tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6470825563778904912024-02-20T08:52:43.846+02:00Momentary MissionsBecause the moment that matters most is THIS one.Alyssahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03579287362043576919noreply@blogger.comBlogger49125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-647082556377890491.post-20609063613807802822014-07-01T17:19:00.001+03:002014-07-01T17:19:06.489+03:00New Newsletter!<p>I apologize for the long absence on this blog. This pregnancy has slowed my way down and I’ve barely managed to keep up on the newsletters! Speaking of which, here is our end-of-June update. </p> <p><a title="http://us6.campaign-archive2.com/?u=9a0fe99cae285d65f03d8a9ae&id=b0c09656e3" href="http://us6.campaign-archive2.com/?u=9a0fe99cae285d65f03d8a9ae&id=b0c09656e3">http://us6.campaign-archive2.com/?u=9a0fe99cae285d65f03d8a9ae&id=b0c09656e3</a></p> Alyssahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03579287362043576919noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-647082556377890491.post-64630864167862551502014-05-12T11:14:00.001+03:002014-05-12T11:14:57.237+03:00Things I Liked (or Didn’t) This Month<p>We returned from our fundraising trip to the USA just over a month ago, which makes this a much overdue update! The month since we returned has been filled with lots of both re-settling, and planning. We’re fully into the process of obtaining quotes and filing for building permits, and so the building project has become very real, and very imminent. </p> <p>We’re also fully engaged in the process of preparing for a newborn. It’s been 7 years since we had one of those little people in our home, and this will certainly be a big transition for all of us. With his little kicks now being felt from the outside, this is also becoming very real. It’s really happening, ya’ll!</p> <p>Anyway, this month<strong> I liked</strong> our missionary community’s Easter Egg hunt:</p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-60IJLtWFVeY/U3CC7P_bUnI/AAAAAAAAF3w/td2UmpdRPUA/s1600-h/IMG_1153%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img title="IMG_1153" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="IMG_1153" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFnJoHbffVWQ-_b7PGyXwFxnru_c-SajXUHF4YRU1cQ4VJcn-pynt8SVKSzphlT57yuDjleF4CIDE5da548INW2g3Hbc0rrviW4NeT_VtNAaQJ2vFawnLb1W9N5Zzh73fTY76ln_ChJQ4/?imgmax=800" width="492" height="386"></a></p> <p>I liked watching Elijah read his first chapter book on my Kindle. I think it was the coveted use of electronics that was the biggest motivation.</p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXAXsLycMh_vSbMpo0-OMOONrnXCM-mhPexwt3PT5YSp_w4nrLrCqULlMYPRPXlueSoFEdx28GWFwDunSytWoWudJrTNLVZLAvVv_nZry1K_5-6qSqB6Qmi330-dc2mz5qbmHae3wSwkM/s1600-h/image%252520%2525281%252529%25255B1%25255D.jpg"><img title="image (1)" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="image (1)" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-JJDsfx4d-3M/U3CC9dMzE8I/AAAAAAAAF4I/xsFCjs6LyBc/image%252520%2525281%252529_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="323" height="444"></a></p> <p>I<strong> enjoyed</strong> this Mother’s Day (and the fabulous banner below,made with Love by Milena).</p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-_egs3XACRiU/U3CC958nM2I/AAAAAAAAF4Q/yt7V0GNrCVs/s1600-h/image%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img title="image" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="image" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-NapKNolXBZw/U3CC-tr3a4I/AAAAAAAAF4Y/cqrdOd6ljhk/image_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="320" height="449"></a></p> <p><strong>I liked</strong> the warmer weather and sunshine! The kids have started baseball, the windows have been open, and the apartment has been spring cleaned. :)</p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqOjBMc152y3FLPPIaSF_ekKJz8aTY7EGgGLVN9BZxy4vC7Rl1-_c-xKYRyUpkaXAOmnaN1Q1kvjNQQ2Q_HGdAANlxM3mvHRTcvUg694Y2n5ItdX6i6CmvOzCLu4G06qTsVMn5tZaBId8/s1600-h/photo1%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img title="photo1" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="photo1" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGpxHWIZUGO5uzIQ3cLK3JgkBGKQVnDQT9I8E9K8L5Bh02n_jWhSGwaNJKSiAjUVikrJjtgKllPLMqmdlLvKNnURdLeDkPNxREqFpiBa330OUaDRa7wqu7DDtcmThxsMui8x8IoO2fVJo/?imgmax=800" width="326" height="458"></a></p> <p>Apart from missing absolutely everyone we saw on our USA trip, I guess there hasn’t been too much I didn’t like! Hopefully I’ll do a better job keeping you all in the loop this summer. </p> <p>Thanks for stopping by!</p> Alyssahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03579287362043576919noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-647082556377890491.post-82013556704268940962014-04-11T14:47:00.001+03:002014-04-11T14:47:16.720+03:00Post-USA Update<p>We are back in Sofia! You can read a recap of our time in the USA by <a href="http://us6.campaign-archive1.com/?u=9a0fe99cae285d65f03d8a9ae&id=f77b853157">CLICKING HERE.</a></p> Alyssahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03579287362043576919noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-647082556377890491.post-7728454283839867672014-03-07T20:27:00.001+02:002014-03-07T20:27:26.678+02:00USA Schedule<p><br>In just 5 short days, we will be headed to the USA! Here is our schedule. If you're available and in one of these areas, please come see us! We'd love to see you.</p> <p><br>March 12-18- Peoria Illinois Area</p> <p><br>March 16, 10:30 AM- North Side Church of the Nazarene, 1203 NE Perry Ave. Peoria, IL 61603</p> <p><br>March 19-22- Bushnell/Avon Illinois Area</p> <p><br>March 23-April 7- Attica/Lafayette Indiana Area</p> <p><br>March 23- PM Service at Covington Church of the Nazarene<br>1203 Washington St., Covington, Indiana 47932</p> <p><br>March 30- AM Sunday School and Luncheon at Williamsport Christian Church, 20 E 3rd St, Williamsport, IN 47993</p> <p><br>PM Service at Crossroads Community Church of the Nazarene, 117 E State Road 234, Ladoga, Indiana 47954</p> <p><br>April 6- AM Service at Hillsboro Church of the Nazarene, 453 South State Road 341, Hillsboro, Indiana 47949<br>PM Service- TBD</p> <p><br>See you soon!</p> Alyssahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03579287362043576919noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-647082556377890491.post-10315504500322941932014-02-21T12:53:00.001+02:002014-02-21T12:53:45.703+02:00February Newsletter<p>Hi all! We have a new newsletter! If you didn’t receive it by email, you can <a href="http://eepurl.com/Oxt0r">CLICK HERE</a> to view it online. </p> <p> </p> <p>If you’re not on our email list, you can sign up over there >>> in the sidebar.</p> <p>Thanks for stopping by!</p> <p>~Alyssa~</p> Alyssahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03579287362043576919noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-647082556377890491.post-8023619172359315022014-01-23T14:40:00.001+02:002014-01-23T14:40:19.571+02:00Things I Liked (or didn’t) This Month<p>So, apparently this column is evolving into a monthly feature rather then a weekly one. My blogging hopes have fallen behind as we have gotten busier and been dealing with year end events like tax preparation (fun!). But today I am here with a few observations from around the blogosphere. </p> <p><strong>I like</strong> our new church building! Having a place to call our own, that we can use all week long, is a huge step in the right direction for the budding congregation of the Church of the Nazarene in Sofia. </p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgM5YsA5zbjrolFS2XZrcqAoHZ-kWjZmmYwVXI4eLAjhR-9b4dEWXknuzqWz9x9zrvq2iYC1Q2Jh3eT8_F4g9IWNX1MEvZLOpHgJ7m0Xvipdbnh_xv55gaDwnqqCnAQWDabMCW0YlGwggE/s1600-h/IMG_6552%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img title="IMG_6552" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="IMG_6552" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYy9L2bW4RwJdDWfJZqdstq3bSZpYn54gHsjDwE7e_Zr0U9eSxowpxFBpo60WwwWzOjvvgLK7II8K-_0kqG8RUsl4g31LrAoDPHfSINYn8-mAoVv3JqEGkF7-pNCb7qMPAhuiphu0Jgec/?imgmax=800" width="253" height="347"></a></p> <p><strong>I like</strong> that our kids have friends at church and look forward to going to service each week. </p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMeCYTbW5YXhIU4nq-HaD558F78E2ddFgpZFeKz75N95MCq1KhNfAkWXHj_yAaDvgqXZbMiqn6c-bdyaFryp0t590G_Eo7r1KRWTVu3V3J000fTL4nI-TletMl0nRuy0caPVMW8QnimhQ/s1600-h/IMG_6559%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img title="IMG_6559" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="IMG_6559" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-Q_lnogZRL1s/UuENsci462I/AAAAAAAAF2I/vHhlsFvkILY/IMG_6559_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="302" height="237"></a></p> <p><strong>I liked</strong> watching my first-time skaters take to the ice last week. Even Don was a first timer, though he managed to not fall. Can’t say the same for the kids!