confessions at the marriott of sao paulo...

well, it's 4:39 am and guess what. i'm awake. i'm not on an airplane. i'm not crossing the equator without a weather radar. and my head feels like i'm still wearing my sunglasses (weird huh)
actually. i'm sitting at a great hotel :) with the air conditioner blowing my hair, and i'm throwing back a coke zero.
i did,however acquire the perfect exit row seat with adequate leg room and a short person behind me (unlike the female high school basketball star that sat behind me on the way to brasilia in july) and a pretty nice man sitting next to me.
the flight seemed perfect. we ate dinner about 12:30am (no kidding) and as we were finishing the captain came on and said that we were having weather radar difficulties and that we absolutely could not cross the equator with no weather thingy. so we turned around (after being in the air for a little over an hour). as that happened-i just began to chuckle at the thoughts of not being home for christmas. that's all i could do. the guy sitting next to me was a bit distraught and I think it made him feel better to hear me laugh about it. so, he struck up a conversation and he laughed at the fact that i was reading the brasilian newspaper, he said, "oh, so you can READ portuguese?" I was like....well, i didn't pay my tutor for nothing.... yada yada-it kept him in a better mood talking about brasilia and the great food they had there, the people of course (my favorite). We talked about my love for the little villages and his inability to live in a place like that. I told him about missions and why I was in Brazil, etc. But this is the kicker....as plane taxied back to the gate-they informed us that we would be going ot the marriott (haha on the portuguese guy said that and i caught it!) to which he looks over and says, (get ready for it) "I know that they will make more than one person stay in a room, you want to room together?" I don't remember my reaction but I'm pretty sure I turned away before I could give him the judgemental eyes. I was so thankful that he stopped to hear an explanation from one of the co-pilots. I ran. Really fast. Got my voucher and took the first taxi I could find. I'm praying for the conversations we will have tomorrow because maybe I didn't do a very good job of relaying information to him about why I was here and WHO sent me. But I clearly talked about missions and that I worked at a Christian school to which he quickly connected that to "peace corp". i'll have to build on that tomorrow.

anyhow-so i'm wide awake and the hotel has informed us that we will not have internet tomorrow (or later today actually..) So-hopefully I won't have to update this again...I will be able to update you in person :) Love you all :)

confessions of "Indescribeable"

These are my pastors :)

Pastor Obedes

Pastor Ithamar or "Mazinho" haha.

Pastor Marcos Antionio

Well, Louie Giglio hit Brasilia this weekend. Well, not Louie himself, but one of my pastors went to a conference in Hawaii and heard this song. He began to translate and work out some details for about three months. This past Sunday night.....we were all floored. The screen showed us moving through the atmosphere, planets, stars, etc while the full praise team lead the song. It was dark and the visual was amazing in itself. I felt as big as I am so tiny....and realized again how big God is. How much He loves us and yet spins the universe, better than that-created it.

I realized that 99% of these people would be hearing this song for the first time and I began to look around. Wow. They were amazed and awestruck. Then, just when it couldn't get any better-on one of the last rounds of "You are amazing God"-a trumpet and saxophone resounded from the balcony behind us. I've heard this song a hundred times and this time was so sweet. mmm maybe it is because I love these people, their language, and I'm so thankful for the the amazing things God is showing me through them and my time here with them.

I also had a chance to go an end of the barbecue or translated "churrasco". Of course the food was amazing, the fellowship was awesome, I got to eat mangos off the ground, and I got to sit on top of this amazing little building and watch the rains roll in.

updated confessions...

This week is crawling by and it is driving me crazy.
As much as I want to forget last week-the reminders are coming every single day.
The parents informed me that they are considering the other American school (non-Christian) for their children. They also asked me to write a letter of recommendation to which I took to my boss and he is taking care of that situation. I really love this family-lost and yet so loving. It is amazing how one event-can change everything.
Also-because of this incident, we've been reported to the Department of Education here in Brazil. We aren't sure how they found out but it could have been through the hospital (kind of like social services) where the student was taken. It keeps getting bigger and bigger. I know God is in control-I'm just praying for our administration. They've taken a lot of blows for the school this semester. I tell you about being reported because there is a chance that they could delay our opening after we return from Christmas break.

Something good: I had an awesome time building some Brasilian relationships this weekend! My church family is becoming more and more like family as well as some of the young people at another church. One of my pastors says, "You are not a visitor, you are family. We will be waiting for you." I also signed up for the Sunday School class on Calvinism-which I'm really excited about. One of my friends will translate and it will be cool to have someone to discuss this topic with.

So-I have much to look forward to and yet I will probably be missing 1/5 of my class when I return. I rest in the haven of prayer as I am heavily troubled and tired by the events. I am encouraged by the quiet times I'm having and in knowing that I'll be removed from this situation for a short time. Delivered into the arms of love in 6 1/2 more days.

confessions of a miracle....

Today, I have a lot to be thankful for. Maybe more than I ever have.
I was reminded today just exactly how much I love my students. How much I cherish
each little growing personality, character, and spiritual life.
One of my sweet children was injured in an accident in the bathroom due
to a malfunction of the bathroom stall. You may be thinking-oh that is not bad....
well, we have solid marble bathroom stalls here. So, as one student closed the door,
the whole front panel came crashing down on another student. I was within view of the bathroom and the visual that I have will be forever etched in my mind. Unfortunately-I
can't shake this like an etchasketch.
It took three adults to remove the door from the student and to take him out.
I'll never forget his little face. I felt sure that he had internal injuries, broken bones, a concussion-all of that. I assured the other students that it would be okay-lined them up against the wall, and ran off to the office (there was another teacher present). I realized immediately the impact this would have on the school and on the student. This isn't something that is our fault, but it just adds to the overwhelming trials that keep showing themselves as we end this semester. I should thank God for the trials but it is extremely difficult when you have a
traumatizing visual to precede and follow those thoughts.
The school nurse checked him out, applied band-aids and ice to his very minor injuries, and said that everything on the outside was fine. I am a bit relieved but am reminded that I have to write up an incident report and call his mother. We felt like it would be a good idea for him to get an x-ray as well. All of that was okay, but I began to dread the incident report. I knew that I could not describe in enough detail what I had seen. I also knew that they would ask us to show them what happened. And they did. The reactions were predictable.
I experienced a miracle, grace of God-all of that today. I could feel Him working all around me, listening to my silent prayers, and so many things. The doctor called to say that he is fine. He has no broken bones, and no internal injuries. We are all looking at each other as to say, "How is that possible? Thank you, God!" I am shown God's amazing strength and the things He can do. I know He is getting the Glory from all the staff (especially the ones who lived this thing out) and now-we are just praying for the parents. We know they are from a Catholic background-but we do not really know where their hearts are spiritually.
There are many complications that could go with this incident-please pray for our school, for our staff, and for me as we all deal with this and the other problems mentioned below.
I love you guys.
I will see you in 12 1/2 days.

confessions of.....

Many of you know that our little school turned into a big school at the beginning of this year. We've overcome many things while enduring construction noises, construction workers. . . . , new surroundings, flooding, etc. These things taught us to be patient, to lean and love on one another more, and to have faith that God's plan is unfolding before our eyes.

We recently concluded Phase I Renovations to our new campus. This did not come without some added difficulties and just Satan really trying to tear us up. Try as he may-God gave us steadfast hearts and some amazing encouragements during this hardship. He gave us all peace to do our jobs and be amazing for our students. His grace in our attitudes kept everything rolling and most of them without a clue what was happening.

