tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13577833350287882282024-03-13T12:15:44.798-07:00Daring to be Different"Faith never knows where it is being led, but it loves and knows the One Who is leading..." - Oswald ChambersStephanie Joyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00262175426251954458noreply@blogger.comBlogger26125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1357783335028788228.post-75034706497636685092013-05-23T11:00:00.000-07:002013-08-14T08:49:41.672-07:00A Day I Will Never Forget<div>
Wednesday, the 22nd of May, 2013 is a day that is etched onto the canvas of my memory for the rest of time. It began a day like any other, but every moment that ticked away on the clock brought a new mix of nervous excitement to the surface of my heightened emotions. On this day, I was to marry.</div>
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I hadn´t seen Yoel since the evening before, and I wasn´t to see him again until I met him at the end of the aisle, to say our vows. The day felt soooo long, but there was plenty for me to do. Manicure, pedicure, hair, make-up... check. Every minute that passed, I got more nervous, and more excited. We were going with the flow. I was still writing my vows until just before I was picked up. There had been no rehearsal; no plan. We picked the day and the location the weekend before, and were making the rest up on the fly. I wouldn't want it any other way.</div>
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The beach was stunning, and we set up ceremony just feet away from the crashing waves. The day was hot and dry, but slightly cloudly, perfectly bringing the temperature down a few notches and giving us a beautiful backdrop for our photos. Yoel was clad in all-white beach attire, and I had on a white bikini underneath my white sarong dress, which I later tied in varying styles. I always said I would get married on a tropical beach in a white bikini :) The whole day had a casual and laid-back feel, although the weight of the covenant we were making was evident to us all.</div>
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I walked down the longest aisle ever, swatting at mosquitoes all the while (the one thing they never mention in exotic beach weddings at sunset...). Finally, from the top of a slight hill, I made my way down to where Yoel was waiting for me. The pastor read Scripture, we spoke out our own vows, followed by the traditional wedding "until death do us part". Rings were exchanged, a unity candle lit (though with a beach breeze that proved to be a slight challenge), and we were pronounced husband and wife - Mr. and Mrs. Marrero.<br />
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Celebrating with a champagne toast, fresh tropical fruit, and snacks followed a photo session on the beach before the sun completely disappeared below the horizon. Married. Forever.<br />
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It was the wedding of my dreams - better than I had ever imagined! The best part was marrying the man I love, who seems to have been made just for me ;) I couldn't ask for more...</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: small;">A special thank</span></span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 16px; text-align: left;">s to Alpha </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 16px; text-align: left;">studio in Trinidad de Cuba for the </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 16px; text-align: left;">wonderful photography.</span></td></tr>
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Stephanie Joyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00262175426251954458noreply@blogger.com0Trinidad, Cuba21.80423 -79.98483299999998121.7452565 -80.065513999999979 21.8632035 -79.904151999999982tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1357783335028788228.post-63435138071420568562013-04-13T12:12:00.000-07:002013-04-13T12:12:49.719-07:00Eat patat!<br />
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<span style="font-family: Tahoma, sans-serif;"><i>Eat
patat.</i></span></div>
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“<span style="font-family: Tahoma, sans-serif;">What?!”</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Tahoma, sans-serif;"><i>Eat
patat.</i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Tahoma, sans-serif;">I
recognized that whisper as the voice of God, but surely I was mixing
in my own words or desires; God couldn't possibly be asking me to
break my fast and eat <i>patat</i>,
especially when it sounded so good... definitely a temptation; a test.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Tahoma, sans-serif;"><i>What's
wrong? Why won't you do it? What are you waiting for?</i></span></div>
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“<span style="font-family: Tahoma, sans-serif;">Well,
I can't. I'm fasting. It's tempting, but the answer is no.”</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Tahoma, sans-serif;"><i>It
wasn't a suggestion, Stephanie. I am telling you to go order patat.
I want to share it with you...</i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Tahoma, sans-serif;">Absurd.
Outrageous. A God who wants me to order French Fries... really?!</span></div>
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“<span style="font-family: Tahoma, sans-serif;">Fine.
I'll do it. But I'll have You know that I'm not to blame for
breaking my fast! This wasn't my idea, but Yours!” (Indignation).</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Tahoma, sans-serif;"><i>(Smile).</i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Tahoma, sans-serif;">I
ordered a plate of hot, crispy French Fries, with a glob of
mayonnaise on the side, and took a seat on the sand, in plain view of
the sea. The waves crashed onto the shore in rhythmic synchronization, soothing to my restless soul, while the sun shone brightly in the blue sky, making the water sparkle and shine. I gave thanks and put the first salty, deep-fried chunk of goodness into my mouth, all the while wondering why God had asked me to eat...</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Tahoma, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Tahoma, sans-serif;"><i>Don't
you see? It's not about the food. I wanted
to show you that I know what you want... and I care. It's My
pleasure to give you good things. I am for you, not against you. My
desire is to bless you; what's on your heart matters!</i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Tahoma, sans-serif;">Well,
the deepest longing of my heart isn't exactly a plate of French
Fries, but I can see where this is going... </span>
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“<span style="font-family: Tahoma, sans-serif;">Then
why the fasting?”</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Tahoma, sans-serif;"><i>The fasting was a call for you to come to Me. It's not supposed to be something you do out of duty, but a deep thirst for more - a holy dissatisfaction. I
want you to desire Me more than you desire indulging yourself. I
want to be more important than food. You wouldn't have come here
today if you hadn't set aside special time for Me. You would have
been too busy, and I wouldn't have been able to show you that I care
about your heart...</i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Tahoma, sans-serif;">It's
true. I put off fasting because who really likes to go without
food?! I finally gave in, and when I woke up today, I followed that
whisper in my heart to go to the beach. “We're not in tropical
paradise here, God” was my response, but the whisper in my heart
kept calling me to the shore. On a whim, I decided to follow it;
after all, I was fasting and had no other plans. The five hours I
spent at the beach were like a tropical vacation to my soul. What I
really needed was just to connect with my Creator. To stop and
listen; to know that He cares about my heart. I didn't leave the
country. I wasn't gone overnight. All I had to eat or drink was a
simple plate of <i>patat</i>.
My “vacation-in-a-day” cost a grand total of 15 euros and 20
cents, yet I learned a truth that I won't soon forget, and my soul
feels refreshed! God never ceases to surprise me... French Fries.
He cares about my heart; and what I want matters to Him!</span></div>
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“<span style="font-family: Tahoma, sans-serif;"><b>Seek
first the Kingdom of God, and all these things will be added unto
you.” (Matthew 6:33)</b></span></div>
Stephanie Joyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00262175426251954458noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1357783335028788228.post-75486521544768847732013-01-19T18:41:00.000-08:002013-01-19T18:41:01.921-08:00BIRTHDAY<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none;">
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<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman','serif'; font-size: 12pt; mso-ansi-language: #03FF;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>I could not have asked for a better birthday celebration than I had this year in Cuba.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I turned 25 this past Monday, but the party felt like a <i>quinciñiera, </i>a Latino tradition along the lines of a gsweet 16h birthday bash.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>My Cuban family in Trinidad went all out!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman','serif'; font-size: 12pt; mso-ansi-language: #03FF;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>I slept in (of course), only to wake up to a tropical breakfast spread of diced fruit, fresh guava juice, strong Cuban coffee, and a toasted ham and cheese sandwich.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The sun was out in full force, greeting me with warm hugs and kisses :)<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Pure ecstasy.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Before I had even finished eating, my very own dance teacher showed up to congratulate me and give me two hours of private instruction.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I've met a few dancers in my lifetime, but he's one of the best.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>What more could I possibly want for my birthday than a couple hours of solid dancing with a pro?!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman','serif'; font-size: 12pt; mso-ansi-language: #03FF;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>When the class was over, I took a quick shower and my Cuban mom and sister took me for a manicure and pedicure – full service.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I needed my nails to match my dress ;)<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>My mom disappeared for a minute, only to return with a little bag of <i>chicharritas </i>(basically thin banana chips)<i> –</i> my favorite!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The streets are full of people and activity this week because it happens to be “Semana de la Cultura”, which is a week-long festival of street vendors, markets, Art, live music, and dancing every night.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It happens to fall on the week that I am here – fantastic.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I've never experienced such an efficient nail treatment, but the girl was accurate and quick!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The whole thing cost about 50 American cents... not too shabby.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman','serif'; font-size: 12pt; mso-ansi-language: #03FF;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>Back home to shower and get ready for the evening.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We had a photographer come to take pictures of all of us individually and as a group.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>There was a beautiful cake, snacks and appetizers, and a case of cold <i>Bucanero </i>beer for everyone!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The evening was spent with people dropping by, having a delicious dinner together, and then, I hit the streets!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Danced, danced, danced the night away... A quarter of a century.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I may be older, but I don't feel it at all!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>:D<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman','serif'; font-size: 12pt; mso-ansi-language: #03FF;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>Cuba has been incredible thus far.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I think half of La Habana knows me.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I walk through Centro Habana and say hi to people as if I've lived there my whole life.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Not a day has passed that I don't meet someone new, make a friend, and exchange contact info.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It's January – winter – but warm as can be and sunny every day.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><i>Es Cuba!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></i>:)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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Stephanie Joyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00262175426251954458noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1357783335028788228.post-21623101272971029572013-01-11T20:43:00.000-08:002013-01-19T18:43:41.429-08:00VIÑALES<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none;">
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<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman','serif'; font-size: 12pt; mso-ansi-language: #03FF;">Here in the middle of paradise, I enjoyed dinner under a thick canopy of midnight blue sky, speckled with hundreds of bright stars and lined with tall, silent, noble palms.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>In the distance I hear the shaking of maracas, and the beat of salsa penetrates deep into my body.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The sounds of laughter and merry-making drift in and out, hushed only by the serenity of the night.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>A light tropical breeze brushes over my skin, taking the edge off the warm humidity.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>A deep breath of fresh air.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>All is well, all is right.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Viñales is a tropical paradise of picturesque hills and luscious greenery.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
Stephanie Joyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00262175426251954458noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1357783335028788228.post-83935983983959578992013-01-04T07:20:00.000-08:002013-01-04T07:20:24.441-08:00MEXICOMexico was fun. It always is. This was such a short visit, but nonetheless, I thoroughly enjoyed it! It was my first time to Puebla, on a quick layover to visit my friends Marnie and Abbey. Marnie's flight was canceled last minute and delayed two full days (who does that?!), so it ended up being just Abbey and I for New Years. I have to say, Puebla is not exactly a happening spot. After wandering the deserted streets for nearly an hour, we finally found a hamburger/hot dog stand that offered us some impromptu tacos. Not exactly how I was planning to spend New Year's Eve, but it had to do... The bright side? I had great company :)<br />The next day wasn't a whole heap better, but I will say this for Puebla: I relaxed, rested, and got some internet stuff done. Besides that, I had a wonderful time with great friends. The food was good (as always in Mexico) and the view of the volcano Popocateptl was pretty sweet...<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Churros in the Plaza with Abbey</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Una cemita!</td></tr>
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What I seem to keep forgetting is how much I like Mexico City. I could live there. People are EVERYWHERE. When I arrived on the bus from Puebla, it was immediately evident in the pile-up of traffic... I don't know how they do it!<br />
