling apart on us, on the inside, where God is making new life, not a day goes by without his unfolding grace. These hard times are small potatoes compared to the coming good times, the lavish celebration prepared for us. There's far more here than meets the eye. The things we see now are here today, gone tomorrow. But the things we can't see now will last forever.

I wrote an email update about potatoes recently, but I've been thinking more about them in recent days.  Often times, the potatoes we get 'served' are much larger than we might and seem unappealing.  For me, the more appealing ways to eat potatoes are as french fries, chips, mashed potatoes with lots of toppings,or au gratin.  I picture myself staring at this grouping of potatoes on my plate (the trial) and as I sit there, I see it transforming before my very eyes.  It's as if Jesus says, 'I won't remove the potato from your plate, but we'll work together on this one.' 
 
As we look back on the trials in our lives, we can often times more clearly see God's hand and leading.  It doesn't usually take away the pain or hurt that often accompanies trials.  As I reflect on the past seven years in Romania, I've often thought that if I knew all the challenges these years held when I first arrived in Bucharest, I would likely have been on the first plane back to Minnesota.  In God's faithfulness, He walked me through one serving of potatoes at a time.  I can't say that I can look back and understand the purpose of every single difficult thing, but I can see how I've grown (which is certainly probably part if not all of the purpose).  I'm so thankful that God only gives us the size serving of potatoes that he knows we can handle, without threatening that there are more on the way, or pushing us faster than we're ready to go.  What a great God we have.

When Did It Happen?

I was sorting through my coins trying to come up with exact change in the grocery store last week.  (In Romania, most cashiers expect and will even sometimes demand exact payment of a bill.)  I was shocked to look down and see a penny with a completely different reverse side than the one I'd grown familiar with.  According to the US mint website the design I'm most famliar with (Lincoln Memorial) has been used since 1959.  The new penny features a union shield with 13 vertical stripes which represent the states that joined in one compact union to support the federal government, which is represented by the horizontal bar above. The horizontal bar features the inscription E PLURIBUS UNUM—"out of many, one". The union shield, which dates back to the 1780s, was used widely during the Civil War. The shield is also featured on frescoes by Constantino Brumidi throughout the halls of the U.S. Capitol Building completed in the mid-19th century.

License Plates Randomness

I found myself watching license plates during my time in Idaho and decided to keep track of each state I saw.  I think it'd be fun to see how many I can see in my year in the US.  Listed below are the states I saw while in Idaho. 

Alaska
Arkansas
California
Colorado
Idaho
Kansas
Maryland
Michigan
Minnesota
Missouri
Montana
Nevada
New Mexico
Oregon
Tennessee
Texas
Utah
Virginia
Washington
Wisconsin
Wyoming

Stuck

I spent the past two weeks in Idaho for my first graduate level class.  Knowing I had a weekend in between the two weeks, I started looking for activites to do.  About the only thing that jumped off the page was white water rafting.  It looked fun on one hand and also very daunting! 

I put off calling to make a reservation until Saturday morning.  I had hoped to be able to take a 1/2 day trip that would travel through class 2 and 3 rapids.  That trip was full, but the woman offered the option of joining a trip covering a different section of the river with class 3 and 4 rapids.  I reluctantly agreed wondering what I was getting myself into.

I arrived at the headquarters, signed my waiver, got my gear (helmet--wasn't expecting that one, lifejacket, paddle), and sat down for the safety explanation. We split up into two boats and started down the river, using the calm part of the river (first 2 miles or so) to learn about coordinating paddling and working together. We entered the section with rapids. It was a blast and a great adrenaline rush as we plunged through the rapids, barely scraping past some rocks and have waves rush over us.

As we got to the end, the guide asked whether I enjoyed the trip.  After hearing that I did, he mentioned another trip with similar rapids the following day.  I didn't figure I would be able to swing that, but started thinking about coming back the afternoon after my final day of classes.

I called back late in the week hoping to find a slot to do the same section of river.  I ended up finding a spot with another company. 

