As I way to help me in reacclamating back to America, I am pledging to to find a positive thing I appreciate in my new home country, America, each and every day for the next month.
I will add to this blog regularly.
For those who have always lived in U.S., you might be saying "Duh, America is the best place on earth!" But one thing I learned early in life (because I moved around a lot in the U.S. as a child), every place has it good and bad points. I could do the same thing for Swaziland and South Africa but for now my focus is to be on the positive of where God has put me right now. I hope those who live in the USA will have a renewed appreciation for those things they might have taken for granted. And for those in other countries, I encourage you to do the same for the country you are residing...it should be easy. All places are the same, just different!
So let's rejoice and embrace those differences!
Day #1 The sound of water
Water is soothing for me and although I am not near an ocean, I have the sound of running water coming in my bedroom window from the fountains in the man made lake outside my mom's back yard. Ahhhh, music to calm my spirit.
Day #2 A gym!
There is a gym and a senior center nearby. I took a Zumba class today!
When I was having a rough time last year I was so thankful for the gym in Nelspruit to keep my endorphins up and help with keeping a positive attitude. God is good and I look forward to losing a
few pounds and adding a bit of muscle in the process!
Day #3 Paved roads!
On this rainy day in Tulsa I am relishing that I get to drive solely on "tar" (paved) roads and not on muddy, sliding, full of ruts dirt roads.
Day #4 Thrift stores!
What better way to get clothes I need than at a thrift store and on half price fill a bag day!
4 pairs of pants, 2 skirts and 3 tops for under $25 and some still had new tags on them!
I also actually got to try things on in a dressing room!
(Those who have been to bend and pick with me in Swaziland knows what I usually use.)
Day #5 The opportunity to worship
It is refreshing to know that God is the same everywhere. Worship might take different forms, but it is wonderful to change it up and sing some of the traditional hymns again.
"Trust and Obey" the hymn I try to live by.
Thanks Indian Springs Baptist Church!
Day#6 The opportunity to learn
I feel lost in technology. It is a bit intimidating and also exciting to learn new things and feel more comfortable with my computer and hopefully my phone (I hope I will get it today). Just to have workshops available is wonderful but to have free ones....I am very grateful!
Day #7 Laughter
Not all my positive things, as you might notice are things only found in the states. As I finish out my first week on this side of the pond, I find that the gift of laughter is helping me adjust. Amongst all the chaos of unpacking and setting up life in Broken Arrow, my mom and I find laughter has been a good release of tension.
Day #8 Technology
I know social media can be excessive and overdone but from the aspect of having lived on the other side of the world it is wonderful. I honestly cannot picture life as a missionary without it.
From being on this side of the ocean I am loving unlimited phone calls and texting! It is very limited in Africa, but What's App is there and I am thankful for being able to use it to keep in touch with friends across the ocean!
So 3 cheers for technology!!!
Day #9 Our dogs
One of the extravagant things I did in moving was bringing Logan ( my Yorkie) with me to the states with me. My mom also has a dog, Shawnee (a beagle mix). Although it will take time for them to fully adjust I am thankful for their company and their need for a walk. They keep us on our toes and keeping us active.
Day #10 Christian Radio Stations
There are radio stations in Africa but very eclectic in what they play on it from talk radio (not usually in English) to gospel to rap to native music. Since I have arrived I have truly enjoyed driving in the car and being able to listen to Christian radio.
Day #11 Cruise Control
Such a blessing! Drove out to get some of my things that a team had brought ahead for me and in that hour drive (and yes I am driving on the right side of the road) it was nice to be able to set the vehicle on cruise control. My how that would have been nice on some of my drives in Africa.
Day #12 Friends
None of these things I am thankful for are listed in importance but just as they come up. But if I were to rank them, friends, would be at the top of the list. I had friends who brought some of my things from Africa when they were there last Dec. and stored them until I arrived. I have friends on both sides of the ocean checking up on me to see how I am doing. And at church and the gym, I am making new friends all the time. God is so good! I treasure the relationships more than the "things"
in my life.
Day #13 Free Refills
One of the frivolous things I am having fun with (although I haven't been out to restaurants much) is that I can have free refills and plenty of Dr. Pepper!!!
