...and so it goes...

the moment you've all been waiting for

2009-12-09T13:42:00.003-05:00

Introducing the brand spanking new blog of
Evan and Katie Fairey!

musings & marriage
http://ekfairey.wordpress.com/

*I will no longer be posting on this blog. Please keep me up to date with your blogs/email addresses/etc. I'd love to hear from you!

Wedding Pictures!!!

2009-11-23T18:27:00.009-05:00

Here is a small sampling of the 450 some pictures that our wonderfully talented friend (and photographer), Katie Long, took the day of our wedding. She captured everything so beautifully- I will cherish them all forever. Enjoy!

our home sweet home

2009-10-12T09:58:00.008-04:00

Well-- we did it! Evan and I were married exactly 3 weeks and two days ago!
I don't have any pictures quite yet, but as soon as I get them I'll post them. But rest assured, it was the perfect day. With sunny skies, 72 degree weather, the little white chapel, "getting away" in my Dad's little red '76 Fiat and 4 choices of cheesecake at the reception, I could not have asked for anything more lovely and more beautiful than our wedding day. I can't wait to show you pictures.

But right now, I'm going to show you around my new apartment in Winter Park, FL. This is the living room. It's a really good size! You see Evan's shoulder on the bottom right- he's sitting at the dining room table and to the right of that is the door. I'm standing taking the picture in the kitchen doorway and next to me is the hallway down to the other rooms.

Here is our awesome kitchen. It's a great blue color and has a lot of storage space!

Down that hallway I was telling you about are two bedrooms. I didn't put a picture of one of them in here because of all the boxes lying on the floor, but this is our bedroom. It's complete with walk-in closet and bathroom! The yellow color is a little rough, but we can deal with it for now. There is another bathroom at the end of the hallway too.

I think one of the coolest parts about this place is the huge screened-in porch we have. There are big sliding glass doors both in our bedroom and in the living room that lead out to it. The picture below is the view of all the plants and stuff we see when we look out into the yard.

It's still a bit too warm right now to sit out there and hang out with the heat index "well into the hundreds" as the guy on the radio said yesterday, but I look forward to cool nights that we'll have on the porch.

Pray for me as I am on the job search full-time and Evan is seeking more permanent, full-time employment as well. Pray also for my transition to down here and away from my family and friends.
God has blessed us richly with everything we need and with a wonderful church family down here. We are so blessed to be together :-)
***Stay tuned for more pictures and blog/email address changes!!!***

The sun'll come up!

2009-09-18T08:08:00.003-04:00

Tomorrow I'm getting married! The weather forecast is 75 degrees and sunny, and I have never been this excited in my life!!! I can barely believe it is happening and every time I think about it I get more and more excited! Today I'm getting my nails done, checking into the hotel with my family and going to the rehearsal! Thanks so much for your prayers and support through all of this-- it has been a tremendous whirlwind and I am so blessed by all of you. Please pray for our trip down to Florida on Sunday and our trek to our honeymoon on Siesta Key on Tuesday. We covet your prayers so much.

Stay tuned for pictures as soon as I get them!!!

Much Love, friends.

another congrats is in order!

2009-09-05T09:07:00.003-04:00

I wanted to post about this a long time ago, but I am just now getting around to it...

My dear friend, Jayme, will be getting married to the
love of her life, Rob, on Saturday, November 7th, 2009! I had the pleasure of living with Jayme during the first months of her romance with Rob and got to spend a lot of time with him-- you know-- making sure he passes all the tests. I am happy to say that he passed them all with flying colors. I will be proudly standing up as one of Jayme's attendants and hope to see a lot of you there! Congratulations you two. I love you!

Congratulations!!!

2009-08-29T15:58:00.003-04:00

I just wanted to give a shout out to my sister, Marina, who got married on August 8th! We had a great weekend-- lots of family and friends were in from out of town and we had a great time helping Beth build the floral arrangements and getting all the other details ready for the big day! Everything was just beautiful. Marina is now living in her new house with her husband in Youngstown, OH, where James is working at the Air force base and Marina is preparing to go to the Aveda Institute in January. Love you guys!!!

all growed up

2009-08-19T14:40:00.004-04:00

He was just 3 when he became apart of our family and now, he's in the band as a high school freshmen. He plays the marching Baritone! I can't believe how fast time has flown and how giant Vitaly has gotten in the past few years. A full blown car-loving, boy-scouting, All-American boy, I think he's actually down in the basement right now playing Game Cube.
I just had to share this picture with all of you. Now, I'm a crier, but when I saw this, I seriously welled up. He looks so handsome!

Things are coming along nicely with wedding planning and moving plans. In a few weeks, Evan and a few of his friends will be loading up a moving truck and hauling all of my stuff (and his left-over stuff that is still in Pittsburgh) down to our new condo in Winter Park, FL. Last week I met with the wedding coordinator at the church, the event planner at the restaurant, and my florist and everything seems to be go!

One month to go :-)

movin' on up

2009-07-20T10:03:00.008-04:00

Well, a little change of plans, folks.
Evan and I decided to push up the wedding-- to September 19th! I know, crazy, but it's what Evan and I have always wanted-- a small wedding sooner. We're keeping it small just inviting our original wedding party and extended family. I'm not exactly sure who all will be able to come, but we're thinking it'll be about 75-100 people. It's much different than the one we were originally planning. We just decided something smaller and more intimate was what we wanted... and we are really excited about the change!
Getting a husband and moving across the country all in one weekend... wow... and only 2 months away!

i win.

2009-05-29T21:27:00.002-04:00

why don't I blog more?

2009-05-25T21:43:00.003-04:00

I have been asking this question to myself a lot lately. I like to talk, to share my thoughts on the world, and I certainly have opinions. So, why don't I let people know what is going on in my life and randomly blog about the things going on in my head? Events make it up onto the blog, but I don't really...

To be completely honest, I know the answer to this but am a little embarrassed to share it. But, I am going to. The reason? I am honestly scared to death of what people think of me. Yes, you. I care what you think of me. It cripples me beyond belief, actually. I wouldn't admit this to myself and it has taken a lot to realize and to start to get over this annoying fact about me... but it's happening. I am slowly but surely caring more deeply and truly what God wants for me rather than what people do. This is only happening through God's grace, constant encouragement from my soon-to-be other half, and a lot of prayer. I am a people-pleaser... a chronic people-pleaser (I know, some of you are thinking "Well, DUH, Kate..."). I want people to like me (duh!) and will do anything in my power to get that to happen... in the end it seems, though, those people get hurt and I have lost myself, who I am in Christ, and things God has convicted me of.

Why don't I want people to see Christ in me more? I mean, I do... hopefully we all believers want that to some degree, but my sinful nature and twisted sense of self urges me to crave affirmation from other people instead of Christ... and I think it's killing me, killing my spirit, and squelching Christ's radiance in me.

I'm only a few chapters into it, but I started reading a book by Edward Welch called "When People are Big and God is Small". I'm sure it doesn't have all the answers, but I am praying it gives me a little more perspective as I am on the road to recovery. A recovering people-pleaser.

God is faithful. He is the only constant in my life and long to praise Him more fully.

But thanks be to God, who in Christ always leads us in triumphal procession, and through us spreads the fragrance of the knowledge of him everywhere.
2 Corinthians 2:14

I'm going to be a Fairey!

2009-03-31T19:20:00.013-04:00

That's right- you guessed it. I am the future Mrs. Evan Kyle Fairey!!! Here's the story:
Evan flew into Pittsburgh last Monday for a visit. We planned this visit to go to see his parents in upstate NY and so I could finally meet his brothers and see his family. We did a marathon run through Pittsburgh, saw a million people we love and then got in the car and drove to NY. We had a GREAT time up there- cooking, watching movies, just hanging out and touring around Wappingers Falls- it was wonderful. I met both of his brothers who came in from out of town and everyone threw me a surprise birthday party on Saturday night! Meanwhile, in my mind... I was totally thinking that he was going to propose sometime that week. Well, there were only two days left before he went home and there just didn't seem like there was going to be a time for him to do it! I was anxious and annoyed, to be completely honest. After my bday party, I kind of just threw up my hands and stopped expecting anything to happen.

Well, on our way back to my parents house on Monday afternoon, we are about halfway home and Evan said he needed to go to the bathroom. Naturally, he just pulled off the side of the road. As I am shielding my eyes from anything, he opens my car door and tells me that we are exactly halfway between his parents' house and my parents' house. He got on one knee, told me he loved me so much, and asked me to marry him. I, of course, said YES! It was really funny and I was completely shocked!
We SPAZZED out most of the way home and have not yet come down off the high that we are on. I am so thankful that God has brought such an incredible man into my life- I am so blessed by him and his love for God and for me everyday.

We are thinking around Christmastime... keep your eyes peeled for more details!

Here are some pictures of our trip!

Phipps Conservatory in Pittsburgh

Scary large plants

the tulip exhibts were gorgeous!

Evan's brothers, Alan and David, and Mrs. Fairey!

My ring!!!

We clean up nice, don't we?
This was taken after church on Sunday-the day before we got engaged!

a new year and a new house

2009-01-24T09:08:00.006-05:00

It's been a few months since my last post and my life has dramatically changed since then. For about 4 months I had been feeling God's call to leave Pittsburgh. The question then was, "Well, then where the heck do you want me to go?" So I mapped out my goals and I what I truly felt that God was leading me to do with my life. Music ministry. I've tried very hard to run from that and change my perspective and allow my pride to step in to do something "bigger" and "better". But what is a higher calling than leading people to the Cross of Christ during worship? To provide God-centered introspective worship to help the children of God feel His presence and see His face? Not that I couldn't show the love of Christ on an opera stage, but music ministry is where I am being called.
So, I moved home. Think I'm crazy? Yeah, me too. Trust me, it's not going to be easy. But in order to finish my Master's in a year (I've been working on it for about a year and a half at Liberty Theological Seminary online- it's a Master's in Religion and Worship Studies) and get more experience within ministry, moving home was where I've been led. I'm now a full time student and an intern at Emmanuel Christian Church helping within the worship and youth ministries.
If you think about this, please pray for me. Over the last few days I have been quite overwhelmed leaving all of my friends in Pittsburgh, still being so far away from the Columbus crew and Evan, and not quite feeling 'settled' here in supposedly the safest place in my life. I haven't lived here in 6 years... I'm a different person than I was 6 years ago and God, I am confident, will continue healing and refining me through the coming year as well.
I have been redoing the bedroom upstairs that belongs to Abbey and I! It's kind of fun to have a project (and yes Bethy, your socks are on their way! One of them is completely done... impressive, eh?) and good for me to make that space different than it was when it was first done in '92. I took down all the wall paper and will finish up the painting today, hopefully.

