tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-30856032151617492932024-02-07T12:04:25.889-08:00Vero in SaipanVero in Saipanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16463939220206028295noreply@blogger.comBlogger25125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3085603215161749293.post-88140310032740092962008-08-14T21:28:00.000-07:002008-08-14T21:30:04.053-07:00VISIT ME!!!!Hey there,<br />You're either checking this out because you're bored, or just wondering if i'm ever gonna say goodbye to Saipan...well, i'll tell you this, this missionary chic has moved from tropical paradise, to dorm living. Come check out my new blog "<a href="http://veroda.blogspot.com">Missionary Life: DA Style</a>" to hear of my new destination and what job the Lord has for me!<br /><br />Lots of Love to you all!Vero in Saipanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16463939220206028295noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3085603215161749293.post-47684052242562364202008-05-13T22:28:00.000-07:002008-05-13T22:55:01.073-07:00Little hands in prayerAs a kindergarten teacher, I'm constantly watching little hands doing different things. Sometimes these little hands are holding crayons to create a beautiful masterpiece. Other times, especially if teacher is busy, they are doing some stuff that they probably shouldn't. At these times, i've seen these little hands be used as weapons, climbing instruments, and some are just hanging around inside their clothes (please don't ask me why lol). Today however, with just about 5 mins left of class, I saw a pair of these hands doing something really special. Sure some of the other little hands have done these before, but this time, these little hands did it without being asked to.<br /><br />His english name is Daniel. He's been in my classroom for about almost 2 weeks. He's my newest addition to the clan. He's my first SDA kindergartener student. He's a little shy, and at the same time, quite demanding. I have a hard time communicating with him because of the language barrier, but he always finds a way of either drawing, or using motions. Well, today, it had been quite an emotional day. I'm still not fully recovered from my trip to Palau, 2 of my girls got in trouble yesterday (decided to give a new hair cut to one of the older girls) and well it felt like today one of the parents wasn't too happy about the punishment. Thankfully, the Lord guided us both and came to an agreeance. Then, our yearbook, which I thought was basically finished, hasn't been returned to us for editing, and there are other corrections that I need to make. Well, it was 5 mins and then my school day would be over. The kids were sitting in the circle finishing up their snacks, when I notice Daniel standing up. I look over to him and see him with his little hands held together, right in front of his face. I wonder if he's ok, but something tells me to just sit still and watch. So I do. I suddenly notice that he is ok, he's just praying. He finishes his prayer, and starts to look around. I call him over and he explains that he lost his sticker. I give him a sticker and he leaves, but doesn't look content with the outcome. Then all of a sudden, I see him get up and dart to his backpack. He opens it, looks at me and gives me an "I know where it is" look. He opens his pencil case, and gets out his sharpener. Apparently, he was looking for his sharpener and not his sticker (lost in translation lol).<br /><br /><br /><br /><p><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5200107423914299282" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-t5CtUotu9vbhPGue36Te8TcK6k3GigxEbqRfbOyotVOd5ILItPud7oRGC2VHGup1YQQQwlLTH8zhKzPk9Y9QxyzcsCqnJ-IsAiNuNynhZwAXDiSOk5ux6TrL__dLi5A7Dy6ZleV5R8I/s320/P5010380.JPG" border="0" /></p><p align="center"><em>This is my little Daniel!</em></p><p align="center">I felt so touched by this experience. Watching this little boy, just turn his only worry over to G-d, made me wonder why I don't do it often enough. Today, the Lord spoke to me through someone else, twice. Thank you Lord for those two people and for always reminding me that you're right there!</p><br />So the next time you're around little hands, just stop and see what they do!Vero in Saipanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16463939220206028295noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3085603215161749293.post-21062306917752636152008-05-12T18:23:00.000-07:002008-05-12T23:28:32.139-07:00The Apple of my Eye!<div align="center">Its all my fault really. I did it to her. I always tell her the same thing. If it weren't for me, she would be just Raquel, the lovable, G-d fearing, responsible, amazing, intelligent, unique, (list goes on) person that the Lord made her to be. But, because of me, she became all that, AND my mother! (lol)<br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5199743197802696546" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkvkU9_PVRKz_clvKD7bbuCYJaoiPPIBtbY4hK9B2z1nF5vMgy78QqOgDk42lrysqAWOnrKo5N-RONPRJy8_YrrzRSfA8Dl2Mv685Hj1L5S_744BZJgY7dgUifmN-XBkVPVBtDjuTXuL0/s320/232323232%257Ffp6%253Enu%253D3242%253E%253B86%253E%253B%253C6%253EWSNRCG%253D3232668462%253C24nu0mrj.jpg" border="0" /><em>Way back in the day! (notice the glasses lol)</em><br /><br />She's the reason i'm alive, both physically and emotionally. She's the reason I'm a christian and the reason I've learned to depend on G-d. I've loved my mother my entire life and known just what an amazing woman and mother she is, but it wasn't until about 6 years ago that I realized that she wasn't just amazing, she was EXTRAORDINARY. Our family went through some upheaval 6 years back and it feels like we've never been the same again. In some ways, I'm quite thankful for it. See, I was able to find G-d in a closer sense. One of the reasons for that, was my mother.<br /><br />My mother truly is my rock. She held on to G-d in those tough times, which allowed her to be strong enough for us (my brother and me) to hold on to. Even through our difficult times, she manages to allow others to hold onto her aswell. My mother didn't finish college when she was younger due to her families' insufficient funds, but about 20 years and 2 kids later, she went back to school and became a Medical Assistant, graduating with a 4.0 GPA! She also raised two amazing kids. Now, what I just said and what I'm about to say isn't as a reason to lift myself up, but more as a testament to her amazingness! My brother is graduating this year from high school which he did in 3 years and has managed to finish with a 3.9 GPA. He is a junior deacon at church and has preached twice for our church services. He has probably one of the most compassionate hearts I have ever known. He's a very quiet person when it comes to deep things, but when he talks, people listen. He likes to be the one to have people laughing, and is pretty darn good at it.<br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5199743202097663874" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisgZ19YI6ZEWS_YGZ6yRGRFhKYLIH-tCOaSXZGc9iAcx0_Av-UaE22jF4AUVDrdj6a2B9oPlLnnoYDSdK1GNiWozZG2Q0KpHN9o6sMsOpdBq3pNKdqzpjReyqe8hUnvjg4LY1Ug8ietK0/s320/Adrian+%26+Mom.jpg" border="0" /><br /><em>My brother Adrian and my mom at his 8th grade graduation.</em><br /><em></em><br />Me, well, i'm currently a missionary, about to start my 3rd year of college, and there have been many amazing things that have happened in my life like preaching at the GC, and well many others, but I don't like talking about me...Point is, all these things, everything my brother and I am have happened because of my mother and her trust in the Lord.<br /><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5199743197802696562" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMV4H-FwzJr7pvQnkGymX0SWw6YDmf_2XD4gNHfbsySpV0DCHBpzWXYYFRFaOyHqkCbe8K6G1HT1fcoYmP8hAdG9Q7zRYuvwdis7IvY5W_m8CtDkShqPm63Golfe6TG-TAgIivSqXSa9U/s320/232323232%257Ffp33%253Dot%253E2333%253D%253C77%253D%253C%253B7%253DXROQDF%253E2323577553%253B37ot1lsi.jpg" border="0" /><em>My mommy and my about 2 years ago</em><br /><br /><br />Mami, I want to thank you for being an amazing mother. Funnily enough, I'm 9,000 miles away and still can't seem to do something without your approval. You've always trusted in me and my decisions and I thank you so much for letting me spread my wings and fly (even when it meant not seeing me for a year). Thank you for trusting in G-d and teaching me to do the same. You're my angel on earth and in my heart, I always carry you. If in the future, I become atleast half the mother and woman that you are, I will consider myself the most blessed person on the planet. I love you mami!<br /><br /><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5199743189212761938" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOFb1OG7Yj-F68zWyZkScP0u1lynglpbpNCC4Xj6uxGd75r1DsduV_iQh4zxDBmcZkIv_qAJRTLR_ejkZq6qPeAcaV2CuVn3qqAf7CjxjrrvUFjPC92nyf3tatCoDYQemmGzw5IHX7QDw/s320/232323232%257Ffp33%253Dot%253E2333%253D%253C77%253D%253C%253B7%253DXROQDF%253E23235775592%253B8ot1lsi.jpg" border="0" /><br /><br />Happy Mother's Day and I will be in your arms soon!<br /><br /></div>Vero in Saipanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16463939220206028295noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3085603215161749293.post-70467260599510187812008-04-21T01:41:00.000-07:002008-05-05T15:54:55.077-07:00Spring Break, and April Update!Ok, so last you heard from me, I was in Japan on my way to the Philippines! Well, the Philippines was AMAZING! I have no words to describe how great of a trip I had. We shopped and had fun in Manilla for a couple of days. I met lots of people, and so many thought I was Filipina...which I LOVED!!! Then we spent some days with Joeie's family in Pampanga. They were so nice and very hospitable. We then took a trip with them to the 100 Islands in Pangasinan. WOW was that AMAZING! SOOO BEAUTIFUL! Then they decided to take me to Baquio City, which was just so nice. And we had FRESH STRAWBERRRIES!!! They were so yummy! It had been a while since I had some strawberries due to the fact that a small box of them here in Saipan are about $9.oo. Where as there, we got 1 KG for 75 pesos which is just a little less than $2. They were AMAZINGLY yummy! <img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5197030151197424594" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgR0qUIlCBJNhUbbfo1DO-QvNoib-Y4z_DfwZLdq7T-fKB925on2jCE720r_Ns_QRmh7I0kZCbW8dgBBdXBYeI_42sohEThmWgU2p81034JrfPO9dYv9us1uDbNR8zCqadDyH3_lAeE3X8/s320/P3270194.JPG" border="0" />That day I got sick and had a really high fever for quite some time, but thankfully, I had 2 angels with me that spent the entire night watching over me and making sure I was doing good. There was just SOO much from the trip, that truthfully, I am really just briefly going over it because I'd probably end up writing a book if I wrote about it all! There was so much that I learned from this trip about the Filipino culture that has truly amazed me. I feel like i'm so much more connected to my church family back home, and that is exactly the reason why I really wanted to go to the Philippines! I'm so Thankful that the Lord allowed me to experience this! Here are just some pics from the trip, as I came back with about 700+ pics and cannot load them to my computer because its running out of space lol. Hope you enjoy!<br /><br /><div></div><br /><br /><div></div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5197024791078239026" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnETbSemmTzS8mpxehEGTv4aCawoiQQHMlpn_qUnfSuqBvUibYor7_zmEQ28mKdk0e1ep6Kfn80fTRCz9IpeBVGfD-uJavsJuiIPuG8-O_nGn_0WSjdGURFc4feBCNPbPPEEGQZzSbU4g/s320/P3200002.JPG" border="0" /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5197024799668173634" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimxAimMoZGBYDNySg5hmH7-wV3aBW3v95Hgsh-HFDIYDioIM9Quc4L66jxSR4lR4KHQ-nvFD9M_MibT3a68mDakksKiXa_R3icPnuhqnH0EBjse-1OWuhkmZiYumz5S_nGVoBI6yciIW0/s320/P3200021.JPG" border="0" /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5197024803963140946" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4_xc9AL_gAU-2s6DqWto4BuidoUS47m8MmnmAWVCEhxqDBcH2nXbnzSeFsWJWbNxjhf0Dtbnzz130puZQx1xaZRN6S2BPKhPPKbUqDncxVOqZD0LQ2bFysVI8tYJ_tCW2dwiTzY8QELI/s320/P3220075.JPG" border="0" /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5197024808258108258" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEilQ4hbRhTcVRoir4av2d4YN-Hp5pYogyZ1MLJyXTTUmE2Wqr4JM5-GfwimcrY8bNYyLWIZSUuYaza4m_ElC5gV-HtUhBnwiFClLzRF-nE5lJ9LKw6AlVnKcLbSShzzX94f-jGARQeXo/s320/P3220085.JPG" border="0" /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5197024812553075570" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJkELU-eNNBFmvwKus0OOgw4ZnmqXb1zWSUcER859ZbjKruLsHPCR1mANw0KRIM8qJxalMQT3MRU9Uuc2QaRH8qVF6OAT7sDGmf0vAe4eTVfMWpnZ-fs9xQuVWEI9fFWHolXnj2eT8UQo/s320/P3260063.JPG" border="0" /><br /><br /><p><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5197029021621025666" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiigGATKJW2K5x0RhB6KHrkZWg6XWy1CMIhLkX7DuM0HrjhGMXdlP39zMIp5Dd-9_YwJy5PM6PNDTMhjvWvSbv-_jxvoaRhOzvpuK6oOWX4j4OnjBBwTMGXmveeRUv6-64j0TZwKN_Vfak/s320/P3260067.JPG" border="0" /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5197029025915992978" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1sCTwEwIkblrCnjZiFoaU6aunkJ67LVWHVu7PustdSKQUgG2LL07vVQ1LzwCNng_ZVRcT3GCnkw2Z-EaQMZXxi_tI0hVNTzbeoqJQhrgEL927VLHoL94EPO33KLjZIpVOnl-oCnG9vEo/s320/P3270102.JPG" border="0" /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5197029051685796802" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEik_Wpr85Rfy7e778JUrzzGe5CWfzS8111DupVWioQ67uFKC_TjK-Oyro3_vD6MyldoeqVkM20RjTWo5OmcC7JJBbd1rxw0S1feQacb7U9gFlSPg5Fz5u9DpeRnqNEPkVZRW981OBGsEok/s320/P3270182.JPG" border="0" /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5197029043095862194" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMDf1KtRur_LUnrX81C7u2efNnxudYz6hoc4-RTaTIL_usDSaThSF2x5pPvdM0XFHuqRvyN7k0_g_z2u6iz-A1H5TlmMsrN1KcTC9zqUBkVCfIcBCMN8PV0TUwZwCFdQf-GFk70YZrSVw/s320/P3270173.JPG" border="0" /></p><p><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5197029034505927586" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1jXiZuTCTIwUKcxUqtKLRKeVG2eKh7btBk-mygIRCbH2YnN486be5fpyexqhJ1jRAu3_gB5x2Ti8RlGLxF07NLCuh-cXaX44CzFk-JBbzqbExEf4Fn6axVAKDHZ1LiaQtB-PYP1B0-DU/s320/P3270164.JPG" border="0" /></p><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5197030159787359202" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzS-ZvhaytnMecKUD1-Px3j-2EBlzY9PyiOO6PGTZ5gKr0E0CSEZyE7DH_V1TBQq9Y1Es5JLUonGBCfCH-IMeBMWpeNDy60hdh2rJ8zGhqhrkIXPoUZipl6SHvk8D7h3QFaaHo0xlVAKU/s320/P3260075.JPG" border="0" />Vero in Saipanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16463939220206028295noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3085603215161749293.post-83540086607308995582008-04-20T01:53:00.000-07:002008-04-20T02:45:52.831-07:00Pre Spring BreakOk, so tomorrow I will post my blog on my trip to the Philippines. It's taken me quite some time as I have been SUPER busy with school ending =( and lots more! G-d has been blessing me more than I would have ever imagined! I'm definitely his spoiled brat! That is the only way to describe His abundant blessings on my life! So when I came back from the Philippines, I was sick with Strep Throat and was just feeling kinda yucky, but thankfully the Lord gave me the energy and health to continue. Thinking back on April, its sort of felt like a whirlwind that has sped up sooo quickly and its not stopping! I guess as they say, it really is downhill now, which just gives me bittersweet feelings! April's blog will be posted hopefully tomorrow! But lets try and see an overview of Pre-Spring Break:<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;">- We have a new family in town! They are the Staffords and they are AWESOME! Mike is the new Dentist at the clinic. Then theres Andrea, Allen, Andrew and Alyssa. They are such a wonderful family and in the time that i've gotten to know them, i've truly grown to love them quite a lot! The kids are great! Super energetic and just, well, GREAT kids! They were in Africa before coming here, and its just so neat to hear all of their great stories. I'm so glad you're all here!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6amjB55tbKAtHaZTN_BP2ttKUob7XCVGUJwFiJlWX4-7FwEy1rAqS5-u2v3vIstBArX_yUUj0QDqk3QZIt7IMjpt6N3tr3hZMRvicZ5PmIrK5dMZP0iJILG-rMbcAAyexpECi5CqSVcg/s1600-h/Saipan+175.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6amjB55tbKAtHaZTN_BP2ttKUob7XCVGUJwFiJlWX4-7FwEy1rAqS5-u2v3vIstBArX_yUUj0QDqk3QZIt7IMjpt6N3tr3hZMRvicZ5PmIrK5dMZP0iJILG-rMbcAAyexpECi5CqSVcg/s320/Saipan+175.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5191258972311615170" border="0" /></a><span style="font-style: italic;">The Staffords (L-R) Allen, Dr. Mike, Shy Andrew, Andrea and Alyssa</span><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKZzokt2nntVF8wB-yu_64rwZa5539IRDaHAdrl07EqGvvfgxveXnG3kCH9YBB_FuWNqAv94grONJE5UHkVTjV12P_uyHd7BI5uBWLqeLUEE1MnLBDBjMxWLsf8-QW7VXm07-HSG9m3uc/s1600-h/Saipan+177.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKZzokt2nntVF8wB-yu_64rwZa5539IRDaHAdrl07EqGvvfgxveXnG3kCH9YBB_FuWNqAv94grONJE5UHkVTjV12P_uyHd7BI5uBWLqeLUEE1MnLBDBjMxWLsf8-QW7VXm07-HSG9m3uc/s320/Saipan+177.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5191258980901549778" border="0" /></a><span style="font-style: italic;">The welcoming crew with the Staffords!</span><br /></div><br />- Our class, along with the pre-school, took a fieldtrip to the Saipan Zoo. It was such a great experience! The zoo is very interactive. They let you feed the animals, and even have this cute bear that when you throw a banana to the top of its cage, it climbs up and gets it. It was really a lot of fun to go there and just experience the animals that we had been learning about! My kids truly enjoyed themselves, as did I!<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7f5NWX1twEuGrwieBKLSOgTkbpqGJ6ftEpiuxLp9DkgEwc7fXTTjo5wNjZZxsMU-24L-9ttPJoYwpl2ZYkXvFLSwUTwXvIDOdwA-gmXD4sX29HfIRKoOCcXXAUR5bhiOlBVkvNOlUFk8/s1600-h/Saipan+335.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7f5NWX1twEuGrwieBKLSOgTkbpqGJ6ftEpiuxLp9DkgEwc7fXTTjo5wNjZZxsMU-24L-9ttPJoYwpl2ZYkXvFLSwUTwXvIDOdwA-gmXD4sX29HfIRKoOCcXXAUR5bhiOlBVkvNOlUFk8/s320/Saipan+335.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5191258989491484386" border="0" /></a><span style="font-style: italic;">My kiddos at Saipan Zoo. I really liked this sign!</span><br /></div><br />- Before I left to the Philippines, we had our Easter Party. Baskets our here are quite expensive and not very common to see, so I had our kids make their owns baskets! They had a great time making them and even more fun finding their eggs! We had some fun and games that day and they just enjoyed themselves. I had them all dress in eastery colors so that we could take a nice class picture. I had a great time with my kiddos that day!<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjS0JgsP8ZnVunLAxEON8UCEhyphenhyphenoCYTOGJlTQaZIpSPsShvGwCRcdq-r-y0_hxGvv8oNQK2MI8bzJvA9OPkngTrmOz07zc4LuR8Yb09d4xIfOUHzeM24JTOShz2o7sKobdxK1_1wEDqr6o8/s1600-h/Saipan+357.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjS0JgsP8ZnVunLAxEON8UCEhyphenhyphenoCYTOGJlTQaZIpSPsShvGwCRcdq-r-y0_hxGvv8oNQK2MI8bzJvA9OPkngTrmOz07zc4LuR8Yb09d4xIfOUHzeM24JTOShz2o7sKobdxK1_1wEDqr6o8/s320/Saipan+357.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5191258993786451698" border="0" /></a><span style="font-style: italic;">Our own homemade baskets!<br /><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxnzJGQeccoDcN_YXnxIKNRgSZg0i0wTH3mO4WjXeh7ifHkv0OQVxIyEGj5UHeNUQselWFWrvV0hZ7p9kfLoduCLn0GQG7slebbP5WN59AZhe8TPOwEYBR5RIsAFuiYVAGglGrfowSlds/s1600-h/Saipan+365.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxnzJGQeccoDcN_YXnxIKNRgSZg0i0wTH3mO4WjXeh7ifHkv0OQVxIyEGj5UHeNUQselWFWrvV0hZ7p9kfLoduCLn0GQG7slebbP5WN59AZhe8TPOwEYBR5RIsAFuiYVAGglGrfowSlds/s320/Saipan+365.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5191258998081419010" border="0" /></a><span style="font-style: italic;">Our Easter Picture! Not the best, but its ok!<br /><br /></span></div>I hope you enjoyed the update on my pre spring break. You should expect the Philippines trip as well as the April Blog hopefully tomorrow. I'm not able to upload most of the pictures to my computer yet because there isn't much space left, so I'm having to do it from another computer.<br /><br />Please keep praying for me. G-d is blessing and guiding. I'm excited to see what He has in store next!Vero in Saipanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16463939220206028295noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3085603215161749293.post-35936455350327571732008-03-21T00:52:00.000-07:002008-03-21T00:53:57.067-07:00Going to ManillaI'm right now in Tokyo, about to get on a plane to go to Manila! Tokyo is soooo awesome! Please keep me in your prayers! love u all! I will try and keep you updated as much as i can!<br /><br />LOVE TO ALL!!!<br /><br />"Smile G-d Loves You!"Vero in Saipanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16463939220206028295noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3085603215161749293.post-52604303437998038082008-03-08T07:42:00.000-08:002008-03-08T08:32:01.689-08:00Have you ever....<ul><li>Have you ever felt like you were so happy that it was unfair to the rest of the world?</li><li>Have you ever felt like you were so sad that you weren't sure how you'd survive?</li><li>Have you ever felt like you're a piece of a puzzle that fits in so perfectly?</li><li>Have you ever felt like you're a puzzle piece in the wrong puzzle?</li><li>Have you ever felt the warm acceptance and love of a stranger?</li><li>Have you ever felt like the people that you've known for months now have a hard time accepting you but accept a new comer?</li><li>Have you ever felt like there was so much love in a room that you weren't sure how long the walls were going to stand up?</li><li>Have you ever felt like there was so much tension in a room, that you wished the walls would cave in?</li><li>Have you ever felt the innocent love of a child?</li><li>Have you ever felt the piercing words of others?</li><li>Have you ever felt: love, joy, happiness, peace, forgiveness, fear, sadness, redemption, excitement, stress, tension, sorrow, loneliness, bliss, aggravation, nervous, frustration, incompetent, outnumbered, incomplete.</li></ul><br />Fortunately and Unfortunately, since I've been in Saipan, i have felt all of these and more. As you can see there's been complete opposites but also a lot that have been alike. My emotions and well life have been like a rollercoaster ride. I'm never sure whats coming up next or where the turn is going to take me, whether up or down. I never know if at the end i'm going to feel nauseated or an adrenaline rush. I never know... I haven't had much consistency, if any since i've been here, except for one thing. The only thing in my life that has been constant, is G-d and His love for me. I've had my great days where the children are learning, everyone's getting along, and the sky is BLUE! But i've also had my horrible days where the kids don't want to learn, they're crying about everything, people are doing (what seems like) everything in their power to hurt me or make me feel bad. But, even in both scenarios, i can still see my wonderful G-d. Amazingly enough, it seems like i see His blessings more on yucky days than on great days. I think its because on those yucky days, i need those blessings to survive. This week has been a crazy and emotional week for me and Friday just seemed to be the crown of it all. I found myself, just in the first 2 hours of school, in a closed bathroom, crying my eyes out. But i couldn't stay in there, i had my kids to look after. I walked out and well it seemed like the entire day kept getting worse. However, as i look back, i can't remember when i've gotten that many "I Love You Teacher" and hugs in one day. So although unfortunatey i've got all these weird emotions, I thank G-d for my not so good days, because they allow me to see His blessings easier. I ask for your prayers as i'm going through these things. These last few months are the most emotional ones i'm sure. Bittersweet feelings all around, but i know now to focus on my one constant thing: My G-d!<br /><br />(Here are some pics of the past two months.)<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgu9u4XenXoc3vD1KDQBQQ2jB_q9RN9apokuEqbGqWvREhrRepcvOFR-O3_Kj8Y1Dgy9wtzB8cqIGx0V43hNfEdWgyF36SBg8z-TsZ6bopPjbChHx0BgZ9K9ngiA07BhJ5VVEPgg6J3tNs/s1600-h/Saipan+093.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgu9u4XenXoc3vD1KDQBQQ2jB_q9RN9apokuEqbGqWvREhrRepcvOFR-O3_Kj8Y1Dgy9wtzB8cqIGx0V43hNfEdWgyF36SBg8z-TsZ6bopPjbChHx0BgZ9K9ngiA07BhJ5VVEPgg6J3tNs/s320/Saipan+093.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5175408809068637010" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-Dkz2xa1X3AK-nDIJGHgFFPX2qUhA6FeG-zt6OumnDRvNzka96n2NzC7ji6YhyAeKhBRkQ9sHVi5iM2cdD7TLEMysEoRpAKMk3cQu4o2Mzcn66Egx-B0L7w1nmkn4hcH7Yb7ebFSyREo/s1600-h/Saipan+025.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-Dkz2xa1X3AK-nDIJGHgFFPX2qUhA6FeG-zt6OumnDRvNzka96n2NzC7ji6YhyAeKhBRkQ9sHVi5iM2cdD7TLEMysEoRpAKMk3cQu4o2Mzcn66Egx-B0L7w1nmkn4hcH7Yb7ebFSyREo/s320/Saipan+025.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5175408821953538914" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_BdOLUJ9BALlkIjyHqYc63DQjZntw9WD6Zk4EiZs2HOIzKlydA7XRte3LtpbcQ_SmG_IZUJvX4S9bLEO5gasMoQt2HkATBgAyPkcs0QCZpOdHkU4gu_mDggiVB5SjQTJOqTrnvcL0WPo/s1600-h/Saipan+050.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_BdOLUJ9BALlkIjyHqYc63DQjZntw9WD6Zk4EiZs2HOIzKlydA7XRte3LtpbcQ_SmG_IZUJvX4S9bLEO5gasMoQt2HkATBgAyPkcs0QCZpOdHkU4gu_mDggiVB5SjQTJOqTrnvcL0WPo/s320/Saipan+050.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5175408830543473522" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXt6VxbyRAEpWAuDmNLlIQRyHkYsTdcUGPdW6De45ONed3rdjERvYR0tNXS7Du_BXyXRW0xDzqV61_mu_qAo8HmYbfi5z_UJXMfOd-F3MIV_lX_y4PjqxekTG0KgPmH-grbnySdLKTIFs/s1600-h/Saipan+051.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; 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display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQR53SIW1RBRqWO3NbbTOH3hSaVKVIfxS2kZMoqd2XPc-UJmv8ww1ZIHlX2PKF7wGgnIEVgbHelsPSyJ7PPBmUgdbzCwuFx-OEMQ78P9BOXIA0aM65F_dzbFUaDYoc2x78k5-9XgmAmpM/s320/Saipan+1386.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5175407400319363874" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZRUCGh0fa3WM7ub5H3WN2-hg8_DtKGETmOjHmDxn0ENGeXg6VVNLU-ASIp0czLXh_05bxYrJN9CFsC2X2-v74euFdGduPKI3ZxK_8G1ddc0CA_QNHhGvJIJSuuF0E6Lm9zDpI34fnra4/s1600-h/Saipan+023.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZRUCGh0fa3WM7ub5H3WN2-hg8_DtKGETmOjHmDxn0ENGeXg6VVNLU-ASIp0czLXh_05bxYrJN9CFsC2X2-v74euFdGduPKI3ZxK_8G1ddc0CA_QNHhGvJIJSuuF0E6Lm9zDpI34fnra4/s320/Saipan+023.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5175407417499233074" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5QQO4kqjBf3uwycYl7e4xIkgee0d0vq0_hZxN_kr1mcBHwPIZe_yIeVzcOHxLdPHjR3bOvrkh6FP4dsIR7kmZ7IRVkpQdW1-3KEpyGsX4s7cWqy6L9dKxFzZUvg3u1WWQWt4fWK-mGsA/s1600-h/Saipan+075.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5QQO4kqjBf3uwycYl7e4xIkgee0d0vq0_hZxN_kr1mcBHwPIZe_yIeVzcOHxLdPHjR3bOvrkh6FP4dsIR7kmZ7IRVkpQdW1-3KEpyGsX4s7cWqy6L9dKxFzZUvg3u1WWQWt4fWK-mGsA/s320/Saipan+075.