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I made it to a sketchy hostel in a neighborhood behind the airport, dropped my bag, locked up all my valuables as best I could, and hit the streets! Riding the metro was a hoot; people coming through with their boomboxes, selling stuff, the works. I met a nice guy going my direction who whisked me through the maze of subway station stairs and corridors, and before I knew it, I was downtown! A live Cuban band, and a room full of dancers :) *Happy place* Some last minute emails, a hot shower, and a half-hour nap was all that I had time for before my 8:45 a.m. Cubana flight... Have to arrive early to those things! Needless to say, it's 9:15 a.m. as I sit here writing, and we are definitely not on board the plane... Nope, not even an announcement. I heard someone say our plane was in Veracruz, Mexico. The screen is still flashing "8:45 On Time". Guess not. Welcome to Cuban Airways. Just a little reminder of what the next month will be like... A lot of waiting :) That's okay. I can deal with it. I'm prepared. It's worth it! Let's see what time I get there (and if my ride is still waiting on the other end)...<br />
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Stephanie Joyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00262175426251954458noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1357783335028788228.post-64837596329168799652012-12-21T03:50:00.000-08:002012-12-21T03:51:27.951-08:00I wish!<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><i>I wish</i> there were a little more time in a day... and a few more hours in the night.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><i>I wish</i> I had more than a week left - to see friends and family before my flight.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><i>I wish</i> plane tickets didn't cost money; I'd travel endlessly all over the place.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><i>I wish</i> that bags would pack themselves, so I wouldn't have to worry about my suitcase!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><i>I wish</i> the sun shone all the time and it were warmer where I choose to live.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><i>I wish</i> more people understood the need at 3 a.m. to be productive!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><i>I wish</i> I could pursue all the plans and ideas and dreams that swirl around in my head.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><i>I wish</i> I weren't sitting on the couch, and instead were in a nice, warm bed...</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Goodnight! </b> (Technically morning by now...)</span></div>
<br />Stephanie Joyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00262175426251954458noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1357783335028788228.post-10927755046435236272012-09-05T17:26:00.000-07:002012-09-05T17:26:07.365-07:00FreedomSomething about this country makes me think of freedom. Perhaps it's being in the land of William Wallace, and thinking of Mel Gibson's cry of "FREEEEDOMMM!!" in the movie "Braveheart". Maybe it's the sound of bagpipes and seeing men in kilts... or better yet, it could be the endless rolling hills and wild countryside. Whatever it is, freedom hangs in the air.<div>
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Freedom to live, freedom to love. Thank God for freedom! As the presidential elections in the U.S. draw near, I am reminded of the freedom that was fought for in that country, and the many who have died for it. I am thankful for the foundation they have laid, allowing me the great joy - and responsibility - of making daily choices that determine my circumstances in life. I am grateful for the privilege to cast a vote this year, and am inspired to stand for the cause of true freedom. The question is, what does it really mean to be "free"?</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Scotland</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">On freedom...</td></tr>
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Stephanie Joyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00262175426251954458noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1357783335028788228.post-37969542777289332172012-08-25T16:23:00.000-07:002012-08-25T16:23:34.968-07:00Pitlochry<div style="text-align: center;">
Life in Scotland: what can I say?! It's absolutely beautiful here; reminds me a lot of Washington state. I've been on a few walks and hikes, and I keep forgetting where I am. There's a park with a waterfall nearby that looks just like Whatcom Falls, and a little inlet on the river that looks like a part of Larrabee State Park. The most similar thing, though, is the RAIN. Rain and cold, clouds and rain, all day, every day... And it's summer. Oh well. Like I said, it's beautiful, and in an odd way (minus the cold), refreshing. There is a sense of renewal that hangs in the air. The people who are hosting us are kind and caring, opening their homes to us, and welcoming us warmly. The scenery is green and luscious; even as a team we have been resting and enjoying some extra free time...</div>
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Last week we visited Edinburgh and the world-famous Fringe Art Festival, where we also hiked up to the spot where one of the scenes from "Chariots of Fire" was shot. It happened to be a gorgeous day and we had the chance for a few good photos in the sunshine... </div>
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<br />Stephanie Joyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00262175426251954458noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1357783335028788228.post-55584321603849212822012-08-02T11:33:00.000-07:002012-08-02T11:33:03.543-07:00An Epic Tale<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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This is the story - an epic tale - of two football (AKA soccer) teams</div>
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in all-out war to claim their place in the Olympic quarter-finals...</div>
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(Actually, it's more like a story of how I went to the match, but</div>
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that's besides the point.)</div>
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One afternoon, not too long ago, I was sitting in the living room with</div>
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some friends, eating pizza, when one of them found available tickets</div>
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to watch Brazil play New Zealand in the Olympics. We all looked at</div>
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each other, and in the following 25 seconds, as Lee clicked through</div>
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the screens to confirm the availability of the tickets, we decided to</div>
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take the plunge. In unison we turned to Lee, exclaiming "I'm in!".</div>
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Five tickets were purchased, and the adventure began... Only AFTER we</div>
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bought tickets did I realize the game would be in Newcastle and I was</div>
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to be staying in London during that time. Oh well :)</div>
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Thankful that I found tickets to an Olympic event, and even more so</div>
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that I would have the (perhaps) once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to</div>
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watch Brazil play, AND it all happened to coincide with my one day</div>
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off... How could I refuse the chance to witness such an epic event -</div>
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history in the making?!</div>
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Tuesday night my team performed in Sidcup, in the greater London area.</div>
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After the show and mingling with the audience, I quickly changed and</div>
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literally RAN to the train station to make the 22h train back into</div>
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London. I had an 23.55h bus to catch, and it would take a 40 minute</div>
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train, 20 minute subway, and 10 minute walk to get me there, not to</div>
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After huffing and puffing and breaking quite a sweat (I hate running),</div>
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we arrived at the train station with 2 minutes to spare to catch the</div>
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incoming train. Safely aboard, I could relax that there was enough</div>
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time to make all the connections. At London Waterloo, we transferred</div>
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to the tube (subway), and rode two different lines, eventually</div>
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covering the distance to Victoria station. It's incredible how many</div>
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people were still traveling at 11pm... :) oh the city!</div>
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When we arrived at the coach station, I knew we were in the right</div>
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place: I found myself surrounded by the musical sound of Portuguese,</div>
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and bright yellow jerseys everywhere I looked. We weren't the only</div>
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ones to catch an overnight bus to Newcastle...</div>
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Seven hours later, with a solid 40 minutes of sound sleep, we pulled</div>
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up to a lifeless Newcastle, supporting my theory that no one should be</div>
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awake at 6.30am... The streets looked like a ghost town, with not a</div>
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soul to be seen. I considered sleeping in an alley somewhere, but</div>
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unfortunately it was cold and wet, and I didn't think it would be</div>
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conducive to my wellbeing. We settled for Starbucks instead. What's</div>
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6 hours in a coffee shop anyways?! One crazy way to spend my day off,</div>
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but to take the train at a more convenient time was 5 times the</div>
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price... Overnight buses it is!</div>
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Four hours of Starbucks later, I had my nails painted green and</div>
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yellow, my eyeshadow matching, and decked out in Brazil colors. Go</div>
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big or go home :) I fully support my Latin American team! I even did</div>
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Clark's nails, as I told him he should take one for the team...</div>
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The game was a blast. Brazil dominated New Zealand 3-0 and we proudly supported their win. The crowd was friendly and upbeat, fully</div>
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sporting the Olympic spirit. With our big flag and enthusiastic</div>
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cheers we made friends quickly...</div>
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What a day! It's nice to slip away from the usual routine, find</div>
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myself in a new environment, and hang out with a different group of</div>
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people... I experienced the Olympics first-hand, and THAT is a special</div>
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event indeed.</div>
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Cheers mates! :)</div>Stephanie Joyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00262175426251954458noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1357783335028788228.post-84139590863983049652012-07-17T14:03:00.000-07:002012-07-17T14:03:15.920-07:00High SchoolYesterday I had an amazing experience: I felt like I was 16 again! Now, I may be 24, quickly going on 25, but that was not how I thought of myself a day ago!<br />
We performed at a high school in Wolverhampton, England... who would have thought :) Anyhow, I want to go to that school; it was so nice! It reminded me of where I used to go to school in Holland; so diverse, but much friendlier than what I remember it being like... I met a few girls from Amsterdam - from my old hood :) They were overly excited when they found out that I speak Dutch - I'm glad it made such an impact! Ha.<br />
At any rate, it was a good day: so many smiling faces, the opportunity to mingle with students and staff, and perform our full show twice. Why do I find myself wishing I was back in high school? Only for a second, really. Wouldn't it be nice to feel like your whole life was ahead of you, to not carry financial and social responsibilities, and to spend every day in an environment geared toward your growth and education?...<br />
Yeah, who am I kidding?! Maybe in hind-sight that's what high school is like, but I know the reality of it. It sure doesn't feel like utopia when you're in it - and not that it is. I wouldn't trade the experiences I've had since then for anything (well, maybe one or two, but that's a different story), and I enjoy the life of an adult... but still... I guess at the end of the day, it's not all that bad :) If only more high schoolers could appreciate what's in front of them instead of trying to grow up faster... Just a random thought for the day :)Stephanie Joyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00262175426251954458noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1357783335028788228.post-22196918119004678632012-07-07T12:00:00.000-07:002012-07-07T12:00:06.059-07:00Show Time!!!<div style="text-align: left;">
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After months of preparation, the time has finally come! We've hit the road - show and all :) It is not only a privilege, but a great pleasure to be "on tour" with this group. A bunch of people who love Jesus, volunteering their time and talents to simply give a taste of the Arts, and a message to hope, to all people... <div>
<br />Our first full performance was Wednesday, June 27th, and since then we've done several full shows, as well as some shorter performances at schools, and a talent show. We were going to hit the streets of Nuneaton (middle of nowhere, England), but the weather prevented us from doing so this weekend - rain, rain rain :( Maybe next time!<br /><br />At one elementary school in the area, we performed a chunk of our show, and we taught 12 different workshops to all the different grade levels and classes - it was fun! The kids were so cute - learning Bible stories, verses, hula dancing, and Korean drums...<div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">One of my group's hula classes :)</td></tr>
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<br />At another school we went to - or "college" as they call it here in England - we happened to be there on the same day they were visited by one of the Olympic Torch bearers! After performing for the school, we were asked to take a photo with Lucy Davies, who carried the Olympic Torch through a part of Leicester, England last week. The Olympics are just around the corner, and the whole nation is talking about it!</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Our crew with Lucy Davies, and the Olympic Torch she carried!</td></tr>
