Can I have and do it all please?

I started reading again after a long hiatus. I was reading a book "Unmerited Favor" by Joseph Prince and i only got through the first chapter. Don't get me wrong, its a good book, but I just wanted more. I wanted more juice, more flavour, more to challenge me. The book i read before that one was "I'll have what shes having" by Bobbie Houston, and that was a good quick read. Now I picked up "Can I have and do it all, please?" by Christine Caine. That is a book for women and showing women the importance of their place in life. So its not exactly theological or anything...but its been refreshing in showing me that I don't need to try to fit my foot in Cinderellas slipper.
Let me explain...
I'm a bit different. Not weird (well sometimes) or kooky, but I'm different. I'm quiet, yet loud when I'm comfortable. I'm a leader when I'm passionate, a follower when again I'm not comfortable. I can talk about separate issues, yet stay very quiet and just ponder on certain things. I'm not huge on confrontation yet I'll push people to do it in certain situations. Heck, Sean's only heard me fart once in the 10+ years I've known him!
People have prophesied over me (more than once) that I'm a peace-maker, others have confirmed to me that I'm this quiet and sometimes lonely person, on purpose. That God had made me this way...it was ordained.
There have been times when I have felt cursed for this. I would think that I sinned a thousand too many times to be able to have that group of "friends"...you know those people who you can be your very self...even the parts that annoy others...and they still love you. I never had a Monica, Rachel, Phoebe, Joey, Chandler, or Ross in my life. Do i yearn for it? of course...will it come? I hope so.
So now I'm reading this book and Chris Caine is talking about how its just time to stop trying to be someone else. Stop trying to pick up other women's habits. Just be the one that God created you to be. I don't have to be the best cook for a man to love me. I don't have to be the best singer to be a worshipper. I can still my "all" as long as I am who God created me to be. And I want to marinate in that. I don't have to pretend that something is funny to laugh, its ok to not laugh. Its ok to not always be the leader and its ok to take control in situations. I can say my opinion without feeling stupid. And no one has the right to make me feel stupid. God is my creator and Father. He is my friend and King. He is my Saviour and Lord. He tells me who I am and that's who I will be.

Front Runner

I know I haven't written anything in about a month and its not like things haven't been happening or anything. I think i just wanted a clear understanding of what God has been doing lately. So my initial thinking when I came to Hillsong college was for me to rest from the ministry. I wanted to not be a leader for awhile. I wanted to be a follower, just be a face in the crowd. I wanted people to start teaching me and me not be responsible for others. I wanted to be a baby again. But that isn't supposed to happen. I was a baby once and now I'm a grown up. I grew up. And not only physically, but spiritually as well.
While being here things have changed...relationships, friendships, feelings, hopes, dreams, things that i thought i wanted have changed. Things that i thought would last forever were challenged and some crashed and burned while others continue to flourish. As a leader I have to go through those things. I have to see those things that will last in my life so in turn I am able to lead others. And for a long time I didn't want to lead others. I didn't want to be responsible. And I knew I was running away from it and I was ok with that.
But just when I wanted to run away God corners me...and not in a "I'm bigger than you ha-ha kind of way" but in a "what do you think you're doing? this is who you are" way. People here have been telling me that I need to start a connect group I kept giving excuse after excuse. "No..i don't want to lead anything" "No...I'm tired" blah blah blah. Than just when I thought I was out of the clear I start helping a ministry...help lead with a couple other people. I didn't think I was until one day I found myself taking over things...naturally. I knew the trap was set into place. Than just last week I got offered to lead a ministry...not even something that I've been a part of...not a ministry that I've spent time in...I'm not even close to the person who is head of it. They just knew I was a pastor and I'm experienced...but I'm experienced in my church...not hillsong! I was thinking "they let just ANYONE lead ministries"!!! But the truth is...at least the truth that i think is the truth is that God is setting me up. Not in a "you can't move and your trapped" set up, but a "you're a leader and I will put you in leadership roles until you believe that you're a leader" set up.
Am I mad? Not at all. Am i afraid? A little. (but you were a pastor for 4 years...why are you scared?) Because even in my leadership roles I was always behind someone...and with this i would be the front runner. And I believe this is why God brought me here...to be a front runner.
So...tomorrow I'm having a meeting with the girl that's over the ministry and we're gonna see if I'm game. And this week I'm gonna start praying about leading a connect group and want God to open doors for me. I know this is what God wants because this is a way to disciple people and grow the church and that's what God wants from his people.
So to be continued....

Those pesky teens

Its been an eventful week. Nothing i want to go into detail with but I will share about one thing that God has been doing. I went to service on Sunday night at 7pm and they were doing baptisms during worship. Which i had never seen but thought it was pretty awesome. And while watching them i was getting teary eyed and some tears were falling because it dawned on me. I really miss what I had. I miss the youth. I miss talking with them. I miss listening to their issues. I miss walking with them in this journey called life. I miss their smiles. I miss their mischief (some of it not all). I miss their innocence. I miss their complaints. I miss being their Pastor.
Don't get me wrong, I always loved that part of pastorship, just being with the kids and loving them. I was just tired of the behind the scenes stuff...the paperwork, the long hours, the at all hours phone calls, the sacrifices. And I feel like i took my time with the kids for granted.
I admit, I don't do good in big crowds. I get socially awkward, I don't know how to talk to people when theres a ton of people around. When I'm not comfortable, I shut down. And because of that I missed out on some important lives. And I don't want to do that again.
I want to be with the youth, I love them. I passionately love them and want to see them strive for more. I want to see them go for their dreams. I want to be there when their heart is broken and when they get married. I want to see them in their prom dresses and in their graduation gowns. I want to be there on their birthdays and celebrate with them.
I don't know why i have this drive for them. I would say it comes from God, because there is no other logical explanation. But I love them and i miss them so much. I want to baptize them. I want to take communion with them. I want to pray over them.
God has been so faithful in my time here. Its funny because I never thought God would be so clear with me, even when it hurts. And He has and I am so grateful for His love and mercy over me. Its just absolutely incredible.

I know...I believe...I see...I feel

It is said here that the first year of college God tears you down, than in the second year He lifts you back up. I think its a bit faster for me. For me its been since the moment i started school God has been tearing me down. And when i say tearing me down I don't mean like thrashing me in a bad way, but in a good way. He has been showing me what affects me, what I am sensitive to, what offends me, what drives me, what gets me angry, what makes me happy, what i want and absolutely do not want. I can sit here and list out the things that God has been doing and what events He has allowed to happen to get me to this point...but i won't.
What I will say is that all these things have led me to so many even too many disappointments. And not disappointed in God, but to the point where God is forcing me to run to Him first. Not my friends nor my family, but Him. These past couple days have been disappointment after disappointment and the very people i would run to are the very people that have been disappointing. Which leads me to run directly to God. And its not like its a bad thing, its just sad that people are sometimes the way they are and I want to think highly of them. I want to have the deepest faith in people, i want to put people on a pedestal because i think some deserve it and once you do they fall off of it all on their own. God does say that He won't allow things that we can't handle and sometimes i think i can't handle this, but God surely thinks i can. Its hard too because i have emotions and i want to express them...but i often have to hold it in because there are people constantly around me. And the moment they see something wrong they want to be in your business and know your deal. But i just want to deal with my deal the way i want to without people asking a million questions. But like i said God won't allow things we can't handle.
(i'm wiggling my finger at God)
I know...I believe...I see...I feel that there is light at the end of this tunnel. This tunnel that i feel i have been in for so long. I know...I believe...I see...I feel there is more to life than just disappointments, hurt, longing, and tears.
I know...I believe...I see...I feel Gods love pouring all over me, holding me, using me, being there for me.

