When One Year Feels like Five...

June 20, 2015. 

Ten months since I left Canada.

Five months since my return. 

Four months since Ottawa.

Three months since entering the business world of Winnipeg.

Two weeks since my piano exam.

One year after Graduation.

Wow. It's no wonder I feel way older than 18!

I thought it appropriate that I spend some time reflecting on this year full of adventures with God - way more than I ever thought I'd have in 365 days! It's quite dizzying, but once I start thinking about everywhere He brought me in one year the beauty of it takes my breath away. If this is a sign of what's to come, I am so so so so very excited. 

Where to start... I suppose with graduation last year. 

What a momentous occasion! Twelve years of education complete, diploma in hand I began looking forward to the next year of learning followed by four years in university pursuing what I feel called to do. My exchange student came to celebrate the event with me making me even more excited for my travels - I would see her a mere three months later in Germany. The world was on the horizon, and over the next two months I worked hard to get there by showing people around our town's museum and washing cars - all the while saying numerous goodbyes and even more thank-you's to all of the mentors and friends I had enjoyed up until that point. 

Possibly one of the best pieces of advice I received from my mentors was to consider this next year as my first year of 'International Business," a prequel to the degree I would earn once I was back in Canada. That made the next year of travels even more purposeful: it was strategic, it was fun, it would prepare me for the future and show me who I was and what God wanted of me. Little did I know how true his advice would be and how much this year would confirm my decision to pursue International Business.

But the best (and most ironic) verse I received, in hindsight, was this one. Here's what I said about it on June 11, 2014:

"Many are the plans of one's heart, but it is the Lord's purpose that prevails." Proverbs 19:21
This is a fabulous verse, especially for someone like me who loves planning out the future, and doesn't always like it when things change. I know God's plans are best and whatever He wants to happen, happens, so I just need to trust Him when things don't go as expected. And when you consider 1 Corinthians 2:9  "no eye has seen, no ear has heard, no mind has conceived what the Lord has prepared for those who love Him," following God's plans definitely seems to be the way to go. That's what I strive to do now, and what I will continue to do in the future. 

Although I didn't think of these exact verses when I found out I had seven days to leave Europe, these are the characteristics of God that I clung to. His sovereignty, His timing, His planning, and His love. Something better was awaiting me in Canada but I had no idea what that would be! Thankfully, God gave me the trust and peace I needed to follow Him and my quiet (very un-Lorianne like!) reaction to that news showed me just how much He taught and changed me during that semester of Bibleschool - something I am so grateful for! 

And in retrospect, I believe God was more glorified in my departure and the successive events than He would have been had I stayed in Germany. Because why else would He have done it?

But the time before that was wonderful - surreal and overflowing with grace. 
Europe, eight countries, three languages, new brothers and sisters, music, exotic food, dancing, sunshine, colours, buildings, fountains, leaves, mountains, trains, late nights, chocolate, debates, reading, windows, prayer, worship, hiking, movies, pictures, games, laughter.... 

A sudden change of events and I was in Ottawa, equally wonderful, equally surreal and full of grace.
Canada, one country, two languages, new brothers and sisters, music, food, sunshine, snow, buildings, ice sculptures, buses, late nights, chocolate, discussions, reading, windows, prayer, worship, skating, movies, pictures, laughter, fellowship. 

A look at my new home. 

Finally Winnipeg. Seeing my birthplace through new eyes, getting to know my extended family through work, savouring wisdom from my relatives and figuring out how to act in a professional environment with people ten years older than me. And almost most importantly, re-organizing myself after a year of intense spiritual, emotional, physical, and character excavation in anticipation of even greater and more demanding adventures with God. Oh, I know they are coming! 

This year has affected and shaken up every single aspect of who I am, loosening the unnecessary worldly distractions while strengthening, polishing and growing the faith God has graciously given me. It's been amazing. I am so confident in who He is and who I am in Him - His direction is impeccable and His plans are clear. 