</p> <p><strong>I didn’t like</strong> the <a href="http://www.novinite.com/view_news.php?id=157307#sthash.Zhmyi75W.gbpl">latest news about the Syrian Refugees</a> and the situation here. Please pray for these families.</p> <p><strong>I didn’t like</strong> this <a href="http://www.novinite.com/view_news.php?id=157473">flu epidemic that has spread across Sofia.</a> Please pray for our health and that of our teammates!</p> <p><strong>I liked</strong> the countdown to our trip to the USA and the kids excitement! 48 days!</p> Alyssahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03579287362043576919noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-647082556377890491.post-82940842368702052402014-01-02T13:27:00.001+02:002014-01-02T13:31:26.406+02:002013 Family Recap<p>Wow! What a big year 2013 was in our lives. This was the year of change, that much is certain. The rest of it is marked by decided uncertainty, and also by God’s faithfulness. Here’s a little about what happened in 2013.</p> <p><strong>January</strong></p> <p>After receiving multiple offers on our home on Dec. 31, we welcomed 2013 with a day of negotiation and realtor-finding. We signed a contract with the buyers of our home on Jan 2. Thankfully, they wanted to rent the house to us for 2 additional months, so we had 90 days to vacate. Let the packing, selling, and temporary-house hunting begin! At the time, we still had no idea where we were going to end up, but selling the house (for almost asking price!) was a huge confirmation from God that we were indeed supposed to be heading somewhere. </p> <p><img src="http://p.rdcpix.com/v01/l59826143-m0m.jpg"></p> <p><strong>February</strong></p> <p>In February, we began selling our belongings in earnest. Craigslist sales became an everyday affair. We were offered a temporary place to live by friends, which was a huge blessing and took much of the stress off of us. We also reached a decision to head to Bulgaria! We set a departure date for July 9, and started fundraising. We also had our family photos taken by a friend who did an excellent job, and ordered our prayer cards.</p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1W25EZdwI8sr0hbX3sfnztIi80LLaVyCtGFH2bXXV1UMMtXOGiRrVv1O6UBxp-Zhub9r9xirNG1DUGz0JHUQDrKfsz6J3EbVdgNulnLwyRAkbXN9YIAawsEZpOvyMElKrnafLsQB-i68/s1600-h/Prayer%252520Card%252520Front01%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img title="Prayer Card Front01" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="Prayer Card Front01" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-whmSw6lYDIQ/UsVM158dajI/AAAAAAAAFxo/0wsscw4xuuE/Prayer%252520Card%252520Front01_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="164"></a></p> <p><strong>March</strong></p> <p>March was a blur of more selling, fundraising, and moving! We left the only home the kids had ever known and moved into a temporary place at the end of the month (the Sunday before Easter!). Our month looked like this:</p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBuezT-GxQrUjAcWigdLjY4i46yG9XNvF-9T9WdFaxXPSd8Bb7_tnZkrqiVEPFOxmYEBTwCVVU5gbvHx0QGWElnxDIG53c4qQZ0hFtPOOGbXbdgeHdlg0pv6XItzSak_-227zONBndx84/s1600-h/483694_10200431524727232_653150706_n%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img title="483694_10200431524727232_653150706_n" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="483694_10200431524727232_653150706_n" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRgfDBeOFRZbj7E09DQLko3xaaoPy_V5oa5ZTyF003usjxpcVLv_OB_Bo4q1J_dt-pcXOd2tJUhxKO6mKJDNcGoxjM6GW60OQjJoCjMU_90zNDcc0DgPLFKlpk1s8RDll8dbhEAe1AEVM/?imgmax=800" width="236" height="320"></a></p> <p><strong>April</strong></p> <p>April was a relatively quiet month. This was the time when we started to settle into the idea of moving overseas and away from everyone and everything. Living in temporary housing 30 miles from our beloved little town gave us a chance to slowly adjust to the idea of being much more the 30 miles away. We began looking at every moment with loved ones in a new way and cherishing every moment. </p> <p><strong>May</strong></p> <p>In May, we celebrated Elijah’s 6th birthday. This was a very fun occasion for him as it marked the first year he was allowed to choose his own birthday activities. He chose Jump-it, dinner at Texas Roadhouse and a sleepover. We also did quite a bit of fundraising travel and speaking, including the amazing day we spent speaking and sharing at our beloved home church in Hillsboro, IN.</p> <p>There was also one 3-week-long near panic regarding the FBI clearances and fingerprints… but we would prefer to leave that in the past. :)</p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhP7xLXmSQvb08yeMf4kRjrBOxofmyt1VGX1JI2E-qvAb_9xgYea70eP5PtboleG9KLAg3LXMYG6sIAQ5o0KP9t_gXC7mDNcEObH1D5qL0cA_AscwzpF4Y0lpWQZOp8hL2RWrm7eQo1l70/s1600-h/Elijah6%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img title="Elijah6" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="Elijah6" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtJm4iaS2bc5b7cd33dLEeXAjj0hQPqrcygBF6EcFt1CKgQlaSE2D6RYXLrELvzbY2g4wA7FS07TvcB6jtW3h8YKy-WbvHZi2Q9RJDsO2J3611VuDgK_E139Ihi3UnEwLSQyCQS5HvutI/?imgmax=800" width="244" height="244"></a></p> <p><strong><em><font size="1"></font></em></strong></p> <p><strong><em><font size="1">Elijah and friends on his 6th birthday.</font></em></strong></p> <p><strong>June</strong></p> <p>The month of June was a month of lasts. It was full of tears, and bittersweet moments. It is also overflowing with lots and lots of precious memories, many of which are making my teary-eyed as I write. There were visits with family, park trips, and outings that we will never forget.</p> <p>There was also the first round of goodbyes, these to family members that did not live close by, as we knew we would not have a chance to see them again before departure.</p> <p>This was also the month of watching God provide for our financial needs and lots of prayers for documents to arrive in time (they did!).</p> <p>One of the most precious memories in June was of Milena’s baptism. Many friends and family came to celebrate with her, and it was a wonderful evening.</p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvvTma9EHJDULvd-O0zPInAcPihnPeSdqULm0AzM2xS7XuvI9NSAWn-fUdQs_zLB1Vzl_HD3cNqfY9dV-XyAbiegi-57p7uVUx_riYqnupaFwrrjWpIMRDCc-BdxACgch5nMqESbjijx4/s1600-h/Milenabapt%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img title="Milenabapt" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="Milenabapt" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCS5IhBYB4femzyQRuGHiMe0xNOOX0vooVp_PQnl3KUywUtA-KmDPrf5Bd8oLnVxCElmu04z_6slSDv1KaPMruoUkbuQWmL0zjrAdWnC2NRjLfolSACKWiwVZHJaeFTPlnhIRzyfRw6DE/?imgmax=800" width="297" height="234"></a></p> <p><em><font size="1">Milena’s Baptism</font></em></p> <p><strong>July</strong></p> <p>July was… indescribable in a short paragraph. Or even a full blog post, really. We packed We said goodbye. We left. We vacationed briefly in Chicago. We flew. We arrived. We made our first trip to Greece. We rented an apartment and moved in. So much emotion. So many new experiences. </p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-fZhd499LSHo/UsVM5LuSSOI/AAAAAAAAFyk/dStw-5p6f_A/s1600-h/MnadA%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img title="MnadA" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="MnadA" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-n1Hlaav57P0/UsVM5iVY4sI/AAAAAAAAFyo/J7KZi-cvUag/MnadA_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="239" height="328"></a></p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnXZkbXeN4LSSloRYlnR3JsjGPTHQNmbhZNcn4ISF3f-K_hvptjaCa-m9XZsh9lbLHeKB05DA_a_fPwLHFeGrahhTTYeB-NGpqcmSRLFrzKfNIubQXjSvydvNEvuhjrfqWUKzuY9GGRIU/s1600-h/aunt%252520C%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img title="aunt C" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="aunt C" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtRFYJagePMEtkkBQoGUdK2kNTKCORig7oX2LfX5P3oPR-ubTIKQs7ppCBDmbCgJodQwfN9ZNCbKgBgnuiM_euq3ud1XrWHDSAyS2sK-F413f3rOGdzPB7lY1hfpdfGN_xGEX60PwUlfU/?imgmax=800" width="244" height="244"></a></p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-ic1YeGZROa0/UsVM7SuEDOI/AAAAAAAAFzE/FFNlOSmCXHs/s1600-h/airport%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img title="airport" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="airport" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivn6v16hibwaiYHSSdgrZHndRf03v4xyAM2v4fAojbcavSeI6UjwOUniV8gFmHqlUYnQtzdawxC3UtDTP-J4_6rUW_CL-s0Fg11zXFhlRvEkLPKqjaM8elflFnd7KXoMAArpjpdOhwhyphenhyphenQ/?