Human trafficking

Have you ever had the moment when God has said "How.Dare.You." I've never had that moment until today. Yes I've sinned and really sinned before. And I keep on sinning sometimes extremely stupid things and sometimes i don't even know i'm sinning. But today was like an ah-ha moment. A moment that hasn't stopped since i had that moment (a couple hours ago). I saw a video today about human trafficking and it lit a fuse...I say fuse because I already had a fire in me about this particular subject but now its just stirring in me. I want to do something. I can donate money and all that but i want to do more. I want to educate people, help women, rescue children, want to be at the right place at the right time. But I have realized the first thing I need to do is pray. I am so naive and ignorant to think that i want to do more than prayer...but what is more powerful than prayer? Nothing.
Well lets just say I am doing my research on this subject and I don't want to stop learning because I want to be educated on this. I want to be smart about this, I want to help. But I need to pray. I want to pray. I want you to pray.
Did you know that Chiapas, Mexico is one of the worst places for child prostitution...Mexico!! And the US is one of the leading places that take in human slaves! It breaks my heart in a million pieces that i cannot even explain. My eyes are burning, my heart is burning, my soul is burning and i just feel numb now. I don't even want to do anything right now...Just talking about it gets me crying, i can't even think about it without tearing up...i can't even write about it without tearing up. Just know it got me really good. And its really hard to not think about how little things...jokes, words, what ive seen, watched, done could have participated in this. It kills me. Emotionally kills me. Please, if your reading this...study this. Read on this. Do something about this. Pray with me. Pray with us. Let this affect you.

Facebook 101

Today has been an eventful yet a little boring day. I didn't really go out much today, when i did go out it was to workout at the gym which i havent done in quite a while, and i need to do more of it cause i've gained way too many pounds and i want to look good! So couple things I did today that were significant: 1. I skyped with Ronnie today! It was cool than a little sad...he grew out a little mustache and beard (not a fan) and it was just a little sad because of all the changes that have happened and it was kinda cool that i really made a difference in Urgency. He was telling me that things just weren't the same when i left and sometimes you think if things would be better if you weren't even there, but i realized that things were good when i was there and i did make a difference. *sigh I also made a video for Charlton and Cindy because this will be their last weekend at Urgency...so that was pretty cool
2. I skyped with my sister and sean, and its always nice to see family. I got to see the latest picture of Noah and in about 5 days he will be here and i will get to see him!! woohoo!! I'm so excited...i will be more excited when i will get to hold him!
3. I called United Airlines and tried to get my returning ticket fixed. So my return is on October 3rd (which is kinda funny cause its my dads bday...surprise!) but I was talking to the lady who kept on messing up what i was saying and at first she said that i could change my ticket to Dec 15th and i asked if there was anything sooner and she said no so i said ok, i'll come back on the 15th than she said oh no we don't have until Dec 27th!! I'm like...um NO! Not acceptable!! but she was like but theres nothing available..I said well i'll call back another time and I hung up on her...i was so mad!! grrrrrrrrrrr So I called my mom to see if she can call from there cause maybe they'll give her better service.
4. So i try not to be facebook police...but when it comes to teens and i know their parents, lets just say i gave someone a ticket today. I feel kinda bad, but not really because the person is not even using their real name on fb and the stuff they write is just not what a 15 yr old should be writing and i knew their parent didn't know anything about this. So i called the mom today and spoke to her, and she was really cool about it, like wanting to find the right time to speak to her kid about it...which made me feel better...but i still felt bad. But come on!! Don't write stuff on fb if you don't want people to find out!! Hello!! Facebook 101!
So besides those stuff i've kinda just lounged out today..being a home body doing my home thing. The next couple days are gonna be pretty hectic so i wanted to just chill and do much of nothing. Mission Accomplished.

Colour

There are times when time goes by super fast than it goes super slow. Lets just say these past few weeks have gone by really fast! And its good cause it seems like i've actually done stuff. We just had Colour Conference, Hillsongs annual womans conference. There were 10,000 women here for this conference and lets just say it was hectic at times. I was allocated to the information desk, you know answering questions all that good stuff. And I have many wins and i gave out tons of information but there was this one lady that was pretty annoyed with me. (why is it that there is always that negative ONE that we always remember) well she had priority seating and i didn't know what door she needed to go through so all i said was "let me ask" and she was like "no thank you i'll just ask around" and she left pretty annoyed. Than after she came straight to me and was like "its door 4" and i wanted to be like...yeah, so! but i just gave her a smile and said "yup! thanks"...that may have gotten her a little more annoyed, but oh well!
But now for the good stuff...So, Lisa Bevere, Jeanne Mayo, Christine Caine, and Craig Groeschel were the special speakers and it was a powerhouse! I was blessed to be able to go into the sessions I wanted to and it was so amazing. Lisa Bevere spoke about being a Lioness and pouncing on the enemy...I bought the book. And Christine Caine, WOW. There is this fire in me for human trafficking and stopping it, and i want to so bad to get involved in a program...A21 maybe but she was so passionate about that she lit a fire in me, it was amazing.
Even though Colour was pretty tiring, i got through it and was so happy i did it. I even got included in the video they made for the volunteers! It was so cool...

Tired

Its already been 8 days and so much has happened...when i get enough time to sleep and rest, i'll write it all out, so for now, just know I'm enjoying Colour and adding to the list of speakers i have heard in my life time some guns are:
- Dr Yonggi Cho
- Jeanne Mayo
- Lisa Bevere
- John Bevere
- Benny Hinn
- Michael Pitts
- TD Jakes
- Paula White
- Myles Munroe
- Marcos Witt
- Marcos Barrientos
- Cash Luna
- Brian Houston
- Robert Fergusson
- Louie Giglio
- Joel Stockstill
- John Maxwell
- Tudor Bismark
- Christine Caine
- Phil Pringle
- Bobbie Houston

I know theres more but I will be adding to the list later...its just late and i'm tired...

So good

So a couple days i had a pity party, and it just wasn't fun. But these past couple days haven't been too bad. I've learned so much in class about God about myself. I had a public speaking class and we had to do impromptu 2 minutes speeches in front of our group. Whenever i preached i really thought that i couldnt preach without my notes but with my speech (even though it was only 2 mins) i did awesome! and without notes! It kinda tripped me out how well spoken i was and how easy it was for me just to go up and talk in front of people. I just thought that was really cool.
This past week God has been dealing with me about some stuff and i never felt the enemy try to attack me so much and it was so evident and there was a moment that i wanted to give in and just give up. Like i was this close..and really the only thing that really helped me get through it was prayer and listening to worship music. Sometimes thoughts would try to invade my brain and i entertained them for a moment than had to really kick em out. These are the things that i deal with and i know i will continually deal with them while i'm here. Its like the things i had dealt with in the past are coming back and saying there not fully dealt with and God is wanting to deal with them.
Which sucks on one point but is so awesome on the other hand. Because its so graceful and merciful of God to deal with these things while i'm in the desert. Like He's not putting me in front of everyone and making me deal with stuff in front of everyone else, but giving me my space to deal with things...with Him. *sigh....so good.