As far as Christams goes- it was pretty sobering as Marina was in an auto accident (no one was hurt, but the car was totalled) and that brought an obvious attitude of thankfulness to the family. It was great to be with everyone and have the baby around! The New Year was great as Evan was in town for two whole weeks!!! It was amazing to see him. We realized that we had only seen each other 3 days in 18 weeks. It'll be another 10 weeks until I see him again. But God is good and is strengthening us each day. We know that He is the One getting us through this time of being apart.
Here are a few pictures from Christmastime.

The whole fam!

My Evan and me!

a GREAT Thanksgiving

2008-12-01T20:35:00.031-05:00

I had the privilege of having two Thanksgivings this year- one with my friends in Pittsburgh and the other with my family in Greenville. Here are some pictures of the Jancey Street meal, including pictures of our very first whole turkey! It's a beautiful thing! There was music, wonderful fellowship and of course great food courtesy of Jayme's awesome cooking! (sorry about the randomness of the picture lay-out... if it makes you feel any better, it's driving me nuts too...)

Here is my AWESOME FAMILY for Thanksgiving in Greenville including the most beautiful child in the entire world! My dad's sister and brother and their families joined us at home for the festivities. Filled with laughter, football, and way too much food, it was a really great day. William Isaac ate his first solid food on Thanksgiving day... not much of it got into his mouth, but every day he got better and better!

I mean... is this not the cutest child you have EVER seen!?!?

YOU'RE IT!

2008-10-13T10:00:00.003-04:00

My sister, Beth, recently "tagged" me in her post a few weeks ago and in true Katie fashion I have not gotten around to writing it until now.
Here are the rules: I have to write 7 little known (or unknown) facts about myself and then tag 7 other people to do the same. This might be tough for me since most of you know my strange nuances.

1. I love fall. It is by far my favorite season. The leaves changing, the great pumpkin activities and cooking, the colors of autumn, apple orchards... it's all wonderful. All except the pumpkin spice that is in everything. Nutmeg. BLEH. I dread fall for this one reason... having to continually say no to pumpkin spice. I so wish I liked it!
2. When I was a kid, I lied a lot. I remember telling Megan Tinley in 3rd grade that there were Indian spirits living in the big rock next to the creek in our woods. I told her I would talk to them. I also told her that I was good friends with Joey from New Kids on the Block. She believed me.
3. I love to experience new things with people... and I don't really like being by myself. I need alone time like everyone, sure, but even going to the grocery store by myself isn't all that fun for me.
4. I am pretty sure I am in love for the first time in my life.
5. Jayme has been teaching me how to knit and absolutely love it. I secretly want to stay home from work every day to sit on the couch and make things.
6. I don't like "potty language". Unless it refers to my little nephew's bowel movements, I don't really want to discuss yours or your flatulence. Sorry folks.
7. I don't have a favorite color. I love them all!

Alright you 7 lucky people... now YOU are it:
Christopher Scott, Lizzie, Ray, Elizabeth, Diana, Brittney, and Michelle!

priorities

2008-09-06T09:56:00.012-04:00

It has been a great summer... a hard summer in some ways... but a great summer. God has been stretching me and encouraging me and showing His faithfulness through the events of my life in ways I could never have even imagined.

After a lot of praying and Godly counsel and wisdom- and after a series of meetings- I was officially announced as part-time at Urban Impact (if you want all the details, I'd be happy to share!) And while it will stretch my budget to the absolute max (you may be getting lots of homemade Christmas presents, friends...), I truly believe this is God's will for me. It allows time for me to take lessons again...to SING again!..., to spend real time studying for all those classes I am taking, and maybe even get to see some of you more often! I know God will provide for all of my needs. Send up a few prayers for me if you think about it...:-) It's going to take a lot of discipline.

My summer ended with an awesome trip to Orlando to visit my boyfriend, Evan. What? Boyfriend, you say? Yes. That's right, friends... a boyfriend.

This girl has got it bad.

Evan and I met about a month after I came to Urban Impact and it was pretty much all over for both of us... There is one little hiccup though... a few months before he met me, he felt God calling him to go to Seminary in Orlando, FL. From the very beginning of our relationship we knew that he would be leaving Pittsburgh in August... August came and went, friends, and Evan is now in Orlando. He's actually staying with my Uncle Mike and Aunt Anita for a few weeks! And as hard as it is, I know it's exactly where he needs to be. I have already planned a trip to go see him at the end of October... and then of course there are holidays like Thanksgiving and Christmas. Thank goodness for holidays...

So- while I wasn't in one of the places the choir went this summer, I was probably with Evan. It was an incredible summer with him to say the very least... I can't wait for you all to meet him. He is wonderful... and I miss him very much.

The Search
by Evan K. Fairey

When searching has stopped, surely you won’t find
One special to you, who catches your eye.
You think it’s your script, made up in your mind,
When Wisdom steps in, you see it’s a lie.
The past had been filled with games of all types;
Oh so much trying to make them seem right.
Pretend, substitute, and basically hype
Truths start to spring forth once seen in the light.
When we least expect it, the Author begins
Another great chapter, exciting it is.
Portfolio filled with many an epic,
Our lives, not our own, we must stand on this.
The present, unsure, may seem that it stands,
The future, secure, in His stable hands.

PS-- Are you still checking out my sister's blog for pictures???
Isn't my nephew, William, ADORABLE!?!?!
Here he is with my Daddy last week...

where there's a Will, there's a way

2008-07-07T13:01:00.004-04:00

Hi, friends. I would like to introduce you to the newest member of my family, my nephew...William Isaac Dekker
Born July 3, 2008
9 lbs 13 oz

At four days old, William is possibly the most beautiful thing I have ever seen in my life. Mom (Bethy) is recovering wonderfully... she truly has been a champ through all of this. Dad (Nick) is beaming like I have never seen before and all their family and friends abound around this little kid. As the first grandchild for my parents, my dad has already talked about the pony he is getting for him as well as the four-wheeler he has picked out... Don't worry... I'm only half kidding. Well, I better run. Abbey and I have a fist-fight scheduled to see who gets to hold William next.

If you want to see more pictures of Will go look at nickandbethdekker.blogspot.com!

Urban Impact Singers

2008-06-20T15:20:00.007-04:00

The girls of the Urban Impact Singers, from left to right: Brittany, Teyanna, Ebonee, Andraya, Breann, and Diamond.
This summer these girls and 5 boys chosen from the Urban Impact Community Choir will be traveling around the country singing on tour. From California to Michigan these kids have the opportunity of a lifetime not only sing for a great number of people but also, and more importantly, to dive into God's Word like they never have before. I can already see Him doing a mighty work in their lives.
I will be on tour with them along with a few other leaders over the next few months and will be in and out of Pittsburgh all summer... I covet your prayers as we are away. Miss you all very much...

Oh, and only a few days until I am an aunt! Pray for Bethy, Nick, and Baby D as he will be joining us very soon! :-) Check out all of the updates: nickandbethdekker.blogspot.com

bedtime friend

2008-04-16T23:00:00.005-04:00

Everyone has a certain sense of security. Maybe you find it in the make-up you put on everyday. Maybe you find it in holding another's hand across the street or just in the embrace of an old friend. My roommate finds it in her blanky. Yes. That's right. Her blanky.
Jayme is 23 years old and every night sleeps with her childhood blanket (if you can still call it that). She claims that it had bears with striped t-shirts on it and large pine trees all over it on an off-white background. My other roommate, Abbie, and I are quite skeptical. Maybe the picture of this so-called blanket will help you determine with us what it is exactly.
Where is 'blanky' in that picture, you may ask? Is it the pastel-colored fabric underneath that ball of strips? Oh no, friends. That little wad of gray matter IS in fact her blanky. We asked her why she still sleeps with it every night- especially because soon there will be nothing left of it. Shouldn't she try to save it? "Well, if one piece falls off, I just tie it back on. That's why there are so may knots in it", she said. Abbie is still quite offended by the thought, sight, and smell of this little creature. She says, "It's really creepy when she strokes me with it." Fun is had by all on Jancey Street when Jayme chases Abbie around with blanky in hand.
I guess security does come in all shapes and sizes... smells and colors. We love you, Jayme... you and your blanky.

my blues are a little rosey

2008-03-24T09:08:00.006-04:00

Maybe you don't know this, but I hate that I am emotional. Although all of you have seen me cry, for sure, I probably hated that I subjected you to that. I feel petty, ridiculous, and dramatic. The truth is though, that when I cry, I truly care about whatever it is that causes those blasted droplets... but it's not like I sit around and dwell on things and then finally let it all out in a good cry. It comes about suddenly. It's like I think to myself, "Oh my gosh. I really have a lot of feeling about this and I didn't realize!" It comes in an overwhelming sweep. I almost never cry around people that I don't know well. But as soon as I'm around people who know and love me, it's all over and I am a basket case. I hate this about myself.

But you know what? Being emotional is not a weakness. This is something I have to remind myself frequently. It's not something that makes me less of a person or more of a woman (although, some may argue that) but just makes me human. We're all wired differently and this just happens to be my thing. I am a crier. Can't change it. Shouldn't have to. And I just have to be okay with that. Um, hello? Ever heard of the shortest verse in the Bible (John 11:35)?

I was reading a sermon online and the preacher, J.O. McCloud, said this, "I have come to believe that suffering and love come from the same place deep down in the soul. If we did not love, we would not suffer. We suffer and hurt and weep for our kids, our parents, our siblings, our friends, our community, our nation, because we care. We get homesick because we love home so much. We shed tears over some one's death because we loved her living so much. Jesus wept for us because Jesus loves."

Know that when I cry, it just means I love something very much.

new job new job new job

2008-01-11T16:18:00.000-05:00

You just never know what God has in store...

I was called about a job on a Wednesday, interviewed on a Thursday, and hired on a Monday. Sometimes it feels like it takes forever to see God working... and sometimes it only takes 24 hours! I can't tell you how many people I have talked to in the last 6 months and told them I really wanted a job that encompassed three things... music, ministry and administration. Where was I going to find something like that? It seems so specific... TOO specific. But not for God... He found it for me.

