It's Almost Christmas?

Really? It's almost Christmas? How is that possible? It's still 85* everyday and I'm still wearing shorts and t-shirts and flip-flops, so everyone must only be celebrating Christmas in July here! Right??

Nope. My computer says it's December 22, 2012. All the decorations in our apartment, at church, and around the island say it's Christmas time. And the busyness of the past month points to the familiarity of a holiday season, too. I'm sure, however, that Tuesday morning will come as a surprise to me, still.

The past month has eaten me alive with conflicts, challenges, and the ever-steeper learning curve of life. Moments of joy, no doubt, like watching the sunset at the crater where I earlier watched the sunrise. And another highlight was having intern lunch with one of our associate pastors, Ben, a few weeks ago. He asked us, "What's the grandest thing the Lord has taught you during your internship so far?" I couldn't pinpoint one thing, but narrowed it to this answer: All the truths I've learned about Him so far are coming to life here. I'm learning new things, of course, but seeing how His promises actually work in my life has more of an impact on me for now. He promises that He knows what's best for me today and in the future. His instructions on dealing with conflict, while uncomfortable, really are the best way to handle disagreements with people. What He provides is what I need, and He helps me be content with just that. This month of humility has been difficult, but I am comforted to know I am walking with the Lord and He is working with me.

This month I have really enjoyed listening to Louie Giglio's sermons online. He's the senior pastor of Passion City Church in Atlanta, GA, and you can find his sermons online by going to passioncitychurch.com/watch. Here's a link to a sermon snippet I enjoyed last week: "Stars and Whales Song".

Also, one of my favorite TV shows is Late Night with Jimmy Fallon, and the other night he had the Dave Matthews Band on his show. They played their original song, "Christmas Song," to close out the show, and I was so glad to have seen it! I know, I'm behind the times since this song came out on their album 15 years ago, but since it's been around for that long, you can find it in many different places: youtube, spotify, pandora, itunes, etc. Here's a link to a version on youtube: "Christmas Song".

Hope you are enjoying this month and holiday season. Blessings-JM

Happy Thanksgiving!

I'm thankful to be on this thankfulness journey. It has helped me switch my mostly-constant negative mindset to a more positive focus. Knowing I wanted to post something I'm thankful for everyday (and without repeats!) has made me think more about what I'm thankful for. This has made more of a difference in my "down" days than I anticipated. So grateful for that!

Happy thanksgiving everyone! Hope you are enjoying good food and time with fun people!

Much love from Maui :)

Thankful Days 20 & 21

I'm thankful for the people in this world who choose to see the good in others (and me) and encourage them to grow in the good areas. They choose to focus on the good things in me (and voice them), despite my hang ups, which gives me strength to overcome the struggles that are results of my hang ups.  I've been blessed to have such powerful influences all throughout my life, and I cannot measure the difference it has made over 24 years. I look forward to seeing the entire impact it all had when I get to heaven, and I'm overwhelmed to try and comprehend everything so far. I can't help but be thankful.

In light of this, I'm thankful for the organizations that invest in others without judgement. I'm thinking of numerous non-profits that work tirelessly, and often solely on volunteer man-power, to make a positive difference in an ever-hurting world. Among other efforts, Salvation Army and Goodwill both work to provide jobs of those who seem unemployable to others. Big Brothers Big Sisters works to provide mentors to kids who need a positive influence in their lives. Samaritan's Purse works to provide children around the world with a Christmas gift, and church-less communities/countries with a Christ-centered church. So many big organizations like these, and then there are the smaller ones all over with just as big a mission to make a difference! I am thankful they exist in this world, and I'm even more thankful (humbled, really) to be able to serve with some of these people!

Thankful Days 18 & 19

I'm thankful for dance. It's an art form, a creative way to express myself, and fun way to exercise! I love that there are so many types of dance. So much to learn about each of them and try them all.

I'm thankful for healthcare professionals. Even though health insurance is often the bane of my existence, the caretakers I meet often make my time and frustration worthwhile. I appreciate what they've done to help me feel better so often, and especially the ones that have gone out of their way to investigate my case further.

Thankful Day 16 & 17

Thankful for church family that's been my second family my entire life and in every place I've lived. It's made the biggest difference in how well I've adjusted to a new city, and I have friends all over the world now.  If a church can make me love and miss Abilene, I'd say it's worth the effort to go to church :)

Thankful for friends. Having fun with friends is my favorite activity, and they are the spice of life, or however that goes. I'm just thankful for them.

Thankful Day 15

Today I am thankful for my experience at ACU. It was the only out-of-state school I applied to, and they offered me the best financial deal. The first 2 years were difficult, as I had no idea of the culture shock that would happen, but I'm glad I stuck it out. Because of my association with ACU and the connections I made there, I've gotten to travel the world and make life-long friends.