Day #14 Weather Tracking
Bad weather happens everywhere in one form or another but in Oklahoma tornados come quickly. I am thankful for the sirens that let you know, even if you are in Walmart to take shelter.
Day #15 A sturdy home
Having been places where people live in homes that are not very durable, secure, warm or even dry, I am thankful, especially on stormy nights, for how fortunate I am to have a sturdy roof that doesn't even leak, windows and doors and floors that aren't dirt.
Day #16 Mom
Mom's are great, no debate there. But even at my age, when you are sick, it is nice to know that your mom is there. She doesn't even have to do anything. It has been a long time since I've been able to have my mom nearby when I got sick.
Day#17 A bed
Between stormy weather and being sick, wow I love that I have a nice warm bed that is soft and cozy!
Day#18 Health
Often you wait until things are gone before you realize what you had. Between being sick and hearing the struggles of those with cancer and surgeries and other illnesses, I am so thankful that overall I am pretty darn healthy and strong.
Day #19 Teachers
In this case I'm talking my Sunday School teacher. I am thankful that our teacher on Sunday is a man of God who is passionate about God. He dives deep to into scripture and encourages and challenges me to not let it be in a box of what I think it should be but to let it be alive and speak to me even if it challenges my beliefs. The more you learn, the more you realize how much you don't know.
Day #20 Eyeglasses
It is nice to have places you can easily go and get your eyes checked and get glasses to make it easier to see while you drive and while your read. Yes, I'm getting my first pair of bifocals.
Day#21 Customer Service
Some things just don't go well. I left my old computer with the ministry in Africa. My new used one was not only something I needed to learn how to use, it wasn't working like it was suppose to and actually turned out not to be what I had supposedly purchased. I was not a happy camper. I prayed for a calm spirit as I went back to the store because I was hot under my collar. But I had the nicest manager who despite his bad day with employees and other customers (I was there just before closing). He was sincere, fair and made sure things were made right. I'm so grateful for this ex-navy man's attitude of integrity and customer service and his commitment to do his not so glamorous job with excellence!
Day #22 Beautiful weather
it is so nice when you have the time, the friend, the place and the weather cooperates to have a lovely walk and talk. Sunshine for the soul both inside and out! Thanks Janelle for the exercise, counsel, laughter and friendship!
Day #23 Neuro psycologist
Yeah, I didn't know there were such a person either. But my mom saw one today and through a battery of "silly" tests he will be able to know which parts of the brain aren't functioning properly and with that information determine what is probably causing the issues she is having. I might need to sign up because I seem to be having many a "brain fart" (is what I call them) myself.
Day #24 Positive Attitude
Mom and I got to eat out and popped into a Subway at the late end of lunch time. It seemed to have been a busy day yet I was greeted with an enthusiastic manager. I had to take notice of his quick smile, joyful comments and great attitude. I left happier and with a feeling of being appreciated! Wow, from a place I was just buying a sandwich. I have resolved to try and remember the difference one person's attitude can make and to make mine be where someone else feels appreciated!
Day #25 Senior Discount
While I am being positive about America, let me celebrate getting older too! I qualify for a lot of senior discounts at 55 AND was qualified to join the senior center where I am learning Tai Chi and how to play bridge!
Day #26 Reality Shows
In this area I am probably over doing it but it has been a lot of fun watching Dancing with the Stars, rooting for a local singer on the Voice and seeing Amazing Race travel through Africa!
Day #27 Flowers
Spring is in the air! And although spring came in Africa too, I enjoy the different flowers. The Easter lilies, tulips and hyacinths are beautiful as well as all the pansies and my mom's rose bush is blooming! Gorgeous and fragrant!
Day #28 Mexican Food
Except for friends who are good cooks, Mexican food has lacking in my diet while in Africa! And bottomless chips and salsa is muy bueno!
Day #29 New Challenges
You would think that being a missionary that God would call me to get involved in an area I have experience in......NOT! God loves to stretch us and grow us in our faith! So pray for me as I start to lead a women's bible study (including cooking dinner), help with the sound and video and whatever else God has in store. (My missionary friends can stop laughing now! God is known for His miracles!)
Day #30 God is the same
The best thing about transitioning to the states is that even though my environment has changed and I am changing, my God is the same one who held me up in Africa. He is the same one who provided my needs or made my needs match what He had provided. His love for me and for everyone I come into contact with has not altered; it is still beyond my comprehension. I am so thankful that He is. Period. Nothing more and nothing less.