Once through that storm, seemingly, it was over. On Tuesday, our administration was informed that definitely there is a single and a family here illegally. Their visas expired and the government will not renew their original volunteer visas. My roommate shared that she has until the 19th (our last day of school) and then whether or not she will come back will be contigent on her receiving a tourist visa as she returns home for the Christmas holiday.
She shared that she is just not ready to do that-to say her good-byes in two weeks. She also has a boyfriend here and he is one of our co-workers. They are really close (like Tyler and Marie for those of you who know them...).
The other family includes a wife and three children. The three children all go to BIS and Bob teaches several high school courses. His wife shared this with me yesterday:
"it is funny that we agonize over what he wants us to do as we"wait for an answer" not realizing that the "nothing" we experience is part of his answer. "

The air around school was pretty somber this morning as the rest of the staff found out in a meeting. Amazingly enough, we walked out of the room encouraged and knowing that God is definitely in control. We understand that He is not lost in this-as scary and unbelievable as it may seem. I am so thankful for that. It is hard not to fast forward in my mind as to what it is going to be like without them. We are praying for mercy and just wisdom for us all-as we wait for our principal to get back into Brazil and as we inform the parents. This would cause 2nd grade to become 1st/2nd split as well as an administrator coming in to teach Bob's History, Computer, and Geography courses. Please pray for our staff as God unfolds this plan. Pray that we are bold to step up when help is needed and that we are diligently praying for the people involved in this sudden change. Please pray that they will have a peaceful Christmas and that God would draw them closer and closer to Himself as the events unfold.


It's been a weird week for us all.....
I've been battling allergies and sinus problems, my kids have been animals (: , and one of them passed out (literally) on top of me today. I flashed back to (my brother) Andy's seizure a couple Christmas' ago. I don't think I can talk about it right now.... thank the Lord-he is fine. I was so tired by the end of the day that when the kids suggested a second nap at 1:45-I agreed and let them lay down again. I love them so much-I mean-I really love them. I wake up every morning looking forward to teaching, loving, and giving them my best every single day. Even today-when it felt like I had a concrete block in my head-I knew I couldn't miss. What if the sub didn't know our "evens" cheer? or our "Daily ABC/123 Workout? I HATED the fact that someone else would be teaching my kids. So-to answer that question for you Jenn....that's what you do when you need a sub-you think about it...and then you just go. :) The funny thing is that it would be someone pretty close to the kids-an administrator, the preschool teacher, or someone who is consistently at school. And I still worry about them :) They are so independent now-they change the Classroom helpers themselves every day, along with line order, and getting the attendance sheet. This probably means nothing to you-but it is completely amazing to see them ask for and take responsibility. :)
we have a website :) www.msbolinsbees.com pictures for those who really love to see them :)

Love from Brazil for 18 1/2 more days.

confessions of thanksgiving....

I have a ton to be thankful for.....

Let's see - the stillness of this moment...and then the wind SLAMMING the door...I almost fell out of the hammock.

Or, let's talk about the total "TommyBoy" moment I had last week. I stopped at the store to get a few things before work one morning which caused me to catch the late bus. No problems with the bus-just a little later than I ever want to be there and I'm by myself. So-I cross one stream of traffic and make it to the median (which is like a parking lot) and proceed to head across the other stream of traffic..... but somehow as I proceeded-I was stopped by sudden tripping over the cracked sidewalk. Normally this wouldn't be funny but today-oh yes. By this time the morning traffic was flowing pretty heavily and there were tons of buses all around-not to mention the light turning green for the oncoming traffic to come straight toward me as I fell into the far lane of traffic. 10 seconds later and I would have been hit or I would have hit a car (that would have been amusing...can you imagine the driver?). Not only do I fall but my backpack goes FLYING over my head and for a split second I think---yes, this is funny to a couple hundred people and I think I actually chuckled at the scenes in my head. Falling is funny sometimes. I was up in about 6 seconds and out of the way. I'm sure you could imagine my prayers of thankfulness for the last two blocks of my trek.

Hmm, I'm thankful for the beautiful relationships here. I have several Brasilian friends that make my job completely amazing :) Rebeca is the secretary and her mom calls me her "American daughter" in which I love. They are such a precious family to me. Rebeca's sister, Gabi, is also amazing. She could be one of the best translators I've ever had. Truly a servant using God's gifts. She never fails to go with me on Saturday nights and I'll be eternally thankful to her for this.

And then there's Raquel. Hmm, servanthood. Her attitude is positive, encouraging, and loving. She has a way with the students in which is a mystery to me. She's like a mother hen-they all just follow her-no matter what age. We are different and yet-we work so well together. We've shared a classroom two times this year and basically team taught. I'll forever look up to her. God uses her to teach me something new.....almost every day!

She also invited me to go to church at IPN-a place where I've fallen in love with God's people and their diligence to the Word of God. I'm truly amazed! I believe that I'm going to the best church in Brasilia!

Story of the week:

So one of my students has a problem with some of his underwear.....I mean-a real problem. I don't know if they are just a bit uncomfortable or ....what, but on one occasion I recovered them from the garbage can. This was a huge deal as I ended up calling his mom to confirm that the lizard camoflauge undies were his...ahh. Well, I thought he was over doing that until yesterday---I hear this loud giggling and someone yell, "Ahh, UNDERWEAR in the sink!" "Who left their underwear in the bathroom?" I went to calm them down and I knew immediately whose they were. I looked over and he shook his head no. The other little boys kept on and on about this matter......and finally he said,"WHOSE GOING THROUGH THE TRASH!!"

I love it when they tell on themselves. Better yet, I love writing in the agenda, "I don't think he is very fond of the underwear he was wearing yesterday-we found them in the bathroom." Ah. Kindergarten. I don't know that I'll ever have a class quite like them.

More to come.....

I'm also thankful for my Mom whose love endured many hard years of raising me and even some years of distant hellos. I love that she is serving God in Cuba this Thanksgiving. :)

Three of our five family members will be overseas all at the same time in just a few days. Sharing God. Thank you to the people who help make that possible-for obeying the convictions of your heart and for giving. It is a truly a privilege and I recognize it as just that. "He doesn't need me but He chooses to use me." I'm thankful. Thank you, God.

Hey everyone! Whew! Just got in from an action packed weekend! Probably one of the most back to back "new" experience weekends I'll have here in Brasil (I can spell it that way, right, I live here....)




First, I went to Hillsong-a free (with a donation of a kilo of food) concert. It was really cool to see so many people singing the same Hillsong favorites "Mighty to Save" "Worthy is the Lamb" there were others such as "Shout to the Lord".... We got there at 6 and waited until 10pm for Hillsong to come on. It is always in true Brasilian fashion to be late-fashionably and unfashionably :) I relearn that every single day.









Next, I attended my first Brasilian wedding! The BIS Secretary from last year got married on Saturday. She had an evening wedding that I wore a prom-like dress (no kidding). My informant told me that weddings are a BIG DEAL! And she was right-most people were dressed-not in their Sunday best-but their formal finest! Some were dressed semi-formal--but it was really nice! The power went off in the middle of the ceremony-so that was interesting. Cake, Guarana, water, and Coke were served to us (we stood at the reception) along with chocolate "bon bons".