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5175407430384134978" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfHevklh8sD6HoRgjJPspn3uNwW-eZ1tnNPQh-TXSZPNWhgQA7KTCcixeWfnhcfUfQ1gn7hffLAUYPA8P1EeldzqTiB9wWBOFN43DYlD-gVA4W1qOY85YakBJGii4FASAnclJDbsdSSvE/s1600-h/Saipan+1112.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfHevklh8sD6HoRgjJPspn3uNwW-eZ1tnNPQh-TXSZPNWhgQA7KTCcixeWfnhcfUfQ1gn7hffLAUYPA8P1EeldzqTiB9wWBOFN43DYlD-gVA4W1qOY85YakBJGii4FASAnclJDbsdSSvE/s320/Saipan+1112.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5175405755346889394" border="0" /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWODqSne6ueJ43rcaCWpYBFxeX16Ij5BOXMU2pu1XMTA5EdeCd5pGOzsjku1Xm4WbVnFPlHA8Gn63TXgfPxE4K3kRX20KLqT2C6fNyWCriI3w7X2KfxVMTle8hnDAt5PpZnhrxtIWedpE/s1600-h/Saipan+1120.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWODqSne6ueJ43rcaCWpYBFxeX16Ij5BOXMU2pu1XMTA5EdeCd5pGOzsjku1Xm4WbVnFPlHA8Gn63TXgfPxE4K3kRX20KLqT2C6fNyWCriI3w7X2KfxVMTle8hnDAt5PpZnhrxtIWedpE/s320/Saipan+1120.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5175405763936824002" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgu3L_3iC_vYD-eO975FF1QYMN-sY8SU7DOzuJqmD7SvlQIgJlpX59Z8pmBTk3QyH4BVfHkmqm506Km0FzN8YUEhE9ED7CyZz5v2JX2doy-2vObX84Ev8HqzspZr_0NtzrAiZjvIQRAVDw/s1600-h/Saipan+1132.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgu3L_3iC_vYD-eO975FF1QYMN-sY8SU7DOzuJqmD7SvlQIgJlpX59Z8pmBTk3QyH4BVfHkmqm506Km0FzN8YUEhE9ED7CyZz5v2JX2doy-2vObX84Ev8HqzspZr_0NtzrAiZjvIQRAVDw/s320/Saipan+1132.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5175405776821725906" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIh29cAVu0v2R5R08z95bhdXQucLTR6r9tp_SYrTve0B-EpZTftLtkN_xRgEFCz1lXHqnnnY0sb5PMCgTr2gsoKn7_oyDowpkXi1WPJxY7i7yGQrQ3tPJ_kM4apN1DFtkeANsYqpt1xmA/s1600-h/Saipan+1158.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIh29cAVu0v2R5R08z95bhdXQucLTR6r9tp_SYrTve0B-EpZTftLtkN_xRgEFCz1lXHqnnnY0sb5PMCgTr2gsoKn7_oyDowpkXi1WPJxY7i7yGQrQ3tPJ_kM4apN1DFtkeANsYqpt1xmA/s320/Saipan+1158.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5175405785411660514" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6IXSdPNBC_uQrziH56OIJm-U-JUq8trR3H3y2PDpCNZqICEHIfK9w0ie69WWIMgZuJnXqklaLArKZnnliZmHn5RXkJxnsOwhyphenhyphen01XiFPPUWFp0YufAqhPftTbGIZQ134Lr0Ws4zDBtR04/s1600-h/Saipan+1312.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6IXSdPNBC_uQrziH56OIJm-U-JUq8trR3H3y2PDpCNZqICEHIfK9w0ie69WWIMgZuJnXqklaLArKZnnliZmHn5RXkJxnsOwhyphenhyphen01XiFPPUWFp0YufAqhPftTbGIZQ134Lr0Ws4zDBtR04/s320/Saipan+1312.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5175405794001595122" border="0" /></a>Vero in Saipanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16463939220206028295noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3085603215161749293.post-79559841333411764292008-02-25T14:40:00.000-08:002008-02-25T14:54:32.789-08:00Where's Vero?<div>So what have i been up to since my last post in January? Well lots, hence my lack of posting lol. I'm very sorry about it, but i will be posting a couple of blogs in the upcoming days about my highlights of the month. I am doing well. My kids are doing great, and best of all, they are ALL READING! i'm so happy that they are. Yesterday, my last little boy that wasn't reading, read an entire story for the first time. This is the same little boy that walked into my class barely knowing how to hold a pencil, let alone write his name! Its amazing how fast time passes, but even more amazing how great G-d is in giving me the abilities to actually teach this child. He's come a long ways, and i can't help but thank G-d for that wonderful miracle. I know that it was only through Him that i was able to help my student reach this far. I leave you with a picture of our fieldtrip to the Saipan Botanical Gardens. I hope to blog more in these upcoming months! Thanks for staying in touch</div><br /><div></div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5171054867045621410" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhu_qfavNHbVIPdpWrwiwKZiKOSHG8uAlLSaU3OG7mbOmoHFqKlBtYGbucNRVRgWVjnbz90OoDLROz-YUKEr2alXUsgLyywbyt7HAEk9tgB1k1AQVKOW-bdsSfvL4jBwoRMi4ONJl-wdpM/s320/P1290029.JPG" border="0" /><br /><div></div>Vero in Saipanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16463939220206028295noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3085603215161749293.post-14500937708801709432008-01-18T21:01:00.000-08:002008-01-18T21:55:11.295-08:00My roomies...my friends!They say that when you live with someone, you get to know ALL of them. The good, the bad, the ugly...well...for the past four months, i've lived with 3 wonderful ladies. There has been bad times, there have been ugly times, but most importantly, there have been good times. Like most relationships, we have been through some rough patches, and i'm sure that there will be more to come. But even through those moments, I knew that the girls i was living with, were girls with values and a love for G-d. So now we've been living together for about 5 months and we're a little past the halfway point, and i think i can honestly say, that i'm quite happy being here with them. They are all unique in their own ways. So here's a blog dedicated to the 3 wonderful ladies that i live with:<br /><br />Mai - She's our veteran. She was here since last year and sort of has a history with the Island. She loves teaching and...she's.... CANADIAN! (and very proud of it!) My favorite thing about Mai is when she laughs from the inside or at herself. She just looks like a little girl again, and i can't help but smile or join in the laughter.<br /><br />Jessica - She's the one i've known the longest since we met in Hawaii. She's really cool and is just so random at lots of things. She can always say something silly or well random to make you laugh. She's from Loma Linda and despite contrary belief (or what she may say lol) she really does love her ESL students...and they love her just the same! My favorite thing about Jess, is when she says something random, especially if its during a patch of silence.<br /><br />Judith - She's the baby of the group (took my place lol) but she definately doesn't act it. She runs those high schoolers like a little army. She's loved by her students very much and is doing a great job. She's from Boise, Idaho and attending Walla Walla College. My favorite thing about Judith is how passionate she can get about something.<br /><br />There you have it, the girls i live with! Like most families, we have had our ups and downs, but in the end, they each have a special part in my heart and always will. I thank G-d for them daily and know that we were each hand picked to be here and live together for some reason that only the good Lord knows. I ask you to pray for us, in our daily lives, and for our little home! Its not easy, but always possible when the Lord is guiding.<br /><br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_MBuDg2DmE4fNgXnmRv8v1z2qMOECo2zCcJK_8Cs-5L86MwR0LaYjTWg_aWwfYTHAGpDGWa4OJcy3IzWeHlZ6F0rcoioH0WSuu8o2SLQ_WK99Ku-g8ki1CMm0VUdj-b01mmtpDsNPO7o/s1600-h/Saipan+457.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_MBuDg2DmE4fNgXnmRv8v1z2qMOECo2zCcJK_8Cs-5L86MwR0LaYjTWg_aWwfYTHAGpDGWa4OJcy3IzWeHlZ6F0rcoioH0WSuu8o2SLQ_WK99Ku-g8ki1CMm0VUdj-b01mmtpDsNPO7o/s320/Saipan+457.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5157057834512615282" border="0" /></a><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">L-R: Me, Judtih, Mai, & Jessica eating banana pancakes<br /></span></div><br />Love you girls!Vero in Saipanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16463939220206028295noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3085603215161749293.post-62248826576901449122007-12-30T20:24:00.001-08:002008-01-01T01:47:57.225-08:00Saipan Holidays<div align="center">My December started out pretty good. As soon as it rolled around, the festivities began. On the first day of December, we had our talent show and celebrated Eva's birthday. </div><div align="center"></div><div align="center">Eva has been one of my closest friends here on island. I'm truly glad to have her in my life and thank the Lord daily for her. I call her my Island Angel because she has helped me through some of the tough times. So Happy Birthday to you. Te Quiero Amiga!</div><div align="center"><br /></div><div align="center"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5150425945446090530" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwHrDLeS_G4aW0T0F53Tlg1BA4N6HzBAtyLyBZavTWFSgWq2g4lYIx6dQHLms2wMkeVq5b-JDGonhp8LyoXJ1BDLBy2-PwpCIAY86fLNlyge8sY7Qj6QlmykRHPDEz_x9rhuFG_9-XaMY/s320/Saipan+533.jpg" border="0" /></div><div align="center"><em>Eva and Me</em><br /></div><div align="center">After that, my first order of business was to decorate my room and make it more "Christmasy". Thanks to my elfs in Miami (aunts), my room was able to have the Christmas spirit. It truly allowed me to feel the spirit a little more.<img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5149992815174157874" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEij_dyqfEa9G0viTYIfAj8nG1zV6HMKPTqyWQovhGIvXYVc3ukTTwuXnm0yc406EuPs3ThRitB4ADlByQ2VZTyqho_KTBXKk0y91YVzQLf24H2NGfhY63xGNSfbh2JlGqJEWgasHImb0s0/s320/Saipan+712.jpg" border="0" /><em>My Christmas Corner</em></div><div align="center"><br /></div><p align="center">Our School this year was involved in a competition with all the schools in the area where we had to make Christmas ornaments out of recycled items. It was lots of fun to do, but also a lot of work. Since Eva and I have the young ones, we spent a couple of sleepless nights working on it, but it was quite worth it. <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHov-WbI8v0lk2SHmZJaJm_p9SADseUGexKRv4W4Mcor0O-PEB1Fq5WIU6nkIwIBgGXeWKhQebOLWqDobPoYN3aXAO3tBnmmrNzmX9dYzLMydbz4VPEcsBC55W9nYJLuoDJ2tDqB7R-wo/s1600-h/Saipan+588.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5150418777145673330" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHov-WbI8v0lk2SHmZJaJm_p9SADseUGexKRv4W4Mcor0O-PEB1Fq5WIU6nkIwIBgGXeWKhQebOLWqDobPoYN3aXAO3tBnmmrNzmX9dYzLMydbz4VPEcsBC55W9nYJLuoDJ2tDqB7R-wo/s320/Saipan+588.jpg" border="0" /></a><em> Our "Recycled" Christmas Tree</em></p><div align="center"><br /></div><p align="center">About mid December, we had our staff Christmas party. Instead of giving each other gifts, we bought presents for the children at the hospital. Then we went (with a couple of students) and sang Christmas carols. It was a GREAT way to spread the holiday cheer!</p><div align="center"><br /></div><p align="center"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5149992828059059794" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4_9dSYLQl1jkD8Hdiwr_qxO0ZiUZ8-4nUgcH3iT4IFOWzDroUeiTRByUb23N0WbKu77YLUG7AcMVBKXKKfbvb9PsYZzECvy2JDzbG2ciRUn9c4ZnXlgRNlkM_k7sCBayAuOJTZ05VwdY/s320/Saipan+769.jpg" border="0" /><em>Our Staff and some students at the hospital</em></p><div align="center"><br /></div><p align="left">After the staff party, all our efforts went into the school Christmas program. This year we had a Mission Impossible theme. It was truly a GREAT play and the students did an AMAZING job! My kiddos were the sheep and also were little spies as part of the K-4 choir. We spent probably the entire week practicing with a dress rehearsal the morning of the program. The students (and teachers lol) worked really hard and the turnout was an amazing performance with a really great message behind it.</p><div align="center"><br /></div><p align="center"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5149992836648994402" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKURSxaI_ES7ITZgIkd7NfOcim8FZ6ewiSCd_iO1Us-QIWuhXQwyXFsEpf5KsHIl8ompP6ZBSyczg02oD__Jvaai5fLouLs0-2Y78m8w1SG2mJXxmHDYXQ5jlPh3cNaTfmOXhpnsP3LW8/s320/Saipan+802.jpg" border="0" /> <em>My sheep waiting patiently at the dress rehearsal</em></p><div align="center"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmeiA3KIYFY5RPt7PfSqWzguGKxv2WVA_7_-7rMtrc7fVjdLjU9ArPtO2FMiLHOx4BKAUsOOB0x3eFsYbSVL-VHJ8SSzJYSuyJhSmrhUQk-A_2rQdCxGQiQZF9SbF-xepOeF1qMk-U_9w/s1600-h/Saipan+813.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5150418785735607938" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmeiA3KIYFY5RPt7PfSqWzguGKxv2WVA_7_-7rMtrc7fVjdLjU9ArPtO2FMiLHOx4BKAUsOOB0x3eFsYbSVL-VHJ8SSzJYSuyJhSmrhUQk-A_2rQdCxGQiQZF9SbF-xepOeF1qMk-U_9w/s320/Saipan+813.jpg" border="0" /></a> <em>My personal spies!</em></div><div align="center"><br /></div><p align="center"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjF_gqEK0LHvIV4s3kQMBfBeeM6IjmE4Qwl7oOg9zDqbY95NgLxg0i3MoIlw_vx2OTlwGU0YSudU-JRqk4z3gu4sZin_mlf-DPlf5G1Ao-Ms3wJRTgQWDWnqEynwXW93mTk_xsnJHfD0iE/s1600-h/Saipan+855.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5150418798620509858" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjF_gqEK0LHvIV4s3kQMBfBeeM6IjmE4Qwl7oOg9zDqbY95NgLxg0i3MoIlw_vx2OTlwGU0YSudU-JRqk4z3gu4sZin_mlf-DPlf5G1Ao-Ms3wJRTgQWDWnqEynwXW93mTk_xsnJHfD0iE/s320/Saipan+855.jpg" border="0" /></a> <em>Our staff....at the half-way point!</em> </p><div align="center"><br /></div><p align="left">The next day was the last day of school. We had our class Christmas party. It was a REALLY crazy day, because our pizza order could not be made so I had to go out and buy some frozen pizza's and returned at around 11:00 and school was being dismissed at 12:30. Eva and I combined our parties and although it was a crazy day, it all worked out really great!