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It's exciting to be a part of this particular season - this dot on the timeline of history. Performing our show is a blast; although it was a challenge to get this far, and took hard work, it is really fun, now! It doesn't always run perfectly, or smoothly - like when I threw my Spanish fan in the middle of a performance last week :D - but somehow it always pulls together and despite our mistakes, the heart of God shines through strongly!<br /><br /><div>
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<span style="background-color: white;">Time to dance!</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white;">Love,</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white;">Stephanie</span></div>
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</div>Stephanie Joyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00262175426251954458noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1357783335028788228.post-40621500456449644752012-05-26T09:49:00.003-07:002012-05-26T14:09:13.423-07:00JOY :D<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I'm am so thankful for the sun! The past week has been beautiful, and I have found myself enjoying the surroundings of the King's Lodge, basking in the sun, and working on my tan (AKA SunBURN!) :) The warmth is healing to my body, and to my heart. So to those who were worried about what in the world would become of me over the course of 4 months in miserable weather: thank God for making the sun shine down on me :) I think I'll be okay! Below is the King's Lodge... notice the BLUE sky!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Not only will I be OKAY, but life is GOOD. I spent today, Saturday, enjoying the sun, and giving thanks for all the wonderful people in my life, and amazing experiences that I have had. Reflecting back over the years of travel, of work, of family, friends, and fun. Life is good. Life is great. I can't complain, but I am filled with JOY at the memories of each precious moment. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">A couple of weeks ago I had a class about joy and healing (from trauma). Probably one of the best weeks of teaching that I have ever had in my life... The principle was simple and clear, and essential to life, applicable to any and all situations: we were created for connection, for relationship. The human brain experiences JOY when someone is glad to be with us. The key to recovering from addiction, from trauma, or from the stresses of life is JOY, which is released in the brain when I engage in positive relationship with another. We can experience true healing when there is a joyful connection with another person. I believe in a personal relationship with Jesus, that is the foundation of connecting to God and experiencing joy, because He is glad to be with me. His love is constant, and unconditional. How easy it is to get caught up in a lot of activity, in much to do, and lost in many thoughts; but when I stop to connect with Him, ask Him questions, and feel that joy, suddenly I can cope with all kinds of other situations. That's what I did in the sun today: I connected with Jesus. I spent time with Him. Now I feel refreshed, I feel invigorated with new energy, and heaps of JOY. God is GREAT. Life is good. Thank You Jesus!</span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">(So that I don't forget... it's all about joy!)</td></tr>
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<br />Stephanie Joyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00262175426251954458noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1357783335028788228.post-37570668722342470602012-05-20T07:53:00.000-07:002012-05-20T07:53:15.518-07:00It is SO COLD!A week ago yesterday I arrived at the King's Lodge in England. I have to say that so far, it has been everything I expected it to be: cold and miserable! It's cloudy, it rains intermittently, and it's FREEZING - even inside the building! The weather aside, it's nice to be in the middle of nowhere, but ONLY because it's helping me to get stuff done (notice how I'm updating my blog for the first time in quite a while)... That's because there's nothing else to do around here! The base is located in the country, about a 45 minute walk from the nearest town, Nuneaton. Although in any other country that might be a nice walk, the cloudy skies and brisk temperatures keep me from wandering out beyond the absolutely necessary. <br />
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My neighbors (as seen here on the right) are COWS. Down the road we have some SHEEP... my favorite... NOT! I'm just not really a country girl, and the whole farm-animal thing... not so much. But hey, for some people, this feels like home. Personally, though, I miss the CITY!<br />
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What I did for "fun" this weekend: walk to town. Nuneaton at least shows signs of life... there are PEOPLE (versus cows and sheep), and a few places to sit and have a good cup of coffee (necessary in this weather!). It's a good change from lectures, dancing, and sleeping... All my other time has been spent desperately trying to catch up on 2 months worth of emails and messaging... Getting there!<br />
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Did I mention how the British drive on the WRONG side of the road?! Just wanted to point that out :) Not only do I have to walk 45 minutes in miserable weather to get to town, but I almost died in the process because cars are coming from all the wrong directions..! They weren't very keen on hitchhikers either... not quite sure why not :)<br />
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Anyhow, those are my first thoughts from this wet little country... It's nice and green - quite the contrast from Amsterdam. It's peaceful, and quiet, and I have been going to bed earlier this past week then I think I ever have before! I suppose that's good. But still, the lack of sunshine is hard to bear... especially knowing that Amsterdam, and even Bellingham, are having much nicer weather... of all the places I could be right now... Aaaah. HOWEVER, I am in a new place, meeting lots of people, and that's always an adventure, of course!<br />
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Now that I'm stuck here for the time being, I'll try to update my blog more often... What I'll find to write about, I'm not quite sure, but there is bound to be something exciting going on :) If you're reading this and the sun is shining wherever you are, count your blessings! Chances are, it's not shining here! :D<br />
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In dire need of SUNSHINE, yet thankful to be alive,<br />
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Steph :)Stephanie Joyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00262175426251954458noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1357783335028788228.post-71014324632412223302012-04-03T02:15:00.000-07:002012-05-20T06:41:38.016-07:00It has begun!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Amsterdam, April 2012</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7qyt43YpamZvGkZvUsnRR2dbE_ID5DH7dgHLNcGVKe8R4oS3gct6UHqsoim8MB1EnUGtTt4HELguWVj3Izx1R9aERRg3JkIUpxocmRQUYs6oMk7pA0OqQcedKzIZmqUmMPhDJaFMR/s1600/Gs.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="259" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7qyt43YpamZvGkZvUsnRR2dbE_ID5DH7dgHLNcGVKe8R4oS3gct6UHqsoim8MB1EnUGtTt4HELguWVj3Izx1R9aERRg3JkIUpxocmRQUYs6oMk7pA0OqQcedKzIZmqUmMPhDJaFMR/s400/Gs.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Some of my fellow staff...<br />
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Discipleship Training School:<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvL7by9aZTPRcnyLueW8Ez5d8CRY-UjgaId1dO9QcbSZtDuQHdMdSvj_OVaWWOUeEmxVFvcRbsWmLrephugVIsFhVMXWkc1dryDFvl1JiwqoC6RfyKmgRsI1O0W6Fm9QAceorVGA-6/s1600/DTSapril2012-timeline+%25281%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="font-size: medium; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="144" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvL7by9aZTPRcnyLueW8Ez5d8CRY-UjgaId1dO9QcbSZtDuQHdMdSvj_OVaWWOUeEmxVFvcRbsWmLrephugVIsFhVMXWkc1dryDFvl1JiwqoC6RfyKmgRsI1O0W6Fm9QAceorVGA-6/s400/DTSapril2012-timeline+%25281%2529.jpg" width="400" /></a> </td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Welcoming Night for the students </td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5-4NFaFfiNNb4XJ3Mwfg7K2CG1oqanWm_6agr_qO9UNMiSwZKGnX99OAlNrVnbs0XRTnKA3OnmH_VbT86v2QLaTVAIgWNWnda-k8maU-zuatyqZYUcCuntgskkWbt5LRCN3ExbVlP/s1600/Joyful+Opening+Night+(4).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="238" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5-4NFaFfiNNb4XJ3Mwfg7K2CG1oqanWm_6agr_qO9UNMiSwZKGnX99OAlNrVnbs0XRTnKA3OnmH_VbT86v2QLaTVAIgWNWnda-k8maU-zuatyqZYUcCuntgskkWbt5LRCN3ExbVlP/s320/Joyful+Opening+Night+(4).jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Doing a little dance...<br />
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Finally, it has begun. The Performing Arts DTS, Amsterdam 2012, is now in session.<br />
Much more to come! Stay tuned :)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>Stephanie Joyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00262175426251954458noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1357783335028788228.post-10259699815552527012012-02-25T14:46:00.000-08:002012-02-25T14:46:24.720-08:00A New Beginning<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;"></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">So, other than waking up at 3 a.m. (which no one should ever have to do), the first flight of my transatlantic trip was relatively uneventful... I slept from Seattle to San Francisco, even after a triple-shot Starbucks! Unfortunately, that's where the smooth travel came to an abrupt end. Right around the time I was supposed to begin boarding my next plane to Chicago, the airline announced that they had discovered a hydraulic fuel leak and our take-off would be delayed. Of course I wanted them to fix it, but I was really hoping not to miss my already tight connection to Amsterdam. I only had about an hour to make my connecting flight in Chicago, and we were running 40 minutes late – still with no word on boarding. The airline prepared a different plane for us eventually, and by my calculations, we would be landing in Chicago right as my next plane was scheduled to take off – hardly enough time to make the connection!</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;"> As I arrived in Chicago, I ran to the next gate, and luckily, they were holding the plane so I made it – just barely! I was the very last person to get on. Although everyone was giving me the angry look for being the person who caused a delay, I managed to get two adjacent seats to myself and slept most of the way to Amsterdam. </div><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;"> After long hours of travel, we began the descent to an overcast (of course) Holland. WHAT was I thinking?! There would be no blast of tropical heat upon arrival. I am still wondering how it is that I ended up back in Holland, but here I am. Amsterdam – the city I was born in – so beautiful, yet the weather really puts a damper on it... literally.</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;"> Upon landing, I was somewhat excited as I was traveling for the first time with a Dutch passport. To my dismay, I didn't even get a stamp! The guy took a quick look – I hardly think he verified my identity – and then he sent me on my way with a mere “dankjewel” [Dutch: thank you]. I guess I should be happy that it was such a quick and easy entry... </div><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;"> On the other side of baggage claim, my friend Marie met me to help lug my bags on the train to Central Station and then half-way across the city to my new home at De Poort (YWAM building). A walk that usually takes about 15 minutes took us at least 30 as we had to stop repeatedly, switch the weight, and readjust the wheels on my luggage to keep them from breaking on the uneven bricks along the way... I've decided that it's one thing to take a trip (pack light), but another entirely to move half-way around the world (you take more stuff)! </div><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;"> My arrival happened to coincide with an evening “Love Feast” (a nice dinner). There were about 150 people in attendance. Some of the nations represented: Norway, Mexico, Venezuela, South Africa, Nigeria, Germany, Romania, USA, Holland, Italy, Canada, Pakistan, India, Brazil, Eritrea... and who knows about the other 135 people who were there! :) </div><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;"> Anyhow – as for me – I crashed after dinner; it was quite the trip. I am glad to have made it back to Amsterdam, but I am still unsure what to make of it... It's exhilirating, yet, terrifying. I'm here to stay, and that somehow is surreal to me. We'll see what the next couple of months bring!</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;"> As I write this, I am on the train to Berlin (currently passing through Apeldoorn). I am going to visit a dear friend of mine for a few days. I would post this blog right away, but no wifi in the train, so I will have to wait until I get off in Germany... :) If you're reading this, it means I made it to Berlin safely. </div><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;"> I'll keep you posted!</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><br />
</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;"> Love,</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;"> Steph</div>Stephanie Joyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00262175426251954458noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1357783335028788228.post-49136583569042420052012-02-02T15:59:00.000-08:002012-02-02T15:59:43.380-08:00The Greatest Person in my Life<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">I'm currently surrounded by my family and wonderful friends - the relationships I have in life make me feel so rich! I can think of countless people who have deeply influenced me over the years... And as I sit and reflect on the people who mean the most to me, there is a person who stands out above any other, and I just want to take a moment to express my gratitude for the greatest friend and closest companion I've ever had!</span></span></span></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><br />
</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">There is a person who has taught me more than anyone else, and is responsible for the hope that I have, the faith I profess, and the smile on my face. I don't talk about this person nearly enough, but He means the world to me! His Name is Jesus. He is the Son of God, and Son of Man; the Creator who took on flesh so I could see the Invisible. He's the Man who teaches me how to live, how to love, how to be at peace knowing that He is above it all, how not to worry, not to stress, and trust Him each step of the way. He's the God who teaches me to love beyond myself, give more than I think I can, and see what others choose to ignore. He changed the world, the course of human history, and He left His mark on me! </span></span></span> </div><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br />
He has always been there, through thick and thin, no matter the distance, country, or location. When no on else saw me, when no one else knew what was going on... He has never pointed a finger, nor demanded anything of me, but so faithfully and warmly invites me to taste and live the love He gives...<br />
He has never turned His back or given up, though I have on Him. He has never wronged me, though I have Him. Always, He has my best interests at heart, and always, I can count on Him!</span></span></span></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><br />
</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">The love and the wisdom that mark Jesus' life inspire me. Some may think He's just a teacher, or maybe that He isn't real, but His touch is undeniable, and it's genuine. It's fantastic news to all who choose to hear! A love that lays down everything? A love that gives sacrificially, selflessly, without limit and without measure? Love that is faithful and true, patient and kind. Fierce love, jealous love, relentlessly pursuing me – how could I turn away?!</span></span></span></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><br />