Some Brasilian wedding stats:

• it is common for the Bride and Groom to sing to each other during the ceremony.....Tayana and her husband did--as she was walking down the isle. Quite amazing she could hold that together-that would never fly in the us!
• the bride is ALWAYS at least 30 minutes late....more common that she is later than that.....we waited for 1 hour!
• the bridesmaids and groomsmen come down the isle but then sit on the front pew. Typically the parents sit up on stage.
• Usually there is a "fake" cake that is made or "rented"-it is absolutely beautiful but not eaten.....(different, huh!)
• The bride 9 times out of 10 rents her dress. She can pay a lot of money to have the "first wear" of a dress that she gets designed for her wedding-but it will still be rented. They can pay up to 2,000 reals for a "rented" wedding dress. insane-right? but then-they don't have it rotting in their closets.
• sometimes the weddings start at like 7:30-8:00; the reception starts about 10pm, and they dance and celebrate until wee hours of the morning. These weddings are usually very expensive and the hosts will buy guests a pair of haviana flip flops (around 14-20 reals) to dance in.

Amazing!

Last, I attended a camp with the Youth (ages 18-35) from the Igreja Presbyterian Nacional (the church I regularly attend) and it was amazing! I'm building relationships, loving these people, and watching their cultural norms unfold before my eyes. I'm doing a lot of observing and trying to figure out what to say when EVERYONE asks, "So, how is your Portuguese?" This is really a blessing---but it is still very hard for me to think of things to say to them. I get really embarrassed because I don't know all the rules and if I just say anything-it ends up being SOO wrong or really funny. As much as I like to laugh and joke (and be joked with)-I really hate getting laughed at because of my Portuguese. It does not come very natural to me yet and therefore makes it difficult to think of things to say when put on the spot. So-I am challenged to study and make a better effort. People are no longer allowing me to speak English (which is truly a blessing-I promise) and I praise God for this push to try harder.

I'm running again...and I hate it. Running clothes get on my nerves....once I ignore the fact that they are going to ride up or fall down---it is sweet and I end up organizing thoughts, relaxing, and pondering the hard things of the day. So-it's therapeutic and that is the only thing that keeps me going back.....because I truly detest it.

In my Bible reading-I should be through the whole Bible by May 25th. This is if I read 5 chapters a day (I read one chapter from 5 books every day). Lately, I've been in Leviticus, Psalm, Isaiah, John, and 2 Thessalonians(sp.) It is so sweet how sometimes 3 and 4 of these books will line up and talk about the same things-even with my random way of going through the Bible. Just another awesome wonder of God :)

I miss you guys! I will be home in about 35 DAYS! I can't believe it! I've already filled my Itunes classroom playlist with my favorite Christmas HYMNS and of course David Crowder's Feliz Navidad. I've decided that it is okay to start this early because they don't celebrate Thanksgiving (only our BIS staff)--so we're gonna do Christmas for like a month!! It's kind of hard though since I'm used to sipping on hot chocoloate, bundling up in a blanket, fighting with my grandparents over the thermostat, and of course Thanksgiving all building up to Christmas. I think many of my plans for the next month include my bathing suit.....so....it won't feel like Christmas until I hug my parents and my nose begins to run in the 30 degree weather :)

Prayer Requests

• Taylors and Stephanie Downing-Visas and prep to come (hopefully early Jan.)
• Our staff has been asked to make resignations as soon as possible in order to begin recruiting early (because of the visa process)-so there is a little stress going around about that.
• My sending church, CrossPoint Baptist-they purchased land a few months ago and still greet many guests on a weekly basis. Last Sunday they had 50 guests! How Cool! Pray for their Outreach ministry and what to do with all the new faces!! They also have an awesome College Ministry that keeps growing and growing!!!
• For my students and their families during the Christmas season. We will put on a Christmas program that is required for all students and most families will attend :) This is a great way to share and show the Gospel!
• For our school. We JUST finished Phase I of renovations. We are encountering some opposition in different areas and it is vital that we stay on our knees, humbled, and seeking God in all areas of our lives and in this school.
• For our principal, Scott Bose
• For the ministry opportunities that I've encountered and will be involved very soon!!

confessions of Gadsby's Hymnal

As I was looking for some new music this weekend-I stumbled across Red Mountain Church (of Birmingham, AL) and their "Gadsby Project" to which I quickly became a bit enamored. I quickly decided that I wanted the "Help My Unbelief" album. I've found many encouragements in this beautiful collection. I have even added Gadsby's Hymnal to my Christmas Wishlist.

I think all of us struggle with some form of a past sin whether it be hidden, confessed, or repented (or maybe all three)-and I had a conversation this week that basically said, "My unbelief is my stronghold". About 30 minutes later, I realized that this is so true. Our unbelief is the stronghold. It's not that God doesn't have the power to heal us-it is simply our unbelief-our flesh, this earth, and maybe our deep condemnation.



William Gadsby was a Baptist minister from a poor background and as a child he went to a hanging. It is said that this ghastly sight forever "preyed upon his mind" in terms of eternity. I think of this and how the spectacles of our lives prey upon our minds. These things should drive us to share the gospel-through our words and lives with others. We should be haunted by the eternity of others-to be forever sharing our eternal perspective with others. I can confess that I'm not impacted by that enough.



He ministered for 38 years at St. George's Road Baptist Chapel and traveled 60,000 mostly by foot to preach the Gospel. In 1938, he and his son, John, started a magazine called "Gospel Magazine" which is still in print.



Ol' Gadsby must have been a force to be reckoned with at his time. I think he would have been a modern day Mark Driscoll-very practical, truthful, shocking, convicting, and seen as crazy. I can see that-he was not a fan of musical instruments in church. He was not afraid to argue for the sake of the truth. He was also weary of missionaries because he felt like many of them preached erroneously and spread false doctorines.. Hmm. Yikes! A part of me wants to rebuke him and in another way-I know my missionary friends and I have experienced some very confused people-confused by the doctorine taught by missionaries.



This is what was said of Mr. Gadsby by Richard Lord,

"It is now nearly forty years since the devil and I were friends, and now during that time we've had many a conflict; but if the devil has begun to send such men as Mr. Gadsby to preach the gospel as he does laying the sinner in the dust and exalting the dear Redeemer, then the devil and I will be friends for ever."



One man so disliked Mr. Gadsby that he went to towns and preached against him. This man was soon dismissed from his congregation-to which Mr. Gatsby sought him out. From then on, these men were friends to death.
As I continued to read a biography of his-I became more enthralled.....and suddenly I was on the 110th page and out of time. ....so I leave you with these few thoughts in hopes you will check out some of his hymns....ahh....beautiful.
To read his biography online:
http://books.google.com/books?id=rTZsc7rMBzkC&pg=RA1-PA74&lpg=RA1-PA74&dq=William+Gadsby+and+Andrew+Fuller&source=bl&ots=pffuWtItip&sig=ZXyiH--fqMxovh0T9lXu7FTJcv4&hl=en&sa=X&oi=book_result&resnum=3&ct=result#PRA1-PA113,M1
I could not put it down (or close it if you could say that about my laptop..) :)

more pics...

confessions of the smell of rain...

at this point, there isn't anything (in nature) much sweeter than the aroma of the rain passing through Brasilia. We experienced the hottest day in the history of Brasilia yesterday. We all definitely knew it and felt it into today as well. In the states-it's no thing-because of course we have all kinds of air conditioning-cars, houses, churches, schools, restaurants, etc, etc. You don't have to go far to get some cool, crisp air. Well, it just doesn't work that way here. You get used to the sweating...but it seemed like the kids just lost their minds...! Ha! Anyway, so I had to take care of another box today-so I invited my Portuguese teacher out on a little adventure. We made it to the post office after hooving it up the hill. Once our business was finished-I remembered that a brand new Subway opened up in our Quadra. We walked there and to our amazement (as we were both melting) it had air conditioning! Word! Then, as we were cooling off and drinking our drinks-we could see the strong breeze running it's fingers through the palm trees-which brought the rain soonafter.

