I hate to inform you all.. but I have changed my blog site. Megan introduced me to a much better site for travel blogs. In fact that's what it was created for! Here I have posted entire photo albums and movies!!
Check the site for new blog entries as well!!
Just copy and paste:
www.statravelblogs.com/mission2servemanila
thank you all for the patience!!
Tessa
Saturday, January 26, 2008
Has it almost been an entire weeK?
So I've decided it's the little things while here that cause me to pause and reflect. Little things like storm clouds and an 11 year old boy going, "Jesus let it rain". Helping a little boy and his sister onto a swing and then giving them a push as they laugh and giggle- she's of about 9 or 10 and my guess is she'd never been on a swing that went so high. The things like 20 some children all singing in unison praising their Father in Heaven. "We have called you, and you have answered- then they belt out at the top of their lungs, "He who Rescued us"- we want to be near you." You can feel more of God's presence among these children than you normally feel in a crowded congregation of people Sunday morning at church. Their hearts are most sincere- these kids have the amount of faith and knowledge most of us hope to achieve in our lifetimes- and they mean every word they sing to their Savior- who has not only rescued them spiritually but also physically and emotionally from the street.
Well little do these children know that I've got such great "kid expertise" and that's how I made my way through college! There are a few that have tried and tested my patience- and they learned the hard way- exactly what that gets them- long amount of time setting facing a corner- in the middle of the day while everyone else enjoys their Friday afternoon! Needless to say- today they didn't test me, and neither did the rest of the kids (I think word got around!!) So that's great news for me- now the kids mind- at least for now...
We haven't been able to sneak away and get into the streets yet. But we hope to go Monday. We had it all arranged for Friday- but what we didn't know is that the staff at the school and the children's home all went for an overnight get away and so that meant we all had full time jobs Friday. I took charge of P.E. for the day for all the kids. Yes- this has been a challenging thing to do and try to assist the teacher with because the kids run around and yell and don't mind and are crazy- BUT they met "teacher Tessa" and most of the problem children discovered what setting on the wall and watching PE was like- I think they'll be much more apt to listen next time! I mean- I don't mean to be "the mean one" but they have got to have respect- otherwise I will become very mean!
Learning how to go day by and and not necessarily push myself to the limit everyday is a little different- I've always done short term trips- where you squeeze in as much as possible in the time you have there. Not to say that I'm not making everything I can of each day I'm given here- but the pace is a little slower and laid back. If you go full steam all the way through- I would either be exhausted by the end- or just plain sick of doing what it is I am doing. I don't want this to become a job- but want to enjoy every single day I am here.
I also apologize for not having a better update- I really thought I'd make these everyday- but I haven't been getting home until late and it seems like the days have been rather draining.
I will say I'm still very excited about work that will take place outside the walls of the orphanage. We plan to do the following for starters:
-visit the community by the river and hand out sandwiches and play games
-plan a day of fun and snacks for the "rugby boys of Alaban" (the children and women whose fathers/husbands have pretty much abandon them to live on the streets- and they use a glue solvent=rugby- to sniff and get high.
-visit the dump site either at smokey mountain or cavite city- to do the same games and snacks as we are doing in Alaban
-start weekly games and activities for the children that live right outside the gate of the childrens home.
-visit other orphanages
-go on outreach nights with a prostitute ministry and invest and continue the ministry another couple of girls have done for the past month and are now leaving.
-Pray more and see where God leads.
Will update more soon.
Thank you to each and everyone that is checking the blog- writing me emails and most importantly- keeping me in your prayers!!
Tessa
Well little do these children know that I've got such great "kid expertise" and that's how I made my way through college! There are a few that have tried and tested my patience- and they learned the hard way- exactly what that gets them- long amount of time setting facing a corner- in the middle of the day while everyone else enjoys their Friday afternoon! Needless to say- today they didn't test me, and neither did the rest of the kids (I think word got around!!) So that's great news for me- now the kids mind- at least for now...
We haven't been able to sneak away and get into the streets yet. But we hope to go Monday. We had it all arranged for Friday- but what we didn't know is that the staff at the school and the children's home all went for an overnight get away and so that meant we all had full time jobs Friday. I took charge of P.E. for the day for all the kids. Yes- this has been a challenging thing to do and try to assist the teacher with because the kids run around and yell and don't mind and are crazy- BUT they met "teacher Tessa" and most of the problem children discovered what setting on the wall and watching PE was like- I think they'll be much more apt to listen next time! I mean- I don't mean to be "the mean one" but they have got to have respect- otherwise I will become very mean!
Learning how to go day by and and not necessarily push myself to the limit everyday is a little different- I've always done short term trips- where you squeeze in as much as possible in the time you have there. Not to say that I'm not making everything I can of each day I'm given here- but the pace is a little slower and laid back. If you go full steam all the way through- I would either be exhausted by the end- or just plain sick of doing what it is I am doing. I don't want this to become a job- but want to enjoy every single day I am here.
I also apologize for not having a better update- I really thought I'd make these everyday- but I haven't been getting home until late and it seems like the days have been rather draining.
