Everything Changes yet Everything Stays the Same

Just returned from a 2 week "break". I decided to try to see things thru fresh eyes. Funny, it all filters into the same images as before. Maybe next time I take a real vacation. One without computers, cell phones, appointments, schedules, etc. I need a "Calgon, take me away" kind of break. 

Kony 2012 and Why I Want to Stay in Haiti

In the beginning, my dream was to go to Africa. I mean, doesn't everybody at some point or another have a vision of themselves in the Motherland doing something, whether it be missions work, humanitarian aid, or even just a safari? My initial interest was sparked after seeing the animated film, Hugo the Hippo. It turned me on to Zimbabwe and the political strife of the region. Later, as I started seriously thinking of what type of work I would do in Africa, I realized I wanted to work with children. I looked into several options. For a few years now I've been looking into positions with assorted NGOs and charities in Zimbabwe such as the Zimbabwe Project, a Canadian orphan care organization. But as I do not have a Master's degree in the areas they require, I had been unable to catch a break. I guess true experience and expertise in a field doesn't mean squat when you have shareholders to answer to. 

Time Flies When You're Having Fun!

It seems like it has been ages since I've had an opportunity to write for fun. I have finally finished school - finished with a 4.0 and most distinguished graduate honors - even got to give the commencement speech. It was an exciting night. My grandma was there along with my children and closest friends. I was interviewed for the local paper, too! My 15 minutes of fame were the highlight of my college career!

Now on to the next adventure - I'm working on going to Haiti for a year. I had lunch with a local icon who is exec director of a charity organization that runs an orphanage in Haiti. I am flying down next weekend to check it out and if all goes well I will be moving there next month.

It is going to be a crazy month between now and then. My son moved home last week and I will be busy packing away my belongings and transferring over many of accounts to keep things going back here while I'm gone. I plan to set up a program so friends and family can donate money or supplies for the orphanage so that the compensation I ask for will be covered so stay tuned for information.

I am so excited!

Pickle Surprise!

If this doesn't make me feel better, I don't know what will!



reposted from:

http://pictureisunrelated.com/

F*** My Life

Today, I was turned down for the China job because I selfishly chose to raise my child with no support from his father or the government and worked my behind off financing really expensive christian education for said child instead of spending the money on finishing my education. My child is graduating this May with a 1.5 GPA. Since I lost my job, I won't be able to pay for his college either. FML

Michele去中国!

translates: Michele is going to China! No, I haven't heard anything yet. But a good friend told me today to "name it and claim it!" so I am!!!

I'm sooooo psyched!

Pray With Me

As some of you already know, I am losing my job. I have one week left and then I'm out there with the other 3 million people looking for
meaningful work. As much as I would like to find another job in the
area, the cold hard reality is there just aren't that many jobs out
there. I have settled myself on the idea that I'm going to have to
think outside of the box, look in a new direction. This is both an
exciting and terrifying time but I am faithful that God will provide
for me, so that gives me a peace and latitude to look at my situation
from many different angles.

Nikolas graduates in May and since I will more than likely lose my
house to foreclosure, this leaves me with few strings to tie me to the
area. I have always wanted to do mission work, and so I have applied
to several NGOs for positions out of the country. After many weeks of
anticipation, I've finally had a response to my requests. The ELCA is
currently reviewing my application and considering me for a position
to work in China teaching English. They are sending out emails to my
references. If you are contacted by the ELCA, please give me a good
recommendation.

Please join me in lifting this in prayer that the foundation will
place me in a position where I can best do God's work and contribute
to the needs of His kingdom.

In the jungle, the mighty jungle...

OMG! this very well could be me in a year! lol

(credit goes to one of my fave blogs: http://listoftheday.blogspot.com/