</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Jesus is the greatest Person in my life. I'm stunned out of my mind whenever I think of how much He has loved me, and loves me still... I want to love like that. I want to be like Him. And that's the Gospel: that we can have a relationship with the Person who changes the world, one life at a time, by receiving His love and being transformed to His likeness. We can't, but He did, and He'll do it in us every day if we choose to let Him... We spend time with Him, get to know Him, and the world will see Jesus, when we love like He loves.</span></span></span></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><br />
</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">So this is dedicated to the Man that I can't live without, the Person who has changed and formed the way I think, the way I feel, and the choices that I make. He means the world to me, and I will gladly give the world to follow Him, because His love has changed my life, rocked me to the core, and His invitation to know Him is extended to me every day... If only everyone had a friend like that!</span></span></span></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><br />
</div><div align="CENTER" style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><b>I love You, Jesus!</b></span></span></span></div><div align="CENTER" style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><b><br />
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</div>Stephanie Joyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00262175426251954458noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1357783335028788228.post-71030790045350833112011-12-26T01:51:00.000-08:002011-12-27T23:43:49.116-08:00A Christmas Rhyme<div style="text-align: center;"><b><u>A Sign in the Sky</u></b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">One dark, lonely night</div><div style="text-align: center;">Something very bizarre -</div><div style="text-align: center;">A sign shining so bright,</div><div style="text-align: center;">Drawing people from afar.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">Shepherds in the field</div><div style="text-align: center;">Blown out of their mind</div><div style="text-align: center;">By thousands of angels singing</div><div style="text-align: center;">"Good News to all mankind!"</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">Can you imagine the shock and the awe</div><div style="text-align: center;">God must have thought it funny, what He saw...</div><div style="text-align: center;">Making so many angels appear suddenly</div><div style="text-align: center;">To share with all living creatures a bit of His glee!</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">It heralded the humble, yet royal birth</div><div style="text-align: center;">Of the King who is coming to rule the earth.</div><div style="text-align: center;">He left for a while, but don't make a mistake -</div><div style="text-align: center;">He's coming again, all things new to make!</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">Born into this broken world,</div><div style="text-align: center;">Accursed and ignored,</div><div style="text-align: center;">He gave Himself freely,</div><div style="text-align: center;">To see humanity restored.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">He came not with bloodshed,</div><div style="text-align: center;">Nor violence, nor gore,</div><div style="text-align: center;">But rather, a tender baby -</div><div style="text-align: center;">So Him we could adore!</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">"No room in the inn", that's what they said</div><div style="text-align: center;">If only they had known who needed a bed...</div><div style="text-align: center;">Just like people now, who are too busy, life so hectic,</div><div style="text-align: center;">To realize who He is, this God who is lovesick.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">So look to the Star that shone in the night;</div><div style="text-align: center;">It points to the One who makes all things right.</div><div style="text-align: center;">To creation unsuspecting, to humanity unaware,</div><div style="text-align: center;">The greatest gift was given: Jesus, God's own Son - the Rightful Heir!</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><b>Merry Christmas! :)</b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>How blessed we are...</i><br />
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</i></div>Stephanie Joyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00262175426251954458noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1357783335028788228.post-36717687490286181872011-12-12T15:30:00.000-08:002011-12-12T15:30:40.415-08:00Where is “home”?!<div style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Comic Sans MS', cursive;">I'm reflecting back on the past 3 months (and how fast they've FLOWN by), and thinking of all the good things that have come out of it... too many to tell! I look forward to my trip back to the States on Saturday – returning to see family and friends for Christmas, the New Year, and my birthday, too! I will share some of the funny stories, the good times I shared with old friends, the memories from childhood, and the many things I learned during my internship here. I really think they're better told in person (otherwise I might as well just write a book). But I do want to mention one of the highlights from this time: a desire that I have had for many years, and have pursued in various ways, finally became a reality...</span></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: 'Comic Sans MS', cursive;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><i><b>I GOT MY DUTCH PASSPORT!!!</b></i></span></span></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: 'Comic Sans MS', cursive;">Now the proud owner of 2 passports, I feel like my identity crisis has been somewhat solved... Not that I had major issues, but I've often struggled to articulate the answer to “where are you from?” Such a basic question, but I've long been confused. Now I know. I am from Amsterdam. I was born here, and now I have a Dutch passport. I am also very proud of my American heritage and passport, but it's certainly nice to be a citizen of the country you were born in! I smiled from ear to ear I think for at least a week straight, and when anyone mentions my newly discovered citizenship, I still jump for joy! People are constantly congratulating me, and it has been about a month... It's great! </span> </div><div style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: 'Comic Sans MS', cursive;"><br />
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</div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Comic Sans MS', cursive;">Anyhow, as I was reading the Bible the other day, I came across several passages that got me thinking about this topic, too. Paul states that “our citizenship is in heaven (Phil. 3:20)” and suddenly it hit me: I've been SO excited about my Dutch citizenship because it opens up doors of opportunity, but when have I stopped to think about my heavenly citizenship?! I bought sweets and cookies, went out for special treats, and told everyone who would listen about my nationality in the Dutch system. My name is written in the Book of Life – that's far more exciting! I like what the Dutch translation says about our citizenship: it says that our citizens' rights are of a heavenly kingdom. I haven't ever stopped to ponder what the rights (and responsibilities) are of a citizen of heaven, but uhhhhh, it outweighs Holland's (although the rights here are pretty nice). Crazy. It's tickling my brain! Right now, since this whole process is so fresh to me, and so personal, I feel like I understand what Paul was saying... My </span><b style="font-family: 'Comic Sans MS', cursive;">true</b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Comic Sans MS', cursive;"> citizenship is in heaven; my </span><b style="font-family: 'Comic Sans MS', cursive;">true</b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Comic Sans MS', cursive;"> identity is based on what </span><i style="font-family: 'Comic Sans MS', cursive;">God</i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Comic Sans MS', cursive;"> says. That should radically change the way I live my life...</span></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: 'Comic Sans MS', cursive;"><i>This world is not my home.</i> I am one familiar with packing my bags, and getting rid of “stuff”. I watch most everyone around me in a frenzied rat race to buy more, get more, store more, and own more, and all the while, I keep trying to minimize my possessions... Pack light. It's all about perspective. I hadn't paid much attention before, but like I said, this topic has grown on me... In the Bible, in Hebrews 11, Abraham was said to be a foreigner and temporary resident on the earth, seeking a better land – one to come. He had the same perspective David did when he wrote “for I am a foreigner residing with You, a sojourner like all my fathers (Ps. 39:12).” It just reminds me that home is not here, nor in the U.S., nor on a Caribbean island (though I would like it to be!). My home is temporarily unseen, yet very real. </span> </div><div style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: 'Comic Sans MS', cursive;">I am incredibly thrilled to have my second passport – thank You God! But what thrills me even more, is my citizenship in heaven (again, thank You Jesus). It can't be taken from me; and the benefits are out of this world - literally! No matter where I try to say that I am from, at least I know where I am going... In times of difficulty and uncertainty, I am not banking on the dollar, nor the euro, nor storing up more STUFF... after all, this place is not my home! I am not concerned, because my savings account is indestructible; my inheritance is secure. Now <i>that's </i>something I can be excited about! Heaven throws a party every time someone receives their new citizenship (Luke 15:10)... it's time I celebrate the same! So I celebrate God's provision of Dutch-American nationality, but even more so, I'm celebrating the privilege of heavenly citizenship and the entry to a better home! :D</span></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheGqeR4TqR0s-5P0ELZpm-4ZUoBoNWk1WfKddkZiJfMz7A0JvGHjqTtbF_q2Y6ZO2VSk3-4JR6ES2gGdDuB9nCROkwm25SSOX7b_LscG9GYoSimKhaCHvUE9BdpZvJZMvoEDried3Y/s1600/Nederlandse+Burger+%25281%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="238" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheGqeR4TqR0s-5P0ELZpm-4ZUoBoNWk1WfKddkZiJfMz7A0JvGHjqTtbF_q2Y6ZO2VSk3-4JR6ES2gGdDuB9nCROkwm25SSOX7b_LscG9GYoSimKhaCHvUE9BdpZvJZMvoEDried3Y/s320/Nederlandse+Burger+%25281%2529.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><br />
</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Comic Sans MS', cursive;">Getting ready to hit the road again...</span></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: 'Comic Sans MS', cursive;">Just a traveler and sojourner like my fathers... :)</span></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: 'Comic Sans MS', cursive;">Love,</span></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: 'Comic Sans MS', cursive;">Stephanie</span></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><br />
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</div>Stephanie Joyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00262175426251954458noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1357783335028788228.post-89499510808738217492011-09-24T15:47:00.000-07:002011-09-24T15:47:59.545-07:00I don't want to forget...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><br />
<div style="font-style: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;">I am intrigued by the place I now find myself, and the time that lies ahead. Three months in Amsterdam... I never would have thought! It's a rare and special gift to be able to re-discover my childhood roots, while at the same time diving deep into the presence of Almighty God. I have a passion to know what's on God's heart, and then live to bring it about. I think one way to know God is through spending a lot of time talking to Him – prayer! That's what I've signed up for over the next 3 months... Of all places and all times, I'm back where I began. This only goes to prove that God is faithful, and He is good – far beyond my understanding! Apparently He knows what He's doing... and it's really exciting to be on board! :)</div><div style="font-style: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4Jk97onx2I_QQBr3T0yfMOL5tuvwkNqNOMp_vmvp96gmyRsooai5jUpd__BK0Cmi0NwLylZWTOMeDLTC4wUACbktcFGdShKp2qvWQj1NlZMkk0LJqJXNbxtbD215LeMcR32vNxYt7/s1600/amsnightsw111b2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="217" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4Jk97onx2I_QQBr3T0yfMOL5tuvwkNqNOMp_vmvp96gmyRsooai5jUpd__BK0Cmi0NwLylZWTOMeDLTC4wUACbktcFGdShKp2qvWQj1NlZMkk0LJqJXNbxtbD215LeMcR32vNxYt7/s320/amsnightsw111b2.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="font-style: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><br />
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</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-style: normal;">The past few days have been surreal as I wander the streets of the city, re-living many childhood memories. Living now in downtown Amsterdam is a whole new world; but it feels just like home :) It wasn't long ago that I played in this very place, although memories have faded and some are long gone. It was a little slow at first, but I am beginning to remember the things that sparked my love for travel, the nations, and the peoples of this world. The city is a very special place. </span>It seems like eons ago, yet the pictures are still vivid, and the friendships still exist. I am thankful that time does not erase the past – I wouldn't want to forget the precious moments lived, laughed at, and learned from... </div><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><br />
</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;"> I don't want to forget the time I was playing “hide-and-go-seek” and broke my leg... I know it doesn't seem like the most pleasant memory, but it never fails to get all my siblings laughing and cracking jokes. Most people wonder <i>how</i><span style="font-style: normal;"> I managed to break a leg playing hide-and-go-seek... well, that's the thing; it's quite a story! A pile of dirt, a 5-foot ditch, 10 seconds, and 2 broken bones... crazy; but it's true!</span></div><div style="font-style: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">That fateful bridge it happened under...</td></tr>
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</div><div style="font-style: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;">I don't want to forget Haardstee: the bike sheds out front, the blue and yellow window sills, the courtyard, and all the corners and passages where we used to play as kids... The Amsterdam Arena, Bijlmer metro station, ABN Amro Bank... the list goes on.</div><div style="font-style: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Haardstee Apartment</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bijlmer Metro Station</td></tr>
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div> I don't want to forget the very things that I love so much about the inner city: the people from all over the world – the variation in language and culture. The way the city never sleeps; the crazy Dutch still biking at 3 in the morning! The Dam, Leidse plein, Central Station, Kalverstraat, Saturday markets, <i>koopavond</i>, live music, outdoor cafes, <i>patatje</i> <i>oorlog</i>, trams, buses, confused looks, lost tourists... all in a day's walk.<br />