I work at Urban Impact Foundation here in Pittsburgh (our website is being redesigned and should be up within the month or two- www.urbanimpactpittsburgh.org). I work in the Performing Arts Department as a Program/Administrative Assistant. We have an 80 person choir comprised of inner city kids from the North Side as well as a drama class and dance team. It is so great to be involved with this ministry... I get to sing, lead rehearsals, plan trips and performances for the choir, and assist our director in whatever she needs. We are also starting a group of about 10 students for a traveling choir. Almost our entire summer is already booked with potential gigs! God is really blessing this ministry in its growth- the choir has tripled in size in 2 years!

I am still taking private voice lessons with the head of the vocal department at Duquesne and I am also up for the assistantship there for next fall. I am still waiting to hear about it and I'm not sure what is going to happen. My life is by no means "settled" but that's okay-- it gives God ample room to work.

Studying is also a large part of my life right now. I am in school online at Liberty Theological Seminary where I am earning my Master's of Arts in Religion and Worship Studies. It's really great, and I love my classes- especially the one I am taking now "Personal Evangelism". It is really helping me with my job in teaching these kids about Christ. Perfect timing as I start my new job!
Love you all and I would love to hear how you are! Keep in touch!

unfortunate words

2007-12-11T15:05:00.000-05:00

My boss just walked into our department to ask me a question about my time card. My co-worker mentioned that she had gone home early a few days before because she was sick.

"Oh, are you the one who got me sick?" he said.

"Are you sick? I'm sorry!"

"Me too. I've had a horrible case of diapoopsy for days now!"

Diapoopsy. The end.

what I am thankful for

2007-11-22T22:45:00.000-05:00

I'm so blessed. Love you.

Christmas everywhere

2007-11-16T11:08:00.000-05:00

Today was Christmas decorating time at Volkwein's Music. Now, to get a better idea of where I work, picture "The Office". The crazy boss that says inappropriate things, I work with a girl just like Pam, our 'Toby' works in the Piano/Vocal department, and Stanley is in Instrumental music... You think I'm joking. I am not. Come visit sometime and see this mayhem for yourself.

Now- picture old garland, bulbs, plastic Christmas trees, iridescent glittery garland, and twinkle-lights of all colors and sizes thrown around that office in various places. Behind the filing cabinets, twisted around the poles of electrical wires throughout the store, stuck on top of the filing cabinets. It was pretty insane. It's only been 4 hours and I am already annoyed with them. So, there is Christmas music blasting, cookies and hot chocolate in the break-room and we are trying to figure out where to put everything. It was a very amusing morning, actually. Our 'Toby' (aka Steve) is quite tall and was helping us by putting the lights around the electrical poles. He did it by standing on a step stool on top of my desk. Another co-worker, Barb (Phyllis) watched on as he struggled.
Barb: Hey, while you're up there, you might as well give us a little dance around that pole! Steve: There's not enough Wassail in the world for that to ever happen.

fun facts

2007-10-31T09:31:00.000-04:00

I don't really like Halloween. Never really been a big fan. I don't really like traffic either. Maybe I should have thought of that before I moved to Pittsburgh, one of the hardest cities in the entire world to drive in. I do really like it here, though, besides the driving... I live in a city with the nations 5th oldest opera company and the world's first museum of modern art! Carnegie Museum of Art opened in 1895. The arts are thriving here in so many ways! There is always a show to see or a symphony concert to hear. It's wonderful. I don't love all things about Pittsburgh, though. The number one reason is because it is far away from you, not all of you, but some of you, and that makes me sad. But that won't change with any city I decide to live in, I guess. I can't wait to be in Heaven with all of you, so I can see you all the time- forever! Woot woot!

I've learned a lot about Pittsburgh in the last few months. Here are a few "fun facts", if you will.

70% of the population is native to the city.

It is 2nd only to Miami as having the largest number of registered watercraft.

Second only to Venice, Italy, Pittsburgh has the the largest number of bridges in a city.

Pittsburgh is within 500 miles of more than half the U.S. population and less than 90 minutes flying time from 20 states and Canada.

USA Today rated the cityscape view from Mt. Washington as the second best in America (1st was Sedona, Arizona).
Gene Kelly was from Pittsburgh!

The Big Mac was "invented" in Pittsburgh by McDonald's franchise owner Jim Delligatti in 1968. (booooo...)
Second only to Seattle to Pittsburgh has the most cloudy days per year.

Well, friends, I hope you are all well and are enjoying this beautiful autumn we are having. Miss you always. God Bless.

a very warm house

2007-10-08T19:37:00.000-04:00

It's been too long, I know. I'm not sure if anyone still reads this but don't worry- I haven't forgotten about you. Much has happened and blessings are abounding in my life. Here is the short and sweet version of it. I moved to Pittsburgh and live with Abbie and Jayme which is possibly one of the most delightful experiences. We have a cute little house in Highland Park near the zoo and thanks to many donations of furnishings from our family and friends, it is finally becoming a home. I work at a large music store called Volkwein's in the Choral department 40 hours a week, 8-5... joining the work force with the best of them. I work with a few very nice women and we have a lot of fun. I am also starting graduate school at the end of the month! I am taking online classes at Liberty University to get my M.A. in Religion with an emphasis in Worship Studies. I truly feel God calling me into Music Ministry and I am so excited about starting these classes! There is actually a possible job opportunity at a church near here where I might hire me to work part time as the worship director. It's not definite yet, but we'll see.
Last weekend was Grove City's homecoming, so we decided to have our friends from college who were in town up for a housewarming party. A bunch of people showed up including the Browne's! which was wonderful. It was so great to see everyone and we were SO blessed by the time we were able to spend with everyone. There were candles and roses and great things to eat... It was just so amazing to see everyone. I don't think I stopped smiling all night. I hope to hear from you all soon- and don't hesitate to stop by our place! We love guests!I was convicted once again by O. Chambers in "My Utmost". I hope you are blessed by this as well. Miss you and love you all.

September 29- The Awareness of the Call
"We are inclined to forget the deeply spiritual and supernatural touch of God. If you are able to tell exactly where you were when you received the call of God and can explain all about it, I question whether you have truly been called. The call of God does not come like that; it is much more supernatural. The realization of the call in a person’s life may come like a clap of thunder or it may dawn gradually. But however quickly or slowly this awareness comes, it is always accompanied with an undercurrent of the supernatural— something that is inexpressible and produces a "glow." At any moment the sudden awareness of this incalculable, supernatural, surprising call that has taken hold of your life may break through— "I chose you . . ." ( John 15:16 ). The call of God has nothing to do with salvation and sanctification. You are not called to preach the gospel because you are sanctified; the call to preach the gospel is infinitely different. Paul describes it as a compulsion that was placed upon him.

If you have ignored, and thereby removed, the great supernatural call of God in your life, take a review of your circumstances. See where you have put your own ideas of service or your particular abilities ahead of the call of God. Paul said, ". . . woe is me if I do not preach the gospel!" He had become aware of the call of God, and his compulsion to "preach the gospel" was so strong that nothing else was any longer even a competitor for his strength.

If a man or woman is called of God, it doesn’t matter how difficult the circumstances may be. God orchestrates every force at work for His purpose in the end. If you will agree with God’s purpose, He will bring not only your conscious level but also all the deeper levels of your life, which you yourself cannot reach, into perfect harmony."

summer is here!

2007-06-14T16:46:00.000-04:00

Woah. It's been a whiiiile since I've been on here. Thanks to those who actually look to even see if I have updated. I get bored with myself most of the time, so way to go! So- I graduated from college... pretty cool, eh? If my degree wasn't in vocal performance I would be making money right now instead of hanging around the house. No worries, though, I've got a few auditions lined up for the fall and a great job singing all summer- I have nothing at all to complain about. My family is great, my friends are great (most are abandoning single-hood and getting married this summer but its okay... some of my best friends are either marrying each other or are marrying people I absolutely adore), and I'm excited about life.
I guess a lot has happened since we've last talked. ABT Spring Party was on the Gateway Clipper. We danced, we ate, we just had a great time. (That picture is of me and Robbie at Spring Party :-)). Another thing I got to do was camping at Cook's Forrest with the girls on my freshman hall from GCC. Twelve girls in a 2 bedroom cabin was awesome! It was so much fun- with hiking, bug bites, s'mores, and ghost stories. Next time you want a good story, ask me about the "I see your hiney" incident. Hehe. Good times. That picture is of my roommates and I (Lori, Ruth, and Leigh). I miss them already. BUT- speaking of roommates... I got to spend an entire 5 days in Tahoka, Texas with Leigh (the one on the far right and the one laughing hysterically on the left) a few weeks ago. I flew down to see her and it was just great. We saw longhorns, had a Dixie-dog and watched some amazing lightning storms. It was so great to finally see where she grew up. I've heard about it for so long and I got to see it for myself! It was just how I pictured it- flat and hot! There they are: Mark, Amy, Leigh, and Vivian. I am so blessed to have these people in my life. And finally the next wonderful thing to happen was that my brother-in-law graduated from the Ohio State University with his PhD! Isn't he cute in his robe!? Congratulations, Dr. Nicholas John Dekker!!! So proud of you!
Well-- I'm leaving for the summer on Saturday... talk to you when I'm up in New York.

God Bless!

an italian feast

2007-04-29T08:07:00.000-04:00

This post is long overdue. I was waiting for pictures of this event, but they never came. Thus, I must describe this wonderful experience using just my words. I guess it was about a month ago now- my dear friend, Christopher Scott Aitken (isn't that a great name? I totally want to name one of my kids Christopher Scott...) had me and 7 of his other friends over for a 7-course Italian meal. With the help of his fearless side kick, the funniest guy in my life (well- my brother-in-law is a contender for this position as well), Aaron Gottier, he served the following: an assorted cheese plate, Shrimp Cocktail, Insalata: arugula, pear, and asiago cheese, Lemon sorbet (ya know, per pulire del palato), Bruchetta, Manicotti and per dolce: Cinnamon meringue with whipped cream and raspberries.
The best part about it was that it was all made from scratch- yes, even the sorbet which was served inside the frozen lemon garnished with mint leaves. And everything was presented so elegantly, not just the food. There were names with each place setting at the table, along with a beautiful center piece adorned with red roses and rose petals. It was elegant and classy. And to tell you the truth, it was a little surreal.
Here I was sitting down at this wonderful meal set up by my friends just because they wanted to serve us. They didn't even sit down and eat with us. They cleared our plates after each course, brought drinks around, asked us if we ever needed anything. I tried to help and they wouldn't let me! Aaron kicked me out of the kitchen numerous times. I don't think I have ever been served like that before by my friends. I have never been loved in that way before.
I felt honored to be friends with these people. It was just such a special evening- one of the best nights I have had at Grove City, hands down. It made my heart smile- a lot.