<br /></p><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5150418802915477170" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisvTvPyaK7KFZs5-de1J1hfp5artXRfqSifDZVpcKPS6Yjg7l0dYR4oaNHJkl8AlgK0sSrhGIUmJkJQJHXiFyXLVK_s9milBeXs8wL0NDHQJU1ofDC0Kjddy_bUlZ_OwBRxxIEmqLI2PE/s320/Saipan+864.jpg" border="0" /> <p align="center"><em>My kiddos with their antlers</em><br /></p><p align="center"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5150424240344073922" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2_01dIxoeT120jS6I4aCqk3bffEoIzyi1VX7A3B05hHE6V8iDQTSrmd41-54brSxu8u-X8eiSClvyEy6gdTOeWt_qYVZpr62Rb8jrnHztMPERzpkN3rkW5y5WdWIK0SMUJNO-hCmfDaY/s320/Saipan+875.jpg" border="0" /> <em>Our class in front of our Christmas tree just before they ripped through their presents</em><br /><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5150424248934008530" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8nmaJEPvhuIFN2wX_m3sZhTeSmY3ZJcyAfJ3-cygbU2Gj3p_HmnHceVBgCVVu6eyTyA-60nzhwgCjKEULSUu5FTtkX0eFSBkL3yc1ytC5TAOaQuwT6IEGzYsYAhzsrjnPlfv9bavhNis/s320/Saipan+876.jpg" border="0" /> <em>Just as they started ripping through their presents.</em></p><br /><p align="left"><em>In case I haven't mentioned it before, I do have the most AMAZING parents in my class. Thanks to one of them, I was able to have all these great pictures with my kids! Thank you Lord for my parents!</em></p><br /><p align="left">The following sunday (day before Christmas Eve) I spent the entire day baking cookies and wrapping presents for the kids of the island. As I had mentioned before the Lord allowed me to collect gifts for the children here who otherwise may not have had a Christmas. It was a lot of fun both preparing and actually handing them out. I baked about 20 dozen cookies and wrapped about 30 something gifts. I truly felt like an elf! lol Then on Christmas Eve day, we went out and distributed the gifts and cookies. That night we went to the Paez's house and had some yummy food and games. </p><br /><p align="center"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5150424253228975842" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRQRfH0D6Ftl0XkEhJizXWW84AXVcSormC4itNP0NePFY99V8JFWZ7ftk0_Xw_XBfEAoauSWPVpfZ91YxrIUBDwgUk4mQPdliA00jGm64uPwn-Gr2tXBuAUNXkXQfU9c6562mxKa6mgtE/s320/Saipan+890.jpg" border="0" /><em>Christmas cookies for all</em></p><br /><p align="center"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5150424257523943154" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoQJAYhFWVxr70zQ3Btd5jNIXsSEvv6hvK6nLXX159ABrFdS16Jag0JtgYmL-H1dvvyaLiN6L5Qh4q7JNt46JvwPo3ouLVBbP23uZNeo5x9fQTASgwvNHqEZ9C9CFsLc0mpBMM5hwqPMU/s320/Saipan+896.jpg" border="0" /><em>Some of the kids with their gifts.</em></p><br /><p align="center">(The cards are specially made by Kindergarteners in GA. Thanx Allison!)</p><br /><p align="center"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5150424261818910466" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJp0iJmu5kg3uiIFkp4DZLZALYu-eN5HxUAAcqHtoDhrsI-_1QUD25k65efYPF9AniDhWEiR0SKkWm3izCztdcJIp2JTkOLuUZYt63EONrpzMs8CBfzePeAkjC33P6Z0_0x4pYgw5zJ2Y/s320/Saipan+903.jpg" border="0" /><em>Tali Paez with her sparkler (cool pic huh?)</em><br /></p><br /><p align="left">Christmas day started to feel a little hard since I was alone for the beginning of it. Then the Lord gave me an AMAZING gift. I was able to spend about 3 hours on the webcam with my family back home while they were having their Christmas Eve dinner. It was a true blessing. Later that evening, I went to the church for our Annual Christmas Party. I was in charge of games for the little ones and we played 2 games one of which was called a Rudolph Relay Race. Later we had a gift exchange among the adults where we played the game "White Elephant". It was fun to see the adults become kids again while they "stole" each other's gifts.</p><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5150435574762768210" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZMT7WfVn9Eqs-yHFieb28CRq9nEYHGsTHw5o7_hVZQlMohW6oUKQjNApDEL1WPofDBC-PJDqyysyVXom1qPcVu5Z2WGMptMdJtbGuzm0-gTBNEMuWjsNerVgidNshHsMglgL0h6hvYwU/s320/December%252B2007%252B202%5B1%5D.jpg" border="0" /> <p align="center"><em>Our church kiddos with their red noses!</em><br /></p><p></p><p></p><p align="center">During this time, our school hosts a winter school where students from Korea come down to learn english for about 2 months. I decided to start tutoring them during their time here. I have 3 boys in my current group right now and they are a blast to be around. I really enjoy spending time with them and helping them learn english.<img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5150425954036025138" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHKXKM7I1k4lnxI2a3tegUMSHnRv9bypmWpDQVBwsmCbiR4YkJ6DhpjBzpUi3GqDWUC4W_KKQ4hXpxhTq2dK4kHJDoQCHjCHpcosVdQHl2z0fiy8H-Mhzl7birItQIk8sI4MZaPBe_FrE/s320/Saipan+914.jpg" border="0" /><em>My three boys after our last class</em><br /></p><p>Finally, as we all tend to culminate our holiday season, we come to the end of the year. This year I spent New Year's Eve with the Maycocks and Riki's parents. First, we went to The Garlic Restaurant. It was really yummy food and we all shared plates so we could try everything. Later, we went to the Mandi Spa and just relaxed around lazily talking and getting to know each other better. It was awesome to be there at night and was just a great time. Finally, we welcomed the new year at the top of Mt Topochau. After a very fun and rough ride to the top, we met up with Virle, Joeie, Girle, and Antonee. From this point, we could see the entire island. It was really cool because we could also see all the firework shows being displayed throughout Saipan. At around 11:50 p.m. Sean brought out some glasses and bubbly cider and we welcomed 2008!</p><p align="center"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5150426907518764866" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJq0jp8aBxlzKWZ98pBGGYxp7M0g0vHKbjad9Fepx-EQ4A8zfkrEjxIZ6lCoHNv8gT4lEC33O45rFFlMVJ5Tx_QpnOfCW2tqn9j4F02U1F7a0j74kmgwyZth4btodxlZ3Sm8D7NL7cg7E/s320/PC310033.JPG" border="0" /> <em>Happy New Year to all!</em><br /></p><p align="left">So as look back at this year, I thank the Lord for His many blessings that He's poured down on me this year. Whether I've counted them blessings at the time or not, I know that everything has worked perfectly for His will. As I sit here in my living room floor on my little island in the Pacific, I pray that the Lord pour down His many blessings on you and your family this upcoming year. Whether you're a close friend or just an acquaintance, I thank the Lord for you because in someway, you impacted my life this year. Thank you for your prayers and support. I love you all and many blessings in 2008!<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /></p>Vero in Saipanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16463939220206028295noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3085603215161749293.post-15782961139402143642007-11-28T00:35:00.000-08:002007-11-28T01:06:15.252-08:00I LOVE my job!<div>Not many people can say that they truly enjoy their job. Yes, like many people, I have my rough days. However, when my day is at its roughest, just the smile, hug, kiss, or look from one of my kids puts my life back on track. So here's a little something from my kiddos that might just touch your heart as much as its touched mine. </div><br /><div></div><br /><div>Well, on Monday morning, we're getting started with our morning activity, when one of the boys comes to my desk and asks me to sharpen his pencil. While doing so, Alannah (one of my little girls) comes up to me with her pencil. So I ask her "Let me guess, you need your pencil sharpened?" She looks at me and replies "No, I just need a kiss!" This just made my day. I thought it was WAY too cute!</div><br /><div></div><br /><div>There's this Korean boy that I tutor 4 times a week. He's 10 years old and basically here alone. Here's a background on most Korean students: They usually come here alone to learn english for a year. They stay at a dorm type house with a guardian. Most guardians run this EXACTLY like a business. So on top of being in a brand new country without knowing the language, they don't quite get the TLC that we all need from our parents and families. Well, back to the story. His name is Joon Seo and he's really compassionate. He's definately brought out some of my gray hair, but he's AMAZING! <img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5137814611175930306" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwefpVVmNh6BRFbirZQKN-e-nzOlz7WpS4K4HFQfp57Th9yxWROX00IAhsSySW2LRr2hSNHwAkZNaW1pJ5fQNRBlpIiaSxU65LUtpaxN3j95BFsTn7TNixjT3PG5-PH5DugaM_3OngL7w/s320/P9270418.JPG" border="0" />Well, today, he had a bad day at school. We're both hovering over the internet translator, trying to understand what the other is saying. After sort of talking about his day and why he was upset, we realize that my ride is here. So I get up, but notice him still frustrated. So I type in the translator "I care for you". He read it, and said a simple, but heartfelt, "Thank you". This opened up my floodgates! He drives me crazy, but I love that little boy and i'm just so thankful that the Lord finally allowed me to tell him that I do care. </div><br /><div></div><br /><div>Ok so, now for some cheering up: My mom has always had this special phrase with us where she'd say "Mommy loves you..." and we'd respond "No matter what". One day this year, I remembered the phrase while explaining to my kids that Jesus loves them in that same way and that I do too. So I changed around the phrase, and well here ya go!</div><br /><p><br /></p><p align="center"><iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dzYCqaFpFEm1EK9tdRYTgrBzi1Z4bzpkWhMGVE72sHvN_F28qlH0tDBvRHXTUtGxkNZEij0aZk4lvpn7zLH' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe></p><br /><p>I want to say thank you to all of you who pray for me and I ask you to pray for these kids as well. Pray that they may get to know Jesus, and that the Lord can use me to minister to them as well! Love you all!</p><br /><p></p>Vero in Saipanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16463939220206028295noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3085603215161749293.post-26412848708347746272007-11-23T21:28:00.000-08:002007-11-23T22:36:18.655-08:00Tooth Wisdom<div>Yesterday, I went to the Dentist to get my wisdom teeth extracted. After Dr. Pierson explained what the procedure would consist of, I laid in the seat filled with anxiety. My wisdom teeth had been bugging me for a while. Then, when i finally had made the decision to get them extracted, I didn't have the money for it. G-d provided and it was D-Day! They gave me these cool "futuristic" glasses where i could watch a movie while they did the procedure. I apparently was the first patient to try it. YAY ME! lol =) Well, the first shot of anesthesia went in and it hurt a little. Felt more like someone was putting a rod in my gums that just didn't fit. Of course that description sounds so much worse, but that's what i imagined. After all my gums were injected, i sat there for a while, trying to control my tongue which felt bigger than my mouth. By the time i was all numbed up, i felt like Will Smith in the movie "Hitch". Thankfully, i looked pretty normal. Then he started with the first tooth. I mentally prepared myself...but before i could even think of the word "ouch:", the tooth was out. I was pleased...but it was only 1/4 of the way. Then came the second one. I felt some pain...and it got worse. Then Dr. Pierson noticed and asked me if it was hurting. I said yes. He then put some more anesthesia. He let it kick in and then when he came back, he said something that stuck in my head for a while. "You don't have to be a hero, let me know if it hurts, that's what the anesthesia is here for". You may think that this is pretty normal to hear, but immediately, all i could think about was G-d. So many times he tells us the same thing "You don't have to be a hero, give me your load, that's what I'm here for! The Lord has many ways of speaking to us, yes, even in the middle of an extraction, while sitting in the dentist's chair. I'm glad the Lord spoke to me that day. I know he speaks to us at all times, we just got to listen.<br /><br />Well, here are some words from the "less-wiser"! =) lol<br /><br />Love you all!<br />G-d's Island Girl</div><br /><div></div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5136291353779763634" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikb3eM0Yb_n0RK3LhV7FOJL0LY5mIuloL69P5LmpBrJ8gNbMqwIWc9QjbCBsK9JLRsB2_VI8wNnVE8ovRnbHmpqRToPJOJat4bK27YQf9HukRkmt00-3UjFVZzjcfGd3bUKrIKlXuQFVA/s320/PB240006.JPG" border="0" /> <div></div><div align="center"><em>My four wisdom teeth. The one on the right (the painful one) has some bone attached.</em></div>Vero in Saipanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16463939220206028295noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3085603215161749293.post-41122379899446195952007-11-23T19:42:00.000-08:002007-11-23T20:44:16.752-08:00Thanksgiving Break!