I will say I'm still very excited about work that will take place outside the walls of the orphanage. We plan to do the following for starters:
-visit the community by the river and hand out sandwiches and play games
-plan a day of fun and snacks for the "rugby boys of Alaban" (the children and women whose fathers/husbands have pretty much abandon them to live on the streets- and they use a glue solvent=rugby- to sniff and get high.
-visit the dump site either at smokey mountain or cavite city- to do the same games and snacks as we are doing in Alaban
-start weekly games and activities for the children that live right outside the gate of the childrens home.
-visit other orphanages
-go on outreach nights with a prostitute ministry and invest and continue the ministry another couple of girls have done for the past month and are now leaving.
-Pray more and see where God leads.
Will update more soon.
Thank you to each and everyone that is checking the blog- writing me emails and most importantly- keeping me in your prayers!!
Tessa
Monday, January 21, 2008
Heidi Baker
WOW. God is at work in this country. This is the year of revival here- I went to a large contemporary church this morning in the city where most of the volunteers go- and they spoke how this year is the year of a great revival for their country. Then we went to hear Heidi Baker speak that afternoon- and it turns out it was a huge conference with several thousand people there that had come from all over the Philippines. Not only was Heidi Baker there but there were a platform of speakers and they had several hours of praise and worship- it was absolutely amazing!! They sang mostly Passion, aka Crowder, Chris Tomlin songs- and the speakers were very passionate and inspiring. God really showed up- and the Holy Spirit was there in force. ☺
Heidi Baker is so full of God’s love and the Holy Spirit- she’s a riot. When she landed in this country she went straight to the hospital where one of the more famous born again actors was- with his 4 month old son who had died that morning in his arms. He’d tried to revive him, and had taken him to the hospital- but because Satan has been attacking his family and his marriage- he knew that it was not God’s will to let his son die- and refused to accept the death of his son. He called his pastors (whom were some of the platform guests) and they came to the hospital and prayed and tried to comfort him but he continued to refuse that this boy should die. At this point the baby had been dead for several hours and was totally blue- and life less. Heidi heard the news and went straight to the hospital and prayed over this child- and the Holy Spirit came and restored the life of this baby and he now lives again. That was Sunday morning.
Sunday afternoon this conference started at 3pm. With an hour of praise and worship- and then multiple speakers and lots of singing! Once Heidi got up to share her message- she was wrecked in the Holy Spirit- it was humerous and yet she handled it so well. It took her a long while before she could speak in entire sentences- as they were mixed with single words of “holy” and then some words came across as she was “speaking in tounges” but it wasn’t all- very seldom did she break into entire phrases- but it was really as though she was totally overflowing with the Holy Spirit. I’ve personally had a lot of questions about the whole practice of “speaking in tongues” but it’s not like that was her focus- she was just trying to share her message- and the Holy Spirit was also speaking through her- it was very powerful. So she spoke of Love- and claiming the kingdom we’ve been granted as our inheritance. Love raining down from heaven as fire- anointing the country and preparing the way for the revival- she said she was called that night to do two things: There were people with incurable diseases that would be healed- many with cancer- and then she was to do an alter call for those who would commit their lives to mission work.
She used the story of the virgin Mary- and how we must consecrate our entire lives and beings to God for Him to fulfill his promises and plan for our lives. If we rebuke and tell God no- we destroy the perfect plan he has for our life- and it’s like committing abortion- and God hates abortion. How following God takes great sacrifice- but we are called to sacrifice our lives and wholly trust God. Following God may mean giving up everything you hold dear- and how God is jealous of the earthly things we give our love and affection to because he is the lover of our souls- and He made us to worship Him alone- and when we get caught up in placing other things higher than him—or our focus is drawn away from seeking Him- then whatever it is that draws us away- He is jealous of. To lay it down- is to receive Love from Heaven like you’ve never known before- and when we are comptely consecrated to God and our focus is on serving and living our lives for Him- how He loves to intercede with us and values our opinon but that when we are walking with God and in His plan – then our answer will always be yes- for it is never no. For when we are walking in His plan for our lives- we will see things as God sees them- and when he asks of us to do something- we won’t have a hesitation- we’ll respond joyfully- YES!
Some of the stories she shared are only small pieces of her 32 years of being a missionary. If you don’t know her story- it’s definitely worth researching or getting her book to read- it’ll change your life and your perspective on God and His ability to perform miracles today- the miracles that we read about in the Bible!
Anyways- so she share about one of the churches in Africa she has started-(tents in the middle of villages with dirt floors) and how it was a new church and she had asked new believers (less than 30 days old) to give their testimony- and since they haven’t been “taught” what to say in church and what not to- these are raw- straight up testimonies.
The first lady she translated for went like so:
“I had been drinking my blood and was about to eat my family” and Heidi goes-“you were what?” (thinking maybe she had misunderstood the lady- or her interpretation skills had been depleted-) so she says again, “The witch doctor told me if I drink my blood and eat my family I would find great strength. So I had planned how I was going to kill my family and eat them- then I came to this church and learned about love- and someone gave me a hug and I felt that they really loved me.” “I heard about Jesus and how he loves- and it was then I decided I would stop drinking my blood and I wouldn’t eat my family.”
Then Heidi goes- the next was even better- yea you don’ think you can top that- but it’s better.