4 years ago, I spent a semester abroad in South America with 14 other students and a host couple from ACU. I spent Thanksgiving week in a hospital there because I was very ill. All of the other students and host families visited me in the hospital, and I still have the hand-made cards that brought tears to my eyes. When I returned to ACU in Abilene the following semester, I ran into the director of ACU's daily chapel services one day. I introduced myself and we talked about whatever it was that I went to see him for that day. Before we parted ways, he said, "Oh I remember you! We prayed for you in chapel when you were in the hospital in South America last semester. Are you doing better?"

That's the ACU difference. So glad I went there and the impact it's had on my life so far.

Thankful Day 13 & 14

I'm thankful for my parents and God.

Both the utmost of influences on my life, and yet, the most difficult to aptly describe here! Thankful for both of them, though.

Thankful Day 12

I'm thankful for my roommate, Rachel, today. We've only known each other 2 1/2 months, yet most people think we've been friends for years already. The Lord definitely had his hand in bringing us together, and I'm so grateful. We are often on the same page about many things, and we make each other laugh constantly. Helps that we're both from Southern California :)

She has such a beautiful reverence for following the Lord and serving him through our church's children's ministry. I selfishly pray we can spend many more years living close to each other, but really hope the Lord blesses her with amazing happenings in her life.

Thankful Day 11

I'm thankful for this country, our freedom, and the people who fought/are fighting for it today. Many people want to live in this country because of the freedoms and rights we have as citizens. And I was just born into it. So thankful to be from here and living here.

Thank you veterans and those currently serving.

Thankful Day 10

I'm thankful for transportation modes today. Cars make errands and trips quicker and more enjoyable, bikes are fun to ride and good exercise, feet are the original mode and still useful today, and planes make world-wide education and cross-cultural influence possible. So many other modes of transportation, and what a blessed and diverse world I live in.

Thankful Day 9

I'm thankful for animals today. Much like the scenery, I'm sure everything has its purpose in the world or food chain, but so many of those animals are just fun to look at or pet. Take fish, for example. I don't even know how many different kinds of fish there are, but a lot of them-especially out here :)- are just really pretty with all their bright colors, and I think they're funny because of how the get around. Or how about birds? So many different kinds with different colors and different sounds they make! Not to mention the dogs and cats we usually keep as pets (or family members!). I'm also thankful for zoos and aquariums where I can go look at all those animals all at once. We don't have a zoo out here, and it makes me miss the tiny Abilene zoo where I could feed the giraffes! Good thing I can just put on a snorkel and check out the natural aquarium at the beach :)

Thankful Day 8

I'm thankful for music, and the ability to enjoy and create it. My parents listened to many different types of music while I grew up, and I am so thankful for that type of education. Maybe you've heard the saying, "Music is what feelings sound like." I find that to be true to some extent, but I also find that music has the ability to change my mood. I'm thankful there are so many different types of music, and especially thankful for how it moves people in ways nothing else could. Having been in choir for so many years, I got to witness people being stirred towards the Lord through music, in ways they had never been moved before. What a gift we have in music, and I'm thankful for this blessing.

Thankful Day 7

I'm thankful for the scenery. Lots of beautiful things to look at that God created- all with a purpose, even if we don't know why some things exist. I'm thankful that there is so much to see in our world that I will never run out of places to see or explore. And even if I could run out of places, heaven will be far better than this.

Thankful Day 6

I'm thankful for the right to vote today. Not all countries have this luxury, and not all women had this right throughout history. And even though my one vote may not make a huge difference, at least I can say I stated my opinion, and took action on my beliefs. Many countries' citizens cannot choose their leaders- I am thankful I can do more than just complain about what I think is wrong. I can actually try to change it.

If you can, get out there and vote today. Thanks.

Thankful Day 5

Today, I'm thankful for food, and how many choices I have over what to eat. I am particularly thankful for how much easier companies have made it to choose gluten free foods. When I went gluten free 5 years ago, not many foods were so blatantly marked as gluten free. Now, more companies are marketing their foods as free of certain allergens, such as wheat or gluten or dairy, and I'm so thankful that my shopping for wheat free foods is not as arduous as it could be!

I'm also thankful food is so tasty... I don't imagine manna being very tasty back in the Bible days... :)

Thankful Day 4

I'm thankful for the internet. It has helped me keep in contact with lots of people over the years, research and learn about many things, and entertain me via youtube, hulu, facebook/pinterest, and of course, awkwardfamilyphotos.com. :)

Hope you guys have a great Sunday.

Thankful Day 2 & 3

Friday- I'm thankful for the Maui County Pool. It's right behind our apartment complex- I can walk there, and it's free to use! I'm thankful I love to swim and I have this pool to exercise in, for free! They have lap hours 6:30-8am MWF and are open the rest of the day for other activities. Such a great gift.

Saturday- I'm thankful for my apartment. Usually full of people coming and going and having fun and sharing difficult moments, but also a great place of rest. Even though it's not my own stuff, I'm thankful for a well-furnished home to live in.