<div>On Tuesday, my kiddos and also the 1st and 2nd graders joined together to tell the "ABC's of The First Thanksgiving" to all our parents. Afterwards, it was chow time. So many parents...so many kids...SO MUCH FOOD! <img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5136259979043666274" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgT_x-GzMctFYqQ95bjYQmPGCVqLqlraCEsVw3s4VrpgF1Ct2ZLg-Oz9kdyxrPLP4V77Va6GHMGUjpr3MyjvWhBMR_9_O-IH8_ezELZ8xsptBPGp-5DOnkNVbU60BtSZpYHhYSH2kgsbY/s320/My+Kiddos+219.jpg" border="0" />It was a wonderful time for all of us. When everything was finally done, I went and did some much needed laundry. The next day, I woke up early to go scuba diving. It was absolutely AMAZING! It was my first open water dive and I honestly can't wait for the rest. However, I was EXHAUSTED! When I got home (around 3:00 p.m.) I decided to take a "nap". So I laid down and went off to sleepy land. When I finally opened my eyes again, it was roughly around 4:00 a.m....the next day! It was definitely some much needed rest! I couldn't go back to sleep, so I got up, and was able to "web cam" with my cousins back home. It was really great to do so! I missed seeing their faces so. Then around 8:00 a.m., I realized that it was Thanksgiving Day. So I got up, picked up Eva from her house and we started cooking. We later were on our way to do run some errands, and then maybe lay out by the beach for a while. Then we decided, hmmm...we have our bathing suits and practically the whole day ahead of us...so lets go to the MANDI! The Mandi is this AHHHMAZING spa and since we're locals, it only costs $15 to spend the day there. So we went and had a blast.<img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5136260009108437378" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjs5-L_4Ip02VgnnXJ2fRdc9vowAMds7sZTZ73VliyMpvH7NgH2D5bUYDSCDA7PhvEBzt_Yg9dsNdEnhRSz8PaT9B-BsIIhJrTVSrAFQ23FRygXQcBi1qabgfrKs8KMDwiP7av7xlpkbkA/s320/Mandi+Spa+014.jpg" border="0" /></div><div></div><div><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5136259996223535474" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyC0Py7P_HnJIvJ_-qYOeoB7I-SSVJ7SWee4V_wyIUbbV6DPth-hx0sTtVSZdsZJLPoWbZuHNj6wzLxv47LwQgOy7JMj6kbOY_tJHjZ9nD3xjfh1uXW_F4iROTp_uPioPygE3CxF01Crc/s320/Mandi+Spa+367.jpg" border="0" />Later that night, we went to the Maycock's for Thanksgiving Dinner. I remember starting to feel the knot in my stomach at the thought of spending Thanksgiving without my family. I kept telling myself "It's only a dinner...JUST A DINNER". <img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5136260021993339298" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6-Gsv7O__b2i5IE7wvE7ctHzbX0eixHbx17PzeUM04xSwMdeZzkpDUadQRGS0cjJr0D841FjUryB4ZpMvgOnzd2RqEK5YvMXi4mbcyDXb4Qz37GGNUGqvhoazuTozWdHTyOTeHiMAuOE/s320/November%252B2007%252B233.jpg" border="0" />When we arrived, everything was perfectly set. From name tags to fancy cups....it was just perfect. I found myself that night looking around the table, and thinking, "These people here ARE my family and I'm sure I'm going to miss them even more, when my year here is finished." It was truly a perfect night! <img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5136260013403404690" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtcfV8cnFY_St1tTHKMRn8ES9K5Z8bKQ8-VbR3HD9pkpyt6lsqAQsIsw2PrvD7hp_vN03l_EPngqBnXUv9ZG_PeURzt8P3jo7t0ChENR_PwBGXHHzsZbS015LvconleR7RKvmknmSN94s/s320/November%252B2007%252B236.jpg" border="0" /></div><br /><p>So here's my list of<strong><em> only five</em></strong> of the things I'm thankful for this year:</p><p>1 - My G-d </p><p>2 - Family (including Saipan Family)</p><p>3 - My kids and their wonderful, comforting words, hugs and smiles</p><p>4 - My church Family (back home and here in Saipan)</p><p>5 - For the privilege to serve G-d</p>Vero in Saipanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16463939220206028295noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3085603215161749293.post-91994527083158996872007-11-14T17:21:00.000-08:002007-11-14T17:47:03.912-08:00G-d's Plans for My Christmas<div>"While i'm in Saipan, i'm going to travel to as many places as I can. I love traveling and everything is just so close and cheap" I remember these words coming out of my mouth throughout the entire summer. These were MY plans for every break that I would have while here. Philippines...Thailand...Bali...Japan...Australia...New Zealand...my plans kept changing. Nothing seemed to be working out. When I would finally decide on one place and it seemed like it would work....WOOSH something would happen and those plans would get demolished. Time was running out, and I was getting frustrated. Then one night, while talking to my mom about my frustrations, she said "Just Pray"...I had done so, so many times, but I always prayed for the Lord to allow this trip to work out, or for that trip to work out, and so on. But that night, I prayed a very heartfelt prayer about something as simple as Christmas plans. I awoke the next day with the thought "It'll be okay if I stay here in Saipan" (I didn't want to because I knew I would miss my family too much over the holidays) I felt a peace in my heart, and the words just started rambling in my head. "If I stay here, I can show everyone how we celebrate it back home" Then that thought led to another... "What if I can give a Christmas to those children who wouldn't otherwise have one?" Immediately, I started planning it out in my head. The peace I felt for staying here is how I knew that it was an answer from G-d. So my Christmas Plans? To continue the work that I believe G-d is doing here (and hopefully through me). I will be collecting Toys, Clothes, and Cards for those kids here. I have some people from the States that will be sending some of these items. If you are one of those that is interested, please let me know. Starting December, my house will look like Santa's Workshop as I will be baking cookies, wrapping presents, and hopefully bringing some Christmas joy to some less fortunate children. Please continue praying for me and all my....no...I mean...<em><strong>G-d's</strong></em> plans for me here on Saipan!</div><br /><div></div><br /><div>Till my next post, </div><br /><div>G-d's Island Girl =)<img style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 142px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 185px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" height="381" alt="" src="http://www.christmaspalmtree.info/christmas-palm.gif" border="0" /></div>Vero in Saipanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16463939220206028295noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3085603215161749293.post-59944180820287169702007-10-30T06:03:00.000-07:002007-10-30T18:46:43.862-07:00Ode to October<div align="left">If you've been checking my blog, (and i hope u have, and I'm also sorry too) you've noticed that October started out GREAT with a pretty good blog on my part (or so i like to think so lol). From the moment school started i heard many comments about how HORRIBLE October was going to be. "If I can only survive October, I know I'll do just fine the rest of the year." or "I don't want October to come." Phrases like that were quite commonly heard around the school. Me, the person who doesn't like to "pre-destine" things, thought people were just over-reacting. Well, Ladies and Gentlemen, I've got an announcement to make....I WAS WRONG! October was indeed a <a href="mailto:CR@ZY">CR@ZY</a> month! I would like to refer to it as my ROLLER COASTER month. I had my highs, i had my lows, and then i had my upside down moments that also sometimes feel kinda great during and afterwards (sorry to you who get sick on roller coasters, i LOVE em). Here are some of the highlights of the month:</div><br /><div>October 1: HAPPY BIRTHDAY RAMSES!!!</div><br />October 6: Baptisms This day, Nate and Tali made a public decision to follow Jesus. I was so proud of them. Nate, I've just recently gotten to know better, but Tali I've gotten to know quite well since I've been here. It was great to see them make this incredible decision.<br /><br /><br /><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5127304994511273778" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTKC5LpVSMKn7m41i9mcVNzKaQKoV9xTwglxyRg2K0laCb4UURIzrCUU9cX7esd4Xx0jiCpV3AdY0jdfZE8jXeRqJn7Pkg7i8evEpfyf-k114sOqe5ec2mHIhXokcxiTmZ_TiaGqzaYTQ/s320/P9280460.JPG" border="0" /><br /><br /><div align="center"><em>Tali and I</em></div><br /><div align="center"><em></div></em><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5127304990216306466" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCCmvzH5cQ2tXWUkiFrA__IuyMH7660QJD5J4Dz8K04iPxa1Cg1OPeZe6YO3e6VR_3EGot-MLd1W32SLBr886dKt3QOg2-wD_iraenieajv4maxQ-xuMOrDkEaBaS1D7XxbWoR2h1eb34/s320/P9280459.JPG" border="0" /> <p align="center"> <em>Nate and I</em><br /></p><p align="left">October 6-7: <strong>Managaha Weekend</strong> We went camping to this island just next to Saipan. Its a "deserted" island but is very touristy. However, that night we had the island ALL to ourselves. It was SOOO MUCH FUN! It truly was absolutely beautiful! We even saw some shark....very cute....from a distance lol</p><p align="center"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5127137447837056594" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIrH0FzL1-MzhMkD2gkS_Hx85rs7wSutrl69oGDrfAopIDZK220tcpy94PBxiJlWWDLzMMTy3FXMVyh5UZnkJY9-LVVRfzcZHyjEgjHKLIZr-Bv25oa_0E-Q5rO3R30rv_bM3qclcZFlQ/s320/DSCN0174640x480.jpg" border="0" /><em>The Over-Nighters!<br /></em></p><p><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5127137452132023906" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGsoAMN3P-P1vo18Hnl02v56XXzRHg-WI2wrT2_3bKhmb9pk7_BMe-bJdSQOL2_aE4bG8LiPGUx1TyzEqoBmOc6gCx-rAT03MuQBIWDtcjpJg7ZgXTpNUFMaLSsjqPZpg_9ZE5vqkdiJo/s320/DSCN0207640x480.jpg" border="0" /> </p><p align="center"><em>Eva and Me</em><br /><br /></p><p align="left">October 14: <strong>Scuba Lessons Begin </strong>We finally begin our actual scuba lessons after much study and prep. It feels so cool to breath underwater. I'm having a BLAST with it.</p><br /><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5127137465016925826" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpFlKvVDa_o-YE-dqNH8Ghr8_PdIb1ZR8XMXYk5wWFr4QCG0xwmYBJ2hfYOQrx65Fz2LAlA9YwPQdqZ70-uCS9sWGX0qP7aaCEfkyGDwVVn0ILLlBe22cuIStiIVbFnASGF50-GCgUgow/s320/DSC02803.jpg" border="0" /> <p align="center"> M<em>y Roomies and me</em><br /><br /></p><p align="left">October 15 - 19: <strong>Spirit Week</strong> Spirit Week was a lot of fun. This was the schedule:</p>Monday: Pajama/Bad Hair Day<br /><br />Tuesday: Cartoon/Super Hero Day<br /><br /><br /><p align="center"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5127300978716851986" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigjGYurKh-szrPvVnAOLJJ9cuwFXrVVsXhQjasNGBjgbluGyFOWac5-BXcoGi2N9tff08m2nA9ikv7FG2JHFpMPma3xQq-l4CX9EkdTnQszEbT6BPX1AEQlqsYFxiQ-t7p7hlyf5rwErQ/s320/Spirit+Week+022.jpg" border="0" /><em>The Lovely Ladies of Saipan SDA School!</em></p><p align="left">Wednesday: Decades Day<img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5127137477901827730" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7s-9SnZYDnZNpfY2GWm3oIDwxO9CXu1jOsR8MdgDzVrypFaC4o6Uv7_AGm_D4PLGArMze6Gy3XfZDtkeM6TbagW6Fnz6QFqRTpfVj7ooQKYSSyTmBr_N3QFroUHky04aeofI2NoUtVUw/s320/Spirit+Week+003.jpg" border="0" /></p><div align="center"><em>Dongham and me on Decades Day!</em></div><br /><br /><br />Thursday: Dress Up Day<br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5127300974421884674" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXy0oE6P7QBrpWNLtWkGzcI-MwxWEJ8djsVGqxbvVBIOQuJAyUwDEYo1tFFE17_dVRpOqcWFzB_B-aad0O_7Js2kxSYp6cJ6IZ_vxmofSdiots-2GGijkfkohx6duYbNIE-9GhlHh8rI0/s320/Spirit+Week+007.jpg" border="0" /> <p align="center"> <em>Me and my kiddos on Dress up Day!</em><br /></p><p align="left"><br />Friday: Olympic Game Day</p><br /><br />October 20: <strong>Kagman Evangelistic Series Begins</strong> since last year, our pastor, Pr. Eliki has been working out a vision that he sees with one of the villages on island, Kagman. He's been working REALLY hard, and finally the day arrived. It has so far been a great turnout and true blessing. I will write more on it at the culmination this Sunday. I've been helping out with the children's program and it truly has been a major BLESSING! PTL!!!<br /><br /><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5127300961536982754" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEnPcMfopv82tCBROYWw9eV6k7ZJQeG-t6WJ0Fh0t7xNryl8qoLmQiFBf0z-TJ_zZn3z6cZKr_jlgjxk6_TIfOt3HqPdLNXixoKGgGi03Uz5zKQSE4ZSTBgP7KK_xWLShQyLsf0D5Le4I/s320/Kagman+001.jpg" border="0" /> <p align="center"> <em>Me and Jack Jack</em><br /></p><p align="left"><br />October 23-24: <strong>Parent Teacher Conferences</strong> These are probably THE most dreaded day in a teacher's life. I was quite nervous and scared, but at the end of each of them, i was REALLY happy, because i was reminded once again of the GREAT parents that my students have and just how much they want their child to succeed. A little 411 on my parents: All my students have at least 1 parent that is a teacher.</p><p>October 25: <strong>Happy Birthday Abuela</strong> I love this lady sooo much. She means the world to me!</p><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5127300952947048146" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivS5a7W74RfrgP_12fLBXuVbFHPAFwj56SBp_1PDCxFKA1iFzo5gxzcl7uVEGTBGdvsm7Rmvja61U6SGjTRhJUwMyP8fIOAf7NG_2yKiUUgTE-EWNb4EEvs18iaWnCykk7k05l4kMyVuY/s320/P7040183.JPG" border="0" /><br /><br /><span style="BACKGROUND-COLOR: #ff80c0">October 30: <strong>Shrew Enters Classroom</strong> Today started out great with Picture day. Anyone who knows me, knows that i LOVE pictures, both taking them and being in them. But unfortunately, the day did not end so great. I have a little shrew that LOVES my classroom, but we've never come in contact. Well, today, was the day. Coming back from teaching my other students, Alannah and Rita look at me and tell me "Teacher, there is a rat in the classroom" I laugh, look at the teacher in charge, and soon my face changes when she nods in agreement with the girls. From that moment on, there war fought in my room. My kids were sent out and in came our tough 8th grade boys. Through my screeching, they were somehow able to scare it away. We're not sure where it is, but we're coming for it later. And can you believe that it even had the audacity to walk on my foot before it exited the classroom. lol SHREWS!!! Its bad enough i live with one (lives in our ceiling, loves to play when we need to sleep lol) let alone have to share my classroom with one as well lol</span><br /><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5127300965831950066" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmnJlXjvZ7THZCLse_5uu4NSVA8gKJL8aF22WUp_Xc4sNkXmxyeG5bV1RdFy6tWkDJmUCbZsR6uNrm-WmzKGqKRDhQzRq5wfH-ngnSiyrvVPMcbQehfP8pVK3GieTHWHDGP8Vl0Op68uU/s320/shrew1.jpg" border="0" /><br /><span style="BACKGROUND-COLOR: #ff80c0"></span><br /><span style="BACKGROUND-COLOR: #ff80c0">All in all, as I bid Adieu to October, I cannot complain. Many emotions were experienced this month, but it truly was a good, blessed month. I can't wait for November though!