This lady began, “I hated my husband, hated, hated, hate, hated, my husband- he abused me and blamed me for being a prostitute because I couldn’t have children. I had lived under his abuse and hatred for love- and I hated him. So one day I rejoiced when he died.” And Heidi was just like, Oh Lord- I hope there’s more to your testimony!- so the lady continued “Then I remembered what I learned at this church about love and forgiveness- and so I thought I can either hate my dead husband and hold bitterness for all my days- or I can love and forgive him. So I prayed for him- and forgave him and he was raised from the dead.” Heidi asked- “so where is your husband now?” And they lady continued, “He’s right there (as she points) he wasn’t to meet Jesus too!”
A baby Christian- who knew only that Jesus gives love and forgiveness to us as sinners and wants us to do the same- forgave her abusive husband and prayed over him- and his life was returned- HE was given a second chance!
Another story she told of was one of her favorites from all her years in ministry- how at a church in Brazil she was praying with a group of several hundred people- and the Holy Spirit came over the place and everyone was prostrate before the throne of God. They were all frozen to the ground- and she was told to crawl over to a corner of the tent and there she found a group of boys in their 20’s holding their friend who was a quadraplegic- he’s been paralyzed for years and they had taken him out of his chair and were holding him as they prayed. She- unable to stand at this point took the boy in her lap and said to him, “Brother- would you like to walk- and run today? Would you dance with me?” and he cried, “YES!” So she was then given the strength to stand with him- and he went running around the place- completely healed- they were the only two in the place that were able to stand or move at this point- and they did run and dance together!
She had also shared that 2007 was the hardest year and she faced the most attack by Satan that she has experienced in 32 years. One of her churches in Nov. in Africa ha come under attack by another religious sect- a sect mixed with witch craft and other false beliefs- told her church they were going to silence them. So with bombs, missles and guns they continued to attack their churches and even the base where Heidi lives. Refusing to be silenced they took the pastor of her church and literally cut out his tongue and cut off his lips and chopped them up- and murdered him. Even through all the boming and missles they destroyed hundreds of their churches and buildings- but the 50,000+ people joined together praising God- and her orphans went out and performed miracles and healed people in Jesus name. The brother to the pastor who was killed returned to the village that had tortured and murdered his brother and told them he forgave them and loved them- and the village repented and came to Christ.
So at this meeting- it was known people would come for healing- but that there were far too many people for her to pray over- so she annoitts children- age 16 and under to go out and pray over the sick and hurting and give them the power through the Holy Spririt to bring the Kingdom down and for hundreds of people to be healed. Talk about a presence of the Lord in a building! It was beyond words- something I can’t begin to describe- to see hundreds and hundreds of children being sent forth with the faith that through their prayers people would be healed.
God is really working on my heart right now as well- Trying to settle into the routines of this country- wanting a routine- wanting to feel I am putting forth 100% and being used and invest- it’s been challenging and my first week was really frustrating many times. Laying everything down and seeking Him is what we must first do- including myself in order to be used by Him- so that he can fill us- and his love and joy is what runs over- and that’s what others see. Being apart from a boyfriend- and home- and knowing I’m here for 4 months- at first didn’t sound long- but after the first few days I would have told you it was going to be an eternity- but my attitude was wrong- After dedicating my time here to God- something I must do- we must do as sinful humans- back to God- he’s given me a new attitude and heart to serve- A smile on my face- and confidence that my time here is only going to used to bring glory to Him and His kingdom. But it’s so easy to try and pick up and do things myself in my own strength- as Heidi said- it’s a daily practice- that we must lay it all down- sometimes more than once- sometimes it’s a constant battle- Cuz when we are serving God- when we are in LOVE with Him and on Fire for Him- it’s then that Satan Hates us most- and will use every different angle he can to attack us. Every lie- every false hope- and false promise to keep us from listening and becoming everything God has in store for us.
The children have been great today- and at this point they are in their nap. With a new found joy- and peace- another volunteer and I are praying and talking about even reaching beyond the walls of this childrens home and going to others in the city- and even into the prostitution ministries that have open doors to serve- Pray for us as we seek what God’s entire direction and plan is for our time here- so that we will feel we are serving and being used 110%.
Thank you to each and everyone that is praying for me! It’s so very evident in every day- I value and treasure your support and prayer-
God bless-
Specific Prayer requests:
-God would shine- and my heart would focus on Him and the work He has for me while I’m here.
-Where I’m to invest myself and time- where God would like me to serve outside this home- and in the community.
-I would grow in my relationship with my heavenly Father- like never before- and that it wouldn’t only be here- but it would be something I seek everyday of my life- forever
-The children here- that they would see the love of Jesus through each and every volunteer that helps here at the home.
-Prayer for direction of where a few of the girls and I need to invest our time here- we're feeling God lead us beyond the walls of the children's home but we're not sure where to start. This is EXCITING- think Invisible Children- but Manila style!!!