We got on the river just after 2 on Friday afternoon.  The trip started out in a very similar fashion.  We passed through the first series of rapids.  At the beginning of the first class 4 rapids we came to, we hit a rock, spinning us slowly through the rapids--not exactly beautiful exection, but we ended the rapids just fine.

Down the river we went until we hit the final class 4 rapids of the day.  We hit a rough patch and one of the people in our raft got hurdled out of the raft.  Because the water was traveling so fast, he was swept through the entire rapids before being picked up.  The rest of us found ourselves 'stuck' on a rock, being heaved to and fro in the water--raft standing on its long side near flipping upside down before being pushed down by the next wave.  Our guide tried a bunch of maneuvers to get us unstuck as the other raft guide and kayaker with our group tried to offer guidance from the shore.  10 min later we were away from the spot enough to catch a rope and get pulled away.  All paddles but mine had been swept away which made the rest of a rapids section a bit more exciting as we all clung to the boat while our guide navigated the waters.  It wasn't an experience I'd like to necessarily repeat, but I wouldn't have a problem jumping into a raft for some more white water rafting (although right now my whole body aches from hanging on and being buffeted by the water).

Why tell the story?  There's part of my mind that seems to thrive on playing through the details instead of allowing sleep so it's nice to have it written out.  As I drove back to my hotel, I was thinking about my life and this year ahead.  In many ways, I think I've felt like I had to put my life on hold...waiting for the right circumstances to exist before experiencing new things, traveling, or whatever.  I don't need to be stuck!  There are plenty of adventures I can have right now, new things to try, and many things to learn.  I think some of those times, God will provide a friend to take along, and other times I think He'll call me to step out in faith on my own, trusting Him. It's fun to have discovered a new thing I can enjoy and it saddens me to think what I would have missed out on if I hadn't taken the risk of going alone and along for the ride.

Who Am I?

by Casting Crowns

Who am I?

That the Lord of all the earth,
would care to know my name,

Would care to feel my hurt.

Who am I?

That the bright and morning star,
would choose to light the way,

For my ever wandering heart.

Not because of who I am,

But because of what you've done.

Not because of what I've done,

But because of who you are.

I am a flower quickly fading,

Here today and gone tomorrow,

A wave tossed in the ocean,

A vapor in the wind.

Still you hear me when I'm calling,

Lord, you catch me when I'm falling,

And you've told me who I am.

I am yours. I am yours.

Who am I?

That the eyes that see my sin,
would look on me with love

And watch me rise again.

Who am I?

That the voice that calmed the sea,
would call out through the rain,

And calm the storm in me.

Not because of who I am,

But because of what you've done.

Not because of what I've done,

But because of who you are.

I am a flower quickly fading,

Here today and gone tomorrow,

A wave tossed in the ocean,

A vapor in the wind.

Still you hear me when I'm calling,

Lord, you catch me when I'm falling,

And you've told me who I am.

I am yours.

Whom shall I fear

Whom shall I fear

I am yours... I am yours...

As I look ahead to this year in the US, I struggled with a tension of knowing who I am and not being drawn to define myself by what I do.  I've been trained as a teacher and have spent the past eight years using that training.  This year, I'm stepping back and waiting...to see what plans God has for me, for God's vision of my future, for renewal of my heart and mind.  There are so many things I could fill my days with, but I want to be sure I'm choosing only those things God has planned for me.

Who am I? I am the daughter of a King who loves and cherishes me.  He sees me and knows me.  My life is His.

Orchestra Conductor

I'm continually amazed at the way God orchestrates events in my life. 

As I sat in class the past two weeks learning about amazing techniques to help students, I couldn't help but wonder how I would begin to use them (knowing that if I wasn't able to practice this year, I'd find it harder to remember the following year).  I kept setting the questions aside, figuring that I'd wait and see what developed once I got settled in MN next month. 

As we were packing up today (our last day of class), I found myself in conversation with the director of the Idaho Learning Center talking about Minnesota (where she grew up).  She asked whether I had a job using nild (program that I just learned) and I explained that I really didn't have anything lined up yet but was going to just kind of see what happened.  She asked a few more questions about where I'd be living and then shared that she had family in the same general area that might be looking for an educational therapist to work with their son. 