Oh, and sorry for the scary picture- it's the best one I could find of those guys :-).

feel the nanger

2007-04-17T00:42:00.000-04:00

Have you ever been singing to the radio in your car with one of your friends in the front seat and suddenly the words you are singing are not the actual words in the song? First, they look at you kind of funny, question whether or not the lyrics they are singing are correct, and then start laughing hysterically at the ridiulous thing you just said.
I have been studying for a Modern Europe test that I have tomorrow with Tilford (whom I love dearly) for the past few days, and late at night I get a little loopy. For some reason I was talking about my brother, Chip, and then the theme song to "Chip and Dale's Rescue Rangers" pops into my head. It was all downhill from there. I started singing it and my roommate Lori looks at me with that "those are totally not the right lyrics" look on her face. Not only was I not singing the right words, the words I was singing weren't even actual words. "Ch-ch-ch-Chip and Dale, Rescue Rangers/Ch-ch-ch-Chip and Dale, FEEL THE NANGER". What? What does that even mean? I googled it, and all I can come up with is that a 'nanger' has something to do animals, at least thats what it said after being translated by my spanish-major roommate from a spanish exotic bird website... or in the "Urban dictionary" it is defined as this:
1. Nanger- An ugly or slightly mutned person; A ranky; a person not worthy of a second look, except for a chuckle.
2. Nanger- Nerd + Anger = Nanger
A subservient but biting anger towards normal members of society, resulting from both years of taunting and/or exclusion and the nerd's own insecurities.
Wow. I looked waaaaay to into this, didn't I?
As a child, did I honestly think they were saying that, or was I just trying to fit in because my two oldest siblings were screaming the theme song at the top of their lungs? And you probably already know this (and laughed out loud at me as a child when I said it wrong... ahem... Beth... Chip), but the real lyrics to that is "where there's danger", which makes much more sense. Alright. Must sleep.

under control

2007-04-01T22:08:00.000-04:00

Happy April!

I get a break. For 10 whole days, I get to spend time with my friends and family for Easter- the first time I have been at home for Easter in 3 years. My beautiful roommate, Leigh, and I are driving up to Cape Cod for few days on Tuesday to relax a little bit. A friend of mine is letting us use her beach house, which was such a blessing! It might not be super warm, but I will be near the beach and that is enough for me. I love the beach, no matter how cold it is. There is just something about seeing God in all His majesty through the power of the ocean. It makes me feel like no matter what I do I won't be able to control it- a feeling I love. There are too many times that I realize that I am stressing about something because I'm trying to control it. But God calls us to be completely dependent on Him. It's pretty amazing to know that He has got it under control.

And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose. Romans 8:28

where have i been

2007-03-25T14:05:00.000-04:00

So many wonderful things have happened since my last entry. I'm just downloading my pictures from my camera now... how could I forget some of these things! As the little guy in "Finding Nemo" said, I am ashamed.

I went to Grand Rapids to see my sister on her birthday. I met all of her lovely friends, which was great! Here they are-- don't worry, they're not actually sad. We just saw some very disturbing giant pieces of breakfast food that little children were playing on in a kid's area of a mall. Scary.
I went to Chicago to visit some friends a few weeks ago and met some new ones as well! It was amazing to see them again. I hadn't seen them since last summer and I was going through withdrawl.
Peter got a new camera-- he's was pretty giddy.
Peter Nilsen and Kit Bogan. Sigh. Just wonderful. There are no other words to describe.
The girls at Blue-Man Group! (from left: Michelle, Ginger, and Morgan) It was pretty great, Michelle knew someone and we got to usher and see the show for FREE. All of us after a lovely meal.

At the beginning of the month, Alpha Beta Tau had our retreat at my house- with a bake-off! It was an amazing time of fellowship with some of my favorite girls in the world.
Hmm... other things going on...
I'm sure you will be excited to know that I passed my senior recital hearing and will be officially giving my senior recital on April 22nd, 2007, at 2:30pm in the Pew Recital Hall at Grove City College. Did you get that? Is it on your calendar? Are you suuuure? Good. I will hope to see you there- you will get to hear 5 languages... you'll laugh, you'll cry... it will move you. Well, I hope so anyway. I'll try my darndest.
A big praise- I got into a few graduate schools. Things are still up in the air yet though because I need to hear about the financial end of things and I am also waiting to hear from one more school (and from the Big Guy upstairs). Good thing God knows what is happening in the future because I certainly don't!

2007-02-25T22:49:00.000-05:00

I just wanted my sisters to know that they are beautiful.

Well, I went home for the first time in a month. I walked into the house really late (after going to a PSO concert of John Williams' pieces- fabulous!) on Saturday night and I could tell a few things were off. First of all, the house smelled of baked goods. The only time my house smells like baked things is if Marcia and my Daddy make cinnamon roles (which taste like little bites of heaven, by the way), or if Abbey is home and makes a million cookies for no reason at all. Both of these things were improbable because Marcia is in Columbus and Abbey is in Grand Rapids. I just kind of chalked it up to my parents doing some experimental baking. Then, I set my bags down and went over to the refrigerator to get some Fresca, which I was very excited about. When I opened the frig door I saw soy milk. Now, there is nothing at all wrong with soy milk. I actually really like it-- but this was the 2nd thing that had changed after being in my house for only 2 minutes. Baked goods and soy milk. Where was I? As I put the Fresca back after pouring myself a glass, I saw chocolate milk sitting on the shelf as well. Chocolate MILK? Who were these people? Had someone brain-washed my parents? This was not the same kitchen I remembered. I remember skim milk and whole milk, as a child but never, I mean, NEVER chocolate.
I don't know what it is about smells but for some reason certain smells bring back the most vivid memories. It truly is incredible. I walked downstairs to my basement and a memory came shooting back. It didn't smell like I remember my basement smelling. It smelled like Emily's parents house back in Greenville when they still lived a few blocks from the high school. All these memories of my childhood in that house came flooding back- the soft pretzel's Mrs. Taylor used to bring us, the movies we used to watch, the Buffalo Bills paraphernalia hanging on the walls, the backroom trundle bed and all of the sleepovers we had there. It made my heart very happy. So, Hi Mrs. Taylor- I miss you and hope we can see one another soon. Thanks for the amazing memories and being the best at all those little things you always did for us.

But it's okay that things are changing. It hit me that night, that I am going to grow up and nothing is going to stop it. I pray that the rest of my life was as wonderful as my childhood, because I have nothing but wonderful memories of it. So, things may change from time to time and my parents may start buying chocolate milk but I was blessed with such an amazing childhood that things can change as much as they want. I had my soft pretzels, my skim milk and my wonderful family. And all of those things make me smile.

and we were here for it

2007-02-13T22:15:00.000-05:00

For Grove City College students, this day will go down in history. It is the first time since the winter of 1993 that school has been cancelled due to the weather. The administration emailed us just moments ago that due to the massive amounts of snow that we have accumulated over the past 24 hours, there will be no school. As soon as we got the email, students lept for joy at the thought of having a whole day to themselves. I walked into Colonial Hall Apartments and girls were screaming running down the halls (little over-worked, eh?). Plans of sled-riding, icecream eating, movie watching, and pillow flighting have been made. It's a glorious thing.
A letter from President Jewell that sent students into a state of euphoria:
"Due to rapidly deteriorating weather conditions to include ice, wind and drifting snow now forecast through tomorrow, all classes and public events at Grove City College are cancelled for tomorrow, Wednesday, February 14, 2007. Thank you for your understanding and cooperation."
So, Congrats, Grovers. And have fun. You certainly deserve it!

at least one conclusion

2007-02-01T15:57:00.000-05:00

I don't want to grow up yet.

Psalm 40

2007-01-29T09:18:00.000-05:00

Blessed is the man
who makes the LORD his trust,
who does not look to the proud,
to those who turn aside to false gods.

Many, O LORD my God,
are the wonders you have done.
The things you planned for us
no one can recount to you;
were I to speak and tell of them,
they would be too many to declare.

Sacrifice and offering you did not desire,
but my ears you have pierced;
burnt offerings and sin offerings
you did not require.
Then I said, "Here I am, I have come--
it is written about me in the scroll.

I desire to do you will, O my GOD; your law is within my heart."

v. 4-8 (thanks for the photo, pete)

disdain for the American "idol"

2007-01-19T12:21:00.000-05:00

As many of you know, there are very few things in this world that I hate. I probably couldn't name 5 things that I absolutely cannot stand. But I think I have added one more to my very short list- American Idol.
Why, you might ask, do you hate it so? Aren't you a singer? Isn't that what you would love to do? Umm. No. American Idol isn't singing. It is an embarrassment to the world of vocal arts.

I sat with my mother during our quality time and listened to every auditionee from Seattle and Minneapolis this past week. But it was all I could do not to throw up from the horrible feeling I had for the people auditioning. They were being harassed and ridiculed. These people get the guts enough to go up in front of judges, in front of millions of viewers and sing their little hearts out and they just laugh right in their faces. I'm not by any means saying that they were good- most, if not all of them, could not sing their way out of a paper bag, but they were trying. (Unfortunately they didn't realize they were bad before coming to the show, that would have saved them the embarrassment a little, but still). There are other ways to say that they are not meant for the stage other than laughing at them. It's called tact. It's called constructive criticism. It's called DECENCY. I felt nauseous for the people auditioning- I was physically ill.

On the other hand, I can see it from the judges perspective- "What in the world is this person doing here!? They are tone deaf!" And hearing those kind of people over and over again cannot be fun. But these are the "professional" judges that are supposedly some of the best in the business, yet they use words like "pitchy". They always say "It's a little too pitchy for me." What the heck does that mean? Are there too many pitches? Not enough pitches? It makes no sense. Not in any of my million music classes and/or ensembles have I ever been more or less "pitchy" than I should have been. Why? Because it's not a word, folks.

So instead of having a decent competition between viable competitors, America wants to watch inarticulate "professional" musicians ridicule, dismiss, harass, and laugh at people that cannot sing to save their lives. Does anyone else think this is a little sick?

it's faith that gives stability

2007-01-13T23:35:00.000-05:00

(photo by Ryan Lyhnam)

I miss Italy. I didn't think I would this much, but I do. Maybe I miss it because in some strange way, it was stable to me. My own apartment, great classes, great lessons. I knew what I was doing everyday, I knew what was coming next and I didn't look too far into the future. But at the same time, I was in a place I didn't know- it was new and exciting and there was certainly variety, a must in my life. Every weekend would be different, every morning. How could this place feel more stable than the my own home? With everything I have ever known so close?