Heidi Baker is so full of God’s love and the Holy Spirit- she’s a riot. When she landed in this country she went straight to the hospital where one of the more famous born again actors was- with his 4 month old son who had died that morning in his arms. He’d tried to revive him, and had taken him to the hospital- but because Satan has been attacking his family and his marriage- he knew that it was not God’s will to let his son die- and refused to accept the death of his son. He called his pastors (whom were some of the platform guests) and they came to the hospital and prayed and tried to comfort him but he continued to refuse that this boy should die. At this point the baby had been dead for several hours and was totally blue- and life less. Heidi heard the news and went straight to the hospital and prayed over this child- and the Holy Spirit came and restored the life of this baby and he now lives again. That was Sunday morning.
Sunday afternoon this conference started at 3pm. With an hour of praise and worship- and then multiple speakers and lots of singing! Once Heidi got up to share her message- she was wrecked in the Holy Spirit- it was humerous and yet she handled it so well. It took her a long while before she could speak in entire sentences- as they were mixed with single words of “holy” and then some words came across as she was “speaking in tounges” but it wasn’t all- very seldom did she break into entire phrases- but it was really as though she was totally overflowing with the Holy Spirit. I’ve personally had a lot of questions about the whole practice of “speaking in tongues” but it’s not like that was her focus- she was just trying to share her message- and the Holy Spirit was also speaking through her- it was very powerful. So she spoke of Love- and claiming the kingdom we’ve been granted as our inheritance. Love raining down from heaven as fire- anointing the country and preparing the way for the revival- she said she was called that night to do two things: There were people with incurable diseases that would be healed- many with cancer- and then she was to do an alter call for those who would commit their lives to mission work.
She used the story of the virgin Mary- and how we must consecrate our entire lives and beings to God for Him to fulfill his promises and plan for our lives. If we rebuke and tell God no- we destroy the perfect plan he has for our life- and it’s like committing abortion- and God hates abortion. How following God takes great sacrifice- but we are called to sacrifice our lives and wholly trust God. Following God may mean giving up everything you hold dear- and how God is jealous of the earthly things we give our love and affection to because he is the lover of our souls- and He made us to worship Him alone- and when we get caught up in placing other things higher than him—or our focus is drawn away from seeking Him- then whatever it is that draws us away- He is jealous of. To lay it down- is to receive Love from Heaven like you’ve never known before- and when we are comptely consecrated to God and our focus is on serving and living our lives for Him- how He loves to intercede with us and values our opinon but that when we are walking with God and in His plan – then our answer will always be yes- for it is never no. For when we are walking in His plan for our lives- we will see things as God sees them- and when he asks of us to do something- we won’t have a hesitation- we’ll respond joyfully- YES!
Some of the stories she shared are only small pieces of her 32 years of being a missionary. If you don’t know her story- it’s definitely worth researching or getting her book to read- it’ll change your life and your perspective on God and His ability to perform miracles today- the miracles that we read about in the Bible!
Anyways- so she share about one of the churches in Africa she has started-(tents in the middle of villages with dirt floors) and how it was a new church and she had asked new believers (less than 30 days old) to give their testimony- and since they haven’t been “taught” what to say in church and what not to- these are raw- straight up testimonies.
The first lady she translated for went like so:
“I had been drinking my blood and was about to eat my family” and Heidi goes-“you were what?” (thinking maybe she had misunderstood the lady- or her interpretation skills had been depleted-) so she says again, “The witch doctor told me if I drink my blood and eat my family I would find great strength. So I had planned how I was going to kill my family and eat them- then I came to this church and learned about love- and someone gave me a hug and I felt that they really loved me.” “I heard about Jesus and how he loves- and it was then I decided I would stop drinking my blood and I wouldn’t eat my family.”
Then Heidi goes- the next was even better- yea you don’ think you can top that- but it’s better.
This lady began, “I hated my husband, hated, hated, hate, hated, my husband- he abused me and blamed me for being a prostitute because I couldn’t have children. I had lived under his abuse and hatred for love- and I hated him. So one day I rejoiced when he died.” And Heidi was just like, Oh Lord- I hope there’s more to your testimony!- so the lady continued “Then I remembered what I learned at this church about love and forgiveness- and so I thought I can either hate my dead husband and hold bitterness for all my days- or I can love and forgive him. So I prayed for him- and forgave him and he was raised from the dead.” Heidi asked- “so where is your husband now?” And they lady continued, “He’s right there (as she points) he wasn’t to meet Jesus too!”
A baby Christian- who knew only that Jesus gives love and forgiveness to us as sinners and wants us to do the same- forgave her abusive husband and prayed over him- and his life was returned- HE was given a second chance!
Another story she told of was one of her favorites from all her years in ministry- how at a church in Brazil she was praying with a group of several hundred people- and the Holy Spirit came over the place and everyone was prostrate before the throne of God. They were all frozen to the ground- and she was told to crawl over to a corner of the tent and there she found a group of boys in their 20’s holding their friend who was a quadraplegic- he’s been paralyzed for years and they had taken him out of his chair and were holding him as they prayed. She- unable to stand at this point took the boy in her lap and said to him, “Brother- would you like to walk- and run today? Would you dance with me?” and he cried, “YES!” So she was then given the strength to stand with him- and he went running around the place- completely healed- they were the only two in the place that were able to stand or move at this point- and they did run and dance together!