Wow!  Out of the blue it was just a reminder that God sees all the details and sees what's going to happen around the corner--whether it seems like a blessing or problem.  What an amazing God we serve!  I'm not sure that this situation will work out, but the reminder was such a blessing!  It's not because I'm someone special or that God takes special interest in my life---it's who He is!

Likemindedness

(No, I'm not sure that's a word, but I sure like it!)

I'm in the beautiful state of Idaho (I had to drive off the beaten path a little way to discover the extravagant beauty) and just finished my first graduate level class--a two week, 4 credit, crash course in educational therapy. I was joined by 16 other students and two instructors (most with more life experience than me which made it loads of fun!). Together we explored techniques to help struggling students be successful in school. My heart was encouraged as I sat in the sessions imagining the tangible difference this could make in the lives of students and their families. It was an incredible blessing to be surrounded by men and women who share a similar passion--loving, helping, and protecting children. I found my passion and desire growing by leaps and bounds. How cool is God to orchestrate these types of situations in our lives--to bring us in contact with men and women who can fuel the passion he's placed within us.

My Sister

I've had the privilege of living with my sister and her family the past 6 weeks since I've arrived back in the US. They opened their home and guest bedroom to me and have welcomed me into their family activities. I've had the joy of helping with meals, playing with her daughters, changing diapers, taking walks, etc. It's been wonderful to build relationships with my nieces!

I've seen my sister balancing the needs of those around her. Deborah uses her energy to bless those in her family. She is a wonderful teacher for her children, gently helping them see how to do things differently or correct their errors. Deborah is open for exploration and learning by doing. Abigail is often on the counter 'helping' with cooking even though that adds a layer of difficulty. The kids tag along to the garden to help weed/plant. Both girls helped weed the play area in their backyard. (Abigail was a bit more intentional about her help. Ellinor was looking for something to put in her mouth.) My sister desires that her children grow and learn. Right now Ellinor is teething and Abigail is toilet-training. This makes for interesting and sometimes long days. Deborah blesses her children by continuing to respond to them patiently and lovingly.

Having the great privilege of living with this family means I see much of what happens. I don't mean to put my sister on a pedestal. There are certainly days that challenge her and push her harder than she would like. But, it's been a great blessing to live beside her and I bless her for her ministry to her family!

Unknowns

It's been seven years since I've truly lived in the United States. As I've returned the past summers, it has been to the great blessing of living with other people. As I look ahead to this fall and moving into a place that will be 'my own', I find I suddenly have lots of questions...that right now mostly revolve around groceries and shopping in general...

-what truly is a good price for butter, grapes, hamburgers, etc.
(I got suckered in by a sign that said great deal and lots of savings only to find after I got home that it really wasn't)
-what stores offer the best prices?
(some of it depends on what's available I suppose, but Super Targets and Walmarts didn't exist in my area of the world before my departure---can't really even remember what stores I frequented)
-is it truly free?
(often in Romania the packing would claim 5% free, but the price for the bottle had been increased)
-when is a good time to buy a winter coat, sweaters, etc
(I've only been around in the summers so haven't had the luxury of waiting until things go on sale or become 'in season')

Some of it is hard because in Romania I know the answers to these questions...
MegaImage is probably the best store for grocery shopping. It offers great prices and good selection. You can usually find whatever you're looking for. Fruit is often best purchased at a piata (open air market). Butter generally costs 2.5 Ron for 250 grams. I don't buy grapes or hamburger in Romania. A good price for milk is about 2.4 Ron. [Although, now that the VAT has jumped from 19% to 24% all of these prices are probably changing.]