Oh wait.

Perhaps its because I have no idea what I am going to do with my life. Nothing in my life seems to be stable. I've applied to graduate schools for performance but there is no guarentee and even if I do get in- what are the odds of me actually being a singer for the rest of my life? I feel too logical and realistic for music to be a passion of mine. I barely know what I am going to do next summer let alone what I want to do for the rest of my life. Auditions are coming up and I'm nervous. I have to make a lot of decisions about my life in the very near future. But all of these things are silly.

Because God is taking care of me. I'm happy- really happy. He's got something huge planned. Yeah, it may not be in the center of La Scala's stage and it may not be a record deal, but I know it will be perfect. Because that is what His will is.

Trust. Pray. And take big deep breaths.

let's fill the room

2006-12-25T15:53:00.000-05:00

Christmas Eve has always been my favorite night of the year for many reasons. Not only am I around the people I love most in the world and surrounded by my church family as well, but sometimes I get to sing one of the best Christmas carols, "O Holy Night" at the end of the service. For the past few years, I have sung while the candles were being lit. I have been able to watch the light being passed from one person to another as it gradually works its way back to fill the entire room with candle light and it just might be my favorite part of Christmas.

Yeah, the 48 dozen cookies that we made were great, as was the 4 hour opening presents event on Christmas morning, and the feeble attempts Abbey and I made to play Christmas carols on the piano were possibly some of the most humorous times I have ever had, but those candles make me think. Imagine if we were able to touch people like those candles do. If we show Christ's love to one person, were that light to one person, that one person might just show it to someone else. No, it's not profound and I know this concept isn't new, but this time it made me want to be that light more than it ever has. Sometimes the candle just won't light, and sometimes it blows out, but we have to at least try to fill the room. We are called to fill it, and trust me, the end result is worth it. This Christmas Eve, I got to see a glimpse of what it might look like.

"This is the message we have heard from him and declare to you: God is light; in him there is no darkness at all. If we claim to have fellowship with him yet walk in the darkness, we lie and do not live by the truth. But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus, his Son, purifies us from all sin... Whoever loves his brother lives in the light, and there is nothing in him to make him stumble." 1 John 1:5-7, 1 John 2:10

I hope and pray you all had a wonderful Christmas! God Bless.

Boxy the Snowman

2006-12-21T16:08:00.000-05:00

Every year my genius sister Beth themes the way she wraps her Christmas packages. Strange, yes, but genius none-the-less. You can always tell her gifts because not only do they look the same (duh), but they are wonderfully planned and always very interesting. Some previous themes include "Ribbon", "Brown Paper Packages Tied Up with String", and "Tiny Packages". But this year, she has gone all out with the most creative idea yet- "Boxy the Snowman".
Each gift is in a box and covered with white wrapping paper. On one side there is a face made of cut-out paper coal and a paper-carrot nose. The other side of the box has 3 buttons of cut-out paper coal so when they are stacked on top of one another, they look like snowmen, in all different shapes and sizes. You might be a little weirded out, but the presents under our Christmas tree look amazing.

the long day is over

2006-12-18T19:55:00.000-05:00

Traveling is done. Jet lag has set in. But it's all okay.

I saw my friends and family today, sang for a long time at school, did some Christmas shopping with Mommy and Abbey, and went to Rachel's with a bunch of amazing beautiful people that I have missed so much. It's surreal and wonderful.

I am home :-).

Things I Will Miss

2006-12-14T05:24:00.000-05:00

I know you are probably wondering what this blog is going to be about from the incredibly cryptic title of this entry, but don't worry. I'll fill you in.
I wanted to make a list of a few things that I am going to miss here in Itlay.
1. Seeing the Duomo on the way to school and out the window of my classroom.
2. The brioche mele (apple pastry) that I have been known to get in the mornings before class.
3. The Ponte Vecchio at night.
4. The shopping.
5. Readily available honey-soap from Lush.
6. The little old lady who sells me Italian yarn for the scarves I have been making.
7. The little chairs on the back of the bicycles for the little ones to hitch a ride with Mom or Dad.
8. The Italian way of making/drinking espresso.
9. REAL cappucino.
10. The smell of leather on the streets.
11. The street musicians.
12. The Tuscan countryside.
13. Tuscan Olive Oil.
14. Alberto (who makes the most amazing sandwich in the world) from "The Oil Shoppe" and il panini numero 4.
15. GABS and my 10% discount.
16. O-the-Italian-Pooches.
17. Four course meals.
18. Carlo's hair.
19. Aquacotta- their goat cheese, walnut, and honey salad.
20. The Japanese secretary at I.E. named Rie... she speaks Japanese and Italian... I speak English and a little Italian. It was always fun talking to her!
21. Getting letters!
22. FRANCO!
23. Francesco- the guy who cuts my hair.
24. Valeria Ferri who told me she was in love with my voice.
25. Walking by Eby's and hearing "Ciao bella!"
There are many many more, but those are the few that popped into my head first and I can't wait to tell you all the rest in person!
I will be home December 17th- just 3 short days away.

New Number

2006-12-09T07:05:00.000-05:00

Eight days and counting and I will be home.
I wanted to give you guys my new cell phone number that will be active the day I get home. It's Verizon, so, woohoo to any other Verizon users out there... we can talk for free! I was going to post it on here, but then realized how sketchy that is... so email me (KM_in_Italy@yahoo.com) if you want it. Make sure you email me yours too, so I can start compiling my phone book. Alrighty, I've got to go. Have a wonderful day. Love you all! CiaoCiao.

One Last Fling

2006-12-05T02:42:00.000-05:00

All of my roommates and friends have made it a point to travel around Europe as much as they can, some of them totaling within the range of 6 different countries. I don't know why I didn't travel more to different places. I think it was because I love Italy so much I didn't really ever want to leave. But because I am getting anxious to come home, I needed to get my mind off of things and, literally, leave the contry for a while. It was an answer to prayer because I had really been asking God to let me live it up here for the next few weeks and not waste away my time wishing I could be with you all. So, my friends Emily and Michal, two wonderful girls from my church, asked me to come to Zurich, Switzerland, for the weekend and I accepted. This was one of the best decisions I have made!
We traveled the 7 hour train ride straight from Florence to Zurich, which actually lasted about 8 and a half hours because of some unforseen stops. We got in Friday night to a wonderful little hotel in the town of Kloten, right north of Zurich. The next morning, we got up, looked out our window and could see a market happening in the street below. We walked there and on our way saw a Swiss pastry shop. We, of course stopped to take part in the sights, smells and tastes of this amazingness. There was a giant brioche outside of the bakery- we had to take a picture, of course. After walking through the market with our Swiss specialty gingerbread - man - shaped - donut - like - things, we hopped on the train to Zurich. The very old, beautiful city is located right on the river- the houses and buildings are right up against it. It's beautiful. We walked along all of streets, stopping to shop at the tons of little stands lining the streets that made up the Christmas Market of the city. There was even a singing Christmas Tree made up of children singing carols in German and doing handmotions to the songs. As it became night, the city streets lit up with Christmas lights lining the buildings, streets, and stores. If that doesn't put you in the Christmas spirit, I'm not really sure what could. The next morning we visited a church called Grossmunster that claims to have started the Reformation, and dates back to before the 1100s. We did some more shopping and hanging out, ate some traditional cheese fondue (SO good) and caught our train home. The train was one of the best parts as it took us through the Swiss alps. They were bigger and more beautiful than I had ever imagined they could be. I really hope to go back to Switzerland someday and tour the countryside a little more. Breathtaking is a good way to describe it.

Thanksgiving and Goodbye

2006-11-29T09:13:00.000-05:00

This was my second Thanksgiving in a row being away from home. As some of you know, I got to go to Pass Christian, Mississippi, last year to help with the Katrina relief during Thanksgiving, so it was very sad when I realized this summer that I would be missing it again. I did get to talk to my family which was wonderful. Thanksgiving is to be a time for us to get together and think about how God has blessed us-- feeling overwhelmed with His blessing upon my life it was appropriate this year that I had the pleasure of two Thanksgivings here in Firenze. One at my site-director's apartment with the other American students at I.E. and the other a few days later at Scott and Terri Last's house where I have spent every Sunday this semester at "Renaissance Italia" the small group/church where I have been worshipping. The Italian government will not give Scott, Terri and the rest of the Christian Associates International new visas to stay in the country and start the church they were hoping to. God has called a few of them to Portugal, some back to the states, and a few to other parts of the world. Needless-to-say Firenze will miss them all terribly. They plan to leave this coming weekend and this thanksgiving feast was the last get together they will have. The students and others that have been able to go to this church have been nothing but blessed by this ministry. Please pray for them as they start new chapters in their lives all over the world and pray for the church they leave behind that God will use it to bless students and Italians searching for Christ. This was one of the biggest blessings coming to Italy- finding a home with my brothers and sisters in Christ.

Know how thankful I am for each of you in my life. I got to speak to one of my closest friends on the phone a few nights ago and it was amazing to see God speak right through her to me. He knew I needed to hear everything she said and placed her at the right place at the right time. It made me miss you all so much and look forward to next semester when I can feel at home just by spending time with you all.
Happy Belated Thanksgiving!
These are a few pictures of the wonderful people at my church and the view from the apartment!

So many things, so little time!

2006-11-27T04:43:00.000-05:00

I know that I haven't updated in a while, and this will be a pathetic excuse for one, but I have been hard-pressed to find the time to do it. I have been moved up a few levels in Italian within the last week and I am trying to keep my head above water. My parents left at the beginning of last week and they left behind a girl pretty excited to go home. I am not really "homesick", but because I have only been at my house for 4 nights over the past 6 months, I'd say it's about time to crawl back into my own bed for a few nights. I say a few nights because after that you might hear me say how much I'm missing Italy. What can I say? I love it here too!
The time with my parents was, to say the least, amazing. If any of you know my parents, you know how phenomenal they are- how genuine, caring, generous and loving. I am so blessed to have such wonderful examples of God's love in my life. If you don't know my parents, get to know them. They are awesome. I would show you pictures of our trip but Dad took all the pictures and then took the camera home. I'll show them all to you when I get back.
Two weeks and 6 days until I hop off that plane.

So blessed.