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</div><div style="font-style: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;">I've only been in Amsterdam a few days, but memories are flooding my mind. Suddenly I'm painfully aware that a page has been turned and a new season in life has begun. Although I am excited for the things that lie ahead, I hold on to precious moments so recently passed, because I know how easily I forget... Time slips by so quickly and memories rapidly fade, but I am not letting go of what happened this summer. My time back in Cuba was wonderful; I experienced a whole new side of Cuban culture and people. It was fun, it was hard, it was good, and it was hot! I worked in the kitchen, spent time in prayer, and helped cleaning up around camps. The people have such a special place in my heart; as I know they do in God's, too. Although I am half-way around the world for now, I don't want to let the memories disappear...</div><div style="font-style: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><br />
</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-style: normal;"> I don't want to forget the beauty of the island: picturesque beaches, tropical sunsets, lusciously green vegetation, and the waves crashing over the </span><i>malecon </i><span style="font-style: normal;">(boardwalk) in La Habana.</span></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-style: normal;"><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBZumYSNY5qh-63a9_b-OViSmlpOP-86eBiz5ByhQS5ezhsll3sKShov8FwpAhDXSUmWYW6YcXKKi3TokT9UCSsQoa6Y0_RQ5IpxbkdmdsqDAqI2fks9R6snR3upWEhjVyQrTT8pba/s1600/DSC03560.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="238" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBZumYSNY5qh-63a9_b-OViSmlpOP-86eBiz5ByhQS5ezhsll3sKShov8FwpAhDXSUmWYW6YcXKKi3TokT9UCSsQoa6Y0_RQ5IpxbkdmdsqDAqI2fks9R6snR3upWEhjVyQrTT8pba/s320/DSC03560.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-style: normal;"><br />
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</span></div><div style="font-style: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"> I don't want to forget the rickety flight on Cubana Air, which I didn't think would even make it... the tarantulas around our campground, the 4-cent Cuban coffees, 1950 Chevrolet taxis, hamburgers from street vendors, pizzas that taste like cardboard, sweat dripping from every pore, salsa music always within earshot, and the importance of deep-cleaning our bathrooms.</div><div style="font-style: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><br />
</div><div style="font-style: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"> I don't want to forget the looks on the faces of the children whom I gave gifts to. Be it the glimmer in their eyes, the pearly-white smiles plastered on their faces, or the appreciation oozing out of every word they spoke... such simple gifts as soccer balls and silly bands made a world of difference to these kids... What a precious lesson to learn in how to be grateful for all that I have... </div><div style="font-style: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><br />
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</div><div style="font-style: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"> I don't want to forget how blessed I am, having had the opportunity to go, to share, to learn and grow. I was so excited to return a second time after having danced the first away. What sweet redemption to go back and see the same friends I met before but with a story to tell them of God's love and faithfulness in my own life. </div><div style="font-style: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><br />
</div><div style="font-style: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"> I don't want to forget the names of those who I grew close to: my family away from home, my friends through thick and thin, strangers who extended a welcoming hand, those whose lives I touched, and those whose lives touched mine.</div><div style="font-style: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmNtNH-ce1WejwNddkJukCqKEBfrCoYpp1z0T1rzQ75_Zmh6g6Bh4wfHldGGBYsZJMdEcePIDbM0pW7D_b0r0U8e17xY9sa3nhwXppjFojytvSW93TgpvmyLHro3UTkXeILuDstKik/s1600/DSC03535.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="238" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmNtNH-ce1WejwNddkJukCqKEBfrCoYpp1z0T1rzQ75_Zmh6g6Bh4wfHldGGBYsZJMdEcePIDbM0pW7D_b0r0U8e17xY9sa3nhwXppjFojytvSW93TgpvmyLHro3UTkXeILuDstKik/s320/DSC03535.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="font-style: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><br />
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</div><div style="font-style: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"> I don't want to forget the tears I've cried for Cuba, and the many prayers lifted up. I felt like home sweet home while I was there; like I was in a place made just for me :) I worked hard; I did my best. There is a high price to pay in Cuba, but I continue to ask God for amazing things in and through that nation. I hold on to the desire to see a people return to God with all their hearts. And I know that He is up to something big...</div><div style="font-style: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><br />
</div><div style="font-style: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;">I'll never be quite the same; and I don't want to forget all the reasons why...</div><div style="font-style: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><br />
</div>Stephanie Joyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00262175426251954458noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1357783335028788228.post-81585125127239776822011-07-01T21:58:00.000-07:002011-07-01T21:58:02.973-07:00Summer Plans<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Soon I will be on the road, and I will see some of you before long...</span></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">In just 2 days I will be on a plane – first to Seattle for my grandma's memorial service – then to Florida to visit relatives before I head back to Cuba. I cannot share many details due to the nature of the trip, but I am so excited to return! Just several months ago I was there for the first time – and it was quite the experience... I saw a little bit of how the country works, I met many people, figured out how to get around, and at the end of the day I fell in love with a nation in desperate need of the truth. <span style="font-style: normal;"><span style="font-weight: normal;">There is something about Cuba, and her people, that breaks my heart, brings me to tears, sparks a passion in my being, and lights up my eyes – all at the same time! While my first trip was tourism, this one will be focused on giving: I will give of my time and also specific items that I know are needed. I plan to have several days to visit friends I met on my last trip, and I will also join a team working with young people in rural areas of the island. I can share more details in person. One thing is certain, I will be praying hard, serving in any way that I can, and sharing my own personal story, as well as God's Story of hope and redeeming love.</span></span> </span> </div><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">If you want to help, I am accepting financial donations to help cover the cost of the trip, as well as items that I will be purchasing to leave there (soccer balls, baseballs and bats, Bibles, other books, sheets, towels, clothing, toiletries, etc). You can reach me over the next few days, but once I leave Washington, I will not have my phone with me, nor internet access once in Cuba... I will be back in contact August 5<sup>th</sup>. Checks can be made out to me, and anything by mail can be received at my parents' address and added to my account :) </span> </div><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><br />
</div><div align="CENTER" style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Stephanie Miller</span></div><div align="CENTER" style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">1125 Geneva Street</span></div><div align="CENTER" style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Bellingham, WA 98229</span></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><br />
</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Please remember me in your prayers – and even more so, the people of Cuba. If you can commit to pray a certain day between July 10<sup>th</sup> and August 5<sup>th</sup>, please let me know. I would like to find at least one person to cover each day :) Prayer points include safety while traveling and moving around, health and well-being, the nation of Cuba, the government, the church there, and the work that will be done with young people (teaching them, building relationships). Cuba has opened up a lot, but is far from “free” in the sense of how we live in Western countries. The people have very little, news and media is limited and censored, and everything is controlled by the government. Even the education only conveys one-sided information: whatever aligns with the communist party, and nothing else. The average Cuban has material need, but even more so, there exists a need – and a hunger – for books and literature and education that reach beyond what their government allows and bring a greater understanding of life and truth. The truth that human life is valuable, that they were created with purpose and meaning, and that there is hope for a brighter future. Keep these things in mind as you pray for this special nation. </span> </div><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><br />
</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I hope to see any and everybody who is available over the summer: August and at least part of September I will be in Washington for sure. Beyond that, still to be determined...</span></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><br />
</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Thank you!!!</span></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><br />
</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Love,</span></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Stephanie</span></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><br />
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</div>Stephanie Joyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00262175426251954458noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1357783335028788228.post-23903318878891095902011-06-02T12:12:00.000-07:002011-06-02T12:12:54.051-07:00The Next Chapter...<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: 'Comic Sans MS', cursive; font-size: large;"><b>¡Saludos!</b></span><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif;"> I know an</span> update is well over-due... The reason I haven't posted anything new is that I have been very busy struggling to put into words what has happened over the past 2 months of my life. I will attempt to share a little bit of the story with you, but forgive me if my English fails to due it justice – these are matters of the heart, and can rarely be conveyed by words alone...</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><br />
</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">Nearly half a year ago, I set out on a quest to find a new place in the world to call “home”. I have left once or twice before, seeking to experience all the wonderful people and places in this world, and looking for a deeper meaning beyond myself. My travels have taken me to many different places, and the experiences have been vast and varied, challenging my worldview, and shaping the person that I am today. With this same intention to learn and grow, I started on this journey last December. </div><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><br />
</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">As I set out on my course, I had the sensation that this trip needed to be different. Tired of traveling just for the sake of it, I wanted much more from this experience than another exotic adventure. Although I thoroughly enjoyed visiting friends in Mexico, hitting up the beach, salsa dancing in Cuba, and the luxury of doing whatever I wanted, the gnawing feeling that something was missing just kept growing... I tried to continue on as usual, enjoying every moment of the quest I was on – the people, the places, the fun. Yet I could not. Plenty of things entertained me for a moment, but they no longer satisfied the deeper places of my heart. Internally, there was a war waging. Part of me yearning for <span style="font-style: normal;">something greater than myself; and a part of me just seeking to enjoy life and silence the cry for anything more. If my passions for people, for dance, for beach, and for travel were not enough to quench my thirst, then </span><span style="font-style: normal;"><span style="font-weight: normal;">I didn't know what would be... </span></span> </div><div style="font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><br />
</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-style: normal;">I began to wrestle with these thoughts, pondering the motives and meaning behind my actions, and </span><span style="font-style: normal;"><span style="font-weight: normal;">what it was I truly wanted to live for</span></span><span style="font-style: normal;">. Realizing there was a discrepancy in the way I was living, and the beliefs I claimed, I began to wonder why. I claimed to believe in the God of the Bible, but yet, my decisions were controlled by a passion to enjoy life; not a passion to obey God. I knew I was heading for a breaking point; a time when a choice has to be made...</span></div><div style="font-style: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><br />
</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-style: normal;">I was tired when I reached Puerto Rico. Tired from physical strain and activity, and tired of the endless barrage of thoughts that invaded my mind... I knew I had to be very intentional; nothing was going to be different about this adventure unless by conscious effort, with a receptiveness to learn. </span>I contacted the YWAM base (Youth With A Mission is an international volunteer movement dedicated to knowing God and making Him known) in Puerto Rico to find out whether or not I could join them as a short-term volunteer. In the meantime I had made friends in San Juan, done the tourist thing, and was offered several jobs. One in particular was a tempting offer, but more than working, and more so even than paradise itself, I had an intense longing for <i>truth</i><span style="font-style: normal;">. I wanted to </span><i>know</i><span style="font-style: normal;"> why I was doing these things. I was tired of ignoring the ache in my heart. Perhaps dissatisfaction is one of God's greatest gifts – because it pulls at our hearts, persuading us to desire something more, something we were designed for, something that is missing. All the while it impulses us to keep looking, to seek out the answers; and if we follow, it takes us straight to the heart of God Himself... </span> </div><div style="font-style: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><br />
</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-style: normal;">I moved to the YWAM base mid-March and have been here since. I am volunteering in the kitchen, cooking for the 50 or so people living on base. The structured environment was a little challenging to get used to at first, considering I had been very independent; but having made </span><span style="font-style: normal;"><span style="font-weight: normal;">the conscious effort to stick it out, I've been pleasantly sur</span></span><span style="font-style: normal;">prised... Although none of it was particularly easy, what unfolded over the next bit of time was much more than what I had bargained for...</span></div><div style="font-style: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><br />
</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-style: normal;">I was desperate for answers. I prayed: I asked God to speak to me somehow and show me </span><i>His</i><span style="font-style: normal;"> way, or otherwise, leave me to determine my own course... God spoke to my heart, I paid Him my full attention, and He rocked my world! I realized that the reason my lifestyle had been so unsatisfying, though full of good things, was that I was living for myself. The deepest passions coursing through my being were self-gratification and enjoyment – ironically, the very things that eluded me as I tried so hard to obtain them. They were the motive behind my actions. Not to say that all of the things I did were bad in and of themselves, </span><span style="font-style: normal;"><span style="font-weight: normal;">but the decisions were based on my feelings </span></span><i><span style="font-weight: normal;">– </span></i><span style="font-style: normal;"><span style="font-weight: normal;">making me my own god.</span></span><span style="font-style: normal;"> Of course I did not consciously admit to that; I justified my actions according to my own interpretation of truth: that life was to be lived to the fullest, meaning in full pursuit of personal satisfaction, and in other words, completely selfish. </span> </div><div style="font-style: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><br />