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184"></a></p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjR43mQymzKTf242gUiCCi17ci7y1u79mJf9WHQl5lponLUb2G3P6UfOrCLdqv8Rwo8SNSYM4ggdGosV10I-Z4mTnaNAZa_ctdb6taQ3dhK9bn6HuY5oK8dPiGGmlrbcmg2EBljzmwzF4E/s1600-h/1st%252520sibling%252520pic%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img title="1st sibling pic" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="1st sibling pic" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHjtD7yC_8bqN0_dNgRJStFq8G1HskPFDpaVFmkIWd-LcsJASUddUN5a_UcCT0v1dAhCnPN6l4x-4XxRPS-kD_YwGVifSuWmP3fQbIwOg_bYHx2y7n6xB_CCCqYYh2D5xGyJ9vAFcTjGc/?imgmax=800" width="244" height="244"></a></p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-Ib5EN7klUdw/UsVM9YYVorI/AAAAAAAAFzk/5SNyNeE8X2I/s1600-h/66746_10201328423469140_1893861642_n%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img title="66746_10201328423469140_1893861642_n" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="66746_10201328423469140_1893861642_n" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjyzIFFmxGKDiLtjdpnp-R84e_vBkOOGBUuRqrPFamwvido2rWohB8Z04YAoHZ41cGaAlOHTHAgvm9wUL78KpexnkB3be_5xMbqmN-9AvrRxGJr7C4-dv5bIF2erJpgd56apWS7kuwVg4/?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184"></a></p> <p><strong>August</strong></p> <p>In August we celebrated our first milestone in Bulgaria. Milena turned 8! Along with her birthday, we also received our first package from the USA. We began working and settling into life in Sofia. We bought a car, had our first dinner guests, and attended church Sundays and Wednesdays.</p> <p>Also in August, we got involved in an Embassy playgroup with people from all over the world, and started to make new friends. We also met the Mann Family, who were later to become both great friends and ministry team members.</p> <p>We also started school early, in preparation for our 2014 trip to the US. Already we were looking forward to seeing friends and family again.</p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYb3xZCd8x6nm9-hi_86xNIc4qCX9uAJsYGpmR-svjYHijUUfz-tzJbegPpMcSfCa_-Li0vuWeIMlelIN5Z0SYSNRUVTsUthyYiN-Fj5YqICxEYcAmkxhcQ4tp4src2zlCr8GFrV9SNQw/s1600-h/IMG_5637%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img title="IMG_5637" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="IMG_5637" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZzZ6Mz5tuHovAhyphenhyphen6eUs6-j6dlQ-L4epTZp7bQeYF4lZGlAmAxQwFtB1MTQZAFKbN9i8mv52LjJDOded8sUJ7pN5H2IGWxK5vUgjFvrcwkrbH7raEFq4x7yUw_W8FR3LDf4KsX9APhhAo/?imgmax=800" width="184" height="244"></a></p> <p><em><font size="1">Milena’s 8th Birthday Breakfast- Cinnamon Roll Pancakes</font></em></p> <p><strong>September</strong></p> <p>In September we got into something of a routine, but frustrations were rising with our current ministry situation and we sensed a change coming. God was working, though, and by the end of the month we are starting to see Him bringing things together for us to join the Church of the Nazarene (our denomination) as Tentmakers in Bulgaria. It was a perfect fit for us, and we began to transition.</p> <p><strong>October</strong></p> <p>In October, we officially submitted our resignation to the first ministry and joined the Church of the Nazarene. This change brought much peace and “settling” for our entire family, and things began to settle into a new, happier routine. Some of the homesickness began to fade and we started seeing the purpose in our calling here.</p> <p>Don began working with a ministry to the refugees here in Sofia as well. It’s been amazing to be involved in a front-lines ministry to people from around the world.</p> <p>We also took a walking photo tour of our new city, which resulted in many great shots for this Mama to scrapbook!</p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-Owv6vWUKmX4/UsVM_fLg-EI/AAAAAAAAF0E/ID8Ui74P59s/s1600-h/180_0465%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img title="180_0465" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="180_0465" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-yxu3HW5_5SI/UsVM_07NwCI/AAAAAAAAF0I/xkEgh25wjyk/180_0465_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="301" height="237"></a></p> <p><strong>November</strong></p> <p>November began with a fun trip to the Nazarene National Assembly, where we spent time getting to know our new teammates and met many of the pastors and leaders from across the nation. For the kids, the highlight was definitely the visit to the castle in Veliko Turnovo,</p> <p>We decorated for Christmas mid-November, after making most of our own decorations. We also celebrated Thanksgiving with a lovely Turkey dinner with Bulgarians and Americans alike. It was a great holiday!</p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGZqJmR-kMwq4WLxh1Dd1N32IUSVafONyUwwGZlv2ny75Wbdq7U9tsiPL7EF8e6SjguzUcOCEAhCK_COakNW-rv5wu3C3D1GeAMPr1rvAErDomuiXYqTUh3uomytOje8-ry5s_Bg_XFS8/s1600-h/902861_10153423056435527_977958942_o%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img title="902861_10153423056435527_977958942_o" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="902861_10153423056435527_977958942_o" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj11jFfFerSwhwgO9whwZZIPEkFEw0nyGO0vY9LUaKF56fzs6Qua0ciXPmd9yXr3wVT0FlxARVqd4ldqniPx7abyM_cxkLPkY3_gFXFtjEqRod3cq30xW-yCggkfoLROGrxlPk0tFjkqYw/?imgmax=800" width="247" height="347"></a></p> <p><em><font size="1">A group shot at Veliko Turnovo (minus Sarah, the photographer)</font></em></p> <p><strong>December</strong></p> <p>December, while filled with Christmas celebrations, had a few other highlights. The Nazarene Sofia Church found a new rental location, and Don spent much of the month preparing it for our first service. </p> <p>Our team also made great progress in planning the soon-to-be-built new church building. We ended the year with a rough drawing of our plans, a business plan being written, and a timeline sketched out for 2014. </p> <p>Christmas was nice, but quiet. Most of our friends were travelling over the holidays, so we spent a few quiet days at home with way to much food and some fun Skype chats. We were blessed with several packages from US family and friends, and this made Christmas far more special. </p> <p>We ended the year staying at the Mann’s house for a few days, enjoying the big yard, trampoline, and unusually warm weather. The New Year’s Eve fireworks here are amazing!</p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-eGO5cxdRObg/UsVNBjgIkdI/AAAAAAAAF0k/pXSkGDN3ajs/s1600-h/PC240400%25255B7%25255D.jpg"><img title="PC240400" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="PC240400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEis11v2wRA1J8oY0_2gsPB-9cAESy38pZFOJNaJyRkVOBhrsTaX393peRAz6hvrXZkSDmEMrnzrSHTb4ws4qYSWiVHug5qhtF-qscksyYoqLHXOLtrxcnwrC5TtCnEvIiLumHCF1UWi0rI/?imgmax=800" width="238" height="326"></a></p> <p><em><font size="1">Listening to Don read the Christmas story on Christmas Morning</font></em></p> <p>Thank you for supporting and praying for our family through this year of ups and downs. We are so blessed and encouraged to have an amazing support team. </p> <p>We are also blessed with an abundance of great friends and family, both in Sofia and in the USA. We are beyond grateful for God’s faithfulness in 2013, and we are excited to see what miracles and amazing things God will do in 2014.</p> <p>Much Love, Don, Alyssa, Milena, and Elijah</p> Alyssahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03579287362043576919noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-647082556377890491.post-24544471748001929772013-11-25T20:07:00.000+02:002013-11-25T20:07:00.419+02:00I Like Riding the Bus<p>Since we’ve been in Sofia, I’ve developed a preference for public transportation, especially the bus. I ride the bus whenever it works with our plans/destination. Why?</p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfzdkdhabmmEG6PVCcTHGYu1Psv3VvoM8NlcwpX_xQAlxN0uBpgitz2L2JaPiiNrje0MXfwaEmaNthn4rwkcsh2as0t1j5bgiAYjBRXxOBOVdTWFhi5l-I-IvU9rsm_nzl4k7wJvHbAqs/s1600-h/IMG_5698%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img title="IMG_5698" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="IMG_5698" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6ESV7cHgkgMx7a6QFXJR4nrMyfUYtlJ1enS3PPn4f0Ed6WFZUA2g3pJZy3c151DSgf15NoKl_svWVvo7aJZWtH2roVkKMLGEOe7o2y3oUUTewJkhnnj3hjwrshsm-SY7CbP_Ei85JylY/?imgmax=800" width="261" height="358"></a></p> <p>I like riding <strong>the bus because it give me time to pray.</strong> More specifically, it’s one time in my daily routine when instead of praying for “the people of Sofia/Bulgaria/Europe,” I can pray for specific people. I sit on the bus, and for the 20-60 minutes it takes to get to my destination, I pray for the people sitting around me. </p> <p>I pray for the babas (grandmothers) getting on an off slowly, painstakingly carrying home produce from the market. I pray for the mothers, carrying their toddlers onto the bus. I pray for the business men, standing on the bus answering emails with their free hand while holding on with the other.</p> <p><strong>I appreciate the opportunity to pray for specific people</strong>, rather then in generalities. Maybe one day, someone I prayed for on the bus will show up at church. Now wouldn’t that be exciting? </p> <p><strong>What “tools/time” do you use to pray for the people in your country? Any tips for including more prayer time in your day?