Conio Olive Grove

2006-11-13T08:05:00.000-05:00

I had the opportunity to go to the Conio Groves on the outskirts of Florence in a town called San Donato in Poggio. I got to help the havest for a few hours by picking olives. It was about 60 degrees and sunny on one of the most beautiful pieces of land I have ever seen. It was set back from the road with vineyards and olive trees lining every view. The vineyards are just now starting to change colors- they look like a rainbow on the backdrop of the green grass. It's olive oil season here in Tuscany and the entire countryside is harvesting their crops. Yesterday I had one of the most relaxing times I have ever had. After I helped pick some olives and took a stroll near the lake, I was able to enjoy some olive oil that had been made from that grove the day before. Along with the toasted bread with olive oil came andante pasta with fresh basil and tomatoes, our choice of chicken, ham, or pork accompanied with a beautiful green salad adorned with fresh balsamic vinegar that our host had made. And as is Tuscan style, we had a wonderful custard dessert. I won't go into any detail about that though because I am sure you will all hate me. After this huge meal, I rolled into the car and went to visit the olive press that they used to make the oil. Because these machines are so expensive, there are only a few in Tuscany and the time rented is very valuable. The work that goes into it all is amazing, and so is the product. Let me know if you want me to bring some fresh olive oil back for you! I took about 200 pictures yesterday, so I'll just show my favorites.
Please pray for my parents within the next 24 hours as they are flying into Florence tonight to see me! I am so excited to see them and show them around- they're excited too! They get a free tour guide!

1 Peter 4

2006-11-06T04:40:00.000-05:00

If you are going to be used by God, He will take you through a multitude of experiences that are not meant for you at all, they are meant to make you useful in His hands, and to enable you to understand what transpires in other souls so that you will never be surprised at what you come across. Oh, I can't deal with that person. Why not? God gave you ample opportunity to soak before Him on that line, and you barged off because it seemed stupid to spend time in that way.

The sufferings of Christ are not those of ordinary men. He suffered "according to the will of God," not from the point of view we suffer from as individuals. It is only when we are related to Jesus Christ that we can understand what God is after in His dealings with us. It is part of Christian culture to know what God's aim is. In the history of the Christian Church the tendency has been to evade being identified with the sufferings of Jesus Christ; men have sought to procure the carrying out of God's order by a short cut of their own. God's way is always the way of suffering, the way of the "long, long trail."

Are we partakers of Christ's sufferings? Are we prepared for God to stamp our personal ambitions right out? Are we prepared for God to destroy by transfiguration our individual determinations? It will not mean that we know exactly why God is taking us that way, that would make us spiritual prigs. We never realize at the time what God is putting us through; we go through it more or less misunderstandingly; then we come to a luminous place, and say - ' 'Why, God has girded me, though I did not know it!"

Oswald Chambers
November 5- My Utmost for His Highest

Orchestra della Toscana

2006-11-04T12:49:00.000-05:00

I went to the orchestra last night by myself and had a marvelous time. Between the Ravel piano concerto and Stravinsky's Pulcinella, it was all I could do not to stand up after every selection. It wasn't really even the quality of the orchestra- they were certainly not the best I had ever hear (especially those woodwinds...eek). But I think I realized a few things while I was there.
I realized how much I love music. It has always been a huge part of my life, but sometimes I take it for granted. It's so fun, interesting, entertaining, thought provoking, emotional, and intricate. What more could you want, really? I might only know 3 1/2 years of an undergrad degree about music, but I love it. It is comforting, but at the same time able to be criticized and critiqued (and it can't bite back). It's a discussion starter between people that share the common interest of music as well as a healthy thing to be on your mind. I just sat there with a huge smile on my face in gratefulness for such a wonderful thing (I know, Abbey, you threw up a little in your mouth, didn't you?).
And music is a lot like life. You can work and work and work to be perfect, but you'll never get there. Even music has its faults, just like the rest of us. The inability to be perfect. But we must strive to be perfect because we are called to do so (Matt 5:48).
Good thing I've got grace.
That's the one thing music doesn't have, just 2000 critical audience memebers waiting for you to screw up. And we've got One audience member waiting to catch us when we fall.

I HEAR that

2006-10-31T03:09:00.000-05:00

Italians know how to party.

On Saturday night, I was standing outside my apartment talking on the phone. All of a sudden about 50 people showed up at the door with food, wine, and all the essentials of a party. A woman came out and told us that she is sorry but there will be a party tonight- she apologized for the music. I thought nothing of it, went back inside, and looked over some music for my voice lesson Tuesday.
About a half-hour later, as I was winding down and watching a recent episode of LOST that I had just downloaded (I know, it's a sickness...) when all of a sudden "Freakout" was playing through my bedroom window. Then came "I Will Survive", "YMCA", and "Celebrate". Because the party went well into the night, my roommates and I got up out of bed (because there was no sleeping to the "YMCA") and made food.

Yes, Italians know how to party- to American 70s and 80s music.

La Nostra Spettacolare Italiano

2006-10-23T03:06:00.000-04:00

I was downloading my pictures from my camera to my computer and asked Beth what to call the folder. She said, in a loud booming voice "Our Italian Spectacular." And folks, that is certianly what it was. Having her here was amazing. I think about all of you all the time, see things that remind me of you, and want so much to be able to show you these things. Well, for the past 10 days, I was able to share those things with my beautiful sister, Beth.

Rome, Pompeii, Perugia- The Euro Chocolate Festival, Siena, Montalcino, Florence, and Pisa. We did them all. It is safe to say that Italy was invaded by a few of the Meyer sister's.
From hating public transportation, to touching a lot of "old stuff", Beth and I pretty much experienced it all, including the culture of those oh-so-wonderful Italians. At one point Beth said "Do they even see me? I mean, we're walking on the same sidewalk coming toward one another and it's like they AIM for me. Do they want to hit me? Is that actually happening?" I patted her on the back and said "Welcome to Italy."
So, we took over two hundred pictures just on my digital camera. That doesn't include the artsy ones Beth took on her "that camera's so big, that girl has to be a tourist" camera. It's okay. We embraced being tourists, didn't we, Beth? How can you not when 80% of this country's economy comes from tourism? Here are a few pictures- some of the highlights of our Spectacular. Enjoy!

The Italians don't drink coffee, they drink espresso (which they call 'caffe' or in English, coffee). Being a black coffee drinker myself, I have embraced this Italian tradition. By the end of the week Beth had to have her fix everyday too. Yay.

Yes, Beth is infact touching the Coloseum. And it's very old, I hear.

Me and the Pantheon. Here that Beth? PANtheon. (We had some issues calling it the Parthenon...whoops...)Isn't Rome beautiful? *sigh*And look! Beth got to sit in her very first Roman theater in Pompeii!

On Tuesday we took two trains and a bus one way to get to the EuroChocolate Festival. It was worth every minute. We would walk down the old streets with over 300 vendors represented while the sales reps for the companies handed us chocolate. As embarassing as it is, we bought so much chocolate, we had to buy another bag to bring it all home. Daddy- aren't you proud? Hey, most of it is for you guys!Siena. We used it as a sort of home base for three nights so that we could fully explore Tuscany. Our hostel was great, and so was the city.

This is a story I will most likely tell everyone. But let's just say, the Meyer girls were defeated. Defeated by a steak. This is Franco. He is hacking off our portion.

The same night that we were defeated, our first course was fresh pasta. The restraunt had an open kitchen so we could see everything going on. Amazing.We spent one day in the beautiful Tuscan town of Montalcino. Great food and great views.And we had to get a Paul Robinett candle picture in Pisa (the candle is leaning too...hehe). Although the city was dirty, the tower was really interesting. We were both kind of shocked that there really was a big leaning tower.

We didn't have a personal photographer on the trip (dissapointing, I know) so there were many of the pull away shots!
Beth and I had amazing time and were so excited to spend time together in such an extrordinary place. Where to next Beth? Greece did you say? Awesome.

TWO DAYS

2006-10-11T05:28:00.000-04:00

BETH IS COMING SOON!
BETH IS COMING SOON!
BETH IS COMING SOON!

So, did I mention my sister Beth is coming to visit me in two days? I am pretty excited.

San Gimingano

2006-10-07T05:29:00.000-04:00

A few weeks ago I went a small Tuscan town outside Florence, about an hour by bus, called San Gimingano. Being in a city most of my time here, it was wonderful to get out and see some of the countryside. The town is most known for its 14 towers. The rich people of the day would display their power and wealth through the height of their tower- the higher the tower, the more imporant you were. It is estimated that there were more than 70 of these towers at one time. After the war, there were only 14 left standing.
But I'll let my pictures do the talking about this town's history and beauty. Anything I would say would just be frivolous.

I hope you have a wonderful day in the Lord.

Happy October

2006-10-03T02:53:00.000-04:00

On Sunday was the annual "Corri la Vita", a walk to benefit cancer patients in Florence. This year, over 8,000 people signed up to give donations, raise support and walk and run for the Florentine residents. All of the proceeds go straight to work specifically in Florence. It was such a fun experience, crowed and sweaty, but very fun. There were hills, skinny Italian men in short shorts, a plethera of running shoes, and free water at the end of the race. A few of a my roommates and a few classmates signed up for the 6K walk, which ended up being more of an 8K hike. It was great exersize, and as you will see, we got to walk to some of the most panoramic spots in Florene.

This is a view of the runners speeding down the Arno.

This was one of the delightful little hills we got to climb!

But it was worth it, because this was the view from the top of that little hill.

The Finish Line!

So many people came out for this cause, which was wonderful. I was astouded at how many people ran this race- and not the 8K...no no no.... the 12K. My friends and I were some of the very few that walked this "walk". And not just a stroll down the street. We were clippin at a pretty nice pace. No wonder everyone in Italy is skinny and beautiful- they are all in excellent shape. Me on the other hand, well, we're working on it. I'm eating so much better here, doing pilates every morning, and walking a lot during the day. This walk was a good jump start for me.

A glance out my front door...

2006-09-27T06:05:00.000-04:00

I forgot one of the things about living on via Farini- the beautiful Jewish synagogue of Firenze just a few steps outside my door.

What God is Teaching Me

2006-09-26T07:12:00.000-04:00

I talked to my daddy on the phone last night and got to talk to him about the things God was really teaching me while I've been here. I thought I'd share a few things with you.

1). I just finished reading (a quick read that took me a month to finally finish because of lack of time) Woodrow Kroll's How to Find God in the Bible. It was really interesting to me to see again all the proofs that the bible is a real, historical document of evidence as well as a the God-breathed word on how we should live. I appreciate it more knowing how long it has been around, how many manuscripts of the book we have to this day, and how much history is really involved with it.