She had also shared that 2007 was the hardest year and she faced the most attack by Satan that she has experienced in 32 years. One of her churches in Nov. in Africa ha come under attack by another religious sect- a sect mixed with witch craft and other false beliefs- told her church they were going to silence them. So with bombs, missles and guns they continued to attack their churches and even the base where Heidi lives. Refusing to be silenced they took the pastor of her church and literally cut out his tongue and cut off his lips and chopped them up- and murdered him. Even through all the boming and missles they destroyed hundreds of their churches and buildings- but the 50,000+ people joined together praising God- and her orphans went out and performed miracles and healed people in Jesus name. The brother to the pastor who was killed returned to the village that had tortured and murdered his brother and told them he forgave them and loved them- and the village repented and came to Christ.
So at this meeting- it was known people would come for healing- but that there were far too many people for her to pray over- so she annoitts children- age 16 and under to go out and pray over the sick and hurting and give them the power through the Holy Spririt to bring the Kingdom down and for hundreds of people to be healed. Talk about a presence of the Lord in a building! It was beyond words- something I can’t begin to describe- to see hundreds and hundreds of children being sent forth with the faith that through their prayers people would be healed.
God is really working on my heart right now as well- Trying to settle into the routines of this country- wanting a routine- wanting to feel I am putting forth 100% and being used and invest- it’s been challenging and my first week was really frustrating many times. Laying everything down and seeking Him is what we must first do- including myself in order to be used by Him- so that he can fill us- and his love and joy is what runs over- and that’s what others see. Being apart from a boyfriend- and home- and knowing I’m here for 4 months- at first didn’t sound long- but after the first few days I would have told you it was going to be an eternity- but my attitude was wrong- After dedicating my time here to God- something I must do- we must do as sinful humans- back to God- he’s given me a new attitude and heart to serve- A smile on my face- and confidence that my time here is only going to used to bring glory to Him and His kingdom. But it’s so easy to try and pick up and do things myself in my own strength- as Heidi said- it’s a daily practice- that we must lay it all down- sometimes more than once- sometimes it’s a constant battle- Cuz when we are serving God- when we are in LOVE with Him and on Fire for Him- it’s then that Satan Hates us most- and will use every different angle he can to attack us. Every lie- every false hope- and false promise to keep us from listening and becoming everything God has in store for us.
The children have been great today- and at this point they are in their nap. With a new found joy- and peace- another volunteer and I are praying and talking about even reaching beyond the walls of this childrens home and going to others in the city- and even into the prostitution ministries that have open doors to serve- Pray for us as we seek what God’s entire direction and plan is for our time here- so that we will feel we are serving and being used 110%.
Thank you to each and everyone that is praying for me! It’s so very evident in every day- I value and treasure your support and prayer-
God bless-
Specific Prayer requests:
-God would shine- and my heart would focus on Him and the work He has for me while I’m here.
-Where I’m to invest myself and time- where God would like me to serve outside this home- and in the community.
-I would grow in my relationship with my heavenly Father- like never before- and that it wouldn’t only be here- but it would be something I seek everyday of my life- forever
-The children here- that they would see the love of Jesus through each and every volunteer that helps here at the home.
-Prayer for direction of where a few of the girls and I need to invest our time here- we're feeling God lead us beyond the walls of the children's home but we're not sure where to start. This is EXCITING- think Invisible Children- but Manila style!!!
Saturday, January 19, 2008
More Pictures and videos!
Electricity from a tree!!
This is the Beautiful Waterfall we saw on the way to the city!!
Friday, January 18, 2008
Pictures!
The week has gone well- It's already been a week!! I've uploaded some pics to share and more are soon to come!
Thank you for all the prayers and support!!
Love you all-
Tessa
Thank you for all the prayers and support!!
Love you all-
Tessa
Wednesday, January 16, 2008
Another flight- a journey through the mountains and there we were!
So my trip to Mindenow was a much longer trip than I thought. After sleeping only 3 hours we left at 2:30am and then checked in at the airport and boarded the plane along with almost 20 others from Australia, Manila and Jeff and Colene Long- we were off! Once we arrived they have transportation arranged for us to get to the children's home- it was a two hour drive of very windy roads that are very rough with mixed traffic (meaning lots of abrupt stops and then they take off fast)- everything but a smooth ride!
Thankfully we arrived safely- so that was a blessing. After taking a small rest- we interacted with the children that were home at the time. There were only about 5 or 6 while the others were still in school. Because these children haven't been in the home long- as this one was just opened this past fall they speak little english- so there is a language barrier- but they are kids and all kids love to play so it's been quite easy. It's interesting to see how they interact with eachother and with guests- you can tell who is new to the home and what kids were abandon on the streets by some of their behaviors. There is one boy that has only been here amonth or two- and he's so thirsty for love and attention- he was a beggar in his former life- and the way he interacts with people you can see this still- except hes not begging!
There is another little boy who has only been here a month, and they say the dentist told them he's about 2 years of age. They said he had translucent hair when he came and he was so weak he could hardly move- Grace- one of the natives also said the first meal they fed him he ate like he'd never seen food before in his life (and this was going to be his one and only meal!) WOW- you should see him now!! He's a chunk- runs around and plays and is beginning to talk- the little boy that was within days of death is now a healthy and growing little man!!