</strong></p> Alyssahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03579287362043576919noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-647082556377890491.post-51638950249561317082013-11-22T19:54:00.001+02:002013-11-22T19:54:13.824+02:00Things I Liked (or didn’t) This Week<p>Ok, so it’s been a few weeks, but I’m back with a new list. Share your lists with me in the comments. :)</p> <p>I liked putting up all the Christmas decorations. I know it’s early, but we made them all ourselves (mostly the kids) and we wanted to see our work on display. </p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-XHL7UX2u8PA/Uo-aPKxVXAI/AAAAAAAAFwQ/0T0YGllYX2E/s1600-h/PeppermintGarland2_Alyssa%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img title="PeppermintGarland2_Alyssa" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="PeppermintGarland2_Alyssa" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjYa2HhhMM_zQBsZfiP2QVHjR27_JEr2Hcx0qmcIYBgjSaXWfqRlAkXLVEXk1AH_Kn_nchZVRVoaOiuiKgsWGp8f32aB0fq50U9TceSj5Y5nZ65DkFxuu0VLybZUmPpsQCCmGEuRmZydg/?imgmax=800" width="327" height="257"></a></p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6nDKQWXmu97PUcdyicfPBpAQRvRBRYiyawnfaeKze2cGIN7jA03ZOxgqmHBzroox2fJpk0rkqpaU2X60z_iqpMoa4Ef-cLzrCiHRHTGqV8xRkeyFfCNn37VDWNW1lmxVNQ5NrMZKTk7s/s1600-h/Tree1%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img title="Tree1" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="Tree1" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-4peyPpeFhtU/Uo-aRKaAz5I/AAAAAAAAFwk/E34f5N7OfzU/Tree1_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="324" height="445"></a></p> <p>I didn’t like seeing all of the news from the <a href="http://www.wthr.com/story/24003280/2013/11/18/mellott-hit-hard-by-tornado">tornadoes in Illinois and Indiana</a> last week. So many of our friends were affected, and it’s heartbreaking to see.</p> <p>I liked watching from afar <a href="http://touch.wlfi.com/10001/151721090?h&desktop=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.wlfi.com%2Fnews%2Flocal%2Fhillsboro-community-helps-storm-victims">as our home church responded</a> to the needs and opened the church doors to the community.</p> <p>I liked seeing so many doors open in our ministry here and so many fun things in the works.</p> <p>There you have it! It’s a short list this week, but it’s definitely worth sharing. </p> Alyssahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03579287362043576919noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-647082556377890491.post-65565664144077602292013-10-30T16:16:00.001+02:002013-10-30T16:16:33.886+02:00Reactions and Choices<p>Recently, I’ve been taking some time to look back on my life and revisit how I reacted to certain events, and how my reaction changed the outcome. </p> <p>What has stood out to me during this reflection is that I have a choice how I will react. There is always a moment (sometimes just a spilt second) when I have to choose how I will react. It’s easy to say something like “I just reacted. I didn’t choose it… I just exploded/laughed/was mean.” Or, “I can’t help how I reacted. They just made me so angry.” <em><strong>But the truth is, I have a choice.</strong></em> There is always that moment, the split second (or longer) when I know I am faced with a choice about what I will say or do in the next moments.</p> <blockquote> <p><em><strong>Galatians 5:22-23</strong> But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law.</em></p></blockquote> <p>I used to think that the fruit of the Spirit would automatically begin displaying itself in the lives of every follower of Christ, because the Spirit lives in each of us. I am seeing more then ever that we must still make the choice. I must make the choice in each challenging situation how to react- this is self control! Self control is not the Spirit taking over my body and forcing a reaction upon me. Self control is pausing in that moment of aggravation or frustration to listen to the voice of the Spirit and choosing to react in a way that honors Christ. <em><strong>I must choose my reaction. You must choose your reaction. </strong></em>If we ask Him, the Holy Spirit will teach us how to use our moment of choice to stop and listen.</p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsB5Rq-wrN7oOzTC1jzw00ctbGrzuuqdRiNkK6psDQXlyUQCQEIiRmHsbso-f6WRzvDlUhN8edXL3q9o0LbI2v0e9MCHQwFmdttC7VKAShc1Ms8qgt77OFHHvvIyE5ToM_PofFK9BpLwU/s1600-h/180_0468%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img title="180_0468" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="180_0468" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-WueSWXf7NBg/UnEUwCYckJI/AAAAAAAAFuA/i6b6XD1AKqY/180_0468_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="435" height="342"></a></p> <p>Our family recently went through a huge shift in our ministry situation. Through the month-long process of making decisions and dealing with frustrating circumstances, we were faced with choices about our reaction every single day. Sometimes so many times in one day, our heads were spinning. But looking back, it is clear to me that our reactions made a huge difference in how events unfolded. I’m happy to say that we responded to the prompting of the Holy Spirit and reacted accordingly. There is no doubt that if we had reacted badly, the outcome would have been far more unpleasant. </p> <blockquote> <p><em><strong>John 15:8 </strong>This is to my Father’s glory, that you bear much fruit, showing yourselves to be my disciples.</em></p></blockquote> <p>It’s encouraging to look back and see how I have grown in my walk with Christ. <strong>How about you? How do you react to frustrating situations, and how has your reaction affected the outcome? In what ways are you bearing fruit? </strong></p> Alyssahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03579287362043576919noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-647082556377890491.post-88816364429671231292013-10-29T04:44:00.000+02:002013-10-29T04:44:00.688+02:00Things I Liked (or didn’t) This Week<p>Here’s a few of our highlights and blurbs from around the web this week.</p> <blockquote> <p><strong>I liked</strong> that we are now residents of Bulgaria! Woo-Hoo!</p> <p><strong>I liked</strong> spending time with new friends and getting to know them better.</p> <p><strong>I liked</strong> the Lego Bash party at the Mann’s and the excitement of my kids before and after.</p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-a7JVZRnB0HA/UmvVZ3GWSLI/AAAAAAAAFtk/RbmrE0kichw/s1600-h/884902_10153364690280527_1716582923_o%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img title="884902_10153364690280527_1716582923_o" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="884902_10153364690280527_1716582923_o" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiV47-M4zqi0PLWbjuvRz8UFWyL3abyO6k9SwwQcApco4kCmHb2qYFSvxWCJdgwsAQR5PbqRMxqtlhhUJqKL5YHeMBeTM_TG3HwMy89QsyrouyAXVyR7BycOENDpNOMs3T3CDyptxdKPTI/?imgmax=800" width="317" height="477"></a></p> <p><strong>I didn’t like</strong> the exchange rates and the way they affected our weekly budget. Praying they stabilize.</p> <p><strong>I liked</strong> the way <a href="http://www.alifeoverseas.com/why-i-will-not-say-i-never-made-a-sacrifice/">This Article</a> made me think.</p></blockquote> <p>Thanks for stopping by!</p> <p>~Alyssa~</p> Alyssahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03579287362043576919noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-647082556377890491.post-26001758433837834272013-10-26T17:04:00.001+03:002013-10-26T17:04:43.437+03:00October In Photos<p>My apologies for the blog neglect lately! I promise to catch up soon. In the meantime, here are photos of our October.