Ah, Motorcycles

What is the great appeal you may have asked yourself when hearing that I enjoy driving a motorcycle. As I drove from Hutchinson to Apple Valley this morning, I was trying to brainstorm the great things...
-better gas mileage
-use of carpool lanes
-the feeling of being closer to 'nature'--the smells of fresh cut grass, etc
-easier to stay alert
-maneuverability--fun of weaving within a lane or around obstacles
-time to think
-the community created--what other drivers wave to each other without even knowing who's driving in the opposite lane--it reminds me of tram drivers waving or blinking their lights as they pass other trams in Bucharest.

Certainly there are some drawbracks...
-helmet hair
-difficulty traveling in all seasons or during rain and other precipitation
-need to pack light

I'm sure there are other things...

Family...Together Once Again

Living overseas makes it a bit difficult to coordinate family pictures. Last month brought our entire family to MN, overlapping for a few weeks. We gathered together for laughter, sharing, fun, games, late nights, and great food. I love my family so much and am thankful for what an amazing gift they are to me. I'm looking forward to being in closer proximity this year...getting together for birthdays and holidays, having sleep-overs, traveling together, and lots of memory and relationship-building.

Arranger

One of the learning tools our mission uses is Strengths Finder. It helps identify the top 5 strengths a person has (from a possible 34 themes). From the two times I've taken the 'test', my strengths are: learner, harmony, input, responsibility, discipline, restorative, intellection, and developer. (It's common to have different strengths in the top 5 when taking the test multiple times--likely these 8 are all within my top 10.)

We each are image bearers of our creator, so it would seem to me that God has within himself all 34 themes and is able to use them each when needed.

Yesterday, I left Hutchinson early in the morning to drive into the Twin Cites (Minneapolis/St. Paul) to visit a church. As I drove, I waffled between continuing on to the new church or choosing to attend Trinity. I decided to proceed with attending the new church. I settled into the pew and tried to psych myself up for meeting new people and all that entails. The service started and we were given a chance to introduce ourselves. As the worship resumed, I saw some familiar faces walk in. What a fun surprise. I found myself relaxing and more able to focus.
Following the service, I was able to finally make eye contact. God has graciously arranged for a group of missionary kids attending a re-entry event to attend the same church service. I had planned to try and connect during the afternoon, but later learned I would have come up empty-handed. There were 7 teens that I knew from Romania and the Czech Republic. Many I hadn't seen in months, if not a year. It was a blessing to connect and have time to catch up with their lives and to share about my own. I'm so encouraged to hear about their hopes and plans for the future and their honesty about the struggles they're facing.

As we walked out of church, I asked if we could take a picture together and then started saying good-byes. I talked briefly with the woman in charge of the program and she invited me to join them for lunch and their activities in the afternoon. That morning, I never could have imagined that I would have the blessing of spending the afternoon with Amy, Matt, Hannah, Rob, David R, Christy, and David M. They are an amazing group of young people with hearts for God and others. I joined the group at the park for lunch and a discussion about what's important in choosing a church (what a timely discussion). We then proceeded to the apartment of one of the leaders to watch the World Cup game. I enjoyed talking with the leaders and some of the teens. Our afternoon closed with a drive back to Northwestern College where they're staying.

God truly has the gift of arranging...far beyond what I could have asked or imagined.

Daddy

I've enjoyed spending time with my nieces this past week. Abigail is just over 2 years old and Ellinor is 7 months old. They have a swingset in the backyard that we spend time at nearly every day. This weekend as we played outside, my sister got up to talk to her husband, calling him by his first name. For the next few minutes after that Abigail and I talked about why she called him Kyle but that she got to call him Daddy. She enjoyed trying out Kyle, but quickly reverted back to Daddy.

As I talked with her of the privilege of calling him Daddy and probably how much he enjoys hearing her use that word, my thoughts were drawn to our heavenly father. I wondered if he feels the same way if we choose to come to him with titles and names instead of drawing near and calling him Daddy. It's an amazing privilege to know that He's our Father.