So, needless to say, I'm enjoying the breezy night. Thank the Lord for His provision in rain.

I helped with SMASH In-TENTS this weekend. A serious time of in"tense" worship, testimony, and an awesome Word from the Lord. We had non-Christians and Christians alike attend this all night (and into the next afternoon) service/time of fellowship. We camped (I hung in the hammock), roasted strawberry marshmallows (not recommended), sang, got to know each other, and did some crazy games led by the Smash Leaders. Through all of this, two girls came to us to let us know that they had accepted Christ. We are seeing true conversions in so many of the students' lives. Their brothers and sisters are attesting to their desire for God and His Word. A-Mazing.

Ramon G. getting pelted with cheerios

Ana-taking in the fire, songs, and beauty of the night.

Lucia (to your left) and PJ (white tank, red skirt (in right pic) are our newest sisters in Christ!! We are so excited!

In Kindergarten, I led Chapel last week and we are teaching the Armor

of God-piece by piece. For my turn,

I did the "Breastplate of Righteousness" to which I covered a box in tin foil and wore it around. My kids thought that was the best thing...and wanted to wear it as well. :)

confessions of being a daddy's girl

I love Brasilia-seriously-love it. Even when my chicken nuggets have cheese in them (gross) and ketchup can't even make them taste good or when your body won't let you sleep longer than 2-3 hours.... Despite these silly things.... I love it here.

But as I watch the palm trees sway-I began to miss my earthly father. I miss the feel of his wool suit on my face as he hugs me tight. Or-talking with him about Jesus, Piper, and silly memories. I love sharing MyTime coffee with him and making runs just to get him a bag of those great roasted beans :) Or maybe even cleaning up the coffee mess from our (leaky) cheap coffee pot at home after we've had our morning cup... I love being a part of his life and God allowing me to have a hand in his dreams-such as the John Rice Center and Manchester in general. He is known because he does what God tells him to do. He knows the cost of discipleship. Some hate him, talk about him, and still yet he loves them because most of them are lost. Because He is doing the work God called him to do.

And that helps me get through the day. Pray without ceasing. Hide His words in my heart. To do the hard things. Fight the flesh. To do the work God has called me to do. And to think about my Dad-diligently working, tirelessly, lovingly, and Christlike.

confessions about Children's Day and a few updates

These two are a couple of my little men. The dynamic duo is the most correct term for these guys. They make my days most interesting....

So-Children's Day was really nice. I mean-it was stressful about an hour before because I had no clue what I was/was not doing. :) My kids were tearin' up the room (i mean-they cleaned it and it still looks like a tornado hit it in my opinion) and there was no calming them down. We dismissed school an hour early so we could start
the fun and games.

This little guy-I could possibly have next year. He is 4 and speaks Arabic...

I will admit-it was so worth seeing those beautiful smiles and listening to the glee in their voices as they played games. This concept is for the children and it benefits them as well. Each grade level decides on a game, puts it together, and collects the tickets during Children's Day. The class turns the tickets in for money. We get to pick whatever we want for our classroom! I really want some bean bag chairs for our Reading Center. I have a list of wants like-a grocery store set (so they can play with money) and some new books for our classroom library.


We'll see :)



This is Kaylee Bose-our principals' daughter. I was supposed to have her last year....this was after her "touch up".


This was a fairly smooth week even through all the changes in schedule, switches in classrooms (we moved out last Wednesday and moved completely back in yesterday) etc. My students were excellent and I am amazed at how adaptive they truly are. Once they see me adapting-they just fall into place. I wish you all could see what I see and watch from a distance as they progress. I know what it means to be a teacher-to be blessed beyond measure-to be interacting with these children. Sometimes it is hard, it is not fun, and it wears me out. But then-it starts to come and the victory is 10X's better in the end. (Like explaining-"Draw a group that shows 1 more than the group on top--"for real" is what I have to say). The gains make it all worth while. I ponder a student's conceptualization of something one day--the next they are spouting it out to me. Praise be!



This is Kinza. She has the "Flamengo" soccer club flag on the left cheek and their rivals on the left. I think she mentioned that she almost stopped traffic a couple of times on her way home...

You can pray for the salvation of all students pictured above.....


Funny Quotes from the week:


Keep in mind-we're studying Families


"Yes, if you don't get married, you'll stay little forever."-Nicolas (matter of factly)


"Well, I'm never getting married." -Nana (pronounced Nahnah (not nana) and the only girl in the class)


"But Nana, don't you want to get married?" -Nicolas


"Yes, Nana, you will stay little forever." -Thales


{At this point they are all into the conversation giving their 2 cents}


I quickly intercede at this point because I"m about to bust out laughing-I explain that I'm 26, fully grown, and I'm not married. Nicolas didn't know what to say.





Oh-the best one is today-I'm eating lunch with Nicolas and Caleb. As we eat, I'm trying to have a normal (non-teacher) conversation with him.


"Nicolas, what does your dad do for work?"-me


"Well, he eats, reads to me, and takes out the garbage." -Nicolas


"Okay, what does he do for his job?" -me


"Oh yes, he makes the pencil work and sits at his desk." -Nicolas


The view from the sweetest/hilarious 4 year old. I love the "makes the pencil work"

Reading:

Almost through Hebrews and I think I might linger there for another 13 days. It is that good to me right now. It is amazing how things line up between the books in the Old and New. I am constantly reading things that coincide!

Praise the Lord:

I got my boxes!!!! I dumped everything in the floor and then scrambled for a place to store it all. The kids LOVE seeing all the new "things" and playing in the new "centers." :) We now have two Leap Pad alphabet games (thanks Mom), new Math manipulatives, books, (rainy day) toys, and so much more. My mother is amazing.

confessions in randomness....

Hmm.....I keep thinking that bugs are biting me, but it happens to be the softest breeze tickling arm hairs individually as I sit on the "porch" at the mk's house. I can't help but throw open the sliding doors every morning and every evening. It's one of the most exciting parts about being here this weekend!

And let me just tell you-Brazil has cicadas. They don't hum.......it's more of a siron sound-really weird-only in the daytime and really bad after 12pm.

Currently I'm reading through Exodus, Psalm, Isaiah, Luke, and Hebrews. I've read through Genesis, S of S, Proverbs, Esther, Ecclesiastes, Job, Matthew, Mark, Nehemiah, and maybe a couple more-I don't have my checklist handy. There's not really any order to how I'm reading them-just that I am and I think I really like this method as odd as it might seem to others....

I'm really lovin' Hebrews right now....I mean really, really. I was inspired by this book last fall as I attended some of Ashland Avenue's College Outreach Services, then Piper preached about "going outside the camp" at T4G(for some reason I took notes in my Bible margins-so I see it frequently), and this week, a "homeland" verse caught my attention to which I quickly shuffled it into the mix of my daily chapter reading.