I love the international world. I love people, business, travel, culture, learning, foreignness, challenges, projects, discussions, net-working just to list a few. And I get to learn about all of these things in University this fall - it's perfect! This year has prepared me in ways I don't yet know for a future I can only imagine. 

And right now? Working and learning and living and trying to glorify God in everything as I get ready to go to Ottawa where I will be doing the same thing! 

It is so sastisfying. It is such an adventure. 

This is living!

Let's get down to business....

Admit it, most of you sung the title as if it were part of a Disney sing along...
But seriously, back to business!
Here's an update my latest adventure: Working.

Downtown Winnipeg, 8:11, just got off the bus. Walking down Main street with the rest of the working world, picking up the Winnipeg metro on the way, feeling all grown up.
        Good thing I don't drink coffee or else I would feel way too professional.
Wandering through the historical center of the city, past century old skyscrapers and buildings before taking the underground passageway beneath the morning rush hour. Winnipeg Square, a whole village of shops and restaurants is the last place I see before heading up back to ground level and into the lobby of my workplace. Elevators up to the third floor, put my jacket in the closet, lunch in the fridge, grab a cup of water, and then its time to sit down and get to work. In my little section of the office surrounded by other professionals who are much older then I... After saying a few good mornings I get started on the day's projects.

Which is when I remember I'm just a little country kid. What am I doing here!?
      Sometimes I just want to go back home and hide in the forest with my music... ;)
And then the reminder, I've got some God-given skills and abilities and by His grace and some family connections I was able to land a job here. This is training for the future - even though I'm not sure for what - and the future is always exciting when you're trusting God. So with that in mind I get back to work.

But wow! The business world is complex and pretty amazing. All of the people are wonderful and have welcomed me into the "family" here. I have two office mates that "take care" of me, and my managers are excellent and understanding teachers and there and some pretty hilarious people in the lunch room. Over all of this is the community atmosphere that stimulates great relationships and productivity.

Because let me tell you, it's busy here.

I've learned so much about business, real estate and all the behind the scenes things that into the shops we just pass by. This is going to be one of the greatest educations I'm going to have - and I'm being paid for it! My job changes day to day: I get to help with projects, make up spreadsheets, do some filing, and I'm the part time receptionist in one of the offices upstairs. So, there's always something happening. Its funny, I have to ask for acronyms to be defined - so I'm slowly expanding my business/accounting vocabulary! I've made lots of notes and ask lots of questions, this is truly an educational experience! And I'm also the youngest here by thee years; the other employees are graduated business students or long time professionals, and almost all of them have young children. That originally made me a little nervous, but I'm grateful for it - keeps me humble and that means I can learn even more from the people around me!

So far, it has been very interesting to hear how work fits into their lives, especially when kids are sick or there are holidays coming up. And everyone is so giddy on Friday - it's adorable. I feel like I'm seeing the other side of people's lives, the side their children merely hear about as "work." I'm seeing their parents in action, watching what they do to support their household. It's like being on the other side of a door, a door their children haven't been through yet. It's quite intriguing actually... It also got me thinking about my future and career and how that will be integrated with family....
I guess its just that now I'm working in an office full time I feel like an adult so its time to think like one!

Thankfully I don't have to live on my own and pay numerous bills yet - I get to stay with my grandparents and I'm still their oldest granddaughter! It's a great transition place to be; we have lots of fun, we've really gotten to know each other and I've learned a great deal from them already. And since there is a piano here, that definitely helps things along! My grandparents love music and have encouraged me to finish it and appreciate the arts, so when I practice for my Grade 10 exam its a win-win for everyone.

One last thing: it is SO nice to have a routine. You have no idea how much I needed this. I was so tired of living out of a suitcase and moving around every three months, and having a traveling mindset that you might not see this place or these people again.... It was awesome, but so tiring and after seven months of that I had had enough. So to finally be in one place, in a home, with people I know and with a schedule... it's amazing! I'm actually excited that I have my day planned out till 5:30 on weekdays - for now. ;)

I'm so grateful to be here - I know these experiences are seeds for many future events so I need to savour this time of preparation. For who knows where it may lead....
(I'm so excited to find out!)