Science Fair

After hours of planning, research, writing, and experimenting, we finally had all the pieces ready for the science fair. This is probably one of my favorite activities to see come to a conclusion because of all the work represented. The students designed experiments, trying to control all but one variable. They each wrote a research paper and created artistic display boards. Their topics ranged from dying fabrics to dissolving vitamins, fading colors to the antibacterial properties of dog and human saliva. On May 5th, we invited the lower elementary students and parents to come enjoy the science fair and hopefully learn something new. The 7th and 8th grade class also dropped in for a closer look.
Corina studied how different fruits and vegetables dye fabrics. Interestingly enough, the tomato didn't dye the fabric hardly at all.


Jon created rockets of different heights as well as a device to measure the height the rockets flew.


Daniel created circuits using potatoes and then lemons. Surprisingly, the potato circuit had greater conductivity.


Grace tested how a muffin recipe is affected by different amounts of baking powder. She learned a great deal about expanding gases and was surprised that the taste as well as appearance were affected by the amount.

My Story

One of the things our team has had the privilege of doing this school year is sharing our stories. Every other month we meet for an extended period of time and someone tells their life story. I had the opportunity to share my story in February. One of my colleagues took notes in picture form and it was neat to see my life depicted in this way. It's an amazing gift to take time look back through the years and see themes and trends, to consider joys and pain, and to then look ahead with great hope in what God might have in store next. What's your story?

Bucharest City Team

I have the greatest colleagues! I love that we love spending time together and find ways to get together outside of team meetings. We had the privilege of a visit from our new area leader, David Ruiz. He spoke at the Bucharest church plant (Trinitatea) and so we congregated there for the morning service and lunch in the courtyard.

Bill and Jane, David, Connie and Ed, Jen and Dave, Jen, and Laura

(Susan is missing from this picture)

Quilting

I finished a new quilting project this past week. It's been in the making since last summer as I made plans for how we could honor our director who resigned at the end of the school year. Each class made one of the squares and the elementary and secondary staff participated with squares as well. On the reverse, I traced the hands of each BCA student and wrote the names of each staff member. Then, the sewing began. I'd never made a quilt with squares and borders such as this, so it was a bit of an experiment. I'm thrilled with the way it turned out and think it's a great testimony to the legacy that Jen leaves behind.

Goodbyes Stink

Yep, I've determined, as of today, that goodbyes just aren't any fun. And looming ahead of me...two weeks of goodbyes. It just isn't something I look forward to and yet it's a part of every year in our community. It just happens that this time around, I'm the one leaving instead of the one staying. I can't say it's any easier.

The tears started flowing last week...and in reality even before that.

At the beginning of the month, I gathered with my ReachGlobal Romania colleagues in Bran (near Dracula's castle) for a weekend retreat. On the last morning of our time together, we spend a chunk of time sharing prayer requests and praying for each other. It hit me. I wouldn't see some of these people for another year or perhaps longer. And the tears flowed. It hurt to think that these dear people who are so very much part of my life will be so far away next year.

Two weeks later, we gathered in the courtyard of Str. Vasile Voiculescu Nr. 22 for our annual staff appreciation event. The school board members did an amazing job of disguising the ugly concrete and turning the space into an oasis where we as a staff enjoyed conversation and great food. Our director and I were recognized and prayed for and given beautiful gifts (a mosaic platter with signatures of students and teachers on the reverse). As I read the notes from students and saw the many names, I was moved to tears. It's easy for me to forget sometimes the impact I have on the lives that walk through my classroom door or into my office.

Last week was our final elementary chapel. We typically honor those students and staff members who will be leaving. Since I taught chapel, I thought I might be able to sneak by unnoticed. A colleague jumped up just as I was closing and called on students to pray for me. As I listened to their prayers of faith, I was struck that all three prayed that I would remember God's love for me. My thoughts drifted back to my previous post about God's stockpiles of love and again was confronted with how easily I forget, and even doubt, God's love for me. I'm so thankful for the hearts and lives of children to remind me.