Last week we went to the....


Zoo :) No one loves the zoo more than my students...I'm convinced.

This week, we're going to learn about Jesus Calming the Storm, letters I and D, counting and graphing, and Families. I'm really excited about the Family Unit in Social Studies. We have such a diverse population and some cool "make ups" of families even in my class of 5. I'm most excited about one student that is adopted. :) I have a little story for this bit of information: Every Tuesday is "Bring A Book Day". This is even more popular than show and tell in my class! I get some books in French (they love that I "read" the pictures), some in Spanish, English-whatever. Last week Caleb brought in a book called I Love You Like Crazy Cakes by Rose Lewis. I didn't know what it was about, but I was bawling by the end. I mean-full out tears and almost sobbing through the words. Through each page-Caleb said, "That's me." "That's the airplane my mommy and daddy came on." Oh-and I cried even harder. They laughed and begged me to read the book again. I said absolutely not. I knew I could not make it through again. My heart is inclined to orphans and to adoption. The White's in London, KY are huge inspirations as well as the Caldwell's (whom I've been following since their first adoption announcement). As I read that book, I cried because I know so many orphans are receiving homes. My best friend, Mary, and I have been supporting a foundation called "Holt International" for almost 2 years. So far, we've supported three children during their "middle ground" (the time between orphanage and the actual picking up for adoption). We rejoice in each letter that we receive saying that "Joshua's" been adopted and now we would like to introduce you to " ". We love it. Maybe my heart is inclined so that one day I will financially support an adoption as a wife and a mother. Who knows?! Maybe I will always love and support orphans from afar. James 1:27 will keep me going either way, "Religion that is pure and undefiled before God is this: to visit orphans and widows in their affliction and to keep oneself unstained from the world."
And-the conviction sets in.....because as I love the first component-what am I doing about the other two........

confessions of showers of blessings...and the wise little owl...

The first picture is of the rain. Our first really hard rain. It was really nice at first...I began to take some pictures and video of my window that has been leaking---when I realized that the ceiling was leaking as well....I moved my desk and glanced out the window to admire the rain and to thank God for the coolness the rain brings. As I looked out-there was a little owl braving the wind, and rain on the wall (there are many ledges and places he could have gone to take cover-anywhere around the school). He was looking directly at me as if he was trying to say something. I was a bit mesmorized by him and forgot about the mess. As our campus maintenance man was waiting for me to figure out where everything should go-I showed him the little owl and he went to get another teacher to show her. We were all just admiring him when I turned around and the water started flooding in from our little playground into the hallway. I picked up my suitcase, a few boxes I wanted to keep and set them on my tables. I turned around and the water kept coming and coming....and it would not stop. All of a sudden I heard a lot of loud yelling in Portuguese and pretty quickly my room began to fill up with workers raking out the water. First, I ran to get my laptop and unplug and put up all the computer cords. I barely made it in time for the printer. It was almost ruined. I ran around picking up my carpets, mats, books, posters, bookshelves, tables, and chairs to which the water was up to my ankles. Luckily-I dont' think anything is going to be water damaged. I did however have to take everything off the walls by the windows-most of which was ruined. At the end, all I could do was start singing, "Showers of Blessings" and thank God for the sweet, cool rain he brought us. The next week is going to be hard, I know this. It's going to be hard for the kids because they no longer have a classroom and won't for an undisclosed amount of time. I don't think they will let us back in until they fix the problem. I understand that it will take double the work to have a "portable" classroom" but it's okay. No one is hurt, no one is sick, and this too shall pass. Soon-I will be back in my classroom. The next two picturea are what my room looked like right before I left today. The last picture is what my room looked like yesterday.

confessions of a possible green thumb......

Well, we're learning ALL about plants this week :) I mean from putting beans in plastic bags to actually planting them-then learning the parts, the needs, etc. We're cutting and pasting like it's our jobs and successfully-it looks like a tornado hits the room every single day. But-they love it, I love it, and we are super nice to our janitorial staff.

Quote of the Day

Me-" Boys and Girls, when you read 25 books, you will get one of these great pencils (they aren't just ANY pencils with great big erasers with big-eyed animals on them)**Note** You can't get pencils with erasers on them here-they just don't make them**

Them-(silence) "wow" "look at that one" "oh, i want...."

Me-"James gets the first pencil!" "Congratulations for reading 25 books!"

Nicolas-"I'm gonna read 100 books-just like Jesus"

Me-"Well, I don't know how many books Jesus read, but I want you to be just like Him!"

Nicolas-"Yes, but I'm gonna read 100 books-just like Jesus"

Ahh, Kindergarten

From the Playground :

Here are three of my boys who would rather swing than do anything!!

Soccer- Huddle UP! :) I think these are 2nd graders!

the real confession...

Well, church was quite interesting tonight. I got to hear "Negro Spirituals" in English and Portuguese.....by what happens to be one of the most beautiful and articulate choirs..maybe ever. Amazing. All the while, I was trying to ever so discreetly ward off the bugs. "Flying ants" my Brasilian friend says. They come after the rain, fly around kind of like they are drugs, and aggravate everyone. My questions was, "Do they bite?" "No?" But for some reason....the feeling of something crawling up your leg is not.....desirable. Anywho.

I finished my awesome Sunday School class today---I'm so sad---I have to find another one to attend. I'm not really sure what to do about that.

Here's the real confession...
So-you guys want to know my biggest struggle? I'm afraid that I'm a burden/distraction. To those who translate, the rest of the class (or the congregation), and this is so hard. I almost go to pieces every Sunday/church service about this.
Some of this is just normal "I'm living in a foreign country" stuff. The rest of it is an "independence" problem. The thoughts of depending on others is so scary for me. I have a terrible time with this. It is really hard and takes a lot of work to translate for someone. The translator sometimes gets next to nothing out of the service. I really struggle with that. I begin to think about their sacrificial giving-I do my best to thank them. I just don't feel like it is ever sufficient. One girl sacrifices her Saturday nights to do this for me.
I cannot explain my difficulty with these situations. I'm in a good place, with good people, and always a great Word from God (when I do have a translator).
You are thinking-wow-is this the biggest problem she has?
This is tortuous for an extrovert. Walking around without a clue how to talk to, respond to, and communicate with people-anywhere and everywhere.

In all of this, I'm learning to be dependant more on God to provide and put people in my life at just the right times (and He does). It's so hard to depend on people for so much. Think about it, I'm 26, not married, I'm living in a foreign country. That automatically makes me a tad bit independant. But what God is showing me is that it's not about my independence but it is all about how dependant I can be on Him. It wasn't my independence that got me here-it was Him. Do I trust Him? His provisions are always perfect. So-yeah-what am I stressing about? AH!

confessions from the lunchroom monitors...

"Boys and girls, what day is it tomorrow?"
(Nicolas holds up his hand)
"Yes, Nicolas..."
(deep breath)
"Sunday, Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, FRIIIIIIday, Saturday"


"Ms. Bolin" -Mr. Fryar (the "Principal of the Cafeteria" according to his son)
"Yes, Mr. Fryar.."
"Why do the kids call me Mr. Pancake?"
"I have no clue AND there is no song."