</div><div style="font-style: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;">I didn't particularly want to consider the <i>consequences</i> of my actions and beliefs. In my mind, I was purposefully ignoring the inconsistency of my selfish choices with what I claimed to believe. I was trying to be content just living <i>my</i> way... until I hit that point when I had to pick a side... dissatisfaction had finally gotten to me. I came to a fork in the road, a place where my beliefs would have to match my actions, or one of them would have to change... That's integrity: when you do what you say – practice what you preach – when people aren't confused by the mixed messages you're sending... that's something I want for my life. </div><div style="font-style: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><br />
</div><div style="font-style: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;">So I came to a place of decision: a choice to be made. </div><div style="font-style: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><br />
</div><div align="CENTER" style="font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="color: black; font-size: large;">“<span style="font-family: 'Comic Sans MS', cursive;">Two roads diverged in a yellow wood<br />
and sorry I could not travel both<br />
And be one traveler, long I stood<br />
and looked down one as far as I could...</span></span></div><div align="CENTER" style="font-style: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: 'Comic Sans MS', cursive;"><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-weight: normal;">Two roads diverged in a wood, and I --<br />
I took the one less traveled by,<br />
and that has made all the difference.”</span></span> </span> </span></div><div align="CENTER" style="font-style: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: 'Comic Sans MS', cursive; font-size: large;">(Robert Frost)</span></div><div style="font-style: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><br />
</div><div style="font-style: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;">I battled back and forth between a desire to live life my way, enjoying it as best I could, and a desire to live according to what I believed was right and good. When those things coincide, it's not so difficult; but what of the times you must choose one or the other? We choose how we react, or respond, to any given situation. We have <i>free</i> <i>will</i>. True, others do things <i>to </i>me, and even around me – and these things impact me, some more deeply than others – but I have the choice of what I will do with it. The core values and passions that shape my life are chosen, whether intentionally or subconsciously. I am affected by my upbringing and by society, but I also have the power to choose – most of the time – regarding which things I will allow to influence me and which ones I will reject. I came to the realization that I was free to choose good or bad, free to choose myself or others, free to stay or go, to believe or not. Will I continue to live to please myself? Or will I be governed by God? I could not reason away the existence of a Creator. I could not nullify the moral law that is written on my heart. I could not ignore the answers that Jesus provided. And I could no longer deny God's authority over my life. Well, I suppose I <i>could</i>, but I <i>choose</i> not to. :)</div><div style="font-style: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><br />
</div><div style="font-style: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;">So part of what has happened over the past two months is a realization of the power I have to choose, and the responsibility that coincides to be intentional with my beliefs and my actions. Another component of change in my life has been the recognition of my need for it. I became aware of a place in my heart that would not be satisfied by <i>anyone </i>or <i>anything</i>, except the One who put it there – Someone who designed a hole so He could fill it! God's existence leaves no room for me to determine my own laws, and life experience has shown me that selfishness is not the best way. I recognize that I have fallen short of the standards God set – His original and glorious design for our lives. I have been self-centered, and gone my own way, disobeying the law of God, violating the commandment to love. I have not loved God, and I have not loved others as I ought.</div><div style="font-style: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><br />
</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-style: normal;">The good news is that there is an inexhaustible source of love – true love. Not love in the sense of “I love my boyfriend, I love my cat, I love my car, I love coffee”. That is “love” in the world of today: whatever makes you feel good. By love I mean a decision to commit to each other unconditionally; respect, forgiveness, </span><i>selflessness</i><span style="font-style: normal;">. Seeking the best for the other person, regardless of what it might cost you. I know few people these days that truly love. Myself included, as I find I've done a lousy job. But I want that. I want to believe in something more than working hard, saving money, and spending it, too. I want my life to reach beyond myself, and beyond my immediate circle of friends and family. I want to know what it is to </span><i>truly</i><span style="font-style: normal;"> love, and then choose to do it. “If you don't stand for something, you'll fall for anything” – isn't that how the saying goes? </span> </div><div style="font-style: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><br />
</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-style: normal;">There is no one like Almighty God, Creator of the Universe, who</span><span style="font-style: normal;"><b> </b></span><span style="font-style: normal;"><span style="font-weight: normal;">was willing to sacrifice and serve, even to the point of death on a cross... </span></span><span style="font-style: normal;">He didn't have to die for me. He didn't have to provide forgiveness for humanity. He could have left us to the destruction of our own selfish ways – “may the strongest survive”! But He loved. He </span><i>chose</i><span style="font-style: normal;"> to pursue us, wanting us to return to Him, but not infringing on our freedom to decide. His intention has always been to invite us into an intimate relationship with Himself.</span></div><div style="font-style: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><br />
</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-style: normal;">So then... right here in Puerto Rico is where I've chosen which side I will take. At this crossroads in life, </span><i>my</i><span style="font-style: normal;"> path has come to an end, and I choose God's way! I choose to serve God, to love God, to obey Him. I want Him to be my heart's true devotion: to live for, and even to die for.<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"> </span></span><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: 'Charis SIL', charis, Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="font-style: normal;"><span style="font-size: large; font-weight: normal;">”This is how we know what love is: Jesus Christ laid down his life for us. And we ought to lay down our lives for our brothers and sisters (1 John 3:16).”</span></span></span></span><span style="font-style: normal;"> </span> </div><div style="font-style: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><br />
</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-style: normal;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">As a demonstration of the </span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">choice</span><span style="font-size: large; font-style: normal;"> I've made, I got baptized May 3</span><sup><span style="font-size: x-small; font-style: normal;">rd</span></sup><span style="font-size: large; font-style: normal;">. </span><span style="font-family: 'Segoe UI Light', sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-large; font-style: normal;"><b>Baptism</b></span></span><span style="font-size: large; font-style: normal;"> is an outward symbol of an internal choice. When someone is baptized, they are </span><span style="font-family: Aharoni;"><span style="font-size: x-large; font-style: normal;">dead</span></span><span style="font-size: large; font-style: normal;"> and </span><span style="font-family: 'Arial Black', sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-large; font-style: normal;">buried</span></span><span style="font-size: large; font-style: normal;"> as their old selves, and are “re-born” into </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span style="font-family: 'Comic Sans MS', cursive;"><span style="font-style: normal;"><b>new</b></span></span><span style="font-style: normal;"> </span><span style="font-family: 'Segoe Script', sans-serif;"><span style="font-style: normal;"><b>life</b></span></span></span><span style="font-size: large; font-style: normal;">, forgiven and covered by the precious blood of </span><span style="font-family: 'MV Boli'; font-size: x-large;"><i><b>Jesus</b></i></span><span style="font-size: large; font-style: normal;">, God's Son. I have been </span><span style="font-family: MingLiU_HKSCS-ExtB, serif;"><span style="font-size: x-large; font-style: normal;"><b>ransomed</b></span></span><span style="font-size: large; font-style: normal;">; my freedom bought at a high price. I've been </span><span style="font-family: Gisha, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-large; font-style: normal;"><b>redeemed</b></span></span><span style="font-size: large; font-style: normal;"> – and I will no longer turn my back on this amazing </span><span style="font-family: Gabriola, fantasy;"><span style="font-size: x-large; font-style: normal;"><b>LOVE</b></span></span><span style="font-size: large; font-style: normal;">... I want it! </span> </div></div><div style="font-style: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGp4WmR5eMqwgIS4hwR0WFi5dAkUqAQXph6WpOEw_7OxGdqXOwTgFymsHPXFsVBNKeI27byQufKTqQ0oHgOPNhaPL-xIZETa0t9K9vYropbRTc_8gcdwnkO_BLz_6CsGYTrHIPgBjd/s1600/Baptism+May3rd+%25289%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="295" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGp4WmR5eMqwgIS4hwR0WFi5dAkUqAQXph6WpOEw_7OxGdqXOwTgFymsHPXFsVBNKeI27byQufKTqQ0oHgOPNhaPL-xIZETa0t9K9vYropbRTc_8gcdwnkO_BLz_6CsGYTrHIPgBjd/s400/Baptism+May3rd+%25289%2529.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My Baptism in Humacao, Puerto Rico - May 3rd, 2011</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVWTBZSTs3LJE8DW9caY9FeoDQav893W1arYplfOhquRPmHBIwzeHC1FYfXKGPifco2dbE79oVOk4tM0RFxzs9KckKPGPRDm5yfxKtQTtuTTiMrECZWP7UC8BwlSK3dokjHTXq4Ckj/s1600/Baptism+May3rd+%252840%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="297" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVWTBZSTs3LJE8DW9caY9FeoDQav893W1arYplfOhquRPmHBIwzeHC1FYfXKGPifco2dbE79oVOk4tM0RFxzs9KckKPGPRDm5yfxKtQTtuTTiMrECZWP7UC8BwlSK3dokjHTXq4Ckj/s400/Baptism+May3rd+%252840%2529.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">YWAM friends, the pastor and his wife, Jonathan and I</td></tr>
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</div><div style="font-style: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"></div><div style="font-style: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span id="goog_2052374172"></span><span id="goog_2052374173"></span></div><div style="font-style: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;">That, my friends, is a glimpse of what has been going on in my life over these past few months... I will update sooner next time; I will post something about summer plans as soon as they're solidified. So far I plan a visit home to Bellingham, hopefully a stop in Florida with relatives, and a rendezvous in Cuba is a possibility. This time, to serve others, for the glory of God, and not my own! :)</div><div style="font-style: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><br />
</div><div style="font-style: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;">Hugs to all; I miss you!</div><div style="font-style: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><br />
</div><div style="font-style: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;">Stephanie Joy :)</div><div style="font-style: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><br />
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</div><div style="font-style: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"></div>Stephanie Joyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00262175426251954458noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1357783335028788228.post-25055788084482535992011-03-04T18:28:00.000-08:002011-03-05T06:29:28.189-08:00Musings from an island in the Caribbean...<div align="LEFT" style="font-weight: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I find myself on a journey - touring the world for now - but looking for a place to call home. The difficulty is, there are so many places I enjoy. Elements from each destination along my route are fundamental to where I want to end up. I wish I could have a little bit of everything; that I could combine all the best things into one fabulous location. If I could have just one super-power, it would be that: to be able to be present in multiple places at once. I would carry on life simultaneously in the multiple locations across the globe that I have come to love.</span></div><div align="LEFT" style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br />
</span></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">First and foremost, I would be back in Bellingham. I would have a coffee in hand, snuggled up on my couch in my apartment, watching a movie. I would be enjoying my family: playing with my nephew, delighting in the comments only a 2-and-a-half year old would make. I would go up in the chopper or plane with Jonathan, let Peter do something crazy to my hair, watch Spanish soap operas with Rebekah, visit Loren and Jill in North Bend, talk to my mom and dad for hours... I would hang out with my friends, eat at all my ex-restaurants, and listen to the rain cascade off the roof. I would be content in the company of my loved ones :) </span></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br />
</span></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">At the same time, I would be back in Amsterdam, strolling the narrow streets that parallel the canals. I would ride a bicycle all over the city and take it on the metro with me, just to fit in with locals. I would go the Rijks museum, the Van Gogh museum, Vondel Park, Dam square, and all the “touristy” checkpoints that I never paid attention to before. I would walk the neighborhood that I grew up in, shop at Amsterdamse Poort, and visit friends I've known for decades (yes, I'm old enough for that now). I would be reminiscing about childhood memories :)</span></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br />
</span></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">All the while, I would be in Cuba. I would be taking salsa classes by day, and be out at the live venues by night. I would stroll along the tropical beach, drinking fresh coconut water and eating cheap cheese pizzas. I would catch a ride in a 1950s Chevy “maquina” (taxi) to La Habana Vieja where I would marvel at the historic architecture and structures. I would go to Santiago de Cuba, Baracoa, Vinales, and all the other sites I missed my first time around. I would sit in one of the many plazas and drink coffee. I would be dancing my little heart out :)</span></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br />