Last night, following our last day of school, was the final official BCA event of the year, graduation. The BCA class of 2010 had 8 graduates: Ege, Jon, Jessica, Sarah, Brandon, Lexi, Erica, and Megan. Some of these I've known for the entire seven years and had the privilege of teaching several years as well. They are a tremendous group with loads of talent and bright futures. What got me last night wasn't the co-valedictorian addresses or even the keynote address, it was the worship time. As we sang "The Power of Your Love" I was once again confronted with God's love and the desire I have for him to draw me nearer, to surround me, to hold me close, and to have him change my heart. As I stood in line to congratulate the graduates, I realized that I desire to know how God uses them, where the future will lead. And yet, in this set of goodbyes, there's the reality that I may never know all that God does.

Today, part of our community gathered to once again celebrate and recognize some of the graduates. It was a special time of enjoying the sunshine and the beginning of summer. And then the goodbyes...I had some lovely conversations with colleagues, friends, and departing families. On my way out the door I saw one of my students and grabbed her for one final hug. We stood on the sidewalk for some time talking, her arms wrapped tightly around my waist, tears falling on my arms holding her tight. I tried to share promises with her, reminding her that God knew the pain of goodbyes (and I did too), that he would bring just the right teacher for her for next year, that we will see each other again. It hurt to walk her toward her mother...knowing there wasn't anything I could do to stop the hurt or to make it any easier, but also knowing her mother would hold her when I walked away. It was inevitable...I turned and the tears started flowing as I walked the opposite direction alone. As I wept, I felt God gently remind me that his arms were wrapped tightly around me and that he was catching my tears. They weren't unseen. I'm not unseen.

The goodbyes aren't over yet. I know there will be many more tears shed. This isn't it...it's not goodbye forever...Eternity is coming!

Vampires

Our final writing project of the year was for my students to each write a play. We talked about the differences between a play and story and what it would look like written out. We read samples and saw that a play is a lot of dialog. Finally, my students set about planning and then writing their own play. I gave them free reign as far as genre and setting. One student chose a western, and two others set their plays in a classroom/school. Another student had his main character learning not to steal. It was fun to see the work they invested in creating characters, choosing a setting, and developing a plot. After finishing final copies of the plays, I had them vote on the play they wanted to work toward performing. They chose the play about a girl who learns not to be afraid of vampires because some vampires have a surprise party for her and help her have fun. I loved watching them work together to learn their lines, provide props, and support one another in their role as actors. The three vampires: Carrington (played by Grace), Edward (played by Jon), and Aric (played by Daniel).


Bella (played by EuJin, the playwright) is finally friends with Carrington and the other vampires except Edward.

Stockpiles of Love

Lamentations 3:31-33

Why? Because the Master won't ever
walk out and fail to return.
If he works severely, he also works tenderly.
His stockpiles of loyal love are immense.
He takes no pleasure in making life hard,
in throwing roadblocks in the way:

I love this picture I had as I read this passage...of God sitting in front of this mound of love and gifts that he could give his children that would be examples of his love for them. I picture him with a huge smile on his face, stretching from ear to ear, turning to this pile and hand-picking a gift to present his daughter or son, knowing that it will bring great joy. What an amazing thought...that God turns to his never-ending stockpiles of loyal love to shower us with gifts of love.

And how I've sometimes responded...choosing not to accept a gift, ignoring it because I feel there are better things that demand my attention at the moment. I've sometimes allowed it to sit gathering dust in the corner until it's become ancient history and forgotten. Or I've opened the gift and marveled over it in amazement, studying the intricacies and wondering at the originality all the while forgetting to turn back to the One who carefully chose that gift for me.

How that must pain God when I fail to recognize his vast gifts of loyal love, when I find other things to occupy my mind and time. Ouch. Father, please forgive me.

Seussical at ICSB

After an outstanding performance at the Children's Palace Theater in Bucharest, our students were given the opportunity to perform a few songs from the musical at an international fair at the American School. It was a blast! They did a great job!