Mr.......Fryar......you've....got.......ants....in....your.......pants.. :)


My kids....have to be the most adorable, most creative, lively, and crazy group of kids. I love them more and more each day, talk about them like they are my own, live to see them succeed, and am stirred deep within to show them the love of Christ in every possible way.

confessions from the prayer journal!!!!

HEY! Everyone!! This week has been totally hard-I won't lie. My kids have been out of their minds (which makes me out of mine) and it's just been a real week. But in saying all of that-I have to tell you that as hard as it is...I love my job.

But-the most amazing things have happened!
Praises!

• I received my boxes from the states (haha-but they are being held in customs-we're gonna try to jew them down a bit on the price....)
• My brother got a job interview at the prison in our hometown (I've been writing this request down for about 1 1/2 years now) Now, we just have to pray FOR the interview! He was so excited and yet nervous! I just told him to remember that God already knows what is going to happen!
• I start Portuguese lessons on Monday with a Christian girl who must LOVE missionaries, teaching, and English. She suggested three days a week (WOW!-wasn't expecting that one) and I agreed :) She will be coming to my workplace! Ahh! I just feel so blessed and overjoyed-so many things at the same time!
• IT RAINED again last night and this morning ;) You just don't know how good it feels when it rains here. The humidity is like 10% every day-no lie. Brasilia went over 100 days without rain and even now-the ground is dry before it really has a chance to be muddy. The cool breeze reminded me of fall in the states (but really here-it is like spring) and I loved it!

AHH! I'm just so amazed but I don't know why? God always provides exactly what I need and He answers those prayers for others as well. He's been pointing me to John 17 lately (like from every angle) and Jesus' "High Priestly Prayer". :) It is really cool to see it through a child's eyes, through a scholar, and then a peer. A-Mazing.

"My God is so BIG, so STRONG, and so MIGHTY, there's nothing that my God cannot DO! For YOU!" -my kids sing this like there is no tomorrow.....and so they should.

confessions of kindergarten humor....

(Today is Monday)
Okay boys and girls, I love you guys, and I'll see you tomorrow.
Does anyone know what tomorrow is?
"Tomorrow is FRIDAY!"
Somedays---I wish they were right....

"um, Mr. Bowler, can....I....have...a....pencil?" -student A
"hahaha, it's Ms. Bolin!!!!"-student B
Yes, this is officially what one student called me for the first two weeks of school...the
one with all the languages.

Today, the Art teacher asked to have class in our room. I agreed and she brought in construction paper, stuffed dogs, etc for the students. They were "tearing" out shapes for their dogs and gluing the pieces to paper. She informs me that one of the dogs is anatomically correct and the student is admiting this. Upon my arrival at the desk-he had put a sweater on his dog.
That's right-when you're naked-put clothes on.

"Uummm....Teacher" (to which I respond-is my name teacher?" or "wow, someone changed my name)

So, one day the computer teacher is reading to my students (because the lab isn't finished) and they LOVE "No David!" so of course they con him into reading it to them for the 50th time that week. One on of the pages, David is picking his nose. Well, all the kids were like "Ewwwww, gross"...to which I looked over and said, "Right, and you all use tissues."

From across the lunchroom I see one of my students with his dirty fork walking toward the silverware bowl in the lunch line. I began to yell-"No, no, no" and walk quickly to the rescue of everyone else's forks--to no avail---Can I say "5 second rule?"

"bunnies and bubble tails" (bubbles and bunny tails keeps the kids from talking in the hall and from touching each other)

"Okay, we are going to do patterns today with the letters A and B" Let's say the pattern A, B, A, B
5 out of 6 students say "ABAB"
that 1 out of 6 starts singing "ABCDEFG" to which the rest of the class joins.
I-just stopped.

confessions of my anger with movie translators....and then a little at myself....

So-it's been a reoccuring theme that when people are speaking to me-sometimes they say some odd things. Last week, one of the crazy guys at church said the American slang word for "jerk". You know what it is. We were at church and my jaw dropped. As I recomposed myself, the young man asked me what it meant. Looking at his face, I realized that he had no clue what he just said. I kindly explained what the word actually meant and his face dropped. Now, he was in shock. We were both heartbroken and maybe a bit embarrased. I didn't know who to be angry with-the American television or the Portuguese translators. That's right, just fluff it up, make it something it is not. Sounds like a nonliteral translation.........that's frustrating as well....

Anyways-I thought of Jenn Martin today as I walked through the Metro Station. This thumping began to run through my body as I walked closer to the open area. I thought for sure I had walked into the ghetto---and yet as I got closer--I began to laugh at myself. They were just break dancing. Someone set up a set of spinners and there were all of these people sitting and standing in a circle. In turn, they were on their heads, their sides, feet in the air-kind of like hip hop gumby or something.

Almost as funny as I was walking in the supermarket the other night and this annoying, BLARING music was coming from the front of the cash registers. After a few trips up and down the isle--I look over--and it's a guy playing a keyboard and singing karaoke in English. "Nuh uh" came out of my mouth as I continued shopping (and once again laughing). I needed that good laugh after one of those "hard" days.

Every other Friday night, we have a service for the Youth of our school. This service includes praise & worship, some crazy fellowship, and an astounding message from Chris Fryar (our school financial director and his other position is "Principal of the Cafeteria"-according to his son, Caleb). Chris began to see the need for the students to get real with God. To get real with their actions, their idols, their insecurities, their thoughts, and their lives in general. Apparently some of them have given in to the world during the summer. The staff is broken and concerned for the students as there have been other factors worked into this equation as well-such as the Muslim family (yes parents and all) that attended, the Brazilian girls, and a few others. I know God can do whatever He wants and will use whomever He wants...
"Take me past the outer courts, into the holy place,
Past the brazen alter, Lord I want to see your face,
Take me past the crowds of people and priests who sing your face
I hunger and thirst for your righteousness and I've only found one place.."

Chris talked about the students' reasons for being there every other week. He asked them to
evaluate their lives for the sake of God. He was talking in context of coming to Smash....But-It really made me stop and think a bit about my own selfish motives for certain things in my life. I am really praying that I will seek to serve God better by seeking to serve others well. Serving others when it isn't convenient for me. Service always with a cheerful giving heart. I think I can get bogged down with "stuff" which makes service to others tiring and inconvenient for me. I am directed to the verses in Matthew 25-And the King will answer them, 'Truly, I say to you, as you did it to one of the least of these my brothers, you did it to me.'-when someone is need. I should be ready to serve anytime-anyone-without complaint.