Thankful Day 1

I've always wanted to do this project, but never felt like daily posts on facebook was a good way to keep track of it all, so yay for this blog! :)

Today I'm thankful for my job in the bookstore. I've mentioned it several times before, but I truly am thankful for it, and really love working there. I've heard previous interns hated working in the bookstore, and I'm so glad I don't!

This week I was in charge of finishing Christmas decorating- a blast, but certainly lots of time on my feet! I used to hate making displays of the merchandise, but I'm growing in confidence of that task and it's exciting. My boss, Leslie, is wonderful to work with because she knows how to assign tasks clearly, and encourage my exercising freedom to try new things. She also prays with each co-worker as they come on shift, and takes time to check in with each of us to see how we're really doing during the day.

Thankful that I enjoy such a large part of my job!

New happenings at the end of October!

Oy vey some new things have happened over here!

First, I survived my first tsunami warning this weekend. Scary, yes, but not as bad as they predicted. Thankfully.

Second, I'm trying a wheat-free diet for 6 weeks to see if it helps me feel better. No fruitful test results from the doctors so far, so I'm giving this a shot. I'm on day 5. Holy cow, it's tough to break the cravings for so many carbs I love! Thankfully it's not gluten-free, which is wheat, rye, oats, and barley, but still a challenge.

Third, worship choir starts tomorrow night- getting ready for holiday season performances! I'm excited to be back in choir!! I got to record the demo CD for the soprano section- so fun!

Fourth, and most exciting, I think!- the Lord is working in my life to heal lots of close relationships, which helps me form better relationships with new people here. So thankful for this, even though its uncomfortable at times.

Fifth, I still LOVE working in the bookstore, and have gotten to volunteer a lot of my free time to help them adjust to new schedules. The dilemma now, is that I have an ever-growing list of books I want to read! Now I see the benefit of a kindle or other e-reader, since I certainly don't have the room to just own all these books! This is the first Christmas/birthday list I've made where the books outweigh any other category of items I could ask for. I must be my father's child.

Sixth, I've found a new blog I like to read. It's called Single Dad Laughing, over at www.danoah.com. Check it out! It's a good read.

It's neat to look over all these things and see that the Lord is in the middle of all of it, and grabbing my attention so much. I've always heard that the Lord is everywhere, but it's quite an effort to switch to the mindset of noticing. Hence the writing of this blog :)

Hope you're having a good Monday.

Something I want to remember

My friend, who owns a few fitness centers on the mainland, shared this knowledge with me the other day: 80% food, 20% exercise. We don't get fat by not exercising, we get fat by what we put in our bodies. Ergo, what I put in my mouth matters more than how hard I work out. Both are important in the get-fit game, but I will have a better success rate if I change my eating habits for the better- feed myself what my body needs, not just what it wants all the time. I chewed on this thought during my swim session this morning- definitely want it to sink in for the long haul.

Blessing of today- I get to spend this weekend with my roommate Rachel where she's house-sitting for the 2nd weekend in a row! I feel like I'm on vacation when I'm there- nicely decorated, clean, air conditioning!, nice views, and a zoo of 9 animals to watch Rachel try to care for- hilarity, for sure.

Goals for the year

I've definitely thought of this year in Maui as a fresh start for many areas of my life, and now that I've been here 2 months, I realize that if I don't put the goals in writing and make a plan for them, they won't get done.

As embarrassed as I am to state these goals and admit where I am as a person, I believe honesty builds community. So here we go. 

#1- Get back to my high school weight. If I start now and lose 1 pound per week, I'll be at my goal weight by the time I leave Maui next August. Yep, that's 43 pounds. I want to feel better physically, and have my clothes fit! Small reasons, I know, but highly motivating for me. I have 3 plans I can rotate each day or week, and my roommate Rachel wants to join me. I also want to get back to eating cleaner-  less processed, fresher foods. I KNOW that will help me feel better all around, but committing to buying it despite high prices here is rough. I am worried about injuring or damaging myself further, so I will certainly be cautious in listening to my body. I will receive some medical test results on Thursday, so hopefully those will point me in a safe direction.

#2- Let God's truth make a difference in how I live my life. I know His way is the right way, but I struggle to believe in my heart what He teaches. That He loves me no matter what. That His grace is good enough and all I need. That I'm good enough because He loves me. That He made me who I am for a special, wonderful reason. That His plans truly are the best, and will make me the most satisfied.

#3- Grow in my dependence on the Lord to the point where I can't go a day without reading His word or praying. I want to dispel my disbeliefs about prayer, and crave daily time in His word. 

Thanks for reading and praying for my journey this year. 