Dont Fit In

Today I wanted to vent on here. I had all my words all ready to just go at it. I was gonna say some stuff that i knew would make them feel guilty or bad. I had words for people. I had words....
Than I went to church today, I honestly didn't want to, I wasn't feeling up for it. It sometimes hard to go to church by yourself, to sit alone. But i did, I went. On my way there I walked with this girl Aliona, shes in my class and we talked on the way to church. And we parted ways and I sat. Worship was great, like always, and then Pastor Brian was there and gave the message. He was talking about life and living. That life is too short and its too long. But in this life it goes by like a vapor and we can never get it back. He spoke about living your dreams and pursuing your passions. It was a great message that had me in tears at the end, because he confirmed to me that I needed to be here. As much as the opportunity here is amazing its hard for me right now.
I spoke to a friend of mine that was just reaffirming to me that I am here for a reason. That no matter how bad I feel or sad there are people there that love me. That even if i feel lonely physically, there are people who pray for me, care for me, and love me. After chatting and laughing it did make me feel heaps better.
Do i get lonely sometimes? Yes, of course. Is it hard for me to make friends? Unfortunately, yes. Charlene gave this to me 2 years ago and its still hard to read now but its what im still going through:
I know you want to be accepted by others, but you were not made to fit in. You, My princess, were created to stand out. Not to draw attention to yourself, but to live the kind of life that leads others to Me. Remember, it's your choices that will pave your path to life. I will not force you to do anything. I have given you a free will to walk with Me or to walk away from Me. I want you to know that you can put on your crown at any time and let people know that you belong to Me. You have a royal call on your life. I want you to remember you wear the crown of everlasting life, and through you I will do abundantly more than you would ever dare to dream.

HILLSONG WITH EVERYTHING EN ESPAÑOL

Ok i know i said i would post both english and spanish videos...but the spanish video wouldnt let me post...so you can youtube it, if you really wanna see it...but this is the english one, just with subtitles

Do you Realize?

Do you Realize how much i love...like LOVE...LOVE Spanish music. I know right, like you wouldn't think...but yeah. i love it so much. So i barely found out last year that Hillsong had come out with another spanish album. I was super bummed cause i couldn't find it ANYWHERE!! So low and behold tonight I'm surfing the itunes world and guess what i find?? CON TODO!!! and guess what song it has With Everything...yeah Con Todo..I didn't put the 2 and 2 together. So i'm listening to Con Todo and i can just picture the Spanish Ministry playing this and just seeing them rock out and just worshipping God...Con Todo!! (if they don't do it...than when i get back, you better believe they'll start)
Everytime i hear this song...i just get the shivers cause it makes me want to jump up and start singing at the top of my lungs...yeah, its one of THOSE songs. So i'll attach youtubes of the english version and the spanish version. Honestly, i do like the english version better, but the spanish version isnt bad, just the english version they rock out more, but i'm sure we can do something about that. I just wanted to share my Con Todo experience...because if you just sit and listen...no ditractions, you'll find yourself wanted to sing at the top of your lungs just worshipping. Its THAT good.

Time

Today was my day off and it was rainy and gloomy outside so i didn't do much. I went to brekky with Michelle and she took me to a hot spot in Redfern and it was really cute. I ordered scrambled eggs with toast and side of hash and chorizo. (Now I wasnt sure how the chorizo would be here...i needed to take a chance) Food came out and it looked good. I wanted to try it all to see...Eggs were good...Hash Browns good...Toast good...Chorizo not so good. It was just so salty! Bleh i couldn't have more of it. We talked about her wedding and some plans. Shes not the type of person to stress over that stuff so she was just really relaxed about everything (even though they have nothing set in stone) and weddings in like 6 months! Ahhh...Australians are so laxed about everything...which to a point i really like.
We came back and I went to the gym again. Day 2...I have to keep going after today, like i cant give up. I'm on a roll and I gained 6 pounds and soooo not happy! So I'm gonna try to eat carbs in the morning but none the rest of the day...will it work? who knows! But its worth a shot.
So i've been just organizing all day and i know ive said that i could stay here for 2 years but i got this feeling over me that I'm only meant to stay for one. Even though i heard the 2nd year is amazing, i just got this peace that i'm only called to be here for a year. I don't want to say it was God but than again I don't not want to say it wasn't God. So...only time will tell.
I am enjoying the time here and no i don't feel like home...i don't know if that time will come, but i don't know if i will ever feel like its home. i dont know if I'm supposed to. Maybe i'm looking into it too early? I don't know...time..time...time

Just hold on

Sometimes i think that people get through life a bit easier than me especially for friends. I was talking to this girl and she told me that she finally felt home here after 6 months. That really gave me strength to keep going. To know that God has me here for a reason and I am to accomplish it. I had a good day today. I actually worked out and i felt so good! I really want to keep doing that at least 3-4 times a week. Than i was watching Darlene Zschech on live stream and it was so good. I saw Pastor Dick announce that Michael W Smith and Amy Grant than Israel Houghton will be at the church this year. I am jealous about Michael W Smith, because I've always loved him (especially his old stuff). But i get to worship with at Hillsong. Everyday! Hellooo! So good.
I was feeling really lonely yesterday and cried a couple times and just prayed that God would give me a better day today and He so did. I think it may have to do that i actually worked out, cause according to Jenny if i work out it will build endorphins and i'll be happy! Yeah, sounds so easy!
But it worked! It was just nice to come down from serving and seeing some friends and being able to just sit and chat with them. Than having someone come from behind and hug me...a feeling i miss the most. I did the 5 love languages test and my first 2 (tied) 1a. Quality time & 1b(2). Words of affirmation 3. Receiving Gifts 4. Physical Touch 5.Acts of Service and this shows that i just need that quality time with people. And when your building relationships its hard at first...because that trust isnt fully there yet. But like Chingy (the girl that took 6 months to feel like home) told me...keep holding on...it'll come.

I should just work out!

Its thursday here and i'm sitting in the cafe just had a fresh orange, apple, and watermelon juice. I've had a pretty revealing couple of days. I had this class yesterday and the teacher gave me a piece of paper and told us to read the question and without thinking about the answer just write the first thing that comes to mind. They were questions that dealt with God and how i really see him. Well lets just say i realized that i don't trust God as much as i should. And its mostly because i think i can control things. Even in those things that i know i can't control...i still try to control them. So...with that in mind...i have a lot of soul searching to do!
Another thing is something i've been struggling with. And so i look in the mirror or even at myself and i just don't like my stomach. Granted its not the worst but its not the best but i just HATE like HATE working out and running. I came in this morning and saw a friend of mine who runs 5 miles a day and she looks awesome...and i'm like i can look like that! But then realized how much i hate running! Ugh such a struggle for me...I know its not a bog deal to some people and you may be reading this and say..."um just run!" Well for me its WAY easier said than done...but i'm gonna try to get the strength to do it...or just get myself up in the morning because i think if i go in the morning i'm more likely to do it because when i was training and did it in the morning i felt soooo much better throughout the day...(ok i'm just thinking out loud now).
There are just some things i need to get in order that i want to do them i just need someone to whip me into shape. But I know i have the discipline to do them cause i've done it before...its just getting the motivation and desire to go with it.
I'm so glad tomorrows friday, i'm tired, this whole week has gone by so fast and i have homework due monday!! So i'll probably work on that tonight and have it done by Saturday..hopefully. I know this blog isn't too exciting...Well maybe i should add that I have been eating more fruits and different fruits...well ok just 1 different fruit, i heard that eating a grapefruit with your meals will help lose weight so i've been eating grapefruit...will it work? who knows, its worth a shot...I KNOW I SHOULD JUST WORK OUT!!