Be blessed my friends! I know it seems more exciting to hear what God is doing in a culture far away but I look forward to all He is going to be doing in Broken Arrow, Oklahoma and I hope to be an active part of some of it! I hope that you too will be able to notice all that He is doing where you are, no matter which side of the ocean you live!
Day #2 A gym!
There is a gym and a senior center nearby. I took a Zumba class today!
When I was having a rough time last year I was so thankful for the gym in Nelspruit to keep my endorphins up and help with keeping a positive attitude. God is good and I look forward to losing a
few pounds and adding a bit of muscle in the process!
Day #3 Paved roads!
On this rainy day in Tulsa I am relishing that I get to drive solely on "tar" (paved) roads and not on muddy, sliding, full of ruts dirt roads.
Day #4 Thrift stores!
What better way to get clothes I need than at a thrift store and on half price fill a bag day!
4 pairs of pants, 2 skirts and 3 tops for under $25 and some still had new tags on them!
I also actually got to try things on in a dressing room!
(Those who have been to bend and pick with me in Swaziland knows what I usually use.)
Day #5 The opportunity to worship
It is refreshing to know that God is the same everywhere. Worship might take different forms, but it is wonderful to change it up and sing some of the traditional hymns again.
"Trust and Obey" the hymn I try to live by.
Thanks Indian Springs Baptist Church!
Day#6 The opportunity to learn
I feel lost in technology. It is a bit intimidating and also exciting to learn new things and feel more comfortable with my computer and hopefully my phone (I hope I will get it today). Just to have workshops available is wonderful but to have free ones....I am very grateful!
Day #7 Laughter
Not all my positive things, as you might notice are things only found in the states. As I finish out my first week on this side of the pond, I find that the gift of laughter is helping me adjust. Amongst all the chaos of unpacking and setting up life in Broken Arrow, my mom and I find laughter has been a good release of tension.
Day #8 Technology
I know social media can be excessive and overdone but from the aspect of having lived on the other side of the world it is wonderful. I honestly cannot picture life as a missionary without it.
From being on this side of the ocean I am loving unlimited phone calls and texting! It is very limited in Africa, but What's App is there and I am thankful for being able to use it to keep in touch with friends across the ocean!
So 3 cheers for technology!!!
Day #9 Our dogs
One of the extravagant things I did in moving was bringing Logan ( my Yorkie) with me to the states with me. My mom also has a dog, Shawnee (a beagle mix). Although it will take time for them to fully adjust I am thankful for their company and their need for a walk. They keep us on our toes and keeping us active.
Day #10 Christian Radio Stations
There are radio stations in Africa but very eclectic in what they play on it from talk radio (not usually in English) to gospel to rap to native music. Since I have arrived I have truly enjoyed driving in the car and being able to listen to Christian radio.
Day #11 Cruise Control
Such a blessing! Drove out to get some of my things that a team had brought ahead for me and in that hour drive (and yes I am driving on the right side of the road) it was nice to be able to set the vehicle on cruise control. My how that would have been nice on some of my drives in Africa.
Day #12 Friends
None of these things I am thankful for are listed in importance but just as they come up. But if I were to rank them, friends, would be at the top of the list. I had friends who brought some of my things from Africa when they were there last Dec. and stored them until I arrived. I have friends on both sides of the ocean checking up on me to see how I am doing. And at church and the gym, I am making new friends all the time. God is so good! I treasure the relationships more than the "things"
in my life.
Day #13 Free Refills
One of the frivolous things I am having fun with (although I haven't been out to restaurants much) is that I can have free refills and plenty of Dr. Pepper!!!
Day #14 Weather Tracking
Bad weather happens everywhere in one form or another but in Oklahoma tornados come quickly. I am thankful for the sirens that let you know, even if you are in Walmart to take shelter.
Day #15 A sturdy home
Having been places where people live in homes that are not very durable, secure, warm or even dry, I am thankful, especially on stormy nights, for how fortunate I am to have a sturdy roof that doesn't even leak, windows and doors and floors that aren't dirt.