Another blessing:
Word got out that there is a large group of people visiting- most of the Aussies are HUGE guys (all stand at least 6'4") they are bball players and eat lots of food. So tonight someone dropped off 8 boxes of bananas, several boxes of pineapple and papaya!! ALL fresh and raised here- ready for export- but they brought it here and provided us a meal. We also had roasted pig- yes the whole pig was butchered and roasted- aparently a Philippino specialty! See the pictures- it was good- the taste was different but I did enjoy it!!
Thursday morning I helped at the construction site- where the future home of the recreation center, camp ground facilities and children's home that will house 96 orphans will be. Currently they are building the first cabin- and working on a third of the building to finish it before they move on. It's going to be absolutely amazing- a dream come true. This island is beautiful and the valley is very green and luscious- surrounded by mountains. I saw the plans and drawings for the future buildings and multi purpose field, amphitheater, gym and cabins. There is much work to be done yet- but it will be absolutely amazing.
We were working on moving cement- bucket by bucket in an assembly line fashion- to make one of several poles- and then once that was finished we moved a huge pile of dirt down the hill to fill up and level off the second floor so they can pour the concrete. It's a large area and about 3 feet deep- and when you move the dirt bucket by bucket (these buckets are only about 10lbs maybe- it takes a very long time to accomplish.) The overall experience was great- and I had a great time working the Aussie team doing the construction.
Friday morning I helped the kids with their school work and played with play dough ( a great fine motor function) it was fun to see how they would copy the things I created- like cars and houses and bowls of cereal- and how far or close they could come to matching my creations.
Once the time came I jumped into the van and we were off on the 2 hr. journey back to the airport- on the way the driver- who didn't speak much English stopped the car, pulled over and said "Water pole" or so I thought- and I looked at him and said what? and He goes "Water pole" - I thought the van needed water- or maybe this was a chance for me to get a drink- so I jumped out of the car- camera in hand because the view was beautiful- and walk over the edge of the little hill and there is a magnificent Water FALL!!! It's HUGE- several hundred feet- absolutely amazing- he just laughed and helped me find the perfect place to stand and get a picture of the entire thing- a great beauty of God's creation!
So the plane was a little late- but time here isn't a big deal- so we walked out on the runway to board. Because the sun was at its peak (even though it wasn't extremely hot) they handed each person an umbrella to walk under on their way to the plane (about 300yds.) Shows you the extreme caution Asians take to staying as light as possible (note everything in the beauty sectoin of the store is "whitening cream, lotion, soap, etc.- they desire to be white and we desire to be tan...) I thought it was funny.
I made it safely back- took a taxi without too many problems and met some of the other girls for dinner. So far- time has gone well here. I am enjoying it- but missing people at home as well.
Excited to get involved with the kids again tomorrow- I've missed them!!
email me at:
mission2serve@gmail.com
God Bless
Tessa
Thankfully we arrived safely- so that was a blessing. After taking a small rest- we interacted with the children that were home at the time. There were only about 5 or 6 while the others were still in school. Because these children haven't been in the home long- as this one was just opened this past fall they speak little english- so there is a language barrier- but they are kids and all kids love to play so it's been quite easy. It's interesting to see how they interact with eachother and with guests- you can tell who is new to the home and what kids were abandon on the streets by some of their behaviors. There is one boy that has only been here amonth or two- and he's so thirsty for love and attention- he was a beggar in his former life- and the way he interacts with people you can see this still- except hes not begging!
There is another little boy who has only been here a month, and they say the dentist told them he's about 2 years of age. They said he had translucent hair when he came and he was so weak he could hardly move- Grace- one of the natives also said the first meal they fed him he ate like he'd never seen food before in his life (and this was going to be his one and only meal!) WOW- you should see him now!! He's a chunk- runs around and plays and is beginning to talk- the little boy that was within days of death is now a healthy and growing little man!!
Another blessing:
Word got out that there is a large group of people visiting- most of the Aussies are HUGE guys (all stand at least 6'4") they are bball players and eat lots of food. So tonight someone dropped off 8 boxes of bananas, several boxes of pineapple and papaya!! ALL fresh and raised here- ready for export- but they brought it here and provided us a meal. We also had roasted pig- yes the whole pig was butchered and roasted- aparently a Philippino specialty! See the pictures- it was good- the taste was different but I did enjoy it!!
Thursday morning I helped at the construction site- where the future home of the recreation center, camp ground facilities and children's home that will house 96 orphans will be. Currently they are building the first cabin- and working on a third of the building to finish it before they move on. It's going to be absolutely amazing- a dream come true. This island is beautiful and the valley is very green and luscious- surrounded by mountains. I saw the plans and drawings for the future buildings and multi purpose field, amphitheater, gym and cabins. There is much work to be done yet- but it will be absolutely amazing.
We were working on moving cement- bucket by bucket in an assembly line fashion- to make one of several poles- and then once that was finished we moved a huge pile of dirt down the hill to fill up and level off the second floor so they can pour the concrete. It's a large area and about 3 feet deep- and when you move the dirt bucket by bucket (these buckets are only about 10lbs maybe- it takes a very long time to accomplish.) The overall experience was great- and I had a great time working the Aussie team doing the construction.