And that is how even work can be considered an adventure!

Finding Europe in Ottawa

"How would Canada compare to Europe?"

This was my greatest concern upon coming back. Would I be disappointed? Would Canada seem boring after I had finished visiting everyone? Would I become disillusioned and dare I say it, discontented with my home country? These were some of my fears upon returning, yes I'm being slightly dramatic, but they were some of my concerns.
Clearly Northwest Ontario does not compare to Europe, that much is obvious, but what about Winnipeg? After living there for the first 12 years of my life and after numerous visits all I can say is not really. Upon flying into the city I realized that many things, especially the buildings are not European. *Sigh*
And then suddenly I was off to Ottawa where I knew I would get obvious glimpses of Europe.

I was excited.

Eyes wide open I searched for the continent I had left a mere three weeks before and... I found it.
Ottawa in winter is a pretty exciting city - I was surprised at how many adventures I had there and how closely they compared to some of the others in Europe. Okay, well the experience wasn't exactly the same - most obvious was the fact that almost everything was in English with a little bit of French sprinkled here and there - but the same level of wonder was there.

Music: The National Arts Center. Probably my favorite spot in the entire city. This massive architecturally amazing building houses the capital's theater and... their symphony.
I had to go.
So I bought a ticket to their next performance: Sibelius, Haydn and my favorite: Beethoven. The evening of the concert arrived, and I dressed up because I knew it was going to be grand. Little did I know just how grand...
The atmosphere in the building was magnificent; men and women strode around holding wine glasses that shone under the golden lights. Chandeliers hung down the middle of the spiraling hexagonal staircases illuminated the lounge chairs full of dignified people. All of the staff were dressed in tuxedos or blazers and graciously guarded the entrance until the time came for the performance to begin. I was already dazzled, and then the music began: this was where I wanted to be.
I cherished every bit of music and thoroughly enjoyed myself - I was even able to speak French with the couple city beside me! It was wonderful. And after looking at the 2015-2016 concert schedule and seeing there $12 ticket deal I knew that I would be spending many more evenings there in the fall.
As for vocal performances, I found out about the Cantata Choir, a group of forty talented individuals who sing classical (baroque, classical, romantic and 20-21st century) music. I was able to go to their Springtime Romance concert that was almost entirely based on songs from Song of Solomon, with other love songs sung in between. They sang in English, Italian, German and even Hebrew, filling the cathedral with music so perfect and I almost cried. Ahhhhh, music.

Festivals: Winterlude! Grandeur and class can be found in the concert halls but also in the crystal sculptures that crown the parks downtown. These pieces of art seem to defy science and weather in order to stay intact, posing for the tourists that come to behold them. I had never been so affected by ice.
But things get a little ridiculous across the border in Quebec where snow slides and dance parties raged - that's what happen when people try to keep active in the -30 weather. It was a festival and everyone, except for the odd screaming child, was having an awesome time.
And then there's the canal: 7.8 kilometers one way, or pure enjoyment - especially when it's lightly snowing. My favorite quote came from a young man skating past with his friends: "This is Narnia like weather!" because I was thinking the exactly same thing.
The winter festival was absolutely charming and had the same flair that many of the European marketplaces and celebrations have. Absolutely delightful, I was literally just walking around eyes and smile as wide as possible, drinking in my surroundings. Sometimes I think I'm still six years old in the sense that the world just astounds me - it holds so much wonder and I can't get enough of it.

Architecture: The buildings! Finally I found a Canadian city with European buildings!  Okay, I know Montreal and Quebec City have them too, but I haven't been there - at least not yet. But just walking through Parliament and the Chateau Laurier and the Notre Dame Cathedral - with all of their European influences - revived me, I was thrilled to "go back." At least this is as close as I can get to that intriguing continent for now, but I can tell you it is calling me and I'm just saving up and waiting for the right moment to return. Another factor to Ottawa's intrigue it's age, another reason why I love my neighbourhood there. It's old and sophisticated and full of history and adventures - my favorite.