</p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUT7rvEqwn8pvfhdDT7eaBoyIWyW4oNyJU-7XayL0uheE1IYHJN8-VNRUHtrStYc_l93LBAoULQLJRESjQfgJm1sRckBbsuyWrIk2J72fb3Lw9Ec2_8GX2_hiXxxkk6VBudd3PDm7C0fY/s1600-h/180_0453%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img title="180_0453" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="180_0453" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-v67sa33X9oQ/UmvLjcQqEYI/AAAAAAAAFrk/Hm6CwialIZA/180_0453_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="348" height="478"></a></p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhPqg799aCecsASuwpu9AFPRIqzAZgR0E8zmTYPEaBNABczq7xwGegnmVXV2DCjjazJATbyp_Z9iDGHwv9HFmDtzAe2RqZF5OM2muAJoKJEEDy2-L0xYIiG7E05pKtnr-YT2rLdpeLjyg/s1600-h/180_0412%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img title="180_0412" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="180_0412" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-wfPlbeX2p2g/UmvLlk_zhwI/AAAAAAAAFr0/ynP3fJ2eC1E/180_0412_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="347" height="273"></a></p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9vThm3eAB-IT9pyrVKd_8hOW37pUgWdge1yaNfePmW35OHM0_HT0iteBgbryK-1chiuI3fwNpdCH1pLvXiYpFhpKW82IEj2DtK800mmb9JUg0tsVQ3_ks4-QdO5klfbEEXO7R5Q0LTeU/s1600-h/180_0465%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img title="180_0465" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="180_0465" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqhcUCIVieAMMEoSujOrcP1HHlYSGfrpkxAFjIkamo767b9KKNKp2h87c9e_1c0okf0_Kjm7eV0nUHM-Um6skv3nwb58Rp46DoRWh06B8GeOIp_BOLRJeZfT_Q-Qh367sEKUvI75N25nw/?imgmax=800" width="346" height="272"></a></p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiu_27Nhx3NMTD6jtk-aVdWsR7rjHAkFZcclSj5PUuq-CTACHQ3_Icx1RkvKIPGbURGqrhWewwPqx_pbN88aN_C9KyD4Wa6YJI2lTx0B920AiDpMjnzHGwEBwyk1-ksVF2Fdhfbtn9hp60/s1600-h/180_0468%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img title="180_0468" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="180_0468" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5HO_3hn2Vy5USJPMAL0D-Dh6TaOPWLfpBksK-YiFNjb1IX8C3lvoYHlGkSmD49pzLh5JblS0yNEy0lzIrr-zfNeIPnC5j1cBjChkEYIRtsTSp6-foJFjWbUrzGo_eUs1-epSPKAubQns/?imgmax=800" width="347" height="273"></a></p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKRCtC66Oe30D1PqibIJ_7vEqrHGEXDEJjSePcxZPrrJX1E_jKWt0NDli9sOqkz564EME2KzIbiMUu9d4ZTMprIoDz7SGZlmXWXDHbmporELxv8vgwAJu03ghUUdvIp_Z-VKjijF5OSUw/s1600-h/IMG_5962%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img title="IMG_5962" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="IMG_5962" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-rs3QDZ49CYo/UmvL4FVYIfI/AAAAAAAAFsk/qd6Vk59VmAo/IMG_5962_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="341" height="468"></a></p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-KFJ7FYeB3b0/UmvL48mGMXI/AAAAAAAAFss/aCo9xsx0Xig/s1600-h/IMG_5968%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img title="IMG_5968" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="IMG_5968" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-l1Lzx2rbP9I/UmvL56lSdoI/AAAAAAAAFs0/KCvnihH38JE/IMG_5968_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="342" height="470"></a></p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVKtzadoWe-321MnI3xkyeJy7XgViRDB5nlpgQQ0netGw8McEkfimRzqsYN4FbIxANK-DKOGHtUkhnQiSg7cmzz6BLrjpZZvmKmhVQZcju6USoMQNibzj2brBnnISq-63a85vRouOKNQk/s1600-h/IMG_5970%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img title="IMG_5970" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="IMG_5970" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhM-vdKUpMxO_frlbxWcloicew5NZ5QKC7hXyTU3j43Faud9v9zlfTynRvTqnRUEx7tIpmDTXZf6_F3TghQqkbDjjZO43pI_HMHXkQMUcpkjsjK9rQuc61jaGKDajJrxWAtyDKTfjTNzQk/?imgmax=800" width="345" height="481"></a></p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggRsWh5oECCzfZX3y25gSkB5qgrQuOn-FgwYOwrbr4E6jzup674WKXKjQ66DklNRRQR7tuCDxZ19ogqwjkOiKA5uw89dZ3uaQFrhxaVLXoXNx5OIOOHHThdLug5-tOgx_CEEwg8JgTuTw/s1600-h/IMG_6013%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img title="IMG_6013" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="IMG_6013" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwmfUU1R8nK__VTfHBz_UVpObdaTXgdyuZRWxf1yE7tersxkzQul0cGx3xN-gt_Q020Bn9pK3kYTbuAY_5IqtZADU-dJ-DvWzIXwyjL7_58RdtyKN31DkJx7nbJUAP1hjCi9gcCLxeVjw/?imgmax=800" width="344" height="355"></a></p> <p>Updates to follow! Thanks for stopping by!</p> <p>Don and Alyssa</p> Alyssahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03579287362043576919noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-647082556377890491.post-23814438081054639092013-10-14T11:16:00.000+03:002013-10-14T11:16:01.665+03:00Another Guest Post: Easing Transitions<p>I have another guest post up at Missionary Mom’s Companion. I meant to post this earlier and it slipped my mind, but you can still go and <a href="http://moreformissionarymoms.blogspot.com/2013/10/easing-transitions.html">check it out HERE.</a></p> <p>Here’s a excerpt from my post:</p> <p><em>Our family is new to the field, and there was one thing that we did while leaving that made all the difference. We took a 3 day mini vacation just before catching our overseas flight.</em></p><em></em> <p><br><em>I read this suggestion online from </em><a href="http://www.lauraparkerblog.com/"><em>Laura Parker</em></a><em>, a seasoned missionary mom. Laura was sharing the idea in the context of “things we wish we had done,” and the idea immediately resonated with me. When we left the US to come to Bulgaria, we were leaving the only home my kids had ever known. It was my husband’s first overseas move. It was my first time overseas in more than a decade. It was a LOT to process.<br>The long weekend away was just what we needed.</em></p> <p><a href="http://moreformissionarymoms.blogspot.com/2013/10/easing-transitions.html">You can read the rest of the post HERE.</a></p> Alyssahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03579287362043576919noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-647082556377890491.post-46244152619607644082013-10-11T11:10:00.001+03:002013-10-11T11:13:04.062+03:00What $35 Will Buy At LidlMy grocery-related posts seem to be popular, and I understand why. I’m fascinated by how these things work in other countries too. Last night, Milena and I went to our favorite local store to pick up a few things, so when I got home, I took a picture for posterity.<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbiToj2YJkEsGjpvExBK6GtjEO2LZT0_7bbgvDEcSraIOYPeBxpoJeSQ_GhRPfgBHj2ECXwiM6WRmjWf2AaY_vakxmufZLP2QQqGnLlsfsP0817S5yFOkeTc4-IOiZe95RsyXNY3KoHhk/s1600-h/180_0396%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img alt="180_0396" border="0" height="385" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjC65J5R6TxBspG-IpxlKcSYkMqnlKNSTMwfe5zGk5-t6_dQTg6l3ZLNiLPvXRs-j2TH9utv387JNE5kT4waOu8z0ewW9SMux9x1Rq-TnyRQ3poIxJfYUjojYA9xLeNGSi-Zu6AWlJNMVU/?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: inline; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="180_0396" width="480" /></a><br />
We spent about $35 USD, and this is what we bought (weight conversions are estimates):<br />
8 lb squash (not pictured)<br />
22 liters of water (not pictured)<br />
36 oz bag of cornflakes<br />
24 oz Honey Cheerio-like cereal<br />
3-12oz containers of Yogurt<br />
6 oz bag of pretzels<br />
16 ct. pack of hot dogs<br />
1 Loaf of Bread<br />
1 Bunch of Green Onions<br />
1 lb Onions<br />
2 lb Potatoes<br />
2 Cucumbers<br />
1 Head of Lettuce<br />
4 lemons<br />
2 lbs Oatmeal<br />
5 Doughnuts (an unusual treat!)<br />
10 oz. Mayonnaise<br />
2 lbs Local Cheese<br />
80 ct. Cleaning Wipes<br />
I also bought tortillas (16 tortillas for $4) and Butter (2 lbs for $8) but I had to go to a different store for those. Items like meat and butter definitely raise the total bill. We often try to make our own tortillas, but it’s time consuming and sometimes we just can’t make it happen. It’s much cheaper when we do though!<br />
I hope you enjoyed this little peek into everyday life in Sofia! Alyssahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03579287362043576919noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-647082556377890491.post-14048293780622367492013-09-27T10:51:00.001+03:002013-09-27T10:51:43.667+03:00Things I Liked (or didn’t) This Week<p><strong>I liked</strong> getting our Visas! Whoo-Hoo!</p> <p><strong>I didn’t like</strong> being sick, and having sick kiddos, all at the same time. </p> <p><strong>I liked</strong> the start of fall. So far, the squash and the sunrises are my personal highlights.</p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiF4-bX8BmVNI6b86fYsylAgzwMYSSOSIIjWzwQ9bZB-qByjBqom3dj4SAoCSxy7l28xfAlWYsRPQ6WLXVxKinItjzZDQEl1GIiB7Guqj6O6A0Kdy2sD3wOdX4rmrfboiraeNwdBMoFSDI/s1600-h/timeline%2525202%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img title="timeline 2" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="timeline 2" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfhcoc3t_NPRZAdlY0r8ZKAdZJdH2yaDkaRAGUZGD8_aWqgP0taknFJtSwRAKbYt3T-KG3mVMaze7JVk_P36uD6iCQgjEMuSlmObHYuTZ3mVH0cTGMMeDlMu_NTI8J1MiMXkcJc3zo-1g/?imgmax=800" width="362" height="149"></a></p> <p><strong>I</strong> <strong>didn’t like</strong> the news this week. Stories of increasing violence, unrest, and more. Praying for peace. </p> <p><strong>I loved</strong> having 3 hours to myself this week, and having a husband that takes the kids out occasionally to make that possible.</p> <p><strong>I liked</strong> having coffee with a new friend.</p> <p><strong>I didn’t like</strong> all the construction noise next store. Thankful it’s a short term project due to be complete next month. I will like having our favorite grocery store across the street.</p> <p><strong>I like</strong> that we’ve completed almost 20% of our school year. Time is flying by!</p> <p><strong>What did you like, or not this week?