Friday morning I helped the kids with their school work and played with play dough ( a great fine motor function) it was fun to see how they would copy the things I created- like cars and houses and bowls of cereal- and how far or close they could come to matching my creations.
Once the time came I jumped into the van and we were off on the 2 hr. journey back to the airport- on the way the driver- who didn't speak much English stopped the car, pulled over and said "Water pole" or so I thought- and I looked at him and said what? and He goes "Water pole" - I thought the van needed water- or maybe this was a chance for me to get a drink- so I jumped out of the car- camera in hand because the view was beautiful- and walk over the edge of the little hill and there is a magnificent Water FALL!!! It's HUGE- several hundred feet- absolutely amazing- he just laughed and helped me find the perfect place to stand and get a picture of the entire thing- a great beauty of God's creation!
So the plane was a little late- but time here isn't a big deal- so we walked out on the runway to board. Because the sun was at its peak (even though it wasn't extremely hot) they handed each person an umbrella to walk under on their way to the plane (about 300yds.) Shows you the extreme caution Asians take to staying as light as possible (note everything in the beauty sectoin of the store is "whitening cream, lotion, soap, etc.- they desire to be white and we desire to be tan...) I thought it was funny.
I made it safely back- took a taxi without too many problems and met some of the other girls for dinner. So far- time has gone well here. I am enjoying it- but missing people at home as well.
Excited to get involved with the kids again tomorrow- I've missed them!!
email me at:
mission2serve@gmail.com
God Bless
Tessa
Monday, January 14, 2008
Just another Monday...
Wow what a great weekend! Lots of new experiences- lots of fun and not a lot of sleep thanks to my mean friend- known as- jet lag.
There are several other girls here that have been here awhile and one is going back to the states soon so we made a trip to one of the malls in the city. Then to a movie- National Treasure 2- I never saw the first one- but this one was indeed very good. Saturday morning I had my “orientation” and got the run down of the rules of the home and the school and what they would like for me to do.
M-F I’ll be helping with the PE classes at the school (grades PreK and K) and then walking back to the home with the Preschool class and helping there in the afternoons. So my day will only be from 8:30-4, unless I choose to stay longer. Most days I will stay through dinner and help with coordinating chores and such- but until I start to get adequate sleep I’m already beat by about 2pm. (waking up before 6 each morning isn’t much fun) Then on Saturdays I’ll be in the home with all the children from 11a-8p. It’s not the early shift so for that I’m thankful!
This week, as of Wednesday I’ll be traveling to the other children’s home on the southern most island and will stay there until Friday. Jeff and Colene were going down, and because I’m going with all the kids and am the only volunteer as of now to be staying the entire month with them- they thought it would be good for me to scope out the place and meet the staff they have there. So I’ll do my normal Saturday when I return and then rest on Sunday.
I’ve been to a small veggie and fruit market that’s right down the road- I’ve gotta say the cucumber and mango- oh man the mango is soooo delicious! I’m excited to try the pineapple tonight! I believe I am going to stay in the condos with Kim, next door to the Longs, but I’m not entirely sure yet. I could stay there or with the kids in the home- I think I’m suppose to decide tonight- so stay tuned for my exact location!
I’ve already got a dentist appointment for Today, of which I am very excited about. I loved Dr. Diane last time I was here- and it’s definitely time to see her again ☺
A few fun and interesting things I’ve observed- for you to think about:
-So children in the states- specially in 5-7 years old hate cleaning their own plates- and wouldn’t dream of having to eat off someone else’ s plate- but what about someone else’s leftovers? Well- I guess kids that have had a former life on the streets still cling to old habits when the lunch is just that good- Little Darwin when putting his dish away scooped up what was left of the child previous to him to stack their dish and ate up! He just looked up at me and smiled ☺
Anyway- So I went back to the house for the afternoon and was given the job of cutting the girls’ hair once word got out that I have cut hair in the past. Thankfully all the girls have very long hair- so it was pretty easy. I’ve never had such a crowd of kids gathered around to watch and get so excited about a hair cut! So much fun!! Once I can transfer pics from my camera I will post them here. :) I ended up cutting some of the volunteer’s hair as well- their trial with the philippino beautician was less than successful so I guess they were brave enough to give me a shot- and I ust say It was done in great success!!
Hopefully I sleep better tonight- I’ve moved in to live with Kim. I’ll go to the other home on the south island Wed. and not come back till Friday- so I should have lots of good stories then.
Thank you for all the prayers and support and encouragement! One of these days- maybe I’ll feel normal again. ☺
Tessa
There are several other girls here that have been here awhile and one is going back to the states soon so we made a trip to one of the malls in the city. Then to a movie- National Treasure 2- I never saw the first one- but this one was indeed very good. Saturday morning I had my “orientation” and got the run down of the rules of the home and the school and what they would like for me to do.
M-F I’ll be helping with the PE classes at the school (grades PreK and K) and then walking back to the home with the Preschool class and helping there in the afternoons. So my day will only be from 8:30-4, unless I choose to stay longer. Most days I will stay through dinner and help with coordinating chores and such- but until I start to get adequate sleep I’m already beat by about 2pm. (waking up before 6 each morning isn’t much fun) Then on Saturdays I’ll be in the home with all the children from 11a-8p. It’s not the early shift so for that I’m thankful!