Society: Connected. In Europe you are always connected. Always. Whether its by train, or by bus to different cities or countries, or whether its just media and information that hits all sectors of society. I suppose most cities are like this, but seeing as I haven't really lived in one for a while, Ottawa revealed to me what networking is and how it works. Buses everywhere, people and politics all mixing together, everyone knowing everyone in some way, and the collaboration between companies and also churches was fabulous. Once you get into Ottawa and engage in your workplace or church, you immediately get connected.
And the people are so happy to help. As soon as I mentioned I would be learning Spanish in university people would say hey, I have Spanish friends or relatives that I can connect you with. And this was literally after knowing them for 15 minutes. Nobody is shy here, at least not at public events because its all about the connections which is something Europe also encourages. This really makes the city vibrant and life gets full, so I'll have to watch that when I start my studies. But it really makes you feel alive.

Food?! For the most part I made my own food, but the restaurants I went to were excellent. Over the month I had some Thai, Italian, Chinese, and of course some real poutine. Great food, wonderful atmosphere -classy: Europe. Food and more networking, what could be better? Well maybe if the prices were just a bit lower... I'll have to watch that as well!

So there you have it, a quick overview of the music, festivals and culture, architecture, society and food found in Ottawa. Personally, I would have to say I had adventures that were "Europe worthy." Of course its not the same and Europe still holds my gaze, but Ottawa is going to be a fabulous home for the next four years! Adventure is out there!

A Capital Adventure

Ottawa.
Everyone says its a beautiful city, either from personal experience or because they know somebody who lives there - it would seem almost every Canadian knows someone who lives or lived in Ottawa at some point. Well everyone reading this blog post will soon know one more, because I'll be living there for the next four years starting in September.
As God would have it, I was able to scout out the city during my time there last month - February 8th - March 9th 2015 to be exact - and I am certain I am going to enjoy my time there come fall. There were three components to my time in Ottawa, my internship at the Evangelical Fellowship of Canada, getting myself situated for the university in the fall, and then my favorite: just having fun. But in all truth, I was extremely blessed throughout all of it and thoroughly savored my time in the capital.
Let's just say that Canada proved to be more exciting that I thought.

Part 1: The Evangelical Fellowship of Canada
Being an Intern at the EFC allowed me to see what really goes on in Christians ministry organizations and how hard they work in order to further the Kingdom! I was astounded at the vast array of projects and immense networks they have and by their wisdom. Just they way they connect people, ideas and plans... Wow. I transcribed interviews for the current research projects on Global Missions, a topic that interests me greatly especially after my time in Europe. After listening to the interviews I was asked to write my reflections  in a research paper, something I (as a writer) very much enjoyed! I was very thankful to be of service to the EFC and help do some of their more time-consuming tasks (e.g. a 60 minute interview takes three hours to transcribe and edit, lets just say I am now a ninja typist!) They have asked me to continue working with them in the fall and I am excited to see what that looks like. It has been very encouraging to see what is going on in the world of this Christian ministry and how it is impacting Canada for the kingdom.