</strong></p> Alyssahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03579287362043576919noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-647082556377890491.post-13892496337193981662013-09-25T12:43:00.001+03:002013-09-25T12:43:05.003+03:00Guest Post: Making the Most of Skype<p>I wrote this post a few weeks ago, and today I am happy to share it over at <a href="http://moreformissionarymoms.blogspot.com/2013/09/ideas-for-making-most-of-skype.html">Missionary Mom’s Companion</a>. Here’s a preview of the article:</p> <p><em>Picture this: Two children, best friends for years, now separated by an ocean. They were so eager to chat online that they could barely eat breakfast, and now they sit in front of the computer. Finally! </em> <p><em>Eagerly they exchange greetings, and for the first 3 minutes, conversation flows excitedly across continents. Then… silence. The awkward moment where they want desperately to keep talking, but they have no idea what to say. </em> <p><em>What’s a Momma to do? </em> <p><strong>To see the full article, please visit </strong><a href="http://moreformissionarymoms.blogspot.com/2013/09/ideas-for-making-most-of-skype.html"><strong>Missionary Moms HERE.</strong></a></p> Alyssahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03579287362043576919noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-647082556377890491.post-42795638078632185352013-09-12T04:07:00.000+03:002013-09-12T04:07:00.147+03:00Things I Liked (or didn’t) This Week<p>Time for an almost weekly assortment of things I liked and didn’t, from the web as well as everyday life.</p> <p><strong>I liked</strong> taking time to have a coffee/milkshake date with this beauty. I love this young lady.</p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZustNgg5ZhEP9dNd6TvfSZ9R2aQllnMtIB9i03FRc9Be9h8vz7iHBsOTGzYjmRA1wPz-PRTph1VtdVU2qz3d39sjDo3q16bpeUWw4LcPfR2VnIJLI4Vki8PiigZAmD4CAPlUQfBixfg8/s1600-h/image-31.jpg"><img title="image (3)" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="image (3)" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-d3bylfuTJUA/UjBrLXOl6uI/AAAAAAAAFiQ/20CtrIVJZB8/image-3_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="270" height="366"></a></p> <p><strong>I liked</strong> <a href="http://www.washingtonpost.com/blogs/worldviews/wp/2013/08/29/9-questions-about-syria-you-were-too-embarrassed-to-ask/?tid=pm_pop">this article</a> for it’s simple explanation of recent events in Syria. I didn’t like (at all) that it was necessary. The situation is terrible, and needs our prayers.</p> <p><strong>I liked</strong> that Sofia is starting to feel like home. Or, more accurately, like one of two homes. </p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYXLdEFwTs4mLXvytXeU64SNtXljxEDlyD2P3kwuedu00wZNuCQjm-xsiKnMvFG_N9y3sWXkKT6dns0fm54QJBI3hM8BtVYXsYC4mjYl1N8JM_pCCWZAWKegua4WWfQ3xyiNzgynXFTdA/s1600-h/IMG_0752%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img title="IMG_0752" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="IMG_0752" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-bKdg0xl5xJs/UjBrMX7mV4I/AAAAAAAAFig/5pBSvUfE49I/IMG_0752_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="262" height="355"></a> </p> <p><strong>I didn’t</strong> like how little time I have had to keep this space updated.<strong> I liked</strong> that we’re settling into a schedule and getting involved in more ministry opportunities.</p> <p>I<strong> liked</strong> seeing the kids playing baseball this year on a team with other expat and missionary kids. </p> <p><strong>I liked</strong> finding that squash and apple season has started. We bought this big guy yesterday:</p> <p><img src="https://fbcdn-sphotos-d-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-frc1/1176154_10201655622888921_147909820_n.jpg" width="330" height="330"></p> <p><strong>I didn’t like</strong> seeing friends here and abroad hurting this week and not being able to be there, or do much to help.</p> <p>Thanks for coming by!</p> Alyssahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03579287362043576919noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-647082556377890491.post-69954395693696965412013-09-11T15:55:00.001+03:002013-09-11T15:55:32.536+03:00Videos!<p>We made a video of our move here. We’re planning a whole series of movies, but for now… Here is the first one. Enjoy!</p> <p><iframe height="480" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/OiLFL3uAuVs" frameborder="0" width="640" allowfullscreen></iframe></p> Alyssahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03579287362043576919noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-647082556377890491.post-83304335905075467452013-08-20T10:50:00.001+03:002013-08-20T10:50:42.923+03:00Weekly Mash-Up<p>Time for another selection of things I liked and didn’t like this week!</p> <p><strong>I liked (loved)</strong> celebrating this precious girl’s 8th birthday. I didn’t like the fact that she is 8 (!) already. Where does the time go? I am so proud of her and the young woman she is becoming. She is compassionate, devoted to obeying Christ, and is receptive to correction. What more could a mother want?</p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRTYqxSec69HjYeByXei2i9suF8XQz5e2fk-5AWRgkOlkmVvRYPgbva4XTHx5rO_cikCejDymtn_I1j909M-8yPsH-P3nRDw1S7L7RfqCQV-kFyd0XeaDOJawA9WUmXnbJT4y3nmgph0g/s1600-h/971807_10201513255169817_194397560_n%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img title="971807_10201513255169817_194397560_n" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="971807_10201513255169817_194397560_n" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5tEEA46x4UmzBkM1QhQ7swA4iFBPdUq_yd1XWq_wtMRu1dVeWAbWNB-TfYlUCUq0k7v6Bg3mlT5NWVoE6NKb4u_xhgrwt0bsimuixuD7izZ3qq03xHzacK2b63r59l9tWqQARsuM3-nU/?imgmax=800" width="380" height="393"></a></p> <p>Recipe: <a href="http://therecipecritic.com/2013/08/cinnamon-roll-pancakes/">Cinnamon Roll Pancakes</a></p> <p><strong>I didn’t like</strong> <a href="http://tv.yahoo.com/blogs/tv-news/report--former-disney-channel-star-lee-thompson-young-found-dead-182359895.html">this news.</a> It broke my heart and made me sad. </p> <p><strong>I liked (a lot)</strong> our Expat playgroup and the new friends we are making there.</p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-7_PhX80tqg4/UhMfy2y7chI/AAAAAAAAFe8/bKifXiwzZT4/s1600-h/swimtime%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img title="swimtime" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="swimtime" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAgXT3UYKmWA9iFUzfS3uQMym0NYaIClMEGQM4TweglNQN19TF-rUM7JXRbXxCn3tOVXyILNExipvmQN9JRyXPpAeoghskDLhhCazw-niciAh-WmgGDJR5y_boagE1JYrC2UboxVLvkRE/?imgmax=800" width="304" height="417"></a></p> <p><strong>I liked</strong> Skyping with our home church last week. It was so amazing to be connected to our church family in this way and feel their support.</p> <p><strong>I didn’t like</strong> that I got powdered ammonia mixed up with baking powder and made some truly awful corn bread. (We discovered it before trying to eat it, thankfully!) When made without the powdered ammonia, <a href="http://www.ginnymccormackcooks.com/southern-style-cornbread">this recipe is really amazing!</a></p> <p><strong>I didn’t like</strong> the construction noise outside my bedroom window at 7am on Sunday, and every other day.</p> <p><strong>I liked (kinda)</strong> the Mariachi music the night club across the way plays on Tuesday nights. It makes me wonder what kind of dancing is happening inside.</p> <p><img src="https://fbcdn-sphotos-a-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-frc3/1016967_10201348385048167_1529820200_n.jpg" width="378" height="378"></p> <p><strong>I liked</strong> seeing God’s provision for our family in the form of this car:</p> <p><img src="https://fbcdn-sphotos-f-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-frc3/1012465_10201447496245885_1281066974_n.jpg" width="367" height="367"></p> <p>What did you like (or not) this week?</p> Alyssahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03579287362043576919noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-647082556377890491.post-62944859969286985422013-08-16T12:10:00.001+03:002013-08-16T12:10:53.382+03:00New Newsletter<p>If you’re not subscribed to our newsletter, you can read the newest one <a href="http://us6.campaign-archive2.com/?u=9a0fe99cae285d65f03d8a9ae&id=c7d36f46a0">BY CLICKING HERE.</a> :)</p> <p>Subscribe on the right if you want to get these biweekly in your email.</p> Alyssahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03579287362043576919noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-647082556377890491.post-59622542137088612782013-08-14T23:05:00.001+03:002013-09-25T12:46:39.244+03:00Ideas for Making the Most of SkypePicture this: Two children, best friends for years, now separated by an ocean. They were so eager to chat online that they could barely eat breakfast, and now they sit in front of the computer. Finally! <br />
Eagerly they exchange greetings, and for the first 3 minutes, conversation flows excitedly across continents. Then… silence. The awkward moment where they want desperately to keep talking, but they have no idea what to say. <br />
What’s a Momma to do? This is the moment where a mother’s heart begins to question. How can I help them through this transition? Why on earth did I bring them here in the first place?<br />