Today is a good day

Today is one of those days that i wouldn't mind doing again. Like i feel good. Yesterday even though the internet was going in and out and was totally annoying...i had 3 nice convos with people. 1) with my sister...always a nice conversation to have with her and Naomi...and Sean letting me know about the freshman 15. 2) on facebook IM with Daniel...it was a good convo because things are not what i perceive them to be. I've been noticing that lately. He seemed so lively, so popular, so in with everyone. But he was telling me that he doesn't go out much and is actually pretty shy. It was cool to know that what i may think as one thing, is actually another. It really opened my eyes to not take the superficial stuff as truth. Thanks Jesus for that revelation. And 3) convo with Willie, my new dance teacher! I am so excited to be dancing again...i mean i didnt get to learn much last week cause of the scheduling but he seemed like a groovaloo. And next week the group is going to a studio to do some grooves...which = freestyle! I hate freestyle! I dont know i may start to like it...who knows.
Well this morning was like a super cool day cause i got to class and wasn't afraid of where i'll sit and if someone will want me to sit next to them...which no one did haha, but i sat next to my flatmate and some other girls i know. Than before chapel Laura came up to me and talked a little and than i spoke to Tina cause she really liked my makeup (ha!) and wanted to know what kind it was so i'm bringing her some to check out tonight. We have sisterhood tonight and i'm meeting with a girl in a couple minutes to change my fieldwork cause i hated...like loathed what i was doing. But anyway...So today was very chill but i feel good right now. I feel good that I feel like its finally coming together bit by bit. That God is definately speaking to me about things that i need to work on..than actually working on them...thats my mission now...if i choose to accept it (which i will)
Oh and to workout more too. Like for breakfast i just felt disgusting after i ate...than i went to coles and bought some food and made grilled chicken with veggies and (it was good) i felt so good...light after i ate it. I also bought some grapefruit (yuk!) for the morning cause i hear thats good for burning fat and yogurt for snacking. So things are changing here. Im cooking (everday) I'm eating different things...trying new things without hesitation...going out and seeing the sights...making actual friends - girl friends!

What dreams may come

Yesterday was a monumental day. It was a day that i realized that a lot of my friends are making their dreams come true. I saw Ceci perform and sell her cd. I was there and she blew me away. I was just watching her and I started crying. I was crying because she was doing it...she was doing what she always wanted to. She was living the dream...her dream and God made it all possible for her. I don't think she ever thought there would be a day where people would stand in line just to hug her. I don't know if anyone really does. But there were...I was one of those people in line! And as i hugged her i was teary eyed because I was so proud of her. I mean I know i'm not part of her family, but i remember her writing her songs and now shes selling her cd!
What a day. So last night I drove with Felicity and met up with Tamara, Jenny and Elizabeth at the gig than went to the beach. Its Felicitys birthday on Sunday and we took her out and got some pizza and it was Urban Gypsy night, so there were a lot of guys there. And we were there having convo when this drunk guy came and try to talk to us. And we were just trying to ignore him, than he pulls up a chair to our table! But Jenny was being sassy and trying to get him away, so finally he left and we had some good pizza and took some funny pictures by the beach.
This morning i went to the vision breakfast, and though they cooked...its nothing like Judys breakfast! Oh how i miss real bacon....
But it was really cool and they shared missions plans and new building plans and all this good stuff. So than when i got back i took a nap, cause i slept really late and got up pretty early. I'm taking more naps now...maybe its the 30 thats creeping on me, or im just really tired. haha

Mystery

I know I know...its been awhile since my last blog post and I'm sorry people who actually read this blog. But here goes the past couple days. It all starts about 2 years ago...I fell in love with the song Mystery by Phil Wickham and i knew i heard another song with Mystery in it but could NEVER put a band or song to the tune that has been in my head for YEARS. So back to the present....On Saturday a group of people went to have a dinner at a flat across from mine and we actually had breakfast for dinner. So this guy Rick puts on Switchfoot in his mac and some songs i've heard and i was like yeah yeah, i've never been the biggest switchfoot fan (in my head i'm saying this) and he's raving how that was the best album ever...than the tune that has been stuck in my head comes on his mac...yes the mystery song!!! Inside i am jumping up and down, spinning around, wanting to throw up my hands and scream because finally...FINALLY.. FINALLY the song has come to ME!!! it has been the most frustrating thing to try to figure this mystery out for years people...YEARS!!!
Okay enough on the mystery melody rant...i can relax now...I have been blessed with some really good friends especially this one girl Laura. Shes from Brisbane and her accent is awesome and this other girl from Seattle was talking to us and she thought I was from Australia cause of my "accent"!! haha I was like nope I'm from California! I thought that was funny. Anyway so through Laura I've met Elizabeth too and shes been awesome, shes in my year so i have someone to sit next to and walk with to class. Also i met Felicity and Tamara through Laura, i don't go to school with them but we're all going on Friday to watch Ceci play!! I'm so excited cause well its Ceci and i've always loved her music and shes leaving next wednesday back home :'( but itll be good for her.
Maybe a shocker for some of you is that I started drinking cappuccinos...yes, thanks to this place called the French house i enjoyed my full cup of cappuccino...I tried another one today but it wasn't as good as the French House so we'll see if i drink anymore outside of that cafe.
Classes have been absolutely amazing...its like all the classes have some new revelation in them and I have been picking stuff up from each of them. Today was kinda hard for me cause even though class was great...I had a venting session with Laura and Elizabeth. Well it all started with me seeing Naomis picture on facebook and how shes growing up so fast and i only get to see it through pictures and skype once in awhile and i miss her so much. Also, just messy flatmates that all the little things have gotten to me and i was tearing up a bit this morning but once i talked it out and decided to change some things with me, i did feel a lot better. I also felt better after i spoke to Josh cause he was part of my class group and hes from santa barbara and 27 and just telling me that the first couple months for him were hard and he wanted to leave and was questioning God with why the heck he was even in Australia? And it was exactly how i was feeling and he told God that after 30 days if nothing changes than he's out.
Well he said about the 28th day God just showed him some real things of why he was there and little by little God was being more evident in my life and he just encouraged me to stick it out because its so worth it and i would meet incredible friends and God will make things better for me as long as I am open to Him.
So after the morning it just felt that God was strategically putting people in my path to help me with what I was going through and to make the day and my time here worth it.

Hot as....