2. Getting settled in the Capital
So through some emails and networking I ended up getting a place to stay for $100 for the month I was there. I had never met the people, never even heard of them, they didn't know me, so it was up to God to see how this all worked itself out. After landing in the city, I got into a taxi and we worked together to find the address. In the process we turned down a street and went through some kind of a time portal because we began driving through an upper-class neighbourhood from the early 1900's.
It was beautiful.
Gently falling snow graced brick walls and wooden porches, perching on the grand trees lining the sidewalks and wrapping the car in a storybook silence. The taxi driver looked at me and said "You must have some good connections." Now that I think about it, I should have just smiled and pointed up.
This neighbourhood with its huge mansions, walls covered in vines waiting for spring, and grand pianos that peak through sun room windows definitely inspired the writer in me and teased my romantic side - we shall see what becomes of it...
We drove up to what was to be my new home and I was soon welcomed into a lively house filled with small chandeliers, numerous fire places, and a newly renovated basement with a fish tank in the wall. Of course the most interesting and entertaining part of the place was the two children, six year old Elizabeth and two year old Matthew. They are absolutely adorable and hilarious. Some of my favorite moments include being locked in the kitchen by two foot high chairs (because clearly I can't get out of that) and participating in a Frozen themed birthday party. The daily good morning smile and friendly wordless phrase from Matthew always made my morning while playing Playmobil with Elizabeth brought back some serious flashbacks! I got to know the parents, and the other two tenants in the house - we all got along wonderfully. So many funny moments, a few games nights, and even a Disney sing along in the basement with their curious piano. I was just so thankful to fit right in and have such a good time with the family. I guess it all went so well that I will be boarding with them during my time in university! I wasn't too keen on living in residence, and after seeing this neighbourhood, living with the family, and exploring the location God decided this would be the best place for me to stay for my first year at Carleton. The university is a thirty minute walk away and there is also a bus stop at the end of the block that will get me there in less than ten minutes I think.

Speaking of the university, I was able to get a campus tour and talked to three people from my program - everyone had great things to say. The campus is lovely: bordered by the river and the Rideau canal which means skating is definitely going to become a new habit (more on that later). There is also a park nearby which is going to be absolutely zauberhaft in the fall - I am already anticipating the fall colours! Lots of interesting things on campus including tunnels and a train, 8 coffee shops (good thing I only drink tea!), as well as a huge newly renovated library. The Sprott School of Business where most of my International Business courses are going to take place is in the Duncan Tower that is rumoured to be taller than parliament... But maybe that's just a Carleton legend. Either way, I'm sure this university is training up some of the capital's next leaders and I am looking forward to meeting then next year!

So, the housing situation is perfect, Carleton is where I'm supposed to be, but what about church? Little did I know that Ottawa has an amazingly vibrant Christian young adult population that I get to be apart of! And they have some super solid churches, God is working everywhere and now I get to see Him in different parts of Canada. Love it! My dad did some research and found Celebration! Church, not only was it solid theologically but they picked up new people, sounded perfect! So I emailed them and asked if I could have a ride which provided me with my first friend and a social connection in the church. That helped out before and after the service and next thing you know I was invited for their weekly lunch outings after church. I basically felt adopted into the group and it was awesome. Being an extrovert and extremely curious about other people (I believe every person has something to extremely interesting to share that I can admire and/or learn from) soon made friends and found my place in the group. These relationships continued to develop at the Friday night small groups when we studied the book of James and talked about practical applications in our lives. I was so blessed by the honesty and the transparency of the group and how serious everyone was about their faith and living it out at work or school! And because most of the ladies were a couple years older than me I could really learn from and appreciate what they had to say. We also had some great laughs - not everything in Bible study is serious.
But the teaching and sermons were great, and the worship especially. Mostly new songs, but with very scriptural sounding lyrics, almost like contemporary hymns. Lots of harmony and a definite city hipster feel to the band, but it didn't distract don't worry. It was just so refreshing and encouraging to see another church full of the Holy Spirit and striving to live out the Bible and follow Jesus. And most of the people are under thirty. Awesome. However this does mean I'm going to have to find a senior home to visit!

It doesn't end there. There is also this thing called Church on Wednesday that is put on by Celebration! and two other churches in the middle of University of Ottawa. Basically its a church service in the center of the student building for university students, UofO or Carleton or anyone walking by. I was able to go to two services there, one was finishing up Philippians and they are now going through 1 John, and about 70 students come to this. And get this, this is the first year they've put this on. Super exciting!

Side note: One of my favorite things is that everything is so multi-cultural and international and diverse, especially the churches. I love it. I told my parents I wanted my friend group to look like the United Nations and it is on its way!!!