We recently moved overseas, and this moment has played out in our home several times over the past weeks. <a href="http://www.alifeoverseas.com/helping-your-children-stay-in-touch-with-family-and-friends-when-living-abroad/">Inspired to work hard at keeping in touch</a>, I brainstormed a list of ideas to help encourage better Skype chats that feel like real playtimes for my kids. Today, I’d like to share a few of our tested favorites.<br />
<strong>1. Ask Questions</strong>. <em>Remind your kids that their friends have things going on in their lives too, and those thing are still part of their friendship equation.</em> I often have to prompt my kids with questions to ask. Sometimes I know things about their friend’s lives that help with this. If I know from Facebook that their friend was sick, or visited their Grandma, this is a piece of information I can feed to my kids to help keep conversation going.<br />
<strong><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-tZfFbDeImAI/UgvjDWxIhnI/AAAAAAAAFeE/PbMu4i5jCjM/s1600-h/1170936_10201444485290613_1761438025_n%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img alt="1170936_10201444485290613_1761438025_n" border="0" height="332" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-TEztaKJ1Cog/UgvjFHqXNzI/AAAAAAAAFeM/MDkdENql-CU/1170936_10201444485290613_1761438025_n_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: inline; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="1170936_10201444485290613_1761438025_n" width="321" /></a></strong><br />
<strong>2. Play Games.</strong> Connect 4, Hangman, and many other games can be played via Skype. Kids talk more while they are playing together.<br />
<strong>3. Draw and Color.</strong> My daughter loves to color and draw, and so do most of her friends. They like to do a 10-minute draw, where for 1 minute they both draw with red, then another minute with blue, and so on. After 10 minutes, they show each other their drawings. They talk while drawing, free of self-conscious silence.<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEif79hAXsWNhtZUB57B_UnsxBGOLoYwtahBxniELzXnYhNYz9YAdCvoxnHQAO0AtndRC1TSCEFXYgeSce3HEjDfvl3QJTaMScNA92RuZvtYwHxNHa4BnvC9v9x816qHciYhtdF3UsEDOno/s1600-h/21412_10201444483250562_31083041_n%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img alt="21412_10201444483250562_31083041_n" border="0" height="330" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpEOavWwoMNCegfGfsaIemxyDT2Aw8xM0wKd4n4FJgCx-78OYyIVOnKimqz0cxFDkwtvT5UoL7GFfVsRHQRSDH7DGnLQo2UDJpVcjldfqjYKvOdklp5kL0IwqzLtCG1d0RN8m2pK7hIlc/?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: inline; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="21412_10201444483250562_31083041_n" width="312" /></a><br />
<strong>4. Plan listening dates</strong>. We often listen to an online radio station here, and it’s available anywhere. So the kids will set a time with their friends, and they both listen. Then they Skype and talk about the programs or songs they heard.<br />
<strong>5. Let the kids give tours.</strong> This can be a little dicey with an expensive laptop and a small child, so often my husband and I will carry the laptop around the apartment or playroom, and let the kids show the person on the other end anything they want to share. Then we encourage their friends to do the same.<br />
<em>What other ideas have you implemented for helping your kids stay in touch with their friends while your family is deployed or serving overseas? Leave me a comment, I’d love to give them a try.</em>Alyssahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03579287362043576919noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-647082556377890491.post-89045552377026868742013-08-10T22:23:00.001+03:002013-08-20T13:23:50.550+03:00I Met a WomanI met a women at the market a few weeks ago. Her kids were speaking English, and that gets you noticed around here (Any idea how I know that?). So we stood, and talked, next to the eggs, which were in the freezer aisle. In between my fleeting thoughts about the eggs being in the freezer aisle and the fact that you can choose your own eggs, one by one, because they are sold individually, I learned that she is an expat, new to Sofia, with 5 children.<br />
<br />
Reading between the lines, I sensed immediately that she is lonely, misses her support network, and has mixed feelings about being in Sofia. Yeah, me too. <br />
<br />
Se between the eggs and the ice cream, we connected over bags of ice in the only store in the city that sells ice. We compared our children’s ages, spoke about our professions and our husband’s professions, and exchanged phone numbers.<br />
<br />
The next week, we met at a park with a few more expat families, and one new relationship blossomed into four new friendships.<br />
<br />
This week, we will meet again, with a few more families, to take the kids to the zoo. I<br />
think, however, that this is bigger then just seeing the tigers.<br />
<br />
This I know because I serve a God who is all about relationships, I know for a fact that He is at work. This open door is a connection, a road to ministry opportunities, friendships, and people. People for whom God sent us to Sofia. <br />
<br />
One day, I will look back on this beginning and know exactly why we met that day in the aisle for eggs and ice. I will look back and see every footstep carefully arranged by a loving creator. For now, I will walk this path, pray for the people I am meeting, and share Christ when hearts are open. <br />
<br />
Because I am learning that we must always look forward, until it is time to look back.<br />
<b><br /></b>
<b>Have you looked back and seen God working in ways you never realized at the time? Feel free to share your story in the comments. I'd love to hear it.</b><br />
<br />Alyssahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03579287362043576919noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-647082556377890491.post-31517620555780583882013-08-10T21:52:00.001+03:002013-08-10T21:52:31.213+03:00Things I Liked, or Didn’t Like This Week<p>The idea for this post is completely copied from <a href="http://www.djiboutijones.com/">Rachel at Djibouti Jones.</a> I (Alyssa) enjoy her posts each week, and thought I’d give it a try here. Let’s call it a weekly mash-up of our lives in Sofia and what we’re checking out online.</p> <p><strong>I liked</strong> the encouragement and influence <a href="http://www.klove.com/">K-Love</a> has on our family. We play it all the time, including when anyone is having trouble sleeping. It sounds like home and is comforting to all of us. The kids even make K-Love appointments with their friends- both of them listening at the same time, from different continents.</p> <p><strong>I liked</strong> <a href="http://ourwrightingpad.blogspot.com/2013/08/listening-to-bible-study-about-abraham.html">this post from Rachelle Wright</a>. It made me think, and I enjoy this type of “digging deep” post.</p> <p><strong>I like/don’t like</strong> the struggle we are having with feeling like we need to earn our financial support. <strong>I appreciate</strong> the accountability, and the need to make sure we are fully engaged and active in ministry here. <strong>I dislike</strong> the tendency I have to focus on pleasing supporters, rather then pleasing and obeying God. <strong>I like </strong>the way this forces me to consider my motives and challenges my level of obedience to God.</p> <p><strong>I didn’t</strong> like the struggle this week to both find our niche here in Bulgaria and choose the right places to jump in and get involved. <strong> I didn’t</strong> like the feeling of being here, but not really fully HERE yet.</p> <p><strong>I liked</strong> seeing my kids make new friends, and meeting families from around the world at our new Expat play group. Praying for ministry connections there.</p> <p><strong>I liked</strong> the new possibilities that presented themselves this week. We have multiple ministry avenues we’re exploring, and it’s exciting to think about what God will do.</p> <p><strong>I liked</strong> having our first guests in our new apartment.</p> <p><strong>I didn’t like</strong> waking at 4am to the sounds of some random stranger puking under my window.</p> <p><strong>I liked</strong> how <a href="http://pinterest.com/alyssamm/boards/">Pinterest</a> makes it easy to find recipes. Like, for example, what to do with the ground ham I bought while trying to buy ground beef.</p> <p>I<strong> liked</strong> the encouraging posts from family and friends. We have a great support network. I love you all.</p> Alyssahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03579287362043576919noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-647082556377890491.post-87957123609007742022013-08-04T22:22:00.001+03:002013-08-04T22:27:30.940+03:00Observations of SofiaTime for a fun post about some of the unique things about Sofia. Or at least, things that are new to us.<br />
<br />