Today I started my first service in the church. But before i get to that it was 106 degrees here!!! 1..0...6!!! So hot that i didn't even want or desire to step outside. So i slept in cause last night i didn't sleep till after 2am because I didnt get back from hanging out with Laura till almost 11. We went to her friends house and she made ginormous Lasagna...it was good, but I think all that cheese messed me up. :/ And it was super hot in her place, no AC plus oven on plus 10 girls is HOT. So i got back and we were up playing monopoly (well Kayla, Mel, & Cam) were playing and I was Facebook stalking (or just looking for new people to add) and than we played Catchphrase when Rachael and Vanessa got back. That was surprisingly really fun.
So i didn't get up till like 11 something did my devotional and than...i opened the windows to get some fresh air and quickly closed them again cause i thought hell had taken over! So i stayed home and chilled, read some, rested some and than got ready for my first day of serving. So on the weekend i'll be serving Guest Relations...on my paper it says Cooking...but I like Guest Relations better. Its prepping the Pastors Lounge and when Pastors come give em drinks all that Hospitality good stuff. I worked with Fiona and she was super nice. We made a fruit platter and got everything ready...and like pretty much every Pastors lounge the fruit was barely touched. But, that means good for me, because i got to take some of it home! Free Fruit!! The Best!!
So on my walk back here I ate a bag of fruit...but i have like 3-4 bags more...which is fine cause thats brekkie tomorrow and snacks...free food is good food.

Listening to Me

*if your looking for the tearjerker blog its the one before this one*

So finally after a year, i listened to the only podcast of a preaching i did last year. I finally had the courage to hear myself. I was able to hear myself when i preached but i never wanted to go back and listen. So i did tonight. And the verdict? There were highs and lows. I do say "like", "um", "you know" a lot. Which i know i need to work on but i really liked what i said...even though the description of the sermon doesn't match the preaching but its ok.
Anyway, so i encourage anyone to listen to yourself so you know how you really speak and also to make sure that you still believe what your preaching after time. I was listening and i was like...yeah thats so true...wow, i said that? thats profound!
So yeah i'm pretty good...Praise the Lord, cause i always thought i was boring! So i can't judge my preaching on the audiences of emotions and know that God is with me.

Mid movie Song

You know in the middle of the movie, where in the beginning the person (we'll just say girl) is working things out in her life and things are just not going good at all. She seems like nothing can be right and is down and depressed and questions all her decisions. Than, out of nowhere comes this glimmer of light. Like something just clicks and she knows that everything will be ok, than just as she widens her eyes the chorus of a song (a really good song) comes on and she gets this big smile because she just realized something...Yeah that was me yesterday.
So, I went to Powerhouse and I entered into the garage (the foyer) and i was like crap, i don't know anyone so it wasn't easy for me to socialize. Than i saw Michelle (phew) and we were chatting and i asked her about volunteer opportunities in the ministry and i told her i didn't really want to take a leadership role because i really just want to see things and figure things out. So she told me that she thought i would be good in like events part of the service. So i was like, yeah that sounds like fun. So service started than finished and after i spoke to the girl who was over events, Steph. Than she tells me theres an opening in the events, like this guy was doing it but he wanted to step down...but its like making sure doors are open, that volunteers are in play blah blah blah...all that jazz and i was telling her, hey thats what i did back home, and i actually enjoyed that part! She was happy because i think she was looking for a replacement. So after i spoke to her i didn't really stay after cause i didn't really know anyone and as i was walking home thats where the glimmer of light came...I didnt hear a real song but if i did hear a song i think it would be "One More Time" by daft punk.
So that was my glimmer of hope in the dark clouds because i was just so happy to volunteer. I never thought i would be so happy to volunteer in the church again. (ok its only been a month, but still).
Than this morning I go to brekkie (breakfast) with Emma and it was so nice. I was kinda spilling my guts to her and just telling her my focus and deepest desire for this year and why i'm here, and also about the struggles to fit in and the people that i have fit in with were older people not in college, and she was telling me that it might even be better to be friends with the staff...and i thought about it and was like...oh yeah huh...duh!
Anyway, than we had sisterhood and for some reason this always reminds me of my sister ...most likely cause "sisterhood" has the word sister in it (yeah im a smart one) but, the reason i loved sisterhood so much was not for the awesome preaching and the girls that were so open to me and loving...but because i miss my sister. I never realized how much i missed her...and not just this time im away from her but because I've missed her for a long time. And i'm not putting blame on anything or anyone but it was my own fault. For distancing myself, for not being open and honest, for not being the little sister that i should have been. And the little sister that i want to be now. I think the greatest thing about the mercy and grace of God is that He implements it in us. His children are able to have that open arm policy. No questions asked. Just love given. And if you know my sister, she has a temper and is stubborn (sometimes), but she is incredibly loving and will move the end of the earth for you...(sound like anyone *cough *cough mom) And i've decided that i am going to try harder, especially with her. Not only cause she has the cutest daughter in the world (no im not biased) but because she is my best friend. She always has been, i just never knew it...until now. So thank you Sisterhood for allowing me to see that (yeah thats womens ministry).
So if your crying by now (adriana) just know this is barely the beginning of this year. God is incredible and is doing amazing things...I was talking to Emma and she was saying that its amazing what God did for me during Powerhouse and she was able to hear conviction in my words and oh that felt so good to hear that someone was able to not only hear my words but feel them too. So lets just say its been a good 2 days. Today we did an excercise that we had to write 5 words that describe ourselves and mine were
1. chill
2. silly
3. peacemaker
4.loving
5.observant
And with these 5 words make a vision statement of ourselves and mine is:
"I am a peacemaker from God, for God, by God."

With Everything

I went to the Powerhouse Retreat and this is a ministry for 18-25 yr olds. I went initially because Nick (youth pastor) signed me up. I wasn't sure what to expect because 1.i hardly knew anyone and 2.i had no idea how they do retreats and sorts. So at first i was happy because i knew the girls that would be in my cabin but that was a bust because the girls i thought maybe, just maybe, i would connect with...didn't work out. I did however connect with another girl and that was cool to just sit and chat with her.
I went with Michelle (Ali's sister..Emma's flatmate) and in the car was Christian (3rd yr pastoral student) Laurene and Tara. We all got along really well which made the hour car ride fun. When we got there they do this thing called tribal wars (connect groups are in a different tribe and they just have games) I didn't really participate in that cause it just wasn't my thing. The first nights message was good but didn't do much for me. The next morning was a pivotal day. I heard Robert Ferguson speak and it just rocked my world. Because I realized that i came all the way to Australia to be with Jesus...and i wasn't allowing Jesus to do all He wants to do. I was allowing God in my plans when I'm the one that's supposed to open to participate in Gods plan. Than that afternoon during our break i found out that Mama Tomi passed away. I was on the beach with Tabita sleeping next to me and I was looking at the ocean just praying and balling. I couldn't take it...I felt helpless...far away...lonely...confused...frustrated...mad...sad...angry (not at God) but at people here. Mad at them for being friendly at one time than ignoring me the next. Mad that I'm suppose to connect with people like its the easiest thing to do and its been the hardest for me...Mad that I just couldn't do anything.
Than I go to the night session and Nick spoke. I never heard him speak and boy was i in for it. He spoke with such vigor, conviction, and strength. After the message was worship time and they played this song "With Everything" and i felt this burden just lifted off of me during this song...I sang at the top of my lungs (i forgot about my sore throat) and cried till i couldn't cry anymore. I felt like God was with me and never let me go...I felt like i was so selfish and stupid for feeling like He went anywhere. I felt like I could careless about those people who didn't want to get to know me...I felt like my old self. I felt so confident again and was stupid for thinking any less. I didn't even care that i hardly got any sleep cause of the people i thought i would "connect" with would come to the cabin at all hours of the night and was even snoring on the last night.
So the next day was so good too. I got to hear some great preachings and worship some more. I looked forward to the worship. I feel like worshipping all the time now. I feel it in my blood just boiling.
After that truly life changing experience we drove back home so tired and when i got back i had lost my voice and was coughing up a lung. So I'm here today feeling worse, my body aches, runny nose, coughing...i took some meds and have been in bed all day and trying to piece together the brokenness of God in my heart and had to change some things in my life that are gut wrenching but having the faith and trust in Gods plan that He has for me.