Now part three is about all the fun touristy things I did during my time in Ottawa but I will save that for another blog post! Figured I wouldn't make this one too long.

As to where I am right now: I spent March Break with my family in good old North Western Ontario and am now moving to Winnipeg where I will be working over the summer. I will finally be in one place for over three months! YES! Truthfully I'm a little tired of packing up and flying around and not knowing where I'm staying. So aside from a few visits home here and there on the weekends I'll be staying put. Until I go back to Ottawa that is.

But hey, at least I'm staying on the same continent!

It's Ottawa Official

"Thus, my adventures are not ending - I don't think they ever will - especially when you're living with God.
Things are just changing location."

Besides that, I knew that when I got back to Canada two things would happen very quickly:
Time would fill up
and
God would give me something to do.

And here I am, a mere 12 days after leaving Germany with the next steps planned.
Well, God planned them for me.
Jesus took the wheel, someone better let Carrie Underwood know...

As soon as my family found out I was coming back they did a little bit of research for me. Seeing as I had applied to schools in Ottawa and Toronto, my parents looked to see if there were any Christian organizations I could volunteer with for a month before I was to start working. Just so that I could have one more experience before getting jobs to pay for university.

Got back to Canada on the 13th. Got to Emo on the 16th. Relaxed, slept and played games on the weekend.
January 19th. I had an hour long meeting with my parents to plan the next few weeks and months ahead, just looking at options and thinking out loud. It was a little overwhelming to say the least. We found out the Toronto option was not really an option, so on to our lead in Ottawa.

Here it is:
The Evangelical Fellowship of Canada is situated in Canada's capital. They are a large organization that takes part in Canadian politics, church life, and research among other things.
And I will be volunteering with them for the month of February.

It all happened SO fast.
The idea came on the 19th. A phone interview was held on the 24th.
They said they would love to have me, I would be an assistant researcher and a help in the office, able to sit in on meetings and just see what life is like at to serve in a large Christian organization. but that we couldn't really finalize anything until I had lodging.
That weekend emails flew around and leads came in and connections were used and the search for lodging was on. On the 26th I had around 5 homes to choose from.

Well that escalated quickly.

And today the final decision was made. Its a home with two young children, a piano, that's within a 25 minute walking distance from the EFC and Carleton, the university I will be attending in the fall.

Seriously. This is perfect.

Here's why:

• Another different experience before six months of solid work
• Get to see how a large Christian organization works
• Will be able to see how Canada operates, politically and spiritually. 
• Able to explore the city I'll be living in for the next four years!
• Old historical buildings, a little bit of an easier transition from Europe
• Transition from Bible School to University, a little bit of business preparation...
• Put all the stuff I learned (Jesus, practical, personal) in Europe into practice
• Able to find a church
• Get to use my French - hopefully!
• Skating on the canals.... 
• Tourist options

So there's a lot of glorious opportunities in Ottawa. 

I am thrilled to see what God is going to do and teach me there, it is going to be such an amazing and education experience. Even though it's not a Bible School in Germany. 

And I'm totally content with that. 

Because who would have thought that Canada could be this exciting? 

Canada Bound

Well it's been an adventure here. 
I've been in four countries, spoken three languages, visited two Bible schools and have had one crazy time. 
It's been awesome. 

However God is now really taking this adventure into His own hands.
I am going back to Canada.
Yep, that's right.
I wouldn't have chosen it, still not sure what I think about it, but it's the truth.
And I'm okay with it.

So here's the story.
I was planning on getting a Travel Visa in Germany. This is totally legitimate and possible according to numerous government sources and experienced people. Thus I confidently went forward in my travel and Bibleschool plans, looking forward to getting this paper once I was in Germany at Klostermuehle.

I am now at Klostermuehle, in Germany, and needing the Visa. All according to the plan.

Yesterday I went to the office to apply for a Visa only to have them tell me that I had already been in Europe too long and was thus unable to receive one. I should have applied for my German visa while still in my 90 visitor days - in November, during the time I was in France.

No.