Military Museum Revisted

Last year, I took my 5th and 6th grade class to the military museum. We endured a 2+ hour tour (on our feet the entire time). My class did a great job! I was feeling completely overwhelmed with the amount of information but they kept asking questions and listening well.
When it came to planning this year's field trip, I knew that neither my 4th or 5th graders had been to the military museum so I thought it would be a great idea to go again. I asked our secretary to call and make the appointment and to please clarify that we were hoping our tour would be no longer than an hour. I also checked with the history teacher to get an idea of what time periods my students were studying so that the tour guide would be able to focus on that period. The idea was great, but didn't so much work out in reality. 1 hours into the trek through the museum, the guide informed me that the only way out was through the rest of the museum but that she'd try to hurry. 30 min later, feet sore and minds exhausted, we exited the museum and found ourselves in the courtyard filled with tanks and other military vehicles. My students enjoyed running around the fresh air and then sitting to give their feet a break before trekking back to school.

After 6+ Years

I recently found myself sifting through old emails...from the last 6 years since my arrival in Bucharest. It was a wonderful, encouraging trip down memory lane. I came across one email from someone I'd not been in contact with for at least 4 years. After reconnecting via facebook (where else) he asked what I've been up to and what I've been doing. I thought about the last 6+ years of my life and tried to summarize them...no easy task. I started thinking about all I've learned, done, seen, tried, etc. Even listing the different classes I've taught doesn't begin to scratch the surface of all the pieces of my life that have been affected during my time here.

There's a part of me that looks back in awe and amazement. When I first stepped off the plane in Bucharest on August 18, 2003 (or somewhere close to that), I never imagined that I'd still be in Romania right now. In high school and college, if you'd have asked me where I would be or what I'd be doing when I turned 30, this certainly wouldn't have been part of the picture I'd have described. My mind couldn't have conceived it...and yet I wouldn't change it, wouldn't give it up.

I'm so thankful for the journey God's brought me on...so thankful that God is faithful and is continuing to work in my life...so thankful for the hope of a future with Him...so thankful for the people who have impacted my life so deeply...thankful.

So often in the Bible we see God commanding His people to remember--who He is and what He's already done for them. It's easy for me to get caught up in the 'light and momentary trials' I face on a day to day basis and forget the many wonderful things God has done on my behalf. I want to remember...the joy of completing my first year of teaching here...the lessons learned from shaving my head...the blessing of simple pleasures...the amazing people who have touched my life...the way God brought me through challenges...remember.

Saying No

I said 'no' last night in an email...no to taking on a commitment. It felt kind of strange since it's something I've done before, an event that I've planned and often willingly participated in. But this time, I said 'no'. In looking at my life it might seem strange that I find myself in that position, but it was just too much to think about, too much to add to the already packed calendar. So, I went with my gut, am sticking with it, and hoping that they'll be okay asking me again in the future.

Colmar, France

It was wonderful to have some time to enjoy the beauty of the area. We traveled an hour to the town of Colmar. It's picturesque and a lovely town to explore on foot. We were a bit surprised at the number of street vendors/bakeries/chocolatiers that offered us free samples as we walked by. It certainly enticed us to enter.


The streets were lovely to explore. Part of the city is named 'Little Venice'.


We happened upon an Easter market near one of the larger churches. It felt like such a neat treat to explore.

Does it Seem Strange to You?

The closest airport to Kandern, Germany was the Basel/Mulhouse airport. This airport rests right on/near the border between France (Mulhouse) and Switzerland (Basel). We arrived in plenty of time before our flight. The check in area felt deserted so we found a chunk of chairs to wait in and I started repacking my suitcase to accommodate some of the purchases I'd made earlier in the day. I decided it was best to double check that we were waiting in the right area. After wandering for a bit I realized there were four check in areas (two located in France and two in Switzerland). It turns out we had to cross over into Switzerland in order to check in for our flight and arrive at our departure gate. No border crossing though since both countries are part of the Schengen Area (although it appeared that in the past you may have had to show passports as there were booths and personnel there).

If

If I am perturbed by the reproach and misunderstanding that may follow action taken for the good of souls for whom I must give account, if I cannont commit the matter and go on in peace and in silence, remembering Gethsemane and the Cross, then I know nothing of Calvary love.

If I can hurt another by speaking faithfully without much preparation of spirit, and without hurting myself far more than I hurt that other, then I know nothing of Calvary love.