</span>Vero in Saipanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16463939220206028295noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3085603215161749293.post-30261432455872310652007-10-01T04:39:00.000-07:002007-10-01T05:42:43.739-07:00My Class<div align="center">I have officially been here on island for 2 months now and well i've been busy with some cute little munchkins that i haven't been able to post some pictures of them, but here they are! I started out with 4 during my first week, got another one the 2nd week and just last week, we had a new student join.</div><br /><div align="center"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5116335782105903570" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimd2tnr2X3ePOQfI4gL6X8P5TjG2uKuOcuJdjsj8Wvk7KbgRbR9bUjIX7n0DgM31497msw42cU4iNKVaxcw9TKCbBR6F1wMQEiQrdl7VM2xncHDAZxJMDNzNiQvdtjLy8KmI5pqCVVDWw/s320/P9180363.JPG" border="0" /></div><br /><div align="center"></div><br /><div align="center"><em>From L - R: Miss Veronyka, John Christopher, Irene, Kyle, Alannah, Christian, and Rita</em></div><br /><div align="center"></div><br /><div align="center"><br /></div><br /><p align="center"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVNcYZHYv-ElFE5Jx4-5hrnWF_RIUqMiF0jASBF1QAtzyUrr9Zc2ARlAhaG7gJrpVggJQqSiWTN_709v-r14xXW3oQsdGYB2ursKuY6MQMzsefpuUrL_9D5Kpc2JJb0x4aAtqjLHYrN8w/s1600-h/P9180364.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5116335786400870882" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVNcYZHYv-ElFE5Jx4-5hrnWF_RIUqMiF0jASBF1QAtzyUrr9Zc2ARlAhaG7gJrpVggJQqSiWTN_709v-r14xXW3oQsdGYB2ursKuY6MQMzsefpuUrL_9D5Kpc2JJb0x4aAtqjLHYrN8w/s320/P9180364.JPG" border="0" /></a> <em>Here we are doing our "Cheerleader" picture. </em></p><br /><p align="left">Although they are all part of my kinder class, there is something unique about each one. They make up the great class that I have. So i'm going to tell you a little bit about each one. </p><p align="center"><strong>MY GIRLS</strong><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtHomarvT-myREH8ho8thENuOx_MepPScv1hoRd5MLQAz25TP073GSX6IxlAsiQkJ9sd5GtFHUcqses1N-Fo_F1AoVhhPDxfvP1DR9hyM70Ajstgmjao8pwpv-j1sHQkiKQYE6Iee6g94/s1600-h/Saipan+335.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5116335794990805490" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtHomarvT-myREH8ho8thENuOx_MepPScv1hoRd5MLQAz25TP073GSX6IxlAsiQkJ9sd5GtFHUcqses1N-Fo_F1AoVhhPDxfvP1DR9hyM70Ajstgmjao8pwpv-j1sHQkiKQYE6Iee6g94/s320/Saipan+335.jpg" border="0" /></a> Alannah (left): She reminds me a lot of myself. I'm not a morning person, but as an adult you tend to have to just play it off, but she doesn't. When she first gets to school, don't talk to her. Well you <em>can</em> talk to her, but she may not respond. She is very independent and has a mind of her own. My favorite thing about her: She always starts her sentences with "Teacher, you know...."</p><br /><p>Rita (right): Rita is a sweet little girl who has blossomed so much since she's been in my class. At first she was quite timid and shy, but i've seen her confidence build quite alot. Although she may be quiet at times, she takes in every bit of detail. She has a warm smile that can brighten any room. My favorite thing about her: How excited she gets about everything and the excitement that is portrayed in her face. </p><p align="center"><strong>MY BOYS</strong></p><p><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5116340223102087714" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaChLv1EA_dOjhfqEidP0PMHT3IrDb8l9v5T5phLXbK-7SWUuBu0Xk90zImtSgh7dVwUAxUE3zngQS73RBUIK-IRJS66S1ii6jKyP73NPqjfQtINXMsqkWGtO4h7JT9TR4Cr76Zux4_X0/s320/Saipan+268.jpg" border="0" /></p><br /><p>Christian (Left): Don't let that innocent smile fool you, this little boy is a handful. However, he is so passionate about everything he does. His facial expressions are endless and he gives some amazing hugs that only a child can give. Whenever you are having a bad day, Christian is always there to brighten it. My Favorite thing about him: He's genuine and truly cares for others.</p><p>John Christopher (Center): This little boy is still very much a little boy. He's always playing and trying new things. He tends to worry about everybody and definately speaks his mind. He has an amazing smile (when he shows teeth) that is so pure and innocent. My Favorite thing about him: His "uhoh i'm in trouble now" look. </p><p>Kyle (Right): Kyle is a little smarty pants. This little boy came into my class already reading and has since then moved onto a 1st grade reading level. He's great at math and is always the first to finish EVERY assignment. I've noticed that besides the fact that he's advanced, he truly is still a little boy at heart. My Favortie thing about him: Just how much of a little boy he truly is, oh and his smile =)</p><p align="center"><strong>IRENE</strong></p><p><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5116340227397055026" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhJCplg_SEDz7elVz4x22it4WD3Zg7l7mkcEntGksaSvXrTjoE50u0ZbXYhTTMLrGKkUT1WFVHkJA7OVuj9ZCX9bJ1J2bDCV7__iFTBa6gMmkiImZ5tMG-j1TfIdB5m6jxc80nvxNtwXQ/s320/P9180343.JPG" border="0" /></p><p>Finally, we have Irene. I leave her for last because although ALL my kids are special to me, she has this "specialness" about her, she's my first ESL student. I loved hearing my kids call me teacher for the first time, but there was something about that first time that she called me teacher. I'm not sure if it was the timidness (which doesn't exist anymore) or her struggling accent, that just seemed to say "help" at the same time, but just something about it, just warmed my heart. She LOVES to play around, and although we had a tough start, she truly has a beautiful spirit and is always smiling. My Favorite thing about her: She loves to sneak up behind me and just give me a hug.</p><p> </p><p>My kids in general are all amazing. I could not pick a favorite because they all complete my heart and my purpose for being here. Its just amazing how much you can grow to love someone in such a short time, but honestly, I have! I love to just look at their pictures when i'm at home. I miss them during the weekends and the only reason I look forward to Mondays is because I know I will see them again. They are very opinionated, and have some amazing comments and questions. They brighten my day and warm my heart with just their smile or group hugs. They all have wonderful hearts, and although they are a handful, they truly are good kids. But they are just that...kids! We laugh together, cry together, and boy do we have some silly times as well!</p><p><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5116340210217185794" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtLqfADdtP4sGhs7WZCp40ZDguTSZkw2SmtvNQEzHA12fI9i0IuCc7QTehO9kUBzlIEJYtNtc1_BWqR7wRWKxJR6f97_TQ39T4yEZrufEuOfSzRvVB8vf4lhIkgVinFAe2gC_56XrCeBs/s320/P9270432.JPG" border="0" /></p><p align="center"><em>Eating Ice-Cakies after Community Service Day</em></p><p align="center">I continue to pray that the Lord will keep using me here with them because I want them to know just what a wonderful G-d we truly have. All in all, I LOVE my kids. They are amazing little people. They are the reason I stay up late, and wake up early. They are the reason my room is never SQUEEKY CLEAN. They are the reason for most of my headaches as well. They are the reason for most of my smiles throughout the day. They are my passion and the reason I want to be a better teacher. They are my reason for being in Saipan. They are my mission. <strong>THEY ARE MY KIDS!!!</strong></p><p align="center"> </p><p align="center">Teacher Dogpile!<img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5116340218807120402" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBvbeUJNliHCvXsNXVK1CZ4zHnbYPeHNYxbDjKu3VKqIYiLwDRrpntnS8isTWt5Fe9gADZjgtBeRn0fU-_KOJAQ29kTLAAjzIAzu2-rbx8_jq2r5QK2J_qS_bPiemO9EsayTClcvpyRn8/s320/P9270447.JPG" border="0" /></p><p align="center"><em>Teacher Dogpile!</em></p>Vero in Saipanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16463939220206028295noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3085603215161749293.post-67285607543245883222007-09-05T18:52:00.000-07:002007-09-05T19:13:08.648-07:00"Because we love Him..."Love is a word that all too often is used mistakingly. However theres something so reassuring when it comes from the mouth of an inocent little body. Everyday I get atleast a million "Teacher I love you" from my little kiddos! But today, when they used it, is was different. It was during worship, and we were asking for prayer request. One of the little boys wanted to pray for Jesus. I thought this was "interesting" so i asked him why he wanted to pray for Jesus. Immediately the little girl next to him told me "Because we love Him". Her face was a "duh teacher" face. Like if the answer to the question was obvious. This brought tears to my eyes. As some of you may know, at the beginning, the only correlation that these kids had with Jesus was death. Now they know someone who is a friend and who they've grown to love. It was just amazing to see G-ds work. G-d is so amazing and he loves each of these children so much, that its hard for me not to do the same. Of course their constant hugs everyday help as well =).<br /><br />In the past couple of days its hit me that this world, was started because of love. Everything revolves around it, and it will end because of love. Love is what made this world exist. Because love, G-d created us. Because of Love, G-d saved us. Because of love, G-d will take us to live with Him. ITS ALL ABOUT LOVE!!!<br /><br />"For G-d so loved the world, that He gave his one and only Son...."Vero in Saipanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16463939220206028295noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3085603215161749293.post-91574628807134424252007-09-01T19:12:00.000-07:002007-09-01T19:48:14.789-07:00What is a Missionary?Dictionary.com defines a missionary as:<br />"a person sent by a church into an area to carry on evangelism or other activities, as educational or hospital work."<br /><br />Unfortunately society has a "cookie cutter" definition of what a missionary is. I unfortunately fell into that trap. I thought the exact same thing. My "cookie cutter" definition of a missionary was someone who was "perfect" or as they say: "holier than thou". Someone who was constantly happy and couldn't admit that they were having a hard time where they were sent to. Someone who couldn't be in an argument, have a bad day, or maybe just not get along with everyone. Most importantly, that person has a perfect spiritual life.<br /><br />So just because I don't fit that definition, does it not make me a missionary?<br /><br />I struggled with that question, until I realized that the answer was no.<br /><br />Although I do enjoy smiling, seeing the glass half full and love what I do, I also have my hard days. I miss my family, my home, my friends, my life. I miss it all. I also do not always get along with everyone, but I pray and try my hardest to see and love them as G-d does. I unfortunately do have my bad days where everything just seems to fall apart, and/or I just want that day to end. I'm quite hard-headed so I do tend to argue at times. Yes there are also times when I just don't feel like being around anyone. And to top it all off, my spiritual life ISN'T perfect.<br /><br />I'm just a girl who has eyes for G-d alone and is willing to allow Him to work in and through her. I'm not perfect, but in my weakness, G-ds strength can come through. I may not ever know why i'm here in Saipan, but G-d sure does and I trust Him.<br /><br />My new defintion of a missionary: A person who loves G-d with all their heart and is willing to put their life in His hands so that He can do what he see fits.<br /><br />That defintion fits me!Vero in Saipanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16463939220206028295noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3085603215161749293.post-67102709562141424312007-08-26T03:15:00.001-07:002007-08-26T04:20:18.967-07:00Long awaited pics from SaipanI've been in Saipan for about 3 weeks now, and i know i haven't been able to put up some new pics of us here. But i finally was able to upload some. They are very self explanatory, but i will include some captions. Hope you enjoy!<br /><br /><br /><br /><a href="http://bp0.blogger.com/_aS_n1KYLzIs/RtFbP4F2E2I/AAAAAAAAABs/Zo9nCRVEoiM/s1600-h/Saipan+020.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5102960181100548962" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://bp0.blogger.com/_aS_n1KYLzIs/RtFbP4F2E2I/AAAAAAAAABs/Zo9nCRVEoiM/s320/Saipan+020.jpg" border="0" /></a> This is part of my Saipan family. There are some missing but these were the ones that greeted us at the airport. I have grown to love them and they each have a VERY special place in my heart. Isn't the sign beautiful? it was made by some of the students.