This was all news to me, I had relied on the fact that I could get a Visa in Germany, which is true, however I should have done it earlier. And so the hidden truth that had been following me around was revealed.

Misunderstood information + Not knowing + Travel laws = You have to go home...

That was quite the shock even though I knew it was a possible outcome. For me the options had been clear:
Either I would get grace and a Visa and stay, or fall under the law and go.
And I had to go.

A few tears were shed, but then it was over... I was at peace. Crazy hey?
Obviously a God thing.

I knew that He was really the one in charge of the verdict because there was nothing I could do to influence it. Just wait and hope and trust, He would do what was right. God's plan would be accomplished, that was clear, however, this plan was just a bit of a surprise...

 But I needed to be okay with it.
And so I am.

Why shouldn't I be?

I mean, I've had the time of my life.
Literally.
Things could not have gone ANY better during these 4 months.

I am sooooooooo thankful for God's grace over my time here, and the fact that He allowed me here longer than my 90 days, because theoretically I should have been out of here in November. But I got to stay and finish the semester, have the most unforgettable Christmas holidays, and even be at the German school for a week. The people here are great and I've already been so blessed, I'm only saddened that I don't get to hang out with them for any longer....

I cannot complain AT ALL, its been perfect here. Okay, not perfect, but basically.

And really, in a weird way, I am super excited about this.
Because I had everything organized and planned out how I thought it was supposed to be and now God is saying no. Which means there is something better or more important in store, and I am very very curious to see what this is. Even if its not in Europe anymore....
Sigh.

God is really taking this adventure over, and I am looking forward to seeing what will become of it.
I've now got a semester of free time to fill, it's been cleared out for something else. Prayer for that something would be appreciated, because it still needs to be found.

Yes. Canada. I'm coming back.
Unfortunately right in the middle of the bitter winter (that I was hoping to miss), but family, friends, and a warm fire place are awaiting me along with pancakes, bacon and all the good Canadian things I've been missing. Its going to be a culture shock, but hey, I'm going back home!

I almost feel like this is another sort of beginning...
This change is sudden, abrupt and completely out of my control.
Which means God gets more trust, control, and glory for in happens next.
Because I have NO idea what it is, but He does and He is going to lead me.
Here we gooooooooo!

Besides, I've heard spontaneous trips are more interesting.

Thus, my adventures are not ending - I don't think they ever will - especially when you're living with God.
Things are just changing location.

See you all soon!

La vie en France!

Sorry its been so long since I've written, life has been ridiculously busy!
I think the last two weeks of Bibleschool I got an average of 5.5 hours of sleep a night - things were crazy.
But now I'm on holidays and slowly collecting my thoughts and emotions and belongings from all over the place, so I figured it was about time to let everyone know how I was doing.

Well for starters, I'm an adult now.
That's a little scary.
And I'm in Europe.
Put the two together and suddenly Northwest Ontario seems REALLY far away.

But God's still here, so there is no reason to get overwhelmed. :)

And He's been here all along, ever so evident during my time in France.

France.
Sadly, my life there is over.
But only for now, I'm 100% sure I'm going back.

Those three months were wonderful. Eye opening, sometimes shocking, definitely beautiful, thrilling, and one ridiculous adventure. Amazing people, gorgeous scenery, challenging lessons, and lots and lots of fun.

Part of it had to do with the fact that I was in a different country.
Man, I love that country.

I learned so much about the land, the culture, the language - sometimes to the point of my head wanting to explode! - and the people.

The French mentality became evident, stereotypes came to life, and the country's unspoken rules were revealed. Sometimes entertaining, sometimes stretching, and sometimes frightening.

Let me explain the last sentence by giving an example.

I thought the whole French people kissing each other on the cheek was just something in the movies. That must just be the extremely French people, not everyone. And movies always exaggerate everything, even greetings. 

My first few hours in the Bibleschool passed normally. I met other North Americans, the teachers, and a few other students, all greetings were normal and I don't really remember too much of it.