Blessing of today- I've gotten to work extra hours in the bookstore over the past week and it has been so fun! I've gotten to help put out Christmas merchandise (I know, I know, it's not even Halloween yet... this is retail world, we're talking about), and bond with our store manager, Leslie. Such a great lady to know! Very wise and strong in her faith, and so much fun to be around, too! Past interns (we call them externs around here) have never liked their green time assignments, especially in the bookstore. I love it so much, and I am so thankful for an enjoyable, large aspect of my job!

Hawaii Bucket List

About a week ago, my roommate Rachel and I created a list of things we want to do before our year is up: the Hawaii Bucket List. The stuff crossed off is stuff we've already done, but stuff that shows up on touristy to-do lists.

o   Snorkeling in Molokini

o   Go to a pig-roasting luau

o   Go parasailing

o   Swim with dolphins

o   Ziplining

o   Whale watching

o   Island Hop

o   Go to a surf competition

o   Haleakala

o   Hana

o   Learn to surf

o   Paddleboard

o   Have a palm Christmas Tree

o   Get ostriched by a wave

o   See the Banyan tree

o   Find Crush and Squirt a.k.a. Turtles

o   Find Jaws

o   Stay in a fancy hotel

o   Windsurfing

o   Spearfish

o   Learn how to hula

o   Black Sand beach

o   Drink milk straight from a coconut

o   Find my own pineapple

o   Eat sugar cane

o   Eat poi

o   Red Sand beach

Did I miss anything?? Leave it in the comments :)

Blessing of today: My health has really gone downhill since I've been here, and it has completely blindsided me. I know which doctors I need to see, but getting health insurance to cover those visits has been quite a chore over here. Today, my friend Deb told me about a guy who goes to our church who is also a doctor who supposedly accepts my insurance, can make referrals to specialists, and gives interns a discount! :) Even if he can't, Deb said I could call him and ask for direction on whom to approach for help next. Such a relief to hear of someone who can help me at least get started in the right direction! Thank you, Lord!

10 years already

10 years ago today, my Granny (Mom's mom) died from cancer.

I had just started my freshman year in high school, and my dad picked up my brother and I from school that day, which was odd. He explained that Mom was taking care of things because Granny had passed that morning. I didn't cry that day, and didn't cry much back then except for the funeral, but I certainly have grieved more as I've grown older.

She had a hard life. Her dad was an alcoholic and left their family when she was young. (Mom's a whiz at details, so Mom, feel free to correct me via comment if you want :) Her mom, Mother Roed, had to go back to work at that time, so Granny started caring for her younger brother, Jack, and basically running the house at age 11, according to Mother Roed's very particular ways, of course.

Granny married Papa Choo Choo (story on that name later!) on October 22, 1955, and had my Mom, Jackie, and Steve together. They lived at 6522 Tillamook, in Westminster, CA, from 1956 until they died. That house was always where we had family gatherings on holidays and birthdays, and where we'd all "surprisingly" end up when it was taco or hash burrito night. Granny always wrote out the month's dinner menu on the fridge, so as soon as I could read, I figured out when to "need" a trip to Granny's house for dinner :)

Granny and Papa didn't have the easiest marriage, but they stuck it out and truly loved their family. Not necessarily in an overtly physical way, but through their advice and willingness to help whenever anyone needed it. Incredibly giving, also.

Granny was a fantastic cook. The kitchen was her domain, and you never wanted to get in her way while she was cooking, but oh my, you wanted to be around when it was all done.

She loved the Lakers, and always wanted to go to Hawaii. Both things I've done, and think she would've loved it.

I regret being so ashamed of her when I was younger, and I wish I could have the chance to apologize and return how much she loved me. I miss her most when I need cooking or cleaning advice, or when I go to weddings and realize she won't have a special spot on the pew or be the first down the aisle, or when it's time for a holiday dinner.

I also regret getting so frustrated with my mom for being so sad for so long after she died. I didn't understand why back then, but now when I think of losing my parents so early in life like she did, I feel heartbroken. So Mom, I'm sorry, and I wish I could be with you today to go put flowers on Granny's grave. I love you, and I'm so glad you are like her in a lot of ways, and remember lots of details about her.

Answers to prayer!

After 3 weeks of frustration with several internet companies here, I am so happy to say I have internet at home!! What a blessing, and an ease to adjusting here. This is still phase 1 of the internet process- meaning this is the most basic internet connection, but I have to start here and work my way up to faster speeds. It's bizarro, I know, but some is better than none for now! Certainly the blessing of today. :)

Another answer to prayer: our intern group is complete!! Our female high school intern, Lauren, arrived Thursday, and she completes our girls' apartment perfectly. She's from Seattle, and was a graphic designer for Starbucks corporate office. Beautiful heart for serving the Lord and high school kids. David, our new junior high intern, was accepted last night into our program, and he completes the guys'  apartment, for a grand total of 10 interns! He has gone to Hope Chapel most of his life, and has volunteered with the junior high group for many years already. I look forward to getting to know these guys better as the weeks roll on!