</span></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I would get ahead of myself and be down in Argentina, scouting things out. I would be looking for a job, applying for university classes, and getting settled in an apartment. I would have a steak and wine dinner, sign up to learn tango, and enjoy the city that never sleeps. I would be playing my part in a big adventure :)</span></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br />
</span></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I would go back in time to South Africa. I would be back at the deaf & blind school I loved so much, volunteering, teaching Home Ec in sign language. I would dance with the girls who only hear the beat of the song and nothing else. I'd go visit my friends at the tavern down the street, and ask Thabo if anyone has stabbed him lately... I would undoubtedly laugh for hours with Annemarie, Njeri, and Ariel. I would be doing what I could to help :)</span></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br />
</span></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Perhaps instead of all of that, I would find myself in Moab, Utah. I would be cruisin' on a Harley through the Arches National Park, climbing on rocks, or sleeping out under the stars. I would be marveling in the raw beauty of the Canyon lands and taking pictures of the surrounding sights. I would be enjoying nature :)</span></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br />
</span></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Another option would be me traveling to Thailand. I would relax to one of those famous Thai massages. I would ride an elephant through the jungle. Maybe I would teach English, or just hit the beach instead. I would learn a new language, and experience another continent. I would be living the nomadic dream :)</span></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br />
</span></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I would be in the Seychelles, spending a heap of money no doubt, but finally making it to the top destination on my list. I would take a million photos of the beach, the clear blue water, the palm trees, and the boulders just beyond the shore. I would compose my own island calendar. I would be in paradise :)</span></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br />
</span></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Besides each of those places, I would be in Mexico, one of my first loves. I would be listening to Mariachi music and eating tacos. I would be watching people in the Zocalo of Mexico City – hundreds and thousands as they go about their daily business. I would be comfortable in my home away from home :)</span></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br />
</span></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The list goes on of all the places I could and would be... I could go on listing places that I have been and loved, and places that I still want to visit... The truth, however, is that I only get to be in one place at a time. For now, that place is Puerto Rico. I am currently in San Juan, the capital of this lovely Caribbean country. And at this given time in my life, it's a good place to be! I have found peace and rest in the natural beauty of this island.</span></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br />
</span></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I just got back from<span style="font-weight: normal;"> wandering through El Yunque rainforest – a contestant to be one of the new 7 natural wonders of the world. The view from the top of the mountain is stunning: pure tropical canopy with a background choir of exotic chirps and whistles. The beauty that surrounds me here is therapeutic to my soul... The busyness of everyday life is slowly being drowned out as I learn to stop and appreciate the simple things along the way. </span> </span></div><div style="font-weight: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAI6Zi3CRf0Skn3pM07aDBhg86u_iMw7Ao4EdDC-GRt2EZKDHao_G2898vqerDaufc3vcGFnoJy5IGt3J8q4sUDQ3XHg_-2q0W0fpNWNuxnhFJ7YLgCS45pSGtnjvP-PBbxpagU9my/s1600/DSC02967.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="297" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAI6Zi3CRf0Skn3pM07aDBhg86u_iMw7Ao4EdDC-GRt2EZKDHao_G2898vqerDaufc3vcGFnoJy5IGt3J8q4sUDQ3XHg_-2q0W0fpNWNuxnhFJ7YLgCS45pSGtnjvP-PBbxpagU9my/s400/DSC02967.JPG" width="400" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small;">El Yunque Rainforest</span></td></tr>
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</span></div><div style="font-weight: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I sat at the beach for hours yesterday... Five and a half to be exact. Sure I got a little red, but I was using sunscreen so nothing too extreme. The ocean is mesmerizing to me – I am instantly sucked in to the ebb and flow of the tide, the sound of the waves crashing on the rocks, and the way the sun glistens on the water. I am so fortunate here in Puerto Rico, that I am staying at a place where I can see the ocean from the living room window...</span></div><div style="font-weight: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVIvuyxsJME0N2mZ9MRMiEWqO2eCwsDbcoVTtnA4AaerR_64Daqyn8kYNf1v63qmRNZ0vYWL_fHowQ1h8BN2rvm3UdneBMgdkg_qS5SgKhiCFj32pXsbj9GbcohFsZyL76CRDjQyNo/s1600/DSC02922.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="293" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVIvuyxsJME0N2mZ9MRMiEWqO2eCwsDbcoVTtnA4AaerR_64Daqyn8kYNf1v63qmRNZ0vYWL_fHowQ1h8BN2rvm3UdneBMgdkg_qS5SgKhiCFj32pXsbj9GbcohFsZyL76CRDjQyNo/s400/DSC02922.JPG" width="400" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small;">Living room view of the ocean (right of the salmon colored building) </span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgu43vsTQsaHbIIMeEJUfrE0XUP54NfqedPWjGNNLiS60WrPd2trX0GtUV0kilZ1gkoSQXnneHM6gZTDKlYMekZR_LWm3RW_dlyUVG-7KcWzlGFGwdeqOvib_7Uao1jiXjwlgJW-WIT/s1600/DSC02955.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="294" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgu43vsTQsaHbIIMeEJUfrE0XUP54NfqedPWjGNNLiS60WrPd2trX0GtUV0kilZ1gkoSQXnneHM6gZTDKlYMekZR_LWm3RW_dlyUVG-7KcWzlGFGwdeqOvib_7Uao1jiXjwlgJW-WIT/s400/DSC02955.JPG" width="400" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small;">The beautiful beach</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJl9ZbfgzOd2d0IQlegHeHGu744agzl78I3lQtfGrv4-xJUHZ4vu8iNyoH81t9YIq_ma-10Y0mqUYq2c7IbSnQQQfayDRaQC9nFAatQ05l-bEZbk7ZNyEkdjnt4FjIgxAloFix4c35/s1600/DSC02958.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJl9ZbfgzOd2d0IQlegHeHGu744agzl78I3lQtfGrv4-xJUHZ4vu8iNyoH81t9YIq_ma-10Y0mqUYq2c7IbSnQQQfayDRaQC9nFAatQ05l-bEZbk7ZNyEkdjnt4FjIgxAloFix4c35/s400/DSC02958.JPG" width="294" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small;">The waves crashing on the rocks</span></td></tr>
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<div style="font-weight: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">After several months of constant movement – traveling to different cities and countries, jumping around to different homes and hotels, continuously on the go – I am exhausted. Physically and emotionally I hit a wall in the Dominican Republic. Not having a “home” to rest in gets old fast! I came to Puerto Rico and have been enjoying the serenity here. I have taken it easy, getting plenty of sleep and rest, spending my time leisurely either close to the apartment or at the nearby beach or Starbucks. I am recuperating from the intensity of Cuba and the prior time spent in Mexico as well. I couldn't pick a better place to be refreshed! This country is fantastic. People are warm and friendly, the natural beauty here is astounding, and the climate is near perfect. I guess I just get one location at a time! Each place with it's unique charm and delights. As for right now, here in Puerto Rico, I am content in the rest that I am getting :)</span></div><div style="font-weight: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFvPDxRkiVoLhDMoazMDicMe_yXM1mWpioe-3bpCV15EPG-7vuwTItrtVGZiY44QbzHsswnFoohQdFCTXTYkki7w9-Z0HVcUgARojs603JfJAEldp5EENMkNbWgfjkwRRjscvoZJSA/s1600/DSC02948.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="475" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFvPDxRkiVoLhDMoazMDicMe_yXM1mWpioe-3bpCV15EPG-7vuwTItrtVGZiY44QbzHsswnFoohQdFCTXTYkki7w9-Z0HVcUgARojs603JfJAEldp5EENMkNbWgfjkwRRjscvoZJSA/s640/DSC02948.JPG" width="640" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;">Good company, good times.<br />
Kris (from Florida), Sol (local - I am staying with her), Cano (Sol's neighbor and co-worker), and ME!</span></td></tr>
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</div>Stephanie Joyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00262175426251954458noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1357783335028788228.post-4362424070628104432011-02-17T09:27:00.000-08:002011-02-17T09:27:28.777-08:00It's Cuba!<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Candara, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #333366; font-family: Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 12px;"></span></span></span><br />
<div style="font-family: Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; font-weight: normal; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Candara, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Somebody said:</span></span></div><div style="font-family: Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; font-weight: normal;"></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Candara, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">"Unbelievable! </span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Candara, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">In this country there is no gasoline, but cars are all over the road </span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Candara, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">There's no food, but everybody is cooking dinner </span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Candara, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">They have no money, but everybody is dancing and drinking rum!</span></span></div><br />
<div style="font-family: Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; font-weight: normal; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Candara, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Now thát is Cuba!"</span></span></div><div style="font-family: Verdana, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Candara, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b><br />
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</span></div><div style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: Candara, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Oh Cuba... Where to even begin?! I have been left <i>nearly</i><span style="font-style: normal;"> speechless. What a place! The buildings are crumbling, the streets are rubble, the cars putt-putt along, and the people are desperate to get out... Yet such beauty and raw innocence remains. It's a country where the rum flows freely, the sun shines bright, the coffee is intensely dark and robust, and the dancing... the dancing is beyond anything I've ever experienced before. In Cuba I danced 'til the sweat poured, the body ached, and my feet would hold me up no more. Sure, everything is falling apart, nothing goes according to plan, and you have to function with an immense amount of patience; but it's enchanting. I have never, in all my life, encountered a place so incredibly rich in culture, art, dance, and music. It's Cuba.</span></span></span><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNFaaG95zahw6ydjGv72dVCaKhQC9eUeDieuKBn0zx-Cj4ZRu-yHvu2biLq2ePNVrwZED5DH2Y74udgCx7iOlErxxvy24RwS3IhXNGcoT0XsUtsc1mTLxqKp57HNdvFoA-y7O2K5DH/s1600/Random+%25288%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="297" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNFaaG95zahw6ydjGv72dVCaKhQC9eUeDieuKBn0zx-Cj4ZRu-yHvu2biLq2ePNVrwZED5DH2Y74udgCx7iOlErxxvy24RwS3IhXNGcoT0XsUtsc1mTLxqKp57HNdvFoA-y7O2K5DH/s400/Random+%25288%2529.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><span style="font-family: Candara, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-style: normal;"><br />
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</span></span></span></div><div style="font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"></div><div style="font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Candara, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">I have to admit, I have had a little bit of a love-hate relationship with Havana... There are elements and aspects that are enchanting, endearing, and completely lovable... until you come across one of those things so typically Cuban and so incredibly frustrating. For example, there are two currencies in Cuba: the Cuban Moneda Nacional (national currency) and the Convertible Peso. One Convertible Peso (CUC) is worth a little more than a US dollar. One CUC is equivalent to 24 Monedas Nacionales (MN). Along with the double currency comes a double standard. There are prices for foreigners/tourists and prices for Cubans. A taxi across town will cost me 6 CUC on my first day in Cuba, 3 CUC once they figure out I speak Spanish, and 10 MN (40 cents) after I get the hang of the local way of life. The same goes for anything. I can buy dinner at a nice restaurant for 15 CUC, or I can eat a meal on the street for 50 MN (approx. 2 bucks). The exact same can of soda may cost 1.50 CUC in a store operated by a big hotel, where at the hot dog shop down the street it will cost 40 cents (10 MN). It's easy to get frustrated with Cuba when you realize you just paid 4 times the necessary amount – and it's equally as enjoyable when you learn to get a good deal and pay local prices. Then there is the waiting, the long lines, the lack of communication, the short supply... There are plenty of things that will get under your skin if you don't exercise flexibility and patience. However, if you can master those qualities, and learn to go with the flow, you will be falling in love with Cuba before you even realize what has hit you...</span></span></div><div style="font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Candara, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br />
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</div><div style="font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Candara, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Cuba is a land of many contrasts, many difficulties due to the political system and oppression of the people, but there are a few things that Cuba does exceptionally well. Although most of the country is falling apart, many things do not work, and much material product is lacking, Cuba has a unique gift for excelling at 3 things – 3 things may not seem like much, but they are 3 of the best things in life – it makes all else pale in comparison. </span></span> </div><div style="font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><br />
</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Candara, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-style: normal;"><span style="font-weight: normal;">Number 1: Salsa. The dancing is unmatched and unequaled. The music Cubans produce and the way they move their bodies </span></span><i><span style="font-weight: normal;">to</span></i><span style="font-style: normal;"><span style="font-weight: normal;"> that music blows my mind. I saw some of the best live shows of my life in Havana – incredibly talented people! Musicality, rhythm, and movement abound. I went out every single night I was in Cuba... That means I danced, and specifically at salsa venues, for 25 days straight, starting the first evening only 15 minutes after I arrived in Havana... I dropped my bag and joined the dance :)</span></span></span></span></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Candara, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-style: normal;"><span style="font-weight: normal;"><br />