***I suggest when listening to this song...blast it as loud as you can...so you can't hear anything around you...just the words...the bass...the spirit***
Open our hearts, To see the things That make Your heart cry, To be the church The You would desire. Light to be seen. Break down our pride, And all the walls We've built up inside, Our earthly crowns And all our desires, We lay at Your feet. So let hope rise, And darkness tremble In Your holy light, And every eye will see Jesus, our God, Great and mighty to be praised. God of all days, Glorious in all of Your ways. Your majesty, the wonder and grace, In the light of Your name. With everything, With everything, We will shout for your glory. With everything, With everything, We will shout forth your praise. Our hearts will cry Be glorified, Be lifted high, Above all names. For You our King, With everything, We will shout forth your praise. Woah...

Yeah I know him

I went to the Frontline Renaissance today and i was surprised to see JD (one of the main United guys) leading worship. The last time I saw him was back home when I drove him to the airport. I haven't seen any of the guys I met from October. So after the service and he was outside talking to someone and i just casually said hi, hoping he remembered me, cause that would be super embarrassing. But he did...he even remembered my name! (which was pretty awesome). Well he was asking the regular questions, like how i was doing? and how i was adjusting? stuff like that and than he was like well if you need anything email me...than he gave me his email address...i was like whoa! JD just gave me his email address. I know he's just a regular guy but i was like sweet! (i mean i probably wont email him but still!)
So the best part was when i got back to the flat my flatmate Kayla was there and i was telling her about it and she was so jealous! haha Just cause JD is kinda famous being part of United, and he was just so casual. Pretty cool experience i'd have to say.

i miss my daddy

I'm just sitting here and its getting late and im getting tired but i miss my dad. I miss his smile, his smell, his cologne (i love that stuff), his white face in the summer, his red face all the time, his wrinkles, the way he laughs and especially his cooking. I know he's in Colombia and can't really talk to him until he gets back, but i wish he skyped (or at least knew what it is haha).
I knew i would miss his smell..which is why i shoulda brought a tie with me or something (maybe ill have my mom send one). But growing up i never really had a good relationship with him and over the past years we've gotten closer and i just miss him.
I know he's ok because God is with him, i would just like to hear his voice...just a couple more days.

Orange chicken

I haven't blogged in a couple days cause its just been running around a bit. This week started the Frontline Renaissance and its a ministry for 25-35 yr olds. This has been interesting for me cause a) i have always been around teens, b)my older friends were usually just family, c) i don't really know how to talk to people my own age...i feel like i need to talk about politics or theology. BUT, theres good news! I have found some good friends, thanks to Emma because i kind of have been tagging along with her and her friends and have been able to talk to and hang out with girls my age. On thursday was the first night of Renaissance and there was a Rubiks party. It was in a wherehouse and we had to dress up in cocktail wear (i had no idea about this cocktail dress up...so i come downstairs in my hammer pants and flats and Emma says didn't anyone tell you this was a cocktail party? I, horrified, started laughing and said NO! but then told them to give me 10 mins!)
So finally we get there and give it an hour (even though we were 45 mins late). We played cricket, did some two step dancing, and scoped out the place for about an hour and decided to leave.
(we weren't the only ones who thought it was semi-awkward to be there)
We went to some Brazilian food place and I had a chicken wrap (the fries were amazing) and had some friendly chatter. The next morning I get up and go in the kitchen and Rachel (my 29 yr old flatmate) is almost out the door when she mentions to me that there is an all day conference...I'm freaking out again cause i had no idea! So I rush to get ready and go and hear an incredible truly life changing message from Robert Ferguson. After hearing that i was hooked..I think i'm a true Christian now.
All day was awesome than today i skipped the morning cause they were sessions and I came to hear Louie Giglio, and he was awesome too! Even though i wanted to hear him again tonight i wanted to rest from all the hustle and bustle from the past couple days. By the way we got a couch and seat from salvos (salvation army) and they are awesome!
I think i'm so tired cause the past couple days i've been walking heaps (a lot) and my body just sort of crashed and i'm taking advantage of the fact that i don't work for church and don't need to be at the conference.
This past week has been good and trying and awesome and emotional all mashed together like a glee song. i miss so many things, so many people, so many comforts, panda express orange chicken...but even without those things God is so amazing and comforting and incredible and merciful and gracious and did i say amazing? His timing is so incredibly perfect that i am in awe with Him over and over again. *sigh

From 3 days ago

The more and more I go to Hillsong services, I think “we can so do this!” There method is simple: Love Jesus and be yourself. There are people that come to church in board shorts and tank tops, there are others that come in nice clothing, and others that look like they just woke up. But you know what they all have in common? They all worship God with all their hearts. During the youth service the guy that was hosting it was in a tshirt shorts with no shoes. Did anyone care? Nope. They loved it…cause that was HIM. During the youth service, which reminded me 100% of Urgency, girls were playing this game and they were rough housing and some were in shorts and shirts that I thought any second were gonna fly off…and I felt that I was the only that cared, but it was those little things that I cared about and no one else cared about…because its not about the little things. Its about getting these kids to church and teaching them that with God you can still have fun.

When I went to the young adults (18-25) I was so surprised that they had such a simple service but so powerful. Maybe that’s why they call it Powerhouse. The pastor is 29 and I’m like I can so do this! She wasn’t afraid to be herself and show others the truth that 18-25 yr olds go through. Lets just say God is definitely breaking me down and very little by little He’s putting piece by piece.

Today was an also emotionally trying day. Well, I went to service and Donna Crouch spoke in the morning and than I got some fruit than got peer pressured into going to church (which was probably a good thing). But tonight was a team from Gulu, Uganda and they put on a show called “Child Soldier No More”. Lets just say there was no dry eye in the sanctuary. These kids from Gulu were all either ex-child scldiers were kids that were affected directly by child soldiers. Each one of them had a story that was so life changing: one boy saw his mother get her arms than head chopped off. Another girl was forced to marry a soldier and had a baby at 14 yrs old. Another was a child soldier who abducted children and was shunned by his family when he ran away from the soldiers.

I sit and think about all my “problems” and think wow, each one of these kids, adults come here on this stage and do a musical about what they all went through and end the whole thing one by one saying the names of each person who hurt them and say they forgive them. Lets just say the little things…are nothing to me. I am so incredibly blessed and sometimes don’t even thank God for it.

Well, lets just say I am truly thankful for EVERY opportunity He has given me and continues to give me and I don’t ever want to forget that EVER again.