1. There is fresh produce everywhere. I mean, everywhere. Little stands on the sidewalk, larger markets in the center, and shops with produce stands in front of them. I know this will change come winter, and I will really miss it.<br />
<a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-4Meay4QPSHQ/Uf6p9dR2qeI/AAAAAAAAFc0/zGsde3hV7ac/s1600-h/IMG_5276%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img alt="IMG_5276" border="0" height="359" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmbHRNiWvWUsVw7ncntrBI7F9XGG_AqmacnsEvx1H_Vq9wXjsbX4lBuEJ69oCYlXrmFH0dBr30lhX2gWsXjstzBI6I4XiTcehC3Nslihr2tMz-wh2Whg964vcqvZV9KUhfs4FiKtQk0Po/?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: inline; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="IMG_5276" width="348" /></a><br />
2. The Bulgarians are very friendly, but generally will not start a conversation with a stranger. If we start a conversation, even with a simple comment, it will often lead to hour-long conversations. This is challenging for one of us, not so much for the other (guess which?).<br />
3. There are many rules for driving here. Not many of them are obeyed. Except when they are, and then we are usually the only ones who didn’t get the memo.<br />
4. Bulgarian is a very challenging language. Much more for one of us then for the other. (guess which? Hint: It’s the opposite of #2). The Bulgarians love it when we attempt to speak their language. They usually warm up to us right away if we (read: Alyssa) can manage a few sentences.<br />
5. It is a highly valued skill here to speak English. It’s often difficult to practice Bulgarian, because people frequently prefer to practice their English on us.<br />
6. Salads in Bulgaria include lettuce about 5% of the time. The rest of the time, cucumbers, yogurt, and/or tomatoes serve as the base, with other toppings added in for variety. Salad dressing is nearly non-existent, with the exception of oil and vinegar.<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3XzHcwVjoycbi74CJ2WAFnMH_pGAllqpwA2nBowjNR_ZZNv7yyc9SlRjUZTuheX9fgv8AIjBPTNNrmTbZ65dS-K5KgDUCA5aSHIVuKYED6PvmLEqwkJIG4s9iBl8G9kdYfTbs0RXhZcg/s1600-h/IMG_5119%252520-%252520Copy%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img alt="IMG_5119 - Copy" border="0" height="372" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBTpvpZjVOaW2jxe3q3l5OGELdjlUbQ6KgqOWrEA9bpi4Zimzcz0R4HXB4WQHlHUE6Co4WPkYzjBHm5LtyyCVB3o5aD6Y4yRvD0NDdMaOuTWgzpruSGCBdV6KOA9als3RcmPBJANa7qaE/?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: inline; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="IMG_5119 - Copy" width="352" /></a><br />
7. Cheese comes generally in 2 varieties: white (feta) and yellow (kinda-sorta like mozzerella). Other cheeses are available, but for a much higher price.<br />
8. Almost everyone lives in apartments. Houses are considered expensive to heat and maintain, and are less desirable to the average Bulgarian. <br />
9. Bulgarians are passionate and enthusiastic, but you may never discover that until you build relationships with them. They are outwardly quite reserved… unless you get in their way while driving.<br />
10. Bulgaria is a wonderful place, full of beautiful landscapes and architecture. It is exactly the right place for our family, at least for this season. :)Alyssahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03579287362043576919noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-647082556377890491.post-14098423298589872152013-08-03T10:53:00.001+03:002013-08-03T10:53:29.174+03:00Greece!<p>Just 6 days after arriving in Sofia, we headed to Greece with our attorney to apply for our visas. The drive t5ook about 4 hours, and when we arrived in Thessaloniki, the first place we went was to the seaside for a short cruise. The ship itself was a cruising café, so the cruise was free if we bought a few drinks. No worries, I was ready for some coffee at that point anyway. :)</p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-c725OlbXNeM/Ufy22U9wFLI/AAAAAAAAFas/jj8I86KhX-4/s1600-h/IMG_5160%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img title="IMG_5160" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="IMG_5160" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-IQTAj85vHkQ/Ufy23CuukMI/AAAAAAAAFa0/uCaGMKPF3fw/IMG_5160_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="325" height="457"></a></p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-Rz4a3ovoid4/Ufy23hREnOI/AAAAAAAAFa8/bUwzuDPH05Y/s1600-h/IMG_5163%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img title="IMG_5163" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="IMG_5163" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4dWcLcGQMkqZdf4xpvlaflHDwcth1Ph1x6b0fhk1bENq-vgN6jU8tegMbM2suAXMXRgStfws208MjnW6j_8ADuuWpmR9GMGsExB_HFXHubhmqf5AC4SDZDrWWpeyuz7vvEWk2Upaguzk/?imgmax=800" width="323" height="444"></a></p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-mV1kXUwhkJ4/Ufy24hMy5NI/AAAAAAAAFbM/cEnC_2eGTnM/s1600-h/IMG_5164%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img title="IMG_5164" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="IMG_5164" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-KqVklWTMFNY/Ufy25P4Je5I/AAAAAAAAFbU/oI9t82ZhX7M/IMG_5164_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="326" height="448"></a></p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCSDhIKJcyH_wDvBe8uIy-uVOC94YajB0zo9p5uxQfgoIJKkr6u0bIKAx30mQF28LG8JEr-MHwAV-O5ePrBa-YgVea6PifnDjqhg-F2yzs1qtVvyo1joY-bZIJwVH78aVjAGnadv3UUXE/s1600-h/IMG_5165%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img title="IMG_5165" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="IMG_5165" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-PMN1k1po_cw/Ufy26F_CtzI/AAAAAAAAFbk/gra4Jxl3ifA/IMG_5165_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="326" height="448"></a></p> <p>The weather was perfect, the sun was shining, and we were really savoring the moment. Being on the Mediterranean was pretty amazing for this Midwest family.</p> <p>After the cruise, we checked into our hotel room. The room itself was nice (though very small), but the view was perfection.</p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVOzFQhIFfBr39ts974ZhoV3OEHIjzulR2CXCAhVZr5CpL3e5vrZXwz0stq5NCwZCcsbGv8l8ffkN6ikRzNGqOrxe5jfZJkORXuck8bMA30D2RPvYNnLZXQnnSj6Ru73TuoRUUKTMbpBw/s1600-h/IMG_5172%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img title="IMG_5172" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="IMG_5172" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhX6EnM8tE_gy_P-CiUaVPA_nFKen0bha01X-pfZWiFMi40KDBbI2qCmu8JkjG2ho1lkEDDzT4P2ijPF9W7ZaWpT-4MNt6MTInYCWIizttzDSZ2B7_AWSDrQlygnZbzhqXmKsbc8iW-IoQ/?imgmax=800" width="329" height="340"></a></p> <p>For dinner we headed to this tucked away local hotspot, on the recommendation of our attorney. We could not have chosen a better place for a seaside dinner. Great food, better view and experience.</p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-M02gIYr57Ps/Ufy27oA5jKI/AAAAAAAAFb8/U34OYsZLjAg/s1600-h/IMG_5176%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img title="IMG_5176" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="IMG_5176" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhj7Hj6jeXdBZR1YZ29jWhJNXrXc_NnU4BWjU2_XaY-lV3Wx_QhTbWGLtsoXHYeq5zERwUEQHvwbqf1sZScQjmxS4buob97HF4hsAApHUCfBN3FDtjAGvLckj7ZYTLHH11K2KcUwD_u6k0/?imgmax=800" width="328" height="450"></a></p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-QeF0MbHx9nI/Ufy28mhW1EI/AAAAAAAAFcM/dT4A6FVOaRg/s1600-h/IMG_5181%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img title="IMG_5181" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="IMG_5181" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJxhQukZmhyphenhyphenwUiSwrbmR7DRhtQUiy1vGdY9K9xLzYI5PcMIMAwGa4ueVzJUpRYfqdLTUFWdgI4RCVp0FAWZhsISAXwCi8D5laC9wBXitzQJ2g7lis1d3WSDhkRwaLFHwr3fbYn1PYno48/?imgmax=800" width="329" height="452"></a></p> <p>In the morning, waking up on the balcony enjoying the sea breeze was wonderful.</p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuopEA_rzW0Tnmek4-fR3ByznYzTCuAiax7CmSKYB_t0if50aiFDGvzllb3rTHM2zXtY1PSKrIEsqOMVtTmRKaTdnCDr4zFO5tVVgEKEpudsKwh4p_N6JBEu6kLLRMERpvyLvsDy9IpFs/s1600-h/IMG_5202%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img title="IMG_5202" style="border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px" border="0" alt="IMG_5202" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiu26ssA-ojGIBiBLnS8oyocud5ApEzhrvxd3rYquBUIkAodaohstGnE234s8qAj5abXzZ-DX1xptu1JwsNQxOpXTnoYt2Y-UM4SOLdiOUGBMbou3Uw8AFyT_EQFqPP_EDfIeBGWNovyIs/?imgmax=800" width="331" height="465"></a></p> <p>After a nice hotel breakfast, we headed to embassy, filed our papers, and headed back to Sofia. In a few weeks we will head back to Greece to pick up our visas! Then we apply for resident cards and work on the kid’s visas. Please pray that everything goes smoothly with future trips across the border and our paperwork processing.</p> Alyssahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03579287362043576919noreply@blogger.com0