Friday, August 28, 2009

What do I do while waiting?

I've been home from camp for a few weeks now, and I have a lot to do before I'll be ready to head to Chile. What in the world does one do before leaving the country? I'm learning as I go, but here are some things I've been up to.
  • Vaccinations--I found the Center for Disease Control website, and discovered that I needed some updates (4 to be exact) on normative shots just to be safe. Two on each arm "ouch"~but I survived!
  • Finances--It's always good to keep the friendly people at the bank (seriously, they are nice people~I used to be a teller, lol) informed that I will be abroad.... lest they protectively freeze my credit/debit card services temporarily!
  • Learn to Listen!-- I've been told that when trying to learn a language in an immersion situation, a good thing to do prior to departure is work... HARD... on listening comprehension! So, I found some places to listen and read the news in Spanish (BBC Mundo being one of them). Hopefully, if I understand what I am hearing, I can take some strides with the Spanish Language this semester!
  • Technology-- I created this blog, for starters! I also took my computer to a professional for some much needed maintenance work. My laptop is a 3 year old, well used piece of equipment that I am thankful for, but it needed extra memory. Skype is another tool I will use from Chile to keep in touch!
  • Family Time--I am so grateful for the last few weeks I've had at home...my family has been so supportive. My mom, dad, sisters, and extended family have all been a blessing!
There are many other things I've been doing in preparation as well, but these seemed to be the most obvious ones!

I leave for Northland tomorrow morning, and I will spend the last few days before I leave (on Sept. 12) sitting in sessions, researching Chile, and catching up with Northland friends. Honestly, the most important part of preparation to me has been the extra time during this season at home to pray and seek the Lord... that is of First Importance!

Thursday, August 13, 2009

Clueless?

Clueless about Chile? I was too until I did a little research!

https://www.cia.gov/library/publications/the-world-factbook/geos/ci.html

Monday, August 10, 2009

David and Kristi Flinck

David and Kristi Flinck will be my hosts during my stay in Chile. I am thankful that they are willing to open up their family and ministry to me. Please keep them in your prayers as well!
http://www.chilejournal2.blogspot.com/

Sunday, August 9, 2009

Continue.... in Chile

2 Timothy 3:14-- But as for you, continue in what you have learned and have firmly believed, knowing from whom you learned it.

I just finished a summer of counseling at Northland Camp, and the Lord taught me many things from His word. This verse is so encouraging as I leave camp behind and focus on the fall semester ahead of me in Chile. I know that I can continue in what I've learned because my God is faithful and it is He who desires to change me into His own image.