This is my Dilemma

I think that I might still be jetlagged cause I’m getting tired so much earlier! Today was eventful yet uneventful. I woke up and went to the gym down here. I got there and all the treadmills were conveniently out of service, so I did the step machine and the bicycle. I didn’t want to push too hard cause I hadn’t worked out in awhile…but I do want to go tomorrow. So I got back and ate an egg and muffin. We still don’t have a refrigerator…so water it was. Than when I got out of the shower I found out my 3^rd roommate came! Shes from France and has a hard time with English…but us Americans will grow on her. My other roommate moved into my room, which is fine by me cause she doesn’t have much clothes so I get a lot of the closet! (just kidding…kind of)

I went to the pharmacy and got myself a $5 fruit salad (small) and it was just what I needed…it was quite good and refreshing. I came back to the flat and got ready for youth service. This was the first time I went to Wildlife (high school ministry). I was having déjà vu cause it was just like Urgency. At 7pm they start a 30 minute countdown and they play games on one side of the room to try to get all the kids in there…lets just say they play rough! But I liked it…it was super crazy. Then they had praise and worship which was amazing…and they were promoting their summer camp big time! Summer camp was the topic of everything tonight, which I understand cause its next week and they want everyone to rego (register). But something that kind of hit me was that during the service, as great as it was, I was really wanting to be a part of the young adult ministry (18-25) but not be someone that attends and receives from them, but someone that leads them. Hillsongs young adult ministry is led by a couple that are 29 years old…(hello?!) and the wife, April, led the service on Wednesday and it was sooo good. Like super simple, short, yet appealing and powerful…I was blown away.

So is my dilemma stemming from I’ve done high school for so long…I’m tired now? Or is it do I think I can lead a young adult ministry because I want to be with older people? Am I questioning this out of tiredness and egoism or God? That is my dilemma of now.

Ever since coming here I’ve questioned so many things…great. And now I can’t find my ipod…Well earlier I did skype with my sister and Naomi…Lord I miss that little girl. But it makes me feel better that she is good and happy with her spaced out teeth. I had pizza for dinner…a small for $10..it was pretty good (no round table) but im just kind of sick of water now…lets pray that we can get a fridge soon!!!

Realization

This is my first night, really being by myself. Its been a whirlwind day filled with real emotions..real realizations…just seeing what could be. What Should be. I said goodbye to my mom this afternoon. Last night I knew she was struggling with the fact that I wouldn’t be there, so I snuggled in the bed with her. It was hard for me to REALIZE that I hadn’t done that in so long. And when I first thought of doing it I was hesitant…than I REALIZED that, what the heck is wrong with me…that’s my mom…why am I even hesitating? So we snuggled for a while and she finally admitted that she would miss me.

When we said our goodbyes she cried…I didn’t want to cry cause I knew it would be hard for me to stop, so I’m crying now. REALIZING that this is it. I’m here, alone. I don’t have someone to run to, to ask for stuff. I’m by myself. And yes it sucks. Its hard.

Once she left I met my flatmate and shes 20 years old…which isn’t the straight out of high school I was afraid of. However, I haven’t met the other 2 yet, but I feel its gonna be fine. We hung out and went to the grocery store and talked about the stuff we need…once the other 2 come.

Than we got to talking about movies, a love we both share..phew! Shes a music person so im sure I’ll be hearing some music going on around here. Than I got ready and hung out with Emma and her flatmate Alicia. They took me to Bondi beach and got a “burrito”. It wasn’t half bad…almost like Miguels, but the rice had like no flavor, but everything else was really good. The beach and weather (for me) was beautiful. We walked up the hill and was just looking down at all the surfers and water and Alicia asked me why I decided to come. It took a little explaining until I got to the truth of it all. I REALIZED I’m here for me. Its all about me now. Not about what I need to do for someone. Its not about who I need to please, who I need to be nice to, who I need to impress. I’m in Sydney for me. Its all about me.

After that we walked down the path and saw all the shops…we wanted ice cream but there was no parking so they took me to the powerhouse service (18-25 yr olds) and it was something that was so simple. I was imaging urgency just like it. No games, dim lights, the pastor April was in hair pulled back, white t shirt, jeans and sandals…no gimmicks, no makeup, no flashy stuff. Shes only 29 married with 2 kids. Her message was quick and simple…God will take things away from you that hurt sometimes but because He has a bigger reason in store for you. It was a service that is so doable and powerful. I was thinking, I don’t know maybe I want to work with young adults now! We’ll see…who knows.

I met a couple people here, it’s a little strange getting to know new people…but I know the beginning is the toughest but its gonna be good. Its gonna be REAL good.

Holy BATS!!

What a fun day today! So, we had brekkie (breakfast) in the morning and i had to come back and pack up all my stuff to take to the campus. Once we got there i put my luggage in a room and got welcomed than paid for my bond (security deposit) than my mattress and rent for the week. Yeah, they do weekly rent :/ And since i had 7..yup, 7 luggages i got branded the person with 7 luggages. Now, once i explained why i had so many, people realized how smart i was. See, there is a method to my packing madness. So we saw the apartments and they werent as luxurious as we first thought. There were a lot of things dirty in the apartment, the apt cleaners were out for holiday so they kinda skipped over mine, apparently. The good thing is that none of my roomates came today so hopefully they'll come soon so we can figure everything out.
After i did my American complaining about the room, they promised certain things would be fixed. (hey, i dont want to be charged at the end of the year for something i didn't do) We went back to the hotel and met Ceci on the harbour. We took her to a nice lunch to Nicos house, so good italian food. Than we went back to my apartment to show her the campus and where ill be living. We got to unpacking and started trying to organize things as much as possible. Theres still little things that i need like hangers and such. But next week were taking a trip to Ikea...so hopefully by than all my roommates will be there.
I met some super nice neighbors that i are on the same floor as i am and i got to see their apt and how they set it up. So that was really cool. They told me i can use their fridge and stuff till i get mine, so those girls will be seeing me a lot! They also said they have movie nights, so i think i'll fit right in!
After moving in we went back to hotel to chit chat which was nice, i really got to hear where Ceci is at in her point of life which gives me hope at the bright light at the end of this tunnel in my life. We walked her back to the train station and i saw BATS!! Oh my goodness they scared the you know what out of me! Ceci told me that there are bats and huge beetles and possums...not as ugly as American possums but still a bit ugly haha
I said goodbye until next time, which will probably be soon...but tomorrow is another day and we're gonna try to see a show and i really want to go to the beach!!!

Free Cd

This morning mom and i got up to get breakfast. Than came back to the room and rested before going to service. We went to the 11:30am Hillsong service. Since i'm planted at the City Campus, thats where we went to service. Its the smaller campus so while i'm here i do want to visit the Hills Campus because its bigger. So maybe i was expecting Jesus to be seated on the stage or something cause you see their Dvds and in concert and maybe expect that for church service, but its not like that. Its not bad either, its like a regular church service but with people with accents.
It was awesome though, they have such a great flow of how they do things...the music was great, they did 1 song that i knew (and it was at the end when everyone was leaving) the band was such in tune with eachother...no looking behind to tell the drummer theyre finishing, no subtle clues, just a flow through each song. I learned a couple new songs which i'll probably be singing in the next few weeks. We went to the welcome center and had tables with water and some people asking if we wanted coffee or tea (for free). We met this girl from Washington who has family here and will be staying here till April and another girl from Hong Kong who will be here for a little bit.
They gave each of us a welcome packet, which was really cool and a free cd...i like free cds :)
Than another girl came by and started talking to us and when she found out i was staying for college and we were just chit chatting.
After service and grabbing all the flyers for everything we walked down the street and went into a furniture store that was ridiculously expensive. Than saw an inside farmers market and checked things out. So we hailed a cab and went back to the hotel.
After dropping things off we had lunch at Tony Romas and had some good ribs, i feel like i smell and some guy in front of me keeps looking at me all weird...probably cause he's never seen a Mexican around these parts...haha just kidding.