Day #16 Mom
Mom's are great, no debate there. But even at my age, when you are sick, it is nice to know that your mom is there. She doesn't even have to do anything. It has been a long time since I've been able to have my mom nearby when I got sick.
Day#17 A bed
Between stormy weather and being sick, wow I love that I have a nice warm bed that is soft and cozy!
Day#18 Health
Often you wait until things are gone before you realize what you had. Between being sick and hearing the struggles of those with cancer and surgeries and other illnesses, I am so thankful that overall I am pretty darn healthy and strong.
Day #19 Teachers
In this case I'm talking my Sunday School teacher. I am thankful that our teacher on Sunday is a man of God who is passionate about God. He dives deep to into scripture and encourages and challenges me to not let it be in a box of what I think it should be but to let it be alive and speak to me even if it challenges my beliefs. The more you learn, the more you realize how much you don't know.
Day #20 Eyeglasses
It is nice to have places you can easily go and get your eyes checked and get glasses to make it easier to see while you drive and while your read. Yes, I'm getting my first pair of bifocals.
Day#21 Customer Service
Some things just don't go well. I left my old computer with the ministry in Africa. My new used one was not only something I needed to learn how to use, it wasn't working like it was suppose to and actually turned out not to be what I had supposedly purchased. I was not a happy camper. I prayed for a calm spirit as I went back to the store because I was hot under my collar. But I had the nicest manager who despite his bad day with employees and other customers (I was there just before closing). He was sincere, fair and made sure things were made right. I'm so grateful for this ex-navy man's attitude of integrity and customer service and his commitment to do his not so glamorous job with excellence!
Day #22 Beautiful weather
it is so nice when you have the time, the friend, the place and the weather cooperates to have a lovely walk and talk. Sunshine for the soul both inside and out! Thanks Janelle for the exercise, counsel, laughter and friendship!
Day #23 Neuro psycologist
Yeah, I didn't know there were such a person either. But my mom saw one today and through a battery of "silly" tests he will be able to know which parts of the brain aren't functioning properly and with that information determine what is probably causing the issues she is having. I might need to sign up because I seem to be having many a "brain fart" (is what I call them) myself.
Day #24 Positive Attitude
Mom and I got to eat out and popped into a Subway at the late end of lunch time. It seemed to have been a busy day yet I was greeted with an enthusiastic manager. I had to take notice of his quick smile, joyful comments and great attitude. I left happier and with a feeling of being appreciated! Wow, from a place I was just buying a sandwich. I have resolved to try and remember the difference one person's attitude can make and to make mine be where someone else feels appreciated!
Day #25 Senior Discount
While I am being positive about America, let me celebrate getting older too! I qualify for a lot of senior discounts at 55 AND was qualified to join the senior center where I am learning Tai Chi and how to play bridge!
Day #26 Reality Shows
In this area I am probably over doing it but it has been a lot of fun watching Dancing with the Stars, rooting for a local singer on the Voice and seeing Amazing Race travel through Africa!
Day #27 Flowers
Spring is in the air! And although spring came in Africa too, I enjoy the different flowers. The Easter lilies, tulips and hyacinths are beautiful as well as all the pansies and my mom's rose bush is blooming! Gorgeous and fragrant!
Day #28 Mexican Food
Except for friends who are good cooks, Mexican food has lacking in my diet while in Africa! And bottomless chips and salsa is muy bueno!
Day #29 New Challenges
You would think that being a missionary that God would call me to get involved in an area I have experience in......NOT! God loves to stretch us and grow us in our faith! So pray for me as I start to lead a women's bible study (including cooking dinner), help with the sound and video and whatever else God has in store. (My missionary friends can stop laughing now! God is known for His miracles!)
Day #30 God is the same
The best thing about transitioning to the states is that even though my environment has changed and I am changing, my God is the same one who held me up in Africa. He is the same one who provided my needs or made my needs match what He had provided. His love for me and for everyone I come into contact with has not altered; it is still beyond my comprehension. I am so thankful that He is. Period. Nothing more and nothing less.
Be blessed my friends! I know it seems more exciting to hear what God is doing in a culture far away but I look forward to all He is going to be doing in Broken Arrow, Oklahoma and I hope to be an active part of some of it! I hope that you too will be able to notice all that He is doing where you are, no matter which side of the ocean you live!
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