This week, as of Wednesday I’ll be traveling to the other children’s home on the southern most island and will stay there until Friday. Jeff and Colene were going down, and because I’m going with all the kids and am the only volunteer as of now to be staying the entire month with them- they thought it would be good for me to scope out the place and meet the staff they have there. So I’ll do my normal Saturday when I return and then rest on Sunday.
I’ve been to a small veggie and fruit market that’s right down the road- I’ve gotta say the cucumber and mango- oh man the mango is soooo delicious! I’m excited to try the pineapple tonight! I believe I am going to stay in the condos with Kim, next door to the Longs, but I’m not entirely sure yet. I could stay there or with the kids in the home- I think I’m suppose to decide tonight- so stay tuned for my exact location!
I’ve already got a dentist appointment for Today, of which I am very excited about. I loved Dr. Diane last time I was here- and it’s definitely time to see her again ☺
A few fun and interesting things I’ve observed- for you to think about:
-So children in the states- specially in 5-7 years old hate cleaning their own plates- and wouldn’t dream of having to eat off someone else’ s plate- but what about someone else’s leftovers? Well- I guess kids that have had a former life on the streets still cling to old habits when the lunch is just that good- Little Darwin when putting his dish away scooped up what was left of the child previous to him to stack their dish and ate up! He just looked up at me and smiled ☺
Anyway- So I went back to the house for the afternoon and was given the job of cutting the girls’ hair once word got out that I have cut hair in the past. Thankfully all the girls have very long hair- so it was pretty easy. I’ve never had such a crowd of kids gathered around to watch and get so excited about a hair cut! So much fun!! Once I can transfer pics from my camera I will post them here. :) I ended up cutting some of the volunteer’s hair as well- their trial with the philippino beautician was less than successful so I guess they were brave enough to give me a shot- and I ust say It was done in great success!!
Hopefully I sleep better tonight- I’ve moved in to live with Kim. I’ll go to the other home on the south island Wed. and not come back till Friday- so I should have lots of good stories then.
Thank you for all the prayers and support and encouragement! One of these days- maybe I’ll feel normal again. ☺
Tessa
Friday, January 11, 2008
A journey to the other side of earth
Wow what a trip! I am definitely glad to finally have arrived in Manila and not have to be back in the air for a long time! After 4 flights, 3 airlines, 4 times through security, 23+ hours in a plane and over 30 hours of traveling in general I finally arrived! A little weary, very smelly but glad to have made it without any major difficulties! Sad to say that so far I don't have any funny stories to tell.
I've already killed a large roach (ok so maybe this was my initiation), and taken a shower under a faucet with a trickle of water- but man it's never felt better to be refreshed! I'm already tired and ready for bed, but since it's only 4pm I'm going to try and make it at least a few more hours! Jeff and Colene gave me a warm welcome and over the weekend we'll figure out where I'll be living- I've got a couple of choices but the good news is they all have internet and a vonyage phone (meaning free calls back to the states!). I've got it rough!
well I'm off to a basketball game-
I'll be back with news and excitement later-
thank you to everyone for the prayers- they have already been answered- I made it!!
God Bless!
Tessa
I've already killed a large roach (ok so maybe this was my initiation), and taken a shower under a faucet with a trickle of water- but man it's never felt better to be refreshed! I'm already tired and ready for bed, but since it's only 4pm I'm going to try and make it at least a few more hours! Jeff and Colene gave me a warm welcome and over the weekend we'll figure out where I'll be living- I've got a couple of choices but the good news is they all have internet and a vonyage phone (meaning free calls back to the states!). I've got it rough!
well I'm off to a basketball game-
I'll be back with news and excitement later-
thank you to everyone for the prayers- they have already been answered- I made it!!
God Bless!
Tessa
Monday, December 24, 2007
Merry Christmas!!
HAPPY BIRTHDAY JESUS!!
Two weeks and I'll be on my way- making the most of the days I have left at home. Hope you all have a great holiday- and remember the real reason we celebrate - share it with a friend who may not really understand.
Two weeks and I'll be on my way- making the most of the days I have left at home. Hope you all have a great holiday- and remember the real reason we celebrate - share it with a friend who may not really understand.
Wednesday, December 12, 2007
Graduation
November is gone now and half of December! Graduation is days away- and I'll never set in another classroom or be occupied forever with homework that never ends :)
So I have less than a month before I depart- this brings both excitement and utter sadness. I'm glad that I'll return though- and excited for the chance to serve.
Update from the field:
They have taken in 9 more children from the street in Manila and have 11 at the new home on the island!! Keep them in prayer and I ask that you continue to pray for me and my support contributions-
Thank you so much- will update again soon!
God Bless!!
Tessa
So I have less than a month before I depart- this brings both excitement and utter sadness. I'm glad that I'll return though- and excited for the chance to serve.
Update from the field:
They have taken in 9 more children from the street in Manila and have 11 at the new home on the island!! Keep them in prayer and I ask that you continue to pray for me and my support contributions-
Thank you so much- will update again soon!
God Bless!!
Tessa
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