Nicos House

Today was an adventurous day, sort of. After our morning breakfast we went to check out the school campus in Waterloo. The school was in a building, reminded me of Urgency, and this guy Cory was up front like receptionist guy. He answered all moms questions...than he said where are you from? And i said California. And he said oh are you the one that met Emma? And i said yeah! and he said yeah she told me to look out for a girl that i met in California...i'm famous! Ok, not really but it was cool that shes looking out for me. :)
So after we saw the campus we walked to the apartments i'll be staying at and from the outside they look super nice. Very modern, i took pictures but i havent uploaded them yet...so sorry, you;ll have to wait just a little bit longer. Than we went into the supermarket thats right down staires called Coles and its like a nicer Safeway. If i really wanted to get healthy theres a Whole foods around the block. But I do feel like i need a run on the treadmill, sooner than later.
After our little waterloo journey we went back to the harbour to check things out since it was a beautiful day and i saw this cute italian place called Casa di Nico. But before we went there we went to see what time Tron was playing. Even though the movie was $28.50 we figured, what the heck. So we got the tickets and went back to Nicos house. We sat down (outside) and ordered...i realized that a "lemonade" is actually sprite! (i need to remember that)...the bruschetta (i pronounced it bru-shetta the waitress pronounced it brus-ketta) was to die for....amazing! than mom ordered a pizza margherita and i got spaghetti bolognese...and both were incredible.
Even though the personal size pizza was $24, honestly, i would pay that price every time as long as it tasted that good and fresh. The spaghetti was homemade and incredible...i thought i was in Italian heaven...
So after we went back to the hotel and took a nap before the movie because there were only 2 showings for the movie. We came back and saw Tron and it was on the Worlds Largest Imax theater...so i decided the $28.50 was ok to pay. (also i didn't get a headache with the 3D..so it was well worth it) and the movie was awesome! My brother Rick was trippen when he said the movie wasn't that good.
So we came back to the hotel and skyped my sister, it was 2am back home and she looked pretty tired...even the dogs were tired. But all in all it was a good day. We're gonna go to the Hillsong service tomorrow and see what else is on the agenda.

The Devil can suck it!

Last night i didn't sleep much. I don't really know why, well maybe a little bit...jet lag. We finally didn't sleep at 7pm, i did sleep at 11:30pm and got up at 7am. Although I couldn't fall asleep until like 1am. It was weird cause I was actually scared to go to sleep like there was someone or something in the room, when i knew there wasn't. I had slept 2 nights for about 12 hours and last night i knew i would sleep for less i couldn't. So i started praying and claimed Gods protection over me...i mean this wasn't the first time this has happened, i think it was just the enemy trying to scare me...but he didn't succeed.
So this morning we have a couple things planned like going to see where the school and my apartments are...i move in monday and to see what the city looks like. Its a beautiful day today, yesterday was raining on and off but today looks like itll be pretty sunny...i've been sweating a lot cause of all the walking and the hot sun. But sweating is good...burn calories.
So i'll blog later about what happened on the aussie adventure to day.

A movie is how much?!

So today my mom forced me to get out and go walking. The jet lag got to me pretty bad and she was sick and tired of staying in the room sleeping all the time. So today we went exploring. Its pretty hot here, which is what i like :) We went to ask the bank some questions about whats needed for a new account, i'll be opening that on monday. Than we heard about some flea market called Paddys Market and took the Monorail there and it was like L.A.! all the little knick knacks and clothes were soooo much cheaper than all the outside places. When i heard it was expensive here, i thought they were exaggerating...but nope things are super expensive! We bought ice cream yesterday and for 2 single cones was $11!!
We found a Westfield shopping center and was walking through when we passed by a Sydney tower dining place so we decided to check it out. It was really expensive, but when else can we do this? So we really paid for the experience cause the food and service sucked (i wish they had yelp here). But one thing that i decided to try KANGAROO RUMP!! This was in honor of Sean & Adriana Bell. I was scared to try it...i mean it looked just like beef
So were walking through Paddys market and i found a cute kangaroo purse for Nai (its hot pink) she'll love it. But i'm glad i found it cause if im jonesing for some new clothes than i could go there. So we decide to go back to our hotel and we decide to go to the movies. We wanted to see Tron 3D and so we get to the theatres and we also had 20% off to the movies and see the prices...$28.50 for one adult!!!!!
Ok I know that 3D Imax is expensive but $28.50?!?! I don't think so!!
Ok so after we decide movies is a no go we finally find a Starbucks and mom got super happy and relaxed after that. Now were back at the hotel shes upstairs and im down here writing this...so until tomorrow!!

Don't eat Mcdonalds burgers

Finally made it to Australia. I must have slept like 12 hours. We left the airport 7 suitcases & all...got a taxi, a really nice guy who told us not to eat Mcdonalds burgers cause they're shipped from America and the meat is unknown. (his brother used to work there) but he said the filet o fish or chicken is good to eat. We got to the hotel and had to wait an hour so mom and I went to get me a phone...it's finally hooked up but I still need to figure out how to use it. It's a ghetto nokia phone but I think I can manage.
It's really warm here, and no lie, looks exactly like San Francisco just less homeless and gay people. Now I know why Hillsong loves San Fran. But no matter how beautiful and warm it is here I'm missing home, I'm sure that's natural and will be like this for awhile but I do have faith in Gods workings in my life and all He has planned for me. It's kinda weird talking to everyone with an accent and there's a fair amount of Asian people, which I was surprised, but than not really especially living in silicon valley. I'm excited for a new day....a new adventure, a new beginning in what God has in his hands waiting ti give to me.
I''m gonna try to blog as much as possible...it's a little hard here cause the server keeps crashing (Sean needs to work here) but I want to keep people up to date.

It's real

So it's real, even though it feels like I'm going on my yearly vacations. The ride to the airport was normal, Naomi talking like crazy...Adriana & Teresa up front chatting it up. Than we got to the airport & checked in & once we got to the line that's when it all got wet. My dad like usual was the strong one, and I hugged teresa & she made me cry & than my sister made me cry! And than the worst of them all was Naomi. I didn't think I would cry so much saying goodbye to her. I never experienced a 4 year old with such "real" emotion. Yes she cries for everything but these were NOT drama queen tears....this was the real thing. Once me & mom got into the line and i looked back & saw dad & Nai still crying I felt this burst inside of me that i couldn't hold in & started balling. I felt like throwing up & running back... I never want to feel like that again. NEVER.
So here i Am in the nifty lounge area drinking a sprite praying that everything will be ok because i am leaving everything, even if it is just for a year to the desert....a really nice warm beachy desert... And practice what preach...I knew this would bite me in the butt one day....but it's all worth it.