I got a new Bible on Friday! After 6 years of a falling-apart, marked up, went-with-me-everywhere Bible given to me at my high school graduation, I finally picked one at the bookstore I work at. It's red and has my name on it, NLT version. Yep, it's weird to read out of a new Bible, but it was long past due. Old blacky will still be around, but enjoying retirement.

Yesterday (Saturday) we went to a leadership summit in a a town about an hour away, and Greg Laurie was the speaker. I've heard him speak at his Harvest Crusade at Anaheim stadium a few times, but never this close and personal. What a humble testimony he has, and what a humble gift he has for continuing the Lord's work, even after 40 years. He's a great speaker, and I enjoyed his message about how to raise up leaders for this generation's church. The church we met at was an old golf cart garage/barn thing on a fancy golf course. Looks like half a barn, with the back open to the driving range. And this has been the church's meeting place for 31 years! Blew me away to see yet another thing that is nothing like what I think it will be.

After the leadership summit, we played 9 holes on the golf putting course across the street. Very ritzy golf course over looking the ocean, and all for free! It's the city's community center. I guess that's what people expect when they pay millions of dollars for their homes there.

As I close, I want to wish my parents a very happy 34th anniversary today. Thanks for your continuing example of commitment in a world where this is seldom found. Love you guys.

Long-Awaited Pictures!

Waiting to fly from LAX to OGG!

I thought this was my plane, but it wasn't. Still a cool picture, and you get the idea. :)

Upgrade to first class!!!

I received many leis like this in my 1st week. All hand-made.

First Maui sunset, at the beach that's a 10-minute walk from my house.

More of the 1st sunset.

Waiting for the sun to rise at the summit of Haleakala- 11,000 ft up, on the mountain that means "house of the sun."

Totally worth getting up at 2:30am! Loved being able to see the blanket of clouds below.

The 2 Joannas enjoying the sunrise- she goes by Jo. She's never known another Joanna, and I haven't had another one in my class since kindergarten!

My roommates so far- Rachel is in the middle, and we are in the same room. LOTS of late-night, or all the time, laughter with her! Marissa is on the end- love her Wisconsin accent and artistic talents.

Another Maui Sunset, this time at a beach called White Rock. This little dog trying to eat the sand crabs brought me so much joy because he reminded me of the Akers' dog, Kerbey, back in Abilene!

I don't think this will ever get old; it's a new sight every night.

My primary desk space, relatively clean. My window view consists of Mount Haleakala to the left, and the ocean to my right. My secondary desk space is adjacent to my boss' office. 

West wing of our church campus. Bottom corner is the bookstore where I work T/Th, and the window at the top of the stairs is my desk window. Bottom floor of this wing is the bookstore, industrial kitchen, and maintenance garage. Top floor is offices.

Children's playground south of our building. The clouds over Haleakala look like this everyday, but it NEVER rains here! So deceptive.

Courtyard in the central area of our campus. Lots of fellowship happens here! Children's wing (East wing) is in the background. Our children's program is unbelievable. Recognized world-wide by various churches and organizations. 

Front view of our campus. Lots of beautiful trees and well-kept grounds.

Our auditorium where our 3 weekend services are held. Top of the line lighting and sound systems, that rival most large performing arts centers. Makes for incredible worship settings!

More pictures to come as I attain home internet. :)

Job Description

I've had some questions about what I actually do here.  I will do my best to describe it concisely!

Basically, my job is to help people get connected/involved with the church by forming relationships with them. I have some office hours to help my boss with administrative stuff, and a few weekly meetings with church staff, but beyond that my schedule is open for meeting with people. One-on-one, small groups, large groups, at home, at church, at Starbucks, at the beach... wherever, whenever.  While I agree with my boss that I am gifted for doing this, the mix of an unstructured schedule and not knowing many people yet is highly anxiety-producing. Boss Jason keeps saying, "It'll come with time." I appreciate his generosity of grace towards me; I need to do the same for myself!

I help plan church-wide events for my boss, like the beach baptisms, church anniversary party, graduations for his School of the Bible, and other things that come up. This involves recruiting volunteers, ordering/picking up food, organizing the flow and theme of the event, etc.

I also support the young adult ministry by attending a small group, eventually hosting one of my own, coordinating/brainstorming events, and being a female resource when needed (only guys as leaders in that ministry this year).

I am responsible for 7 hours of green time by volunteering in the bookstore on Tuesdays and Thursdays.

Yep, it's a busy schedule, but it's good so far! The extern for my position, Christie, stayed these first 2 weeks to help me learn the ropes and adjust to how things are done. Very thankful for her!

Keep asking questions- thanks Cathie! :)

A weekend review

Saturday we woke up at 2:30am to drive up Haleakala ("house of the sun") to watch the sunrise. TOTALLY worth the 2-hour winding drive in an old 15-passenger van. After a long nap, our intern family took a picnic dinner to White Rock (a beach next to the resorts in the next town- Wailea) to watch the sunset and have some worship time to encourage our group to bond. It was great, and much needed.