<br /><br /><a href="http://bp1.blogger.com/_aS_n1KYLzIs/RtFbQIF2E3I/AAAAAAAAAB0/RKja9aRkNEs/s1600-h/Bonzaii+Cliff.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5102960185395516274" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://bp1.blogger.com/_aS_n1KYLzIs/RtFbQIF2E3I/AAAAAAAAAB0/RKja9aRkNEs/s320/Bonzaii+Cliff.jpg" border="0" /></a>This is Bonzaii Cliff. It is ABSOLUTELY BREATHTAKING as you can see. We went there on our first sabbath on island, to see the sunrise. It showed us again just how creative our G-d truly is. <br /><br /><br /><br /><p><a href="http://bp0.blogger.com/_aS_n1KYLzIs/RtFbQ4F2E4I/AAAAAAAAAB8/qVYmiC8002A/s1600-h/Saipan+031.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5102960198280418178" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://bp0.blogger.com/_aS_n1KYLzIs/RtFbQ4F2E4I/AAAAAAAAAB8/qVYmiC8002A/s320/Saipan+031.jpg" border="0" /></a>Here i am with Bonzaii Behind me. It's a bit blurry/dark because it was dawn and the light isn't the best.... but its still beautiful!!!</p><p><br /></p><p><a href="http://bp0.blogger.com/_aS_n1KYLzIs/RtFbQ4F2E5I/AAAAAAAAACE/v4y52B1L7os/s1600-h/potluck+lunch.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5102960198280418194" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://bp0.blogger.com/_aS_n1KYLzIs/RtFbQ4F2E5I/AAAAAAAAACE/v4y52B1L7os/s320/potluck+lunch.jpg" border="0" /></a> Later on in the day we were treated to a very yummy potluck. As you can see in our eyes, we are quite excited about the yummy food! Thank you church family! You are in my hearts already!<br /><a href="http://bp0.blogger.com/_aS_n1KYLzIs/RtFbR4F2E6I/AAAAAAAAACM/FBqllv44nnQ/s1600-h/Saipan+075.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5102960215460287394" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://bp0.blogger.com/_aS_n1KYLzIs/RtFbR4F2E6I/AAAAAAAAACM/FBqllv44nnQ/s320/Saipan+075.jpg" border="0" /></a> Finally, after all the errands on Friday and all the excitement of Sabbath, theres nothing better than to just lay down and relax on one of our BEAUTIFUL beaches! This is Micro beach and it is absolutely BEAUTIFUL! I love it there and its just relaxing to lay out after some time in the water. The island in the background is Managaha....it basically is like a "deserted" island. No one lives there, but locals and especially tourist visit often. The boat ride over is free for locals, so its a cheap and awesome way to spend your weekends. Plus you can even go over and camp there. The SDA school does this every year and from what i hear, its very much looked forward to by all the students!</p><p> </p><p>Well i part you now with these pictures. I should be posting again...maybe when i get home because i've had sooo many thoughts running through my head that i've been wanting to post, but i got some pressure from someone *cough*my mom*cough* saying that i needed more pics...so here ya go mom! LOVE U!!! </p><p>Thank you to all who take time out to read and follow up on me. Thank you for doing that and especially for all your prayers and e-mails. Believe it or not, the prayers are definately felt. I didn't know that actually happened, until i started feeling it. And your e-mails, they truly make the difference. I love you all and KP4M(keep praying for me)....G-d's island girl!</p><p><br /> </p>Vero in Saipanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16463939220206028295noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3085603215161749293.post-17396941258912685542007-08-12T01:33:00.000-07:002007-08-12T02:40:54.144-07:00Here's to our wonderful sponsorsSo Southern has been a wonderful part of my life and i'm so glad i went there. I cannot even begin to imagine my life anywhere else. However, during my time at Southern, i realized that what made it so special was the faculty, staff, and students. While in Hawaii, i basically met and got to know our chaplain and new SM coordinator. They were the greatest and this is just my way of saying thank you to them. See when we arrived in Hawaii, we were basically all walking around practically lost. Actually we were all just trying to keep up with Nicole who must've felt like she was in a marathon lol (love ya nicole). Well it got worse when we arrived at the baggage claim...so many people and we still felt lost. But it felt sooo great to see a face that i knew...sure enough it was Pr. Brennon and Gayle...with LEI'S. From then on, i didn't feel alone, i had someone there who was watching out for me. Like when some of us were worried about having to buy extra stuff, they were at our rescue and took us to the ginormous walmart. Then they spoiled us and took us to the beach, and to eat some yummy food (as i mentioned before). On top of all that wondeful stuff, they also gave us some goody bags. But probably the best thing they gave us that weekend, was their friendship, trust and prayerful watch. Thank you Pr. Brennon and Gayle. You both were amazing. I know my experience wouldn't have been as great as it was, if you weren't both there. You truly both made it the best ever. I'm sure i speak for everyone when i say THANK YOU!!! btw, i'm sorry about the pics...they were the only ones i could get. =)<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div align="center"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikmd7D-cYrimVZgxT4xmsTDH2_fKJo4T3D9cE9aqmYUUW6zl5kN3gI6-VkYPkHWZn8VIie9xUUxQhOGA8vecjMQJZD06qB02cfK6oIPPMdth7iYQ3YFzpavzOxo1glZKQufgg-UCPcjvE/s1600-h/brennonk.bmp"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5097730757216758658" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikmd7D-cYrimVZgxT4xmsTDH2_fKJo4T3D9cE9aqmYUUW6zl5kN3gI6-VkYPkHWZn8VIie9xUUxQhOGA8vecjMQJZD06qB02cfK6oIPPMdth7iYQ3YFzpavzOxo1glZKQufgg-UCPcjvE/s320/brennonk.bmp" border="0" /></a>Pr. Brennon<br /></div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSRmZ70HYuCTOkx92dFXx26DcjTERzwXkTSkdeROlm5W5x271haDAzOh1ahchlM4AIW8iVCi6PsM8tTBzGgwnoCrXaBDqfccBjA8IKWfcOP9vq0E1Wom_Y9rl48lC_mFizflVb5Z-oG10/s1600-h/gaylem.bmp"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5097730757216758674" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSRmZ70HYuCTOkx92dFXx26DcjTERzwXkTSkdeROlm5W5x271haDAzOh1ahchlM4AIW8iVCi6PsM8tTBzGgwnoCrXaBDqfccBjA8IKWfcOP9vq0E1Wom_Y9rl48lC_mFizflVb5Z-oG10/s320/gaylem.bmp" border="0" /> <p align="center"></a>Gayle Moore<br /></p><br />LOVE U BOTH!!! May G-d continue blessing you both in your ministry...and may that ministry continue to be at Southern!!! lol =)Vero in Saipanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16463939220206028295noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3085603215161749293.post-40769598796723741152007-08-10T22:33:00.000-07:002007-08-11T06:04:25.005-07:00Loneliness explained!So the many SM's that spoke to me all said the same thing: you will get lonely. Honestly, i can't say that i'm lonely because i have such a great support family here. I love them all to death and i've only been here a week =) but i can understand a sense of loneliness that they can feel. Personally the Saipan girl isn't lonely, but the Miami/Tennessee girl is. Reason: i dont have my sidekicks with me. I have 4 special people in my life that i am blessed to call my best friends. Without my life honestly wouldn't be the same. And so now, i don't have them daily, and well my life isn't the same...its not bad, just not the same. Everytime someone here has a "moment" with someone else that they've known, i get lonely...because i don't have my friends and our moments. So here's a blog dedicated to my four special Angels!!! I love u and miss you more than you will ever imagine.<span style="BACKGROUND-COLOR: #ff80c0"> So here they are in alphabetical order since i couldn't pick which one is more special.</span><br /><br /><br /><br /><span style="BACKGROUND-COLOR: #ff80c0"></span><br /><br /><br /><br /><span style="BACKGROUND-COLOR: #ff80c0">First theres Arlenys. We met in 6th grade and were kinda rocky at the beginning. But after some time of hanging out, we both realized that we just clicked. She's been there for me through a lot. We've also had some crazy times. We tend to be crazy chica's and when we're together...u better watch out. I spent a wonderful weekend at her house and it just felt like home. She's my confidant at all times. We have our "counseling sessions" that we truly need to survive lol. I'm just so comfortable with her that i know that i can tell her anything and it'll be ok. She's a very giving person and cares so much for all. </span><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5097315223425837890" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8hBJ33_sx0J5W2pEQajIRx-c5acj-c7fSJqxcS0GGGJlciJa1jusnw5mu7FCwO-KnkafnYWaUSUwff66kIGA97dddDC2qhsZtOfDOHeorD2Fq3PmyycPJPM9ekVZ4JGmdHLgSOMxwKoE/s320/267522642_l.jpg" border="0" /> I love you girl and thank you cuz u make my life that much better.<br /><br /><br /><span style="BACKGROUND-COLOR: #ff80c0"></span><br /><br /><br /><br /><span style="BACKGROUND-COLOR: #ff80c0">Then there's Cristina. She's my partner in crime. We met each other at summer camp like 6 years ago i think. We hit it off from the start. However it wasn't until the summer before Southern that we got really close and since then we've been practically inseparable. They've asked us soooo many times if we're sisters. And we just laugh it off and say "NO" lol. I believe you have different types of friends but in her, we're more than just friends. We not only have basically seen each other everyday for the past 2 years, but also roomed together. You definately get to know a person when you room together and honestly, i got to know her better and i'm happy i did. </span><br /><br /><span style="BACKGROUND-COLOR: #ff80c0"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5097315227720805202" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzD_wNnjiv7anPybpgB2cy-ceV5elYqNrP6zJJiC9dw-2utQGE1kw_e8avkdPtgxe8hGCxLR_CtMcPVvTQyZ8VN1XroF0ORVjHf9IAZUjdkyIdGVUrixn5-SHXM7w7AZvhFz6_FpKS71o/s320/P4220030.JPG" border="0" /></span><br />I love you girl soo much. I miss you and our fun, crazy, goofy, etc times together. This is definately a "moco" moment lol.<br /><br /><span style="BACKGROUND-COLOR: #ff80c0"></span><br /><span style="BACKGROUND-COLOR: #ff80c0"></span><br /><span style="BACKGROUND-COLOR: #ff80c0">There's always that childhood friend that you grow up with, are inseparable forever, then your life takes different paths, but you still know that deep down inside, you're just as good of friends as before. Thats the friendship that Joannis and i share. We've known each other since before birth (yes its possible, sleep-over story lol). When we were little we were attached at the hip...literally lol. A family member of hers even confused me for her lol. And yet unfortunately the lives we lived took us to separate places. Our paths did not continue together, and yet at any time we could catch up right where we left off. I know she's there for me at all times: good, bad, and the ugly. </span><br /><br /><br /><span style="BACKGROUND-COLOR: #ff80c0"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5097315232015772514" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOMCr_Bm1zIdVeoqXmkZEl122SWZgpqkd5djJvC5Y9g5-gUdaSgNpHxteIH9EXBrVhBWhNKm8_Dmfhg_baL7dhq2fWHkolbifLk2wcZ20QoPMyFkuT2qpvhedggtmvqaLL67L1mN83ag0/s320/208708977_l.jpg" border="0" /></span><br /><p>I love u so much and I'm so glad we're friends. I'm happy for you and i hope your life continues going so well. </p><br /><br /><span style="BACKGROUND-COLOR: #ff80c0">Finally theres the one person that is unexplainable to most. He's not ur average person. He's different and yet thats what makes him such a great person and friend. I'm talking about Ramses. He's probably one of the sweetest persons i've ever met. We've always been close. I remember the first time...well technically it was the second time we met, but first time talking and we talked for about 2-3 hours. We just started talking and somehow we just clicked. There's things he's done for me that he doesn't even realize how important and special it was for me. He's gone far and beyond the duty of a friend. In the past 2 years we've gotten even closer. He's my movie partner lol (we probably saw ALL the movies this summer). He's just an amazing person and especially friend. He truly adds so much to my life. </span><br /><br /><span style="BACKGROUND-COLOR: #ff80c0"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5097315236310739826" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEin3abWFqDf8qK1yRlJ_gfoLNsbF-2ReXoj0qix1bLCDKcTt66wwFNU8W1_VNFc7pjaXNDYnGObarQnTPEXedwPjR2ozOfeD5kyLwVZXe4I8M4expepxZRi1M9c3TlLnXEXwkQvy-xuy-g/s320/Mike+and+Lily%27s+007.jpg" border="0" /></span><br />Thank you Ramses for being the wonderful person that you are. My life is *speechless*. There are no words to describe the difference you make in my life. I love you so much and well this blondie here misses u a lot too. =)<br /><br /><br /><span style="BACKGROUND-COLOR: #ff80c0">P.S. btw, i don't have any pics with Ramses because he hates them. u have to catch him off guard like up here lol =)</span><br /><br /><br /><span style="BACKGROUND-COLOR: #ff80c0"></span><br /><br /><br /><span style="BACKGROUND-COLOR: #ff80c0">There you have it...my angels on earth. See a relationship between fa</span><span style="BACKGROUND-COLOR: #ff80c0">mily members is priceless and not something that can be labeled. But when you have such wonderful relationships with people that have basically become your family, you can call yourself blessed. </span><br /><br /><br /><span style="BACKGROUND-COLOR: #ff80c0"></span><br /><br /><br /><span style="BACKGROUND-COLOR: #ff80c0">Each one of these people has contributed so much to who i am today. They are all so valuable to me and without them i wouldn't be able to survive. I'm having a hard time doing so temporarily, so i can only imagine permanantly. Thank you God for giving me these friends. I am truly blessed to have them in my life. </span><br /><br /><br /><span style="BACKGROUND-COLOR: #ff80c0"></span><br /><br /><br /><span style="BACKGROUND-COLOR: #ff80c0">I miss each and everyone of you sooo much. I can't wait to see you all again. But keep your heads high. I'm still here for you if you ever need. You all make my life complete! </span><br /><br /><br /><span style="BACKGROUND-COLOR: #ff80c0"></span><br /><br /><br /><span style="BACKGROUND-COLOR: #ff80c0">LOVE YOU!!!