2). God is SO big. Did you know that I get to wake up every morning and talk to the Creator of the earth? I get to know personally the same God that spoke to Moses through a burning bush, the God that flooded the earth, and put breath into man. God has been the same today, yesterday and 3000 years ago. I know this seems like a revelation I should have had a long time ago, and I always knew these things, but I guess I didn't really 'get' it. I stand in awe, more than ever, at His absolute majesty. It makes me fall down on my knees and compels me to obedience.

3). I was talking to a friend a few days ago on the phone and he said he was talking to someone that wanted to start a church plant in Rome. Knowing I was in Florence, he asked his friend how many Christians lived there. His answer was 6. Obviously, this might be an exaggeration, but I don't think it is a very big one. Life, my friends, is a mission field. I kept trying to figure out why God sent me here- there has to be a reason, right? To grow musically, to learn the language, yes, but what else? Then I woke up and thought about the 6 Christians living here and how much of a responsibility they have to show Christ to others and to spread the Word in such a God-less city. Well, I am here. That makes 7. And then it was settled in my mind. I am here to tell these people about Jesus. My apartment is a mission field, my school is a mission field, the train is a mission field. I must be bold. I must step out of the comfort zone of myself and tell people why I am so happy all the time. Pray for me... it is not easy.

Well, I could go on because God is good in showing me many things, but this post is getting a little ridiculously long.

I also wanted to give a little CONGRATULATIONS to my best friend. Emily Ann Taylor and I have been friends now for 15 years and I am honored to announce her engagement to Ryan Swearingen, a kind, wonderful man of God. I also have the immense honor of standing up for her as a bridesmaid at her wedding next summer. I am so sorry I could not be there to hug you and cry and tell you how excited I am for you in person, so I will send my Congrats out into the Blog World and hope as many people as possible hear me.
I love you, Emily! Congratulations to you both!

My Little Corner of the World

2006-09-25T15:27:00.000-04:00

I realized yesterday that I hadn’t shown you around my apartment. How rude of me! It’s been a month, and you haven’t even seen where I live. Where are my manners…sheesh. So, here is my little corner of the world- via Farini, 15.

The Residents

(from left to right: Maxine, Amy, Nicole, Lizzy)
My apartment is actually quite big, much bigger than we were all expecting it to be. It has two large rooms, one Amy and Lizzy live and the other with myself, Max and Nicole. There is a kitchen, one and half baths, a very small living room and my favorite part- the window beside my bed.

The kitchen

The Living Room (if it can be called that), with the small bathroom right off of it.
That green chair might look comfortable, but don’t be fooled. I know we all were.

One and a…

…half baths.

Amy and Lizzy’s Room

My bed, and the window beside it (I couldn’t get the entire room into a picture, so you only get to see my bed, sorry). Oh, and you can also see my plant on my nightstand!

My favorite part of my apartment is this lovely view out into the neighbor’s garden. If it weren’t for the mosquitoes, it would be open all the time.

So, that is where I live, and I love it. It is about a 15 minute walk to everywhere (except church, which is about 30min, but totally worth it). Thanks for visiting, and I hope you come again soon!

Venice- Rain or Shine

2006-09-20T11:11:00.000-04:00

I stepped off the train in Venezia and saw one of the most people places I have ever been to. It was unreal-- docks that went right up to houses and people getting into water taxis just to get to their hotels. Yes, this place exists, and now I have first hand experiences with it.
The first night we spent just walking around. We only had two hours before the shuttle took us to our hostle, so we just took pictures and enjoyed the night time in this city. The next morning we got up, took the shuttle into the city again and walked around all day. I was just amazed at the little walkways, the bridges, the alleys, the hanging baskets, the people and their little doors, but most of all I was taken with the buildings. There is so much history, so much life in all of them. The facade would be cracked and falling off, but the vine would still be growing up- not just growing, but thriving.
The gondoliers are just for tourists, going for 90 Euro a ride... we obviously didn't do it.
Dad, look at these hanging baskets... why don't yours look like this? hehe... The food here was of course wonderful and we all had great experiences with that-- fresh mozzerella and beautiful bread (as seen in the pictures below), it doesn't get much better than that. A few girls had an asapragus and basil soup that was outstanding.
One of the best things that happened in Venice was that it rained. That might sound silly and pretty cliche (Oh, rain is so pretty! blahblah), but in Venice, it was awesome. The stone streets were shiny from the rain and the canals were flooding everywhere. We were soaked from about 6pm to about midnight. We walked all around Venice and dodged busy streets by darting into small alleys. It was so fun. One of my roommates said rain seemed different in Italy with a big smile on her face-- after two hours of being completely wet, she looked at me and took her words back.
I would like to go back to Venice someday with a smaller group of people and visit a lot more of the museums and such. Two days in a city like that is just not enough. Maybe I will get to go there again while I am here. Or maybe you guys can come visit me and we will go! That will give me an excuse. But rain or shine, Venice is one of the most beautiful places I have ever been. It has so much character.
The hardest thing about being here, like I have said to a lot of you, is not being able to share these things with you. I miss being around you, all our conversation and hearing about your lives. Please know that I pray for you daily and think about you all the time.
Here are a few more pictures for you all:

Look at the size of those IVY!One of the many beautiful cathedrals in Venice.

Much love to all of you! God bless!

It's coming...

2006-09-18T02:55:00.000-04:00

Hey everyone! Sorry I haven't posted in a while. My computer has seen its last days (LCD screen broke) and its a little harder to get on to the computer. The computers at school have a 20 minute time limit, which is not enough time to email and blog, so hopefully my new computer arrives soon so that I can update you once again. There is an Internet place down the street that I have a membership too, so I might be able to visit that a few times, too. I can't wait to show you pictures of my weekend trip to Venice! Email me and let me know how you are doing. I have loved looking at your blogs! So, keep those posts coming. I hope you have a wonderful day!

A few highlights of Firenze

2006-09-07T04:35:00.000-04:00

There are so many things in Firenze that I love. The shops, the churches, the cappucino-- pretty much everything. I just wanted highlight a few wonderful things I have seen thus far.
About a week ago, we went out to celebrate Jose's birthday. Him and his girlfriend, April, very dear people, are from Southern California and are so much fun to be around. Because Jose is from Mexico, we decided to go to a Mexican restaurant, which turned out to be some of the best food I had ever had. Not only was the food great, but his "birthday cake" was amazing.

Here it is up close and personal. Yeah, even the Mexican restaurants in Florence do birthday's RIGHT. So (I know this will come as a shocker to most of you), wonderful thing #1: the food.
Walking around Florence is one of the most fun things to do. Watching the Italians do their thing and pretend no one is around, watching the tourist being all touristy, and watching the street vendors harass the shoppers. But there is culture here, there is life here, and there is art. Walking around Florence and being able to see the amazing art in the buildings, in the store windows, and above all in the people, is wonderful thing #2.
This is one of the many Florentines that shows here artwork on the sidewalk using nothing but chalk, and talent.
And the last wonderful thing for today (there will be more to come soon), is pretty self explanatory, especially from the pictures I have posted thus far. Wonderful thing #3: The views.

This is the view of the Duomo from the Palazzo Pitti.

I am talking this picture standing on the Ponte Vecchio bridge, the only bridge in Florence that wasn't bombed in WWII. One of the best views in Florence thus far that I've seen: down the Arno River (this one is for you, Diana).

God has put Psalm 37 on my heart these last few days. I know we have all read it so many times, but for some reason it is really coming alive to me. Read it again and see what you think.
I hope you all have a wonderful day. I miss and love you all very much.

Cinque Terre

2006-09-04T04:43:00.000-04:00

Christine is our Site Director here at the Instituto Europeo. She was the first person we met after we got off the plane, the one that found the broom in our apartment, and the one who takes us on the "excursions" that we are promised entering the program. Yesterday we went on our first excursion. It was one of the most enjoyable days of my life and I wished that every one of you were there to share it with me.
We hopped on the train in Firenze to Cinque Terre, a chain of 5 little towns on the western coast of Italy traveled through by train, by boat, or by walking. When we walked around the corner of the train station, not knowing what to expect at all and a little dazed from the 3 hour train ride, we saw a little slice of heaven.

I spent the day walking/boating to the different towns, shopping in the little boutiques, laying out on the rocks and dipping my feet into the Mediterranean. WHAT? Did that ACTUALLY HAPPEN? To tell you the truth, I was completley speechless all day. People kept asking what was wrong, and I would look around me and then back at them and say "Is this for real?". God is so good. This earth he has given us to enjoy is something we should never take for granted. We should see His might, His power, and His glory in all of these things regardless of our circumstances. And that is certainly what God taught me yesterday.

It's not easy being alone here. I have met no Christians, and miss all of you so much. But through my wonderful experience yesterday with God's majesty, I know that I will never, ever, be alone. Look out your window and thank God for the things you see and treasure seeing Christ in that special way.

Here are some other pictures I thought you'd enjoy!
God Bless

Falling in Love with Italy

2006-09-01T05:36:00.000-04:00

I am here in Firenze, Italia and am quickly falling in love with everything about it. I live in a two bedroom apartment with one and a half baths and 4 roommates, all from the States. I am taking 3 hours of Italian classes everyday (which figures out to be about 12 credits of Italian... 4 semesters of Italian in one... yikes!), a Florentine architecture class that takes us to the places we are studying, and a voice lesson. Here is the view from outside the window of my classroom at the Instituto Europeo.

This building is called the Duomo, the biggest and most recognized cathedral in Florence. Here is a better picture of it from the street outside the door of my school.

My classes are small, only about 12 people in them (one of the students is from Slippery Rock and one is from New Castle! How crazy is that!?). I had my first voice lesson the other day and it went so well. She got me to sing higher and with better tone than I ever have in my life. She is very excited to see where my training will take me, and so am I.
I feel like in some ways I haven't awoken from a dream yet. It is all very overwhelming and I'm not quite sure what to do with myself. Pray that I draw near to Christ in all that I do and that I work hard for His glory. There is so much to do and so much to see I am easily distracted. But I see Him in everything here; in the buildings, the art, some of the people, and definitley the cappucino. It does not get much better than waking up early in the morning, spending some time with God, getting ready for the day, and then walking to the Duomo for class and on the way stopping at my favorite Caffe for some of the best cappucino in the world.

Here are my roommates and a few of my classmates on the side of the Arno :-).