Sunday was church- had a good time meeting people and got to invite them to some events happening this week. Helped me feel a little more successful in my job description. That night a new girl to the church, Mika, invited me to dinner in Lahaina- the typical tourist trap city on Maui. Worth seeing at night, and the hour-long wait for Thai dinner at Star Noodle, but wouldn't want to go there during peak tourist season.

Monday was our Labor Day baptism service at the beach. We have a baptism service on President's Day, Memorial Day, and Labor Day. We had 10 children and 30 adults get baptized, and served about 300 for lunch. And that's the smallest of our baptism services. Worked 6am-3pm to get all the tents, grills, food, tables, and sound equipment down to the beach, set it up, have the event, and break it down. Made for a long day in the sun, but I didn't get burned (!) and it was beautiful out there.

The interns have today (Tuesday) off, since we worked on actual Labor Day. So far I've made several phone calls (trying to get health insurance switched to here), registered at the apartment office/tried to get home internet, and done some more on conquering the ever-growing to-do list.

Hope you guys had a great holiday weekend, too. Please be patient with wanting pictures- I figured out how to post them, but it takes FOREVER and without home internet, it is quite a challenge. I will make it worth the wait though :)

From last Friday

Ok Lord, I’m here now. Trying to “just be” in this place instead of feel anxious about getting going in my new job- because wanting to hurry up and feel successful in my new job is purely selfish, anxiety-producing, and not joyful. Clearly not a feeling from You.

I keep hearing that prayer is not meant to change God’s point of view so much as it changes the asker’s heart.  And this verse keeps coming to my attention from Philippians 4:6-7- “Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus.” Both of these phrases are posted in my cubicle at work, in hopes of dispelling my doubts about the usefulness of prayer. Again, trying to just say, “Ok,” and be obedient.

I started reading Francis Chan’s book “Crazy Love” this week. I haven’t read it yet because I’m a slow reader and when something’s as trendy as this book was, I can’t keep up. I like to absorb as much as possible the first time around. However, I already know I want to read this one again. I’m only 4 chapters into it, and it’s great so far. If you’ve read it already, let me know what you think.

Blessing: Thursday I volunteered in the bookstore again. As I was restocking the café, Carissa was helping a customer at the register. He bought 2 bibles and a few other items. I didn’t catch what he said, but I looked back and saw them praying at the counter. I asked Carissa about it later, and she said she tries to pray of each bible sold. She asked the customer whom the bibles were for, and she prayed specific prayers for them. One for his wife, and the other for his coworker who just lost his dad. He wanted to help them both through difficult times by using the gospel. Wow. What a blessing to pray for him in that moment, and to have witnessed it. Looking forward to my register training soon!

Toilets still clog in Hawaii

Yes, toilets still clog in Hawaii, and this is what I woke up to today. Thankfully, Dad coached me well, and after a walk to Safeway to buy a plunger, the commode is back in business. Literally.

Yesterday was wonderful and difficult all at the same time. We had our official intern orientation yesterday morning, which included breakfast at a Mexican restaurant and then discussing expectations on the beach for a few hours. Not a bad place for a meeting, I must say. Our mentor coordinators fixed us homemade lasagna and peach cobbler for lunch, and we talked about the intern mentor program. What a blessing we have in these coordinators! They have made us feel so welcomed and loved in the last week by feeding us, letting us watch movies at their houses, and showing us around the island. They truly love us and are excited to have us here and invest in our spiritual growth. We'll be paired with mentors in the next month or so. Really looking forward to that!

After lunch, I met with Christie, former intern for my position, and she showed me a bunch of office protocol. I certainly learned quite a bit, and am glad to have gotten so much done already, but I had hit the exhausted wall. Hard. A nap didn't happen, but resting at home last night helped. I feel better today, but I doubt I'm out of the transition woods yet.

My new roommate, Rachel, and I were both exhausted last night, but we had a great time sharing funny stories and trying to get our ceiling fan to work better without hitting our heads on it. She is from Ventura County, CA, and studied exercise science at Marshall University in West Virginia. She works in our Children's ministry, and has a heart of gold. She loves kids, and loves life, but certainly doesn't take herself too seriously. She's a mix of Mexican, French-Canadian, and something else. Yep, she's super tan already, and I'll never catch up to her. Dang it! She's had lots of roommates before, and this summer, she worked on staff at Hume Lake Christian camps. I think we'll get along well, and so far, she hasn't complained about my snoring. :)

Blessing of the day: Last night some of the interns wanted to have a praise session on the beach and look at the stars. Ended up not happening, but we're gonna try to do so tonight. But as we were gathering on our apartment, Len (young adult intern), suggested we try to have a time of fellowship and encouragement with just us interns on our next day off. He'd like to keep it up weekly, but that may take time to establish. Len had a rough upbringing and is hilarious, but he truly has a heart for leading people to God, and I was blessed to see his concern for our intern group's own bonding and well-being. He's married to Jo (worship intern) for 1 year now- they are great together.