That is until Marie walked into the room. 
No, burst into the room in a shower of happiness and began given everyone - I mean everyone - the bisous. The kiss on each cheek. 

I begin to panic as she got closer, thoughts raced through my head like bikers on the Tour de France. I don't know how to do this, and I don't even know her, what if I give her the wrong cheek, she's getting closer, ahhhh! And beneath all this, I began to realize that the bisous is actually a part of French culture and I might just have to get used to this...

Next thing I knew it was my turn and a kiss of the cheek later it was over. *Phew*

But only for now. 

However by the end of three months - which included a week of service with only French people - I was used to it almost as comfortable receiving them as I was giving them. And I'll have you know that the last person I said goodbye to was Marie: I gave her a huge hug and bisous.

So French culture can sometimes be a little scary because its not my culture. And when you bridge the two there are some awkward moments, but once you get over it the most amazing experiences can begin. Its never too overwhelming.

Because God is with you.

Some highlights from my time in France!

• 11 Students + 3 young German staff = Awesome friends and ridiculously good times
• Jesus and music and people are literally my three favorite things in the world
• A radio in the kitchen meant there was be a dance party every night while washing dishes
• New teacher and course every week meant lots of learning, thinking, and growing
• Canadians stick together, and sometimes adopt a Texan
• Mountains, mountains, everywhere, and every day they look different. 
• The French language is really complicated, but as long as you can make people laugh (and they're not laughing at how bad your French is) you know you've made progress
• Being tri-lingual means you can talk with anyone in Europe, one of the three always overlaps
• Snow is super important to Canadians, and winter just isn't winter without it
• Food and being to pick it and make it yourself is a blessing
• Speaking of which, having fresh French bread everyday really spoils you
• Worshiping in a different language is one of the greatest experiences ever, as is learning new and powerful songs
• I am such an extrovert, and being with people 24-7 made my day. I mean, every once and I while I would take an afternoon and just read my Bible and listen to music, but for the most part alone time could be done together. 
• I now like tea and am able to drink it 3+ times a day, makes me feel more cultured too
• Window seats are awesome and perfect for doing homework
• The best, deepest, or funniest discussions happen around midnight
• Sisters are awesome
• There are music nerds everywhere and they will find each other
• French people stay way so long at the table that you almost need to bring games....
• Movies bring people together as well, however they usually happen to be in English
• I love love love love love castles, something the French people don't understand because they're used to it. However for a romantic-poet-musician-Canadian girl its a big deal
• God shows us our faults in order to heal us and make us more like Him, not discourage us
• Living in Christian community is one of the healthiest, heavenly, and holiest things I have ever experienced
• Getting to know other people and see their souls and personalities in action creates deep and strong relationships SO fast. These friendships will last lifetimes, I am sure. Actually, eternity. 
• One of the best phrases to tell other Christians that you meet is "A toute ou dans le ciel" - See you soon or in heaven. 

And that last point is what I'm really counting on, because I left some really good friends, no, sisters. I said goodbye to a little family. It hurt, and it still hurts. 

But! I know if we keep working out our salvation with fear and trembling, coupled with the fact that it is God who works in us both to will and to work for His good pleasure, I know I will see them in eternity. 

Hopefully still on earth though. 

Thankfully the world is small when compared with my hopes, dreams and growing heart for Europe. 

Who knows what the future holds!

Thus my adventure in Europe is half over, j'ai dit au revoir a la France, but Germany is on the horizon with good things in store. 

I know that because right now I'm not ready for it.

In my experience, whenever I'm nervous for something that I know is in God's plan, amazing things happen. He always explodes all of my expectations, comforts me completely, changes me, and reveals Himself in so many obvious ways. It happened in France - something I did not feel ready for, and so it will happen in Germany. 

So now I just need to wait. And reflect and thank God for my awesome time at Champfleuri. 

Adventure with God in France is complete. 

Adventure with God in Germany has just begun. 

God can and will take you on adventures everyday, no matter where you are. 

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year.