</span>Vero in Saipanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16463939220206028295noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3085603215161749293.post-26022534042396620962007-08-08T03:32:00.000-07:002007-08-09T22:00:49.575-07:00Pics from Hawaii<span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;color:#ff6666;">So as promised, here are some pics. Finally got a good internet connection. These are from my trip to Hawaii for the SM (Student Missionary) Orientation.<img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5096277576506993378" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjiXV9bYZANWB5PG9OoxEN0UVJmQPAkMybJ5kTz2IJ2buaVuMYOzPL981Qzu1fMXLaWvYsloKxIbfjb3VFxJ24TzrEpp4AV7gKLEwGLyI0FcIRdwxMhKAC2MoFqvK48VqS7H3MGBMXsmI/s320/Saipan+002.jpg" border="0" />This is me and my friend Tania (Palau). We had just gotten to the airport and were just getting on the bus. We were greeted by all of our principals and people from the GMM (Guam-Micronesia Mission). We got our lovely leis from our WONDERFUL sponsors (Who has the best sponsors? SOUTHERN!!! lol inside joke) And I also have a shell lei from my WONDERFUL principal, Barbara Maycock!!! It was a very nice welcome for sure. </span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;color:#ff6666;"></span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;color:#ff6666;"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5096928388606388978" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvqWDOfe7q8pDYQEO2jF5KwpdxSnlfw91difnz9I2ATQ_tB5QsYGWpBIKr7teuUE_ucbsks09HOG-bDvP-fN3Rv1MD3xpUaTg9jCoqRh13y9-v7R4HGUMpK9d3uom4plyynlpcAVjZU9g/s320/Saipan+Pics+007.jpg" border="0" /></span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;color:#ff6666;">This was some of the group (L-R: Me, Rochelle, Tania) at Nuuanu Pali....very beautiful place!!!</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;color:#ff6666;"></span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;color:#ff6666;"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5096928397196323586" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiL6lIyBGRP0T9ALZPH7aRYRXhqcwl-3DmCgecPY_z4HI-LuvTY_V1IfJPCxYzdRiUtQRcMdiuaKjDFNlsZ87QUDb9FQocr-W01JDZUicBr5wl9esuFaI9TGKCuPU2dCkX9RW4Ue3yPTCQ/s320/Saipan+Pics+001.jpg" border="0" /></span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;color:#ff6666;">This was us (L-R:Tania, Me, Ashlee, Lany, Tanya) at the top of the Nuuanu Pali. It was very windy as you can obviously see lol</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;color:#ff6666;"></span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;color:#ff6666;"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5096928405786258194" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixLWNxEBX9HVPzGkVtc2U1392fT-aDAHszw9PaXmzZpzCtTHcNr4dH1AoD0rYJrDcJcztSbl0KlShkxU_moGYtJ7f_-zov1ASMBVEW6aE0xwQetDE9oJ7nL3ZohNgXZQoSLwqSIdUwIC0/s320/Saipan+Pics+036.jpg" border="0" /></span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;color:#ff6666;">This was me with the beautiful and breathtaking background...i could've stayed there all day. It was really nice to see the difference of like mountain aread with LOTS of houses and then the beautiful beach...quite interesting!!!</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;color:#ff6666;"></span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;color:#ff6666;"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5096928414376192802" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiofaxRx1Ix32HHySuNWduMhM3YpB_4pEKJ7hGbHKSIGPACg7xIfMSMSDDGY7tkj6TLzHa2Eh_122CCJSzfzWkyPipoPBgIbR-tu_wz5yellgIwQ9zuZsnnAKylwEjGf44nGhCfBVtZRi4/s320/Saipan+Pics+005.jpg" border="0" /></span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;color:#ff6666;">This was the wonderul group from Southern, with our AMAZING sponsors. Yay Southern!!!</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;color:#ff6666;"></span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;color:#ff6666;"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5096928422966127410" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; CURSOR: hand; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhosPQD9GHEuOSAsB-cNnQIxLbGD_cBLv3y6QR2owkzozFj0EYn3p2OLj-rfmcjC7RvVgqgwwHV9YhbX5pHGxMuq5ViyuNqHy0IzNkVjlo58GFLEm06pfpBQa4lRyIrqHz24Xiw2rC9HsI/s320/Saipan+Pics+011.jpg" border="0" /></span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;color:#ff6666;">So our undescribable sponsors took us to eat at this yummy place called California Pizza Kitchen...(so delicious btw) well they were wonderful and also gave us these neat goody bags...hawaii style lol. Thank you Pr. Brannon and Gayle!!! Love u both and i know it wouldn't of been so wonderful without the two of you!!!<br /></span><br /><br /><p><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;color:#ff6666;">Well so there are the pics from Hawaii...I'm going to post some of Saipan in a bit...trying to finish up my classroom before classes start on Monday...AHH!!! (lol) My classroom is coming along and lesson planning is well...going pretty good. I love it!!! Thanks for reading!!!</span></p><br /><p><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;color:#ff6666;">KP4M!!! (Keep Praying 4 Me) =)</span></p><br /><p><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;color:#ff6666;">Love you all!!!<br /></span></p><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div><span style="color:#ff0000;"></span></div>Vero in Saipanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16463939220206028295noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3085603215161749293.post-16809865004245094242007-08-04T06:29:00.000-07:002007-08-04T06:42:19.455-07:00First Island SabbathToday started for me at 4:00 a.m. We woke up and went to Banzai Cliff to see the sunrise. It was absolutely BEAUTIFUL!!! The ocean was a color blue that i had honestly never seen before in my life. I promise to post some pics probably tomorrow, just away from my camera right now. =) But afterwards, we came back to our SM Pad and had some breakfast. We then got ready and went to church. It was a really cute church and with very warm members. I was a little nervouse because the night before, the pastors wife had asked me to tell a little about my mission story for mission hour. The good thing is that when i walked in, it was a small church and just very comforting. Then after sabbath school, i was on my way to my class when i was approached by the pastors wife. She asked me if i could lead out in the earliteens and juniors class for the lesson since the teacher was late. I accepted and on my way to the class all i could think about was "Wow...first sabbath and i'm already working". However, it felt good and i didn't mean any of it in a bad way, i was just surprised. After the wonderful service by the choir, we had a delicious potluck. There was sooo much food. It was really yummy. So my sabbath was going pretty normal...Church, lunch...and i can't forget...SABBATH NAP!!! Oh it was just WONDERFUL. It was raining outside so the sound was just so great! I later woke up after what i would say was the best sleep i've had here so far, and we got ready to go to Rosana's going away party. We had a great time playing some games and just getting to know the church family better. Now i'm back here in my bed just before sleep time.<br /><br />Today was a very significant day in my missionary life. I, had been having some down days. There was just SO much new EVERYTHING and all at the same time. But going to church today made me feel comfortable because it was the first known thing i had encountered....G-d and a loving church family. It was very comforting and just put me back into perspective. I'm happy to be here in Saipan and i may not ever know why i'm supposed to be here, but G-d sure does and well i trust Him.<br /><br />Please continue to keep me in your prayers!!!Vero in Saipanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16463939220206028295noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3085603215161749293.post-72921455075126856962007-08-03T01:26:00.000-07:002007-08-03T01:46:38.509-07:00First Day in SaipanWell we spent the past couple of days in Hawaii getting trained for our mission posts. Finally, last night, after a VERY long trip that felt like forever, i arrived in Saipan. Our plane ride from Guam to Saipan...the entire 15 minutes of it (lol) was a litte scary. There was a lot of turbulance and the plane seemed to shake uncontrolably. So i whipped out my old time sabbath school songs and started singing to myself lol. Well when we arrived in Saipan, we were greeted by a whole group of WONDERFUL people from the church and staff. They had made us some lei's and a big, beautiful, and very colorful sign that read: WELCOME SDA TEACHERS!!! I was so excited and yet overwhelmed. After taking a lot of group pictures, we finally reached what we would call home for the next year. They made some food for us and it was just very warm. I was so happy to finally be here. At the same time though, i was quite overwhelmed. This dream that i had been planning for sooo long had finally come true. It was quite exciting. After everyone left, we prepared our beds and went straight to sleep. This morning we had an early start. We first went to the school. I walked in and was greeted by some more warm faces. Then they brought me into a room and said, "This is your room." It was quite overwhelming to see that. But it was a good overwhelming. I was SO HAPPY!!! In my mind i was already positioning everything. Then, while at the school, i was introduced to a new boy for my class. His name is Brandon. As of right now i have 7 students: 3 boys and 4 girls. I'm supposed to get more, but even if i don't, i'm happy just as it is. Well after that we just had a continuation of a long day full of chores. I got my official CNMI drivers license, got a physical so that i can teach, and some other stuff. Now i'm just writing before i go to my principals house for dinner and worship. BTW she and her husband are just the greatest. I'm so happy because they are just wonderful people and it just makes me know that we will have a great year.<br />There are a lot of emotions going on in my head right now. I'm still trying to absorb it all in. Its quite a lot to take in and on top of that, i'm still trying to get used to my jet lag lol. Well keep me in your prayers. I need them very much. Love u all and miss u like crazy!!!Vero in Saipanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16463939220206028295noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3085603215161749293.post-6675727872212443122007-07-29T00:22:00.000-07:002007-07-29T00:33:19.900-07:00Missioary Trip-EVE<span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;color:#ff6666;">The bags are all packed away. My tickets and passport are in a safe spot. All my family is sleeping. And me? Well i'm up and writing! I couldn't sleep because of so many reasons. I'm quite happy to be embarking on this adventure of a lifetime. Today was actually a wonderful day. My church family had an amazing dedication service as well as a luncheon. Plus the message by my pastor (Pr. Glenn) went SOO well with our (Myself and Ashlee...going to Pohnpei) departure. I then came home afterwards and finished my packing. My family later came over and I was able to spend some quality time with them. They all spend the night here and are waking up in about 45 minutes to see me off at the airport. I honestly don't know where I'd be without them. I love them so much and they are going to be the hardest part of leaving. However, I'm signed up for this mission and believe that the Lord has a plan for my life. I feel honored to be chosen by Him to serve and "help" him. </span><br /><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;color:#ff6666;">Many may ask how i'm feeling right now. The truth is, although I've thought about it, it really hasn't hit me fully. More experienced SM's have told me that it will hit me on the plane, while others say it will hit me while in Hawaii. I'm not sure when it will, but i do know these things: 1) I will miss my family and friends INCREDIBLY!!! 2) I don't know what I'm going to encounter in the next year. 3) I am though, certain of one thing, GOD IS WITH ME!!! He's guiding me and I can't wait to embark on this mission...just God and me!!! Please keep me in your prayers and i will keep you updated on this blog!</span><br /><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;color:#ff6666;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;color:#ff6666;">LOVE YOU ALL!!!</span>Vero in Saipanhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16463939220206028295noreply@blogger.com1