Another blessing happened yesterday at breakfast. Upon hearing our group had just moved to the island and that we're interns at Hope Chapel, her advice for us was this: "Take care of each other. A lot of us don't have family on the island, so we need to take care of each other and form our own family." Wow. I was expecting advice for the best bars or beaches to go to, but nope. I don't know if she's a believer or not, but I feel like that was the Lord speaking through her. I love noticing His truth in surprising ways!

Prayer

I've had some requests to send out a list of things to be praying about, so here we go:

-That I can take some time to myself to rest, get acquainted with the area, and feel centered/focused on why I'm here.
-That I can start and maintain a daily Bible study.
-That I can grow in faith about the importance of prayer.
-Sounds silly, but I need prayers that my snoring at night will be quieted. I was asked to switch rooms/roommates yesterday because of my snoring, and now I'm worried that I will be a problem to the new girl (Rachel). Don't want to be moved around- makes me feel unwanted.
-I have a very loose schedule- meant to give me flexibility for relationship building, but it is quite anxiety producing for this task-oriented wahine (woman in Hawaiian). So prayers for reduced anxiety about this would be great!
-Also prayers for whom I will meet and form relationships with. Meeting people is still overwhelming right now, and I bet it will be for a while longer, but I am looking forward to getting going with actual relationships! Would like the relationships not to seem forced either, just because I feel like I need to fill my schedule.
-To find a chiropractor and time to go see him/her regularly.
-To maintain patience adjusting to everything that's so new here. Don't have my own car, my own room, my own bathroom, my own food, my own internet at home, etc.

Praises:
-being fed lots of free fellowship meals so far! I love food, especially when it's free :)
-getting to watch the sunset last night. and yes, it looks just like the postcards. :)
-getting my prescriptions transferred successfully to a pharmacy close by with nice staff!
-a lovely view from my office and apartment. To the left is the mountain called Haleakala, and to the right is the pacific ocean. Not a bad gig! Reminds me to slow down and breathe every time I look out.
-my cell phone, and internet at the office. Getting to stay connected to people through texts, phone calls, facebook, email, etc. is encouraging!

Thanks for the prayers, and for reading!

P.s. Blessing of the day- Today I get to start my "green time." Each intern is required to volunteer 7 hours a week around the church, and I get to work in the bookstore all year! Tuesdays and Thursdays, in the afternoon. The other interns clean the church :) Our church bookstore is one of 2 Christian bookstores on the island, and our's is the bigger of the 2. Lots of opportunities to meet new people, I'm sure. Looking forward to 7 hours of free a/c! :)

And in case you were wondering, the pineapple here is like candy. Better than I've ever had, and yes, I bought 3 at Costco on Sunday and am polishing off the 1st one as I type.

First Maui Weekend

I've been here about 4 days now and I already feel at home, mostly. Still haven't unpacked all the way, but already have my 1st sunburn and have been to the grocery store once- talk about some sticker shock!! 2 bags of cereal, 1/2 gallon of milk, and 4 servings of yogurt = $18.56.Yikes! The church staff is treating us (intern group) to a trip to Costco this afternoon to fill our houses... no need to explain the excitement.

We've been warmly welcomed here, by the church mostly, but also the community. Yesterday (Saturday), the senior pastor, Craig Englert, took us paddle boarding in the morning. Try to stand up on a surf board and then start paddling... pretty difficult, but worth the effort to see sea turtles in the reef! Very clear water, and yes, it's stunning. :) I wished so badly for a waterproof camera out there, but you'll just have to come experience it for yourselves. It's worth it- I promise. After that, some of the interns and I went to "Big Beach" a few miles down the island to body board, then to a church family's infinity pool for our welcome dinner with the entire church staff. If you're thinking I stayed in my swimsuit all day, you're right. And, yes, I loved it! I put on sunblock all day, but 30 spf ain't gonna cut it here for this white chica.

So far, there are 3 female and 5 male interns. I live with Marissa, and she's from Wisconsin. I'm her 1st roommate, and we're having a good time together! The other 2 girls who will occupy the other room in our apartment will arrive sometime later. Jo and Len are married interns (first married interns for the church!) and they live in their own place. Very sweet couple who fed us the first few mornings. Ryan, Wes, and Jake live in the guys apartment, and the 4th guy intern dropped out last week, so we're looking for another one ASAP. All of us live in the same apartment complex, though, which is nice.

We have free use of 4 vehicles. The girls have a black grand cherokee jeep, and a white camry. The camry doesn't have a/c, and how iconic is it to drive a jeep in Hawaii??? So Marissa and I claimed that bad boy QUICK. :) The boys have 2 minivans- a honda and something else that doesn't work very well. Jason (my boss) says, "That's the joy of owning used cars... continual maintenance." But we also have bikes to use, and our feet, of course, as church is about a 3-5 minute drive away.