</span></span></span></span></div><div style="font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"></div><div style="font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Candara, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Number 2: Coffee. From the coffee that someone might prepare for you in their home, to the street vendors who sell it for 4 cents per cup, and all the restaurants and cafes, Cuban coffee is delicious! I like my coffee strong, dark, and sweet; and that's exactly how they serve their espresso roast “café”. Just as with the salsa dancing, there was not a day that passed in Cuba that I didn't indulge in my love of coffee.</span></span></div><div style="font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Candara, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br />
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</div><div style="font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Candara, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Number 3: Men. I know what you're thinking – WHAT?!?! Haha, but it's true! I've traveled quite a bit, and many countries are known for their good-looking people. Have you ever heard of the beautiful women in Colombia? How about India? Perhaps you have seen pictures of the darling children in Africa? Well, this country is unlike most others: Cuba has a disproportionate number of gorgeous men. I couldn't leave my home or walk down the street without spotting a minimum of ten to fifteen overly attractive men. Young and old, the males in Cuba hold their own!</span></span></div><div style="font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><br />
</div><div style="font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Candara, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">That being said, there are many other things that Cuba does well: you can find great mojitos, cigars, rum, chicharritas (banana chips), guarapo (sugar cane juice), beautiful beaches, antique cars and buildings... But there are other places where you could find those things as well. My top 3 – those are unequaled in what I've seen of the world so far :) There is a word in Spanish that is fitting for Cuba: la sabrosura. It means tastiness, flavor, delight, pleasantness – it captures the essence of La Habana, and Cuba as a whole! “¡Que sabrosura!”</span></span></div><div style="font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><br />
</div><div style="font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Candara, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Cuba is probably one of the safest places I have ever been. Of course, there are people who will gladly rid you of your excess money and possessions if you don't keep a careful watch, and if you are in the wrong place at the wrong time, it could be that you witness some type of violence, like you would anywhere in the world. But I walked around Cuba at all hours of the day and night, alone, or with other girls my age, and never encountered a problem. I “lost” money twice, lipgloss once, and a jacket of mine was stolen one night of dancing... but that's the price I paid to learn to hide my cash in my tennis shoes, and leave anything that doesn't stay on me at home. I can't recall a single instance where I saw an angry Cuban yelling or starting a fight. They are persistent, sometimes pushy, but I didn't experience the locals losing control or flying off the handle. Generally speaking they are humble, warm, softhearted people. </span></span> <br />
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</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Candara, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-style: normal;"><span style="font-weight: normal;">For being a tropical island in the Caribbean, Cuba doesn't have many insects or bugs. I didn't get more than </span></span><i><span style="font-weight: normal;">maybe</span></i><span style="font-style: normal;"><span style="font-weight: normal;"> one bug-bite while I was there, and in 3 days of the Dominican Republic I have been bit numerous times by mosquitoes, ants, and who knows what else. I don't remember seeing a single cockroach, spider, or anything of the sort in Cuba. It's such a unique place. Cuba is a different world, yet in so many ways, the same as everywhere else. People are people. The same things make us smile, touch our hearts, and inspire us to achieve our goals. I miss it there already, and I will gladly go back! </span></span></span></span> </div><div style="font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><br />
</div><div style="font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Candara, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">The tropical beaches and serenity of Trinidad (small colonial town), the never-ending hustle and bustle of Havana, dancing on stage with famous reggaeton artists, being front and center at the hottest salsa concerts, watching music videos being filmed, taking private salsa lessons, cruising on the back of a motorcycle, or in a 1950s beast of a Chevy... The rhythm and the life of Cuba are infectious! </span></span> </div><div style="font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><br />
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</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Candara, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-style: normal;"><span style="font-weight: normal;">Burned into my memory is the image of a crippled man – he had only one leg – hop into the middle of the dance floor to perform a salsa routine on a busy night in one of Havana's most popular salsa venues. Not only did this man dance – he blew my socks off! :) He danced with two women at once, improvised, was up, down, and all across the dance floor, and he did it with style, flair, and a huge smile on his face. He apparently had found no excuse to stop dancing... not even missing a leg could keep him still! The beautiful thing about Cuban dance is that it comes from within. It is born of their heart, and is full passion. They dance because they FEEL the music – each dancer has a different style and specific tendencies because they dance their </span></span></span></span><span style="font-family: Candara, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><i><span style="font-weight: normal;">own</span></i></span></span><span style="font-family: Candara, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-style: normal;"><span style="font-weight: normal;"> way – not a mere choreography. They learn basic steps and movements, but then they reach within themselves and connect with the music. Watching a Cuban dance is to see who they are. A story unfolds. Cuban salsa tells of the relationship between the man and the woman; it's playful, it's fun; there is a constant connection and flow of energy; in order to dance you have to express yourself, let go of your inhibitions, and trust the person you are dancing with. It's beautiful! Few things have ever made me feel so alive...</span></span></span></span></div><div style="font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><br />
</div><div style="font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Candara, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">It's Cuba.</span></span><br />
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</span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Candara, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"></span></span><span style="font-family: Candara, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SNT9t93aefM">This is a link of a music video that will give you a taste of Cuba... It's a popular salsa group, the filming is on the Malecon of la Habana (so you see a few of the sights), and especially towards the end of the video there are some shots of really good dancing. The dancers in this video are well-known, and the guy who gave me several classes is one of them!</a></span></span></div></div>Stephanie Joyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00262175426251954458noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1357783335028788228.post-69780056404508903882011-01-09T15:01:00.000-08:002011-01-09T15:01:50.486-08:00My favorite kind of day...<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;">There is no better day than the kind that starts off with no significant plan, and ends up being the most relaxing and satisfying. Today is one of those days. With just a little bit of time to think, to re-gather, to collect my thoughts and feelings... Suddenly it's as if my internal battery has been super-charged and I am ready to take on the world :) Then again, I usually am :)</div><div style="font-weight: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><br />
</div><div style="font-weight: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;">Mexico is one of the great loves of my life. There is an unending parade of things to see and do. The people are friendly, open, and very festive. They have an inextinguishable joy about them, despite their sometimes unfortunate circumstances. They give with open hearts expecting nothing in return. I think there is much to be learned from a people such as this. The country itself is beautiful as well: ocean, beach, desert, forest, hills, plains, mountains, cities... Mexico has it all. </div><div style="font-weight: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><br />
</div><div style="font-weight: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;">I just came back from a speed-tour of Mexico City, Morelia, Leon, and Guanajuato. I saw them all in 8 days. Granted, I had been in Mexico City before (hence the reason I returned for New Years – it's one of my favorite places), but nonetheless it was a lot of traveling. I got in this morning on the bus to Guadalajara with just 3 hours of sleep to keep me going. I am not complaining, though: time is short, and I want to take full advantage of it! From the sea of people filling Mexico's capital, to the quaint and quiet streets of Guanajuato, I marveled at the beauty of humanity. People are the same here as everywhere that I have traveled before. We all have the same basic needs – food and water, shelter, work – but more than that – love and acceptance. Don't we all long to belong? Doesn't everyone want to be noticed? To matter? I sure do :) And I've met a few people along the way who do as well. It is humbling to be living amongst a great range of people – those with BMW's, big houses, and money to spare – and those who sit on the street, crippled, begging for a few coins to scrape together a meal. The need is great, and it brings me to tears just walking down the street... Needs such as this exist all over the world, but not everywhere is it so blatantly obvious. It's such a good reminder of the important things in life and the blessed that I have been. Not everyone has an opportunity such as this to see the world through different eyes, and walk a mile in someone else' shoes.</div><div style="font-weight: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><br />
</div><div style="font-weight: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;">I know that not all of you understand why I choose to travel like this... Swept along like the wind, without much of a plan, drifting... But that's okay :) I know why I do it. I learn something new every day. Every person that I encounter brings a new perspective - a new story - to the table. I am challenged to consider all that I have ever been certain of. My world view is broadened, and I discover more of who I am along the way. More than that, I discover more of who God is. I consider the places I go, and the faces I see, and I feel like I am peering into the face of God. I catch little glimpses of the Creator embedded in all of His creation. The big picture becomes just a little bit clearer day by day. And as for me, I am learning to worship. Learning to abide in the presence of One who loves me – no matter what :) My mind still can't quite comprehend it, but I am trying to wrap myself around it. I just can't help but to give thanks for the grace and mercy that I receive, and the beauty that I find in my surroundings. A process only yet begun, but God is faithful – of that I am sure! </div><div style="font-weight: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><br />
</div><div style="font-weight: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;">I am quite settled in Guadalajara at the moment – I get around on the buses and tram all over the city. This morning I went to a wonderful church service not too far from where I am staying... For the first time in a long time, I feel like I found a place where I could connect – I wish I could have enjoyed it for longer. The afternoon has passed me by soaking up my much-needed dose of vitamin D in the sunshine at Starbucks. Time well spent :) A great part of me wants to stay and absorb all that is happening; however, I am excited for Cuba. I leave in just a week and a half! The point has come where if I weren't planning to leave next week, I would definitely need to find a job and start being productive. The tourist stage is over. Cuba is a whole new ball game, though, so the change of scenery will keep me quite entertained. I can only imagine the new things that I will see and learn in that mysterious country. This is the hardest I have ever had to work to get in to any one particular country! If you think of me over the next few weeks, send some prayers my way :) I would like to leave more behind in Cuba than some Canadian dollars! I know life isn't easy there, and I only hope that somehow a difference can be made :)</div><div style="font-weight: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><br />
</div><div style="font-weight: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;">The sun is setting in Mexico, and it's time for me to move on.</div><div style="font-weight: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><br />
</div><div style="font-weight: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;">All my love, and blessings from above :)</div><div style="font-weight: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;"><br />
</div><div style="font-weight: normal; margin-bottom: 0in;">Stephanie</div>Stephanie Joyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00262175426251954458noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1357783335028788228.post-44715353635363508592010-12-10T18:48:00.000-08:002010-12-10T18:48:42.577-08:00<div style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-weight: normal;">Today something incredible happened... I woke up before 8.30 am! All by myself, willingly, and without alarm. For me that's quite the accomplishment; it was a good start to a wonderful day. :) The mornings here in Puerto Vallarta are tranquil – a world of difference from all other hours of the day and night. The walk along the beach was quiet and refreshing; just what I was hoping for. I enjoyed the first rays of the morning sunshine breaking through the hotel shadows accompanied by a cool, gentle breeze. Destination: Starbucks. I may be in another country, but I definitely appreciate a caramel macchiato. I went in search of some peace and quiet – time to read, think, and catch up on emails. Mission accomplished. I spent the rest of the day at a secluded beach about 15 minutes outside of the city. It was gorgeous. There were only a handful of people strolling back and forth, laying in the sun, and playing in the waves. I couldn't ask for a more beautiful day – not a cloud in the sky, clear blue water, soft sand, and a warm temperature! We topped off the day's relaxation with some fish tacos at a local cafe in town. Showers, facebook, some planning for travel next week, and out for the night.</span></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><br />
</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-weight: normal;"></span>This is just the beginning of a new chapter in life. I am currently in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico. It was my best bet for a flight from Seattle, and a good place to kick off my trip with a little sun – something that has been seriously lacking in Bellingham for quite some time now. Once I have my vitamin D levels up to par, I will head inland to visit friends in Guadalajara and surroundings for the holidays. Plans are flexible, but really I am passing through on my way to Argentina. We didn't have a summer in Bellingham this year, so I am playing catch-up on my favorite season here in Mexico. I'll be in touch! God bless! </div>Stephanie Joyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00262175426251954458noreply@blogger.com0