If I hold on to choices of any kind, just because they are my choice; if I give any room to my private likes and dislikes, then I know nothing of Calvary love.

If I am soft to myself and slide comfortably into the vice of self-pity and self-sympathy; if I do not by the grace of God practice fortitude, then I know nothing of Calvary love.

If I cannot in honest happiness take the second place (or the twentieth); if I cannot take the first without making a fuss about my unworthiness, then I know nothing of Calvary love.

If I take offense easily, if I am content to continue in a cool unfriendliness, though friendship be possible, then I know nothing of Calvary love.

If a sudden jar can cause me to speak an impatient, unloving word, then I know nothing of Calvary love. (For a cup brimful of sweet water cannot spill even one drop of bitter water however suddenly jolted.)

If the care of a soul (for a community) be entrusted to me, and I consent to subject it to weakening influences, because of the voice of the world - my immediate Christian world- fills my ears, then I know nothing of Calvary love.

If monotony tries me, and I cannot stand drudgery; if stupid people fret me and little ruffles me on the edge; if I make much of the trifles of life, then I know nothing of Calvary love.

If interruptions annoy me, and private cares make me impatient; if I shadow the souls about me because I myself am shadowed, then I know nothing of Calvary love.

If souls can suffer alongside, and I hardly know it, because the spirit of discernment is not in me, then I know nothing of Calvary love.

If I become entangled in any 'inordinate affection'; if things or places or people hold me back from obedience to my Lord, then I know nothing of Calvary love.

If the praise of man elates me and his blame depresses me; if I cannot rest under misunderstanding without defending myself; if I love to be loved more than to love, to be served more than to serve, then I know nothing of Calvary love.

If I do not forget about such a trifle as personal success, so that it never crosses my mind, or if it does, is never given a moment's room there; if the cup of spiritual flattery tastes sweet to me, then I know nothing of Calvary love.

If I slip into the place that can be filled by Christ alone, making myself the first necessity to a soul instead of leading it to fasten upon Him, then I know nothing of Calvary love.

If my interest in the work of others is cool; if I think in terms of my own special work; if the burdens of others are not my burdens too, and their joys mine, than I know nothing of Calvary love.

If I wonder why something trying is allowed, and press for prayer that it may be removed; if I cannot be trusted with any disappointment, and cannot go on in peace under any mystery, then I know nothing of Calvary love.

Amy Camichael


During this season of reflecting on Christ's great sacrifice, I'm struck by God's grace and patient love. I'm thankful that He is continuing to work in my life though it falls far short of being consumed by Him and understanding Calvary's love. I pray that I may more and more understand the sacrifice made for me.

Beautiful Bloggers

I have been nominated a "Beautiful Blogger" by my dear friend Mandy. I get to tell you seven interesting facts about me and then nominate seven more beautiful bloggers. I'll do my best on the seven interesting facts, but find the many of my blogging friends have fallen off the bandwagon.

1. I recently rediscovered my love for teaching--and discovered how it's been a theme throughout my entire life....Sunday school, nursery, Bible Instruction Class (BIC), swim lessons, and now in a classroom.

2. I've recently been inspired to learn how to drive a manual car. I know the basics from driving motorcycles, but think it'd be a great skill to have while living in Europe. On a side note...sitting in the front seat of a car feels really strange!

3. I love that Spring has arrived in Bucharest and that it's almost appropriate to wear sandals again. My feet love feeling free.

4. There is great satisfaction in mowing a lawn, shoveling snow, or spring cleaning. I miss the joy of the first two but I'm sure that after a year of living in the US I'll have had lots of opportunities.

5. Poppies are one of my favorite flowers right now--their frailty and yet beauty, their ability to survive in the strangest places.

6. In one day this past week, I was in four different countries (Germany, France, Switzerland, Romania)using three different currencies (Euro, Franc, Ron) and three different modes of transportation (walking, driving, flying).

7. I still hope one day to make it to every continent (I'm missing Australia and Antarctica).