No internet, no a/c, and no washer/dryer in our apartments make for a small list of things to adjust to so far. But I like it. Lots of new surroundings to explore and the comfort of the beach to watch whenever I want. I can see it from my office desk right now :)

These posts could be pages long talking about all the things I'm encountering everyday, and as much as I'd love to write it all down, this time change and culture change is shutting down my brain too early every night :) Trying to absorb and be in the moment as much as possible. Feel free to ask questions! That will help focus my writing and avoid pages-long ramblings!

Blessings of this weekend: After paddle boarding, the interns and Craig Englert sat around a picnic table and shared our testimonies of our lives and how we got here. Took 2 hours, and was not extensive by any means, but my goodness, what a blessing to hear each story and bond in that way. Also, last night was our welcome dinner with the entire staff and some elders, plus spouses and kids. No, I don't remember all their names and positions, but how excited they all are to get to know us interns, support us, and watch us grow. I keep thinking, "Certainly after 12 years of interns (I'm in the 13th class) they'd be burned out on meeting new kids, and thinking there's nothing new about us." But no, they are eager to meet us and realize how unique we each are. They prayed over us last night, and I've gotten 3-4 real flower, handmade leis from them so far. How special I feel!

Mahalo and aloha- JM

Here we go!

So much to think about and want to remember today! Today’s the big day- I’m flying to Maui to start my yearlong internship. It’s exciting to be living in Maui for a year! Of 500 applicants, I’m the one walking off the plane today. That’s just insane. But I’m thankful and joyful, to say the least!

I’m also anxious. Worried to be leaving close relationships behind and “on-hold”- don’t want them to disintegrate or die out because I love them all so much. This is where I need to learn how to let go and let things be. To trust that this, too, is part of God’s perfect timing/plan.

Blessing of today: getting bumped up to 1^st class! This morning I said to my family that I hoped I’d get a little blanket on my 2^nd flight from Sacramento to Maui so I could sleep most of the way… now I’ll get that luxury for sure, plus more! Here’s the story:

When I bought my plane ticket originally, the only flights left were mostly 2 stop flights from LAX to Maui. Ridiculous. So I bought the only 1 stop flight left- LAX to Sacramento, a 4 hour layover, and then to Maui. Still crazy, but the cheapest and the least hassle of the options. When I got to LAX this morning, I thought I was on Alaska Airlines, but that wasn’t true. 1^st flight was with Delta Airlines, and then the 2^nd flight was with Alaska Airlines. I didn’t have a seat on either flight, and I’d have to re-check in with Alaska Airlines in Sacramento, and give them my luggage claim checks so they could find my luggage and transfer it. Nightmare? I think it would’ve been. But I went through security anyway and waited. The Delta flight attendant at my gate- “Lisa”- called me up and said, “Are you going to Maui today?” “Yes,” I replied. “Via Sacramento?” “Yes.” “Why?” “That was all that was left when I bought the ticket.” “Well that’s just crazy. I’ve never heard of anything like that! Your first flight is overbooked and I’m looking for volunteers to take a later fight. We’ll give you a $300 flight voucher and some meal tickets while you wait. But if you do that, you’ll only be able to use the vouchers on the same flight pattern. And since you’re going to Maui today, can I put you on a non-stop flight from here to there later today? We’ll find your luggage before it leaves and save it for that flight. You’ll go straight from here to Maui, and get there only 5 minutes later than your original itinerary. Oh, and it’s in first class. Is that ok?” After gasping for a minute and then exclaiming, “Absolutely!!!” we worked out the details and I’ll have my first 1^st class experience on my trip to Maui. It means a 7 hour wait in LAX, but DEFINITELY worth it!!! Thankful for a friend’s mail package with a new mix CD to listen to, and another friend’s advice to carry on my laptop and a few movies. :)

I hope to figure out how to post pictures soon.  Aloha and mahalo! –JM (Aloha means hello/goodbye and Mahalo means thank you/you’re welcome)

Welcome!

Welcome to my blog! 

I named it “Watching the Lord Work” because that is the title of my ever-growing Word document of a prayer journal. Of course, the posts here will be primarily about my time in Maui, but I enjoy writing, and will probably throw in some previously written pieces from my journal as they fit.  The more I write, the larger my faith grows, as it is easy to look back and see what He has done, especially in the big events I’ve mostly written about. But I want to see God more in my life… in the everyday events.  So my plan is to include a section in each post about a blessing I noticed that day.  I’ll need some accountability on this, I’m sure! 

This blog may take on different purposes, as I hope to get back into a regular exercise routine, and I’ve heard blogging can help keep you quite accountable! 

But thanks for checking in periodically and reading. If you have any questions for me, you can comment below, email me, or find me on facebook!