On a lighter note-I experienced my first power outage this week-While I was in the shower at 5 am one morning. Quite hilarious. Thank the Lord for decisions NOT to wash hair and for candles in tins ( I told you guys I would need them!!). I opened my computer for light and amazingly enough put on makeup and finished getting ready! Oh the things you can do!!

confessions of 4 1/2 year olds on the green carpet

So-today-I bravely layed out our paperback classroom Bibles (fearful of what would happen to them) and anxiously awaited the arrival of my students.
I obviously didn't understand their view of reverance.
I always read from the Bible to them and read verses out of the Bible. I really didn't know if they could actually hold their Bibles and listen to a story without ripping the pages, throwing them around, sitting on them, etc. (all the things I've seen them do with my books).
Wow, God is so great-He is so wondrous. They knew what they were holding. In the innocence of their minds-they carefully looked at the pictures, flipped through the pages, and some even began unfolding some of the tattered and folded pages. When we held them-it was like a silent hush fell over the kids as they each received this huge book.
As I was reading the story-they began looking at the pages and as this perturbed me, I stopped to listen to what they were saying. One of my 4 1/2 year olds said, "Look-this is Jesus-he is still on the cross." Grasping this teachable moment I said, "No, Jesus is not on the cross. He is with God the Father in heaven." Upon this, we went through the whole story. My little Zambian was on it-she told him all about how Jesus was punished for our sins(think Passion of the Christ) to which I began to talk about sin and what this was. We talked about how Jesus was perfect (and in the conversation someone said, "Yeah, he never pinched or hit his friends." This was so profound to a couple of them. I should also share that they had this "nuh uh" moment the other day when I told them that we are all sinful from birth-from the time we are babies. I mean their looks said it all (some even dropped the jaw)---they were astonished at this concept.
I'm almost certain that two of my students do not attend church and from their responses-we are not really sure what their religious views are at home. I will say though, that one of them sings Jesus Loves Me like it's going out of style and the other BEGS to pray before lunch. Simply amazing. God can do whatever He wants.
"All God's children singing, Glory, Glory, Hallelujah He Reigns, He Reigns"-this rolls off their tongues at least four times a day (depending on the CD rotation) and Hosanna (Christy Nockels) is beginning to go from hummms to words-they also love Kari Jobe -and Shawn McDonald makes them wiggle in their seats. I'll tell you though, the ones that love it the most are the two with the rather sketchy backgrounds.
Pray for them and for their families that I would have the chance to show them all Christ and just share God's love and truth with them as the occasions arise.

confessions about a hymn-hater

So, today, someone said to me, "I really don't like hymns. I sang them when I was young and they have no meaning." I almost hit the roof. Grant it-I have only (in the past couple of years) begun to really appreciate the profound meaning of specific hymns. Once I was saved, I really started to understand what I was singing about and how these hymns are lyrical pictures of Christ, grace, salvation, and so many other things. "Nothing But the Blood", "Standing on the Promises", "Come Thou Fount", "Blessed Assurance", "Victory in Jesus",-the list goes on and on. Then there are the ones that have been redone-"Jesus Lover of My Soul", "Jesus Paid it All", "On Jordan's Stormy Banks", "How Deep the Father's Love"-the list goes on and on and on.
I don't think I needed to say anything to this person-I think the look said it all. As Tiffany Hardin says, "Judgemental Eyes". I feel terrible and then I don't. I don't feel terrible for feeling this way about the great words of hymns past. How could you be a hymn-hater or an "Unlover of Hymns?"
There are some really great Contemporary Praise and Worship Songs out, but man, to totally discard the hymns?
I appreciate them now more than ever. I'm hearing them in church and for the most part they are the only songs that I know. I know the words I'm saying and when the choir sings-I can just close my eyes and visualize the words. It feels so good to be a hymn-lover.

Prayer Requests:

• Staff family members are afflicted with different things-viruses, cancer, homesickness, organ failure, etc.
• My Granny as she is dealing with her foot swelling again. She is not able to have an operation to correct this-so she has to deal with it as it comes and goes.
• Staff members waitign for visas: Aundrea and Michael Taylor and our newest teacher-Stephanie Downing :)
• Graduates of BIS-as they go to college (some are not saved but are deeply influenced by BIS)-some of them are going to Muslim communities to live while they attend college.
• Challenges of learning Portuguese (But I am learning)-praying for a Portuguese tutor.....
• A Youth Conference being held here Sept. 25-27th and the Outreaches that will take place before.
• Mary Wolford, as she is working with in orphanages and facilitating discipleship relationships with the people there!
• For lost relatives, friends, and students.

Praises:

• The dollar is strengthening! 1.72 today! (which is a praise-it makes our support go further)
• For my Supporters-THANK YOU!!!!! I appreciate your diligence :) Also-thank you to those who are new supporters :)
• For those whom are sent to me in the form of interpretors on Sunday morning. I pray so hard for this-I am attending a really phenomenal Sunday School class and they are so persistant in finding me an interpretor every single Sunday morning. I don't even have to ask-they just come. This is giving me a chance to meet different people and foster some amazing relationships.
• For my beautiful students-their beautiful character-and their amazing perspectives....I am so blessed to be here serving God.

confessions of a childhood fav. hymn and Hell.

Brethren, we have met to worship and adore the Lord our God;Will you pray with all your power, while we try to preach the Word?All is vain unless the Spirit of the Holy One comes down;Brethren, pray, and holy manna will be showered all around.
Brethren, see poor sinners round you slumbering on the brink of woe;Death is coming, hell is moving, can you bear to let them go?See our fathers and our mothers, and our children sinking down;Brethren, pray and holy manna will be showered all around.
Sisters, will you join and help us? Moses’ sister aided him;Will you help the trembling mourners who are struggling hard with sin?Tell them all about the Savior, tell them that He will be found;Sisters, pray, and holy manna will be showered all around.
Is there here a trembling jailer, seeking grace, and filled with tears?Is there here a weeping Mary, pouring forth a flood of tears?Brethren, join your cries to help them; sisters, let your prayers abound;Pray, Oh pray that holy manna may be scattered all around.
Let us love our God supremely, let us love each other, too;Let us love and pray for sinners, till our God makes all things new.Then He’ll call us home to Heaven, at His table we’ll sit down;Christ will gird Himself and serve us with sweet manna all around.

Ah, thank you Dr. Orrick for reminding me (some time ago) of this childhood favorite hymn and then Erito again leaving it on my facebook :)

In Sunday School we're studying about Hell:
A bit from Calvin:
But we must seek a surer explanation, apart from the Creed, of Christ’s descent into hell. The explanation given to us in God’s Word is not only holy and pious, but also full of wonderful consolation. If Christ had died only a bodily death, it would have been ineffectual. No — it was expedient at the same time for him to undergo the severity of God’s vengeance, to appease his wrath and satisfy his just judgment. For this reason, he must also grapple hand to hand with the armies of hell and the dread of everlasting death. f439
John Owen:
"Do you mortify? Do you make it your daily work? Be always at it whilst you live; cease not a day from this work; be killing sin or it will be killing you."
Jean-Paul Sartre:
"Every existing thing is born without reason, prolongs itself out of weakness, and dies by chance."
"Existence precedes and rules essence."
"One always dies too soon or too late. And yet, life is there, finished: the line is drawn, and it must all be added up. You are nothing other than your life.

Oh Mr. Sartre.....I grieve much for those who are in that condition.

I was also reminded of the unfortunate circumstance of egocentrism-Man seeing God as his servant rather than the truth.
Oh-to recognize the truth and yet I wonder how we could forget?