I do have a cell phone number. You can call from a land line using a calling card (which would probably be most cost efficent for you). All of my incoming calls are free, but calling to the US is about 60 cents a minute. To get outside the country dial 011. Italy's country code (what you dial next) is 39. And my number is 335 7751 624. So all together:

My cell phone number: 011 39 335 7751 624

My address is
Kate Meyer
Instituto Europeo
Piazza delle Pallottole n.1 (Duomo)
Firenze, Italy 50122

Hope to hear from you guys! KM_in_Italy@yahoo.com.
I love you and am missing you all so much.

On My Way

2006-08-26T13:42:00.001-04:00

I'm sitting at Pittsburgh International Airport ready and waiting to board my plane to Newark. Then from Newark to Rome. Then from Rome to Florence. Wow. Long day. If you see this, please send up a prayer for me.

I just wanted to let you all know that I started an alternate email address for people that wanted to email me and back and forth totally can. I didn't want to clog my Grove City account too badly while I was away. So, here ya go. Email me at will.

KM_in_Italy@yahoo.com

Hope to hear from you soon!

Graham Crappers

2006-08-22T10:40:00.000-04:00

My family is possibly the coolest thing EVER in my life (right after Jesus, of course). I get home and there are the fixins to make a gourmet Greek meal complete with feta wraps, greek olives, and fried egplant. I haven't been that happy in a long time and not just because of the amazing food. Daddy at the grill, Beth at the cutting board, Marcia at the stove and Abbey and I trying desperately to wrap the feta filling with dried out fillo dough. I forgot while I was at camp how much I loved to cook with my family. They bring more joy into my life than anything ever could. Right after dinner we had a photo session because all of us will probably not be all together again for quite some time. It was certainly a feat to get a real picture taken.

Case in point.
My uncle Teddy, the one taking the picture, had a hard time getting a good one because every time he counted down from 3 we had something planned to do; either turn around, do jazz hands (as seen above) or, our favorite, attack Vitaly. All in all, it was a great time. I am so glad my dad decided to take family pictures after I had been "no make-up"ed and in a car for 7 hours... yummy.

My boy scout brothers and father have had a fire going perpetually from Saturday night until... well... I think it is still lit, actually. Beth and I asked everyone if they wanted us to get stuff for s'mores last night and Vitaly mentioned breifly how we needed to buy some more "graham crappers". Realizing what he had said, he started cracking up and fell on the floor as did everyone else in the room. S'mores in the Meyer house will now only be complete if we have the graham crappers. What do you expect when the word "crapper" is said around a 12 year old boy?

Leaving and Going Again.

2006-08-19T15:41:00.000-04:00

I leave Camp-of-the-Woods tomorrow morning at 6am. I'm not really sure how to feel about it. As I said in my last post, it's strange for me. I'm leaving a place to get ready to go to a place that I have never been to before. All I want to do is go home as quickly as possible to see my family who is waiting with open arms and Greek food on the table. God will take care of the rest of the week; the packing, the seeing people, the shopping, the getting the hair cut. God is SO good in not allowing me to worry about these things.

I'm ready to go. I'm ready to be alone with God and trust Him completley with my entire circumstance. I pray that He uses me wherever He takes me and that I can be a instrument of His peace and love. I thank the Lord for the wonderful experience here and the amazing people I have had the opportunity to meet. You are all wonderful and have been so blessed.

I will be home from August 20th until I fly out on the 26th. Let me know if you want to hang out! I would love to see as many people as I can before I leave. I love you all.

The Social Hall

2006-08-12T16:00:00.000-04:00

I came to the social hall this afternoon to complete my "Pre-departure Orientation" for my study abroad experience. It talked about how I need to make sure not to talk about how much money I have and how cheap everything is in Italy-- in essence, don't be an "ugly American". I think I can handle that. So, don't scream about how "behind the times" Italy is and how much better everything is in the States and stereotype everyone who walks by. Got it. Good thing my wonderful brothers in Christ were with me to laugh about all of this. I am going to miss them.

I am at a very strange part in my life. I think about this place and how wonderful it has been and the amazing people that I have met and I become super sentimental and thankful. Then I think about how much I am going to miss them all and I get really sad worried that I am never going to talk to them again. I then think about all of my friends at home that I haven't talked to in so long and how it is going to be a very very long time until I talk to them again like I want to-- when I am around them and with them. Then I think about the 5 days I have at home before I leave for Florence and how many people I want to see in that time and how I am never going to see everyone I want to. The expectation of my time at home is way up high and I think I need to just give it to God. I need to set it apart and let all of my plans fall into His hands. It's the only way I am going to be happy and not be sad and guilty for not seeing everyone I want to. And then there is Italy. What to expect, what my classes will be like, who my roommates will be... everything.

If you think about it, send up a prayer for me. You are all in my prayers daily and I thank you for your phone calls and cards. I am so blessed by each one of you. Love you.

I love my family.

2006-07-29T09:49:00.000-04:00

Hello everyone. I hope you all are doing wonderfully and are enjoying summer. It's been extremely busy around here and extremely warm as well. Now that I have cut off all of my hair, it's much easier for it to become COMPLETLEY drenched with sweat when I am working up at the "Hill" where I serve 9 meals a week. Did I mention there is no air conditioning in the building? Hey- I'm not complaining... I've lost 10 lbs since I've been here merely from sweating so much. Awesome.

So, my whole family is together in Greenville at this very moment without me. That's right. Without me. I guess Chip and Marcia aren't there either... so I guess I don't feel that bad. But still... they are all having fun without me and I don't like it, I tell you... not one bit.

I'm not really sure if anyone actually reads this, but if you do, could you put me in your prayers? Some classes fell through over in Italy for next semester and I am trying to work everything out for it as best as I can. I'm not really sure what's going to happen, what I'm going to take, or really much of anything at this point, but if you could all lift it up to the Big Guy, I would certainly appreciate it. I'm becoming more and more scared to go and as much as I know it is God's will for me to do so, I am trying very hard to trust that He is going to work it all out. And I know He will. Thanks.

I miss everyone so much.

Rainy Saturday

2006-07-22T11:21:00.000-04:00

God woke me up this morning around 6:00am (I didn't have to be anywhere until about 8:30am). I am really glad He did too. I had laundry waiting to be folded in the laundry room and coffee waiting to be made in the kitchen and clothes to be ironed in my room-- so much to do and ample time to do it. I was able to make one of my coffee-addict roommates coffee this morning and the entire process just reminded me of how much I love mornings. It was raining too-- how perfect is that? It's so calm, so serene and just gentle.
You all know me well enough to know how incredibly opinionated I am. I guess for a long time I struggled with being that way. The opinions I have I didn't want. They made people look at me differently. The convictions I had I didn't want because I was going to somehow offend someone. And Thessalonians talks about minding your own business and making it an ambition to lead a quiet life so I was mad that I wasn't that way. But mornings remind me that I love my life. The remind me of the quiet life I have in Christ and the peace that He surrounds me with everyday. They remind me of His love and grace and His gentleness. And I got all of that from folding two loads of laundry and making coffee... man... God IS awesome.

It's HOT up here.

2006-07-17T16:03:00.000-04:00

So, I had a wonderful day at the beach with a bunch friends yesterday. It was super hot and I loved every moment of it. It made me miss the Outer Banks SO much. But God is good- I thank Him for air-conditioned Wenger practice rooms and ice cream after concerts.

Here are the boy singers: Kit, Jamie, Peter, and Joshua after the Saturday night concert eating ice cream and getting quite cozy on the couch. Aren't they just so cute :-).

I got a few letters today from a few of you lovely people-- thank you so much for thinking of me. It was wonderful to hear how you are doing. I especially apprecite the frog-shaped water gun, my dear Ruth. That made my day! You all continue to be in my prayers as I miss you all so much. God Bless.

Oh, Ho-Down!

2006-07-15T15:34:00.000-04:00

Well, it has been one heck of a week up here at Camp-of-the-Woods. Today the Dr. and Mrs. Browne are coming to grace camp with their amazing presence and I cannot wait to see them. I only get them for a week and then I won't see them until I get back from Italy, so I'm pretty excited.

This week was the annual staff "Ho-Down" where everyone dresses up in ridiculous outfits and square-dances the night away. A very nice gentlemen, by the name of Ben, asked me to attend this function with him and I accepted. Needless-to-say, we all had a wonderful time. It was definitley a workout, but so much fun.

Just like every weekend up here, we have a concert. Tonight, is the dreaded "Disney Dazzle" comprised of 15 different songs from the lovely Disney movies of our childhood. And guess who gets to the "Belle" solo? That is right-- yours truly. I know you're jealous girls...

Yes, I am alive...

2006-07-08T10:50:00.000-04:00

Hey everyone. I hope all is well in your lives and God is blessing you abundantly. I have been praying for everyone so much and I think about everyone almost constantly. I would love to hear from you and see how your summers are all going! Drop me a line if you've got the chance!

So, I got a blog because I figured everyone was doing it. And because I kind of feel like I dropped off of the face of the planet and no one knows what I am doing or what I am up to. So, yay for the internet and yay for blogs and me finally succumbing to it all.

I am up here in Speculator, NY, at a Christian resort and conference center called Camp-of-the-Woods. It is right on Lake Pleasant in the Adirondack State Park. We have about 1200 guests each week and really great speakers (Josh McDowell and, his son, Sean McDowell just left-- incredible!). I work about 65 hours a week rehearsing, waiting tables and performing. I am apart of the 32 person music staff in which I am a member of the octet of singers. We sing everything from contemporary Christian stuff to Broadway to classical. It's been pretty great working with singers that are way better than me-- gives me lots of motivation. We perform every night except for Tuesday (our day off-- we call it Christmas) so we definitely keep busy. There is almost no cell service here (the reason most of you have not heard from me) but the lake is gorgeous and the weather has been wonderful. The people up here are also quite wonderful and I have really been enjoying getting to know the guests as well. We serve at the same section at the dining hall all week so we really get to know them and then they get to see us perform as well!

The best thing about this place though, is that I get to spend so much time with God. I'm learning a lot about why I believe what I believe and also about the love of Christ. How He loves me and why. I know that all seems a little fundamental, but the more and more I know about it, the more complex I know it is. We will never fully understand why God loves us or how, but we do know that we are His children. I never really got that before. His children. Nothing can ever separate us from that love. Nothing we ever do or say can ever make Him turn away from us. How much more that makes me want to follow Him. Wow.
Read the first few verses of 1 John 3.

I hope to hear from you all soon. I will continue to post, maybe even show some pictures of this place up here. I love you and miss you all so much.

I also have a mailing address here if you ever want to send me cool stuff! :-)
Staff, CAMP OF THE WOODS
PO Box 250 (Rt. 30 for packages)
Speculator, NY 12164