To my father and anyone else...... I labored on this day.

confessions of a "gringa"

Last night I attended a service for the Youth (ages 18-35; single, married, couples, everything) and it was amazing! I went last week as well and I abosolutely love it! I went with the BIS secretary and her sister. They did an amazing job interpreting! They are also teaching me so much about the language and I feel completely comfortable asking them questions about "frequently heard words". These can be funny times. Last night I asked what "fica" meant...and that means "fling" haha. I'm pretty sure I was getting it confused with "fila" which is a verb for something (can't remember, brain overload). I say all of this to say that they are hosting a conference (which is from what I can tell an outreach ministry to specific sections of the city) and I'm praying about how I can help. I know that they need people to support, pray, and work during the conference which is the last week in September!
The pastor there, his son is at Southern Seminary! The Brasilians were telling me last night that there are two great schools in the U.S -Southern and Southwestern. They said that there were a lot of smart people at Southern-and I whole heartedly agreed with them. My friend said, "They say Southern is the best in the world." Wow. All the way in Brasilia they think this and it is in our backyard. How blessed are we to have such a mighty fortress of believers who won't compromise the word (and teaches their students the same).
And one last bit of news from last night----IT RAINED!!!!! We were all so happy! They announced it at the end of church and we all rushed out to see the sprinkles on the sidewalk. We haven't had any rain in over 100 days. Everything is dead and dry-you can see the dust on your skin at the end of the day. Maybe I'll no longer have to perform my ceremonial feet washing in the sink before I crawl in bed everynight. I wear shoes and it is almost as if I never even put shoes on my feet. It feels like fall in Kentucky-cool, breezy, a bit of rain. I LOVED it! The Brasilians are walking around freezing and I am loving the familiarity of it all! Thank you, Lord, for the early (very very early) start to rainy season-I was getting tired of the nose bleeds!

In School this week (3rd week):
We are learning about Days 4-6 in Creation. They get stuck on one day and forget about the other days. It's difficult sometimes, but we go to the "Creation Station" (there's a paper for every day showing pictures of what God created) and talk about each poster.
I had a most interesting conversation with one of my kids. I was asking him to speak a bit of Portuguese to his (Portuguese only) classmate.
"I no want to."
"You don't want to? Why?" I asked.
"Well, I just don't."
We bantered a minute about languages and finally I said,"How many languages do you speak?"
"I have three." "Portuguese, Spanish, and the one I'm speaking now."

I could only laugh. If you could see his sweet face......ahh Kindergarten. It is such a challenge for some students because many of them know more than two languages. One of my four year olds knows 3 languages (see above :) ) and the other one is fluent in 3 (Spanish, Portuguese, and English) and can speak in 2 more (Greek and French). Talk about insane?! At four years old?! I usually give directions about three different ways for these students in hopes that they will understand or follow someone else. I can't imagine trying to dig through my brain to find the English words when there are 4 other languages floating around in there....

My students are so wonderful-and-they are now accustomed to walking in the line! They can do it! "Bubbles and Bunny Tails" It's pretty hilarious to watch, but the 1st grade teacher is getting ready to recruit me to come and show her kids how to walk in a line!

Culture:
Yesterday I got my first haircut and I went by myself. Why? You ask? I just wanted to see if I could do it. So-bravely, I found a salon that was seemingly friendly, yet cozy. They are a dime a dozen here (worse than in the states) so I just walked up and down the Quadras until I found a hair supply store and the salon was underneath. I slowly walked downstairs and showed them the word for "trim" to which they asked one of the girls (Amanda as well....) to translate. So-in just a few minutes, I was getting my hair washed and cut. Graca (Grasa) did an AMAZING job! I was so nervous but she took her time and asked questions when needed. I made a couple new friends and an appointment for next month with her. Oh-and I love the complimentary coffee and water that is served as you get your hair done!!

Also-I started to notice about the culture is that both men and women wear gold engagement rings on the right hands (until they are married). Most of the younger couples (like my generation) they also wear silver rings when they start dating seriously. I asked my friend why the men wear them and she said, "We want EVERYONE to know that they are taken." Which I thought was hysterically funny. She will be getting married within the next year-depending on when the government calls her fiance into a job (He scored very high on a test to get into the Supreme Court-but now he could wait up to 2 years to get a job). These jobs are few and far between and many Brasilians try and fail the tests every year. They study for days, hours, months at a time once they apply to take the test. You basically have it made if you get one of these jobs-many want-few get. They give you a VERY nice salary plus food, gas, and GREAT work hours. Anyway-there's a little Brasilian culture for you.....

Open House-International Style...

Well, I will say that people in Brazil know how to have an Open House-they just don't know how to shut it down.

I saw the most colorful, beautiful array of people tonight from all different backgrounds. Breathtaking-like a sunset or a beautiful mountain range. Everywhere you looked-a different nation represented.

It was completely amazing! I talked with four of my six parents-and I'm only unsure about the salvation of two sets of parents. One set I see all the time and the other set is rather difficult to communicate with. So-much prayer is requested for those situations.

Zambia(student representatives) was absent tonight-which meant that I was one student and set of parents short. Their President died-so they could not attend. Levy Mwanawasa was much respected and loved by his people. I even received a note in one of the students' agenda about the great sorrow they (the people of Zambia) are experiencing.

The catering was amazing-complete with caviar, guacamole (with CHIPS-yum!!), quite exquisite shrimp(yum!), and so many other things...and that was the adult dishes (that were being served to us...) and then there was the kids table. I don't even know if I have words to describe the Willie Wonka type smorgasbord of jinormous lollipops, candies, marshmallows, chocoloate shots, sprinkles, suckers, sweets. By the end of the night-I'm sure there were some sick children walking around! It was quite the experience....from the international community. And that experience lasted until 10:30 last night.....turning the lights out just doesn't work here. :)

Everything you need to know, you learned in Kindergarten...

Wow-I so agree with this statement. There are innumberable experiences (today alone) which make me believe every word of this! Kindergarten is before most of the world taints your view of life, love, and color. You begin to realize differences and immediately you can see how each person will treat these differences. :) Sometimes it is actually how someone teaches your "perspective" on these topics.....

Beginning with bus duty-these are not just any buses-they are Embassy buses from Zambia, America, and a couple of others. It is quite different than the United States-for sure!

Today, not 5, or 6, but 10 smiling faces greeted me at the door :) The Pre-K and Kindergarten are meeting together for a few days while the Pre-K room is being finished. I love, love, love the Pre-K teacher-she is amazing! She is the most diligent and sacrificial person that I know. She set her classroom up and they tore it down-now she is with me for a couple of days. In true Christlike fashion-she truly takes whatever He gives her and makes the best. I'm learning a lot from her....and I'm so thankful for her.

So-officially I will have 6 students for half a day and 7 for the last half. One of my students only speaks Portuguese-so-guess who is practicing? Or actually, guess who is teaching me? I know a few things well enough to get me through the day-like no touching, sit, and some other commands.

They are all so beautiful, colorful, a bit audacious, and completely accomodating to our crazy mixed classroom! I love their little faces!

This is our "silly" picture!

Well, one of my favorite mission kids-Brody (a cool name for a cool kid!) and I went to the Pizza place-at his request. I ordered all in Portuguese (even his juice), got ice (you have to ask for it), asked for the check, and everything! Plus-I'm kind of starting to build some relationships with the people there. They help me with words and guide my pronunciation when it is not just right. My Thursday night spot! I also tend to take the kids into a specific drug store (for little whatnots) on Thursdays-and the owner speaks English, Spanish, and Portuguese-so I can speak whatever language I choose! Yet another relationship!

Weird thing of the week-I tend to think of words in Spanish-a lot. So-a lot of times, I just go ahead and try it-sometimes this works. I just think it's funny that I can immediately think of almost everything I need to say-in Spanish (and I didn't think I knew very much-THANK YOU CUBA!)...... I think the fact that I use English at school, at home, and around most of the people I know-is very hindering to learning Portuguese.