Time flies! I am learning that more and more.. unless you are waiting for someone to get out of the toilet, it goes really fast.
Here it is, already past the middle of October. I'm in the middle of teaching at Master's Commission Amsterdam Noord (check website here: http://mcan.nl/). I teach music/worship (imagine that?), and also girls' discipleship. And Joy (the other staff member) and I have fun going crazy with our 8 students... FUN! I'll introduce them all to you soon :)
Then I'm busy with Youth and Sunday worship at my church, Pinstergemeente Agapé (also located in the North part of Amsterdam). Leading worship is a passion of mine, and so is learning new languages. I get to combine them here as I lead in Dutch! I don't speak it hardly at all, yet somehow the words make sense when they are put to music. Go figure that one out... :)
And of course, my choir: FireChoir! FireChoir.nl if you're interested... We are down to less than 7 weeks until our concerts at the end of November.. WHAT?? How did that happen? Seriously, time is flying crazily by! Gotta love it!
Gods zegen allemaal :)
~A
Tuesday, October 19, 2010
Saturday, October 2, 2010
Wat zeg je?
Yeah, you're thinking, what is she saying? Unless you speak Nederlands of course.. :)
Since coming back to the Netherlands, one thing that I have been busy with is learning Dutch. I haven't been actively studying it (I have my Rosetta Stone sitting right here under my desk, waiting to be uploaded onto my computer!).. but I've been going to a Dutch church that has some translation, but not everything is always translated all of the time. I start getting used to hearing what Dutch sounds like: different letters make different sounds, some combination's make other sounds, et cetera. And a lot of it is about learning to "tune my ears" into those sounds, recognizing them, and knowing what letters make up those sounds.
One of the best ways I am finding to help me out with all of this is singing. I've been helping out here and there with the worship at my church, and singing in Dutch in a couple of weddings this past summer as well. There's something amazing about how singing in a different language can help with pronunciation. I've learned that singing can be a form of mimicking, which is why it works out so well. Of course the payback is that many people start speaking to me in Dutch because I should be able to speak it when I can sing it, right? Haha, well maybe. =)
Nonetheless, it is a privilege and honour to be able to help lead in worship here in this country where I feel so called and so at home. Even before I can fully communicate in the spoken language, I can communicate through my voice, through the gift that God has given to me. How very precious.
Blessings all :)
~Alicia
Since coming back to the Netherlands, one thing that I have been busy with is learning Dutch. I haven't been actively studying it (I have my Rosetta Stone sitting right here under my desk, waiting to be uploaded onto my computer!).. but I've been going to a Dutch church that has some translation, but not everything is always translated all of the time. I start getting used to hearing what Dutch sounds like: different letters make different sounds, some combination's make other sounds, et cetera. And a lot of it is about learning to "tune my ears" into those sounds, recognizing them, and knowing what letters make up those sounds.
One of the best ways I am finding to help me out with all of this is singing. I've been helping out here and there with the worship at my church, and singing in Dutch in a couple of weddings this past summer as well. There's something amazing about how singing in a different language can help with pronunciation. I've learned that singing can be a form of mimicking, which is why it works out so well. Of course the payback is that many people start speaking to me in Dutch because I should be able to speak it when I can sing it, right? Haha, well maybe. =)
Nonetheless, it is a privilege and honour to be able to help lead in worship here in this country where I feel so called and so at home. Even before I can fully communicate in the spoken language, I can communicate through my voice, through the gift that God has given to me. How very precious.
Blessings all :)
~Alicia
Wednesday, September 29, 2010
FireChoir Going Strong
We are well into the season now. Generally we have around 50 members, and it's still growing! Last week I was sick with a head-cold so I stayed home and missed practice- one of the other sectional leaders was also sick, so the director had to do some last-minute rearranging and have all the Sopranos, Altos and Tenors practice together. Normally we split-up into vocal parts for the first half of rehearsal(Soprano, Alto, Tenor, Bass, but because of the wonderful "Cold Season", we had to switch it up a bit. But it worked out just fine (minus my Altos apparently missing me!) haha :)
It's hard to believe that it is already almost October... where did the year go? October means that November is right around the corner, which means that our concerts are coming up faster than we realize! If you are planning to be around, save November 26 and 27 to come hear us sing!
It's hard to believe that it is already almost October... where did the year go? October means that November is right around the corner, which means that our concerts are coming up faster than we realize! If you are planning to be around, save November 26 and 27 to come hear us sing!
Monday, August 30, 2010
Relentless
"Come be the fire inside of me until You and I are One.. I don't want to talk about You like You're not in the room.. wanna look right at You.. wanna sing right to You.." (Jesus Culture, You Won't Relent)
Sometimes everything in life seems relentless (Dictionary.com defines this as:
re·lent·less –adjective "that does not relent; unyieldingly severe, strict, or harsh; unrelenting: a relentless enemy"). There are moments when I wonder how I will get out from the stress of everything that is pulling at me, demanding my attention. Even when I close my eyes at night, my mind is still going. At moments, the only peace I find is being asleep, and then even my dreams are demanding of me. How does that happen? And how do I deal with it??
There is this song from Jesus Culture called "You Won't Relent". (Follow link to hear it on YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XC0WoJfYA2E). It has been playing itself through my mind lately. I've realized that peace can be found in God, even in the middle all that life presents each moment. I know this isn't a new-found concept. However, I also have realized that the choice is up to me whether I have that peace or not- because it is there for the taking.. however, I need to take time with my Lord if I'm going to have that peace. Not because He necessarily "withholds" it until we 'earn it' or anything like that.. but it's in knowing Him, understanding His character and seeing things from His perspective that bring true peace and understanding. Knowing Someone is literally always "there" for me, and cares, and knows what I'll have to face today and tomorrow.. can really ease a burden.
So.. relent: to His unending Love and unconditional acceptance of who you are right now.
:)
~Alicia
Sometimes everything in life seems relentless (Dictionary.com defines this as:
re·lent·less –adjective "that does not relent; unyieldingly severe, strict, or harsh; unrelenting: a relentless enemy"). There are moments when I wonder how I will get out from the stress of everything that is pulling at me, demanding my attention. Even when I close my eyes at night, my mind is still going. At moments, the only peace I find is being asleep, and then even my dreams are demanding of me. How does that happen? And how do I deal with it??
There is this song from Jesus Culture called "You Won't Relent". (Follow link to hear it on YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XC0WoJfYA2E). It has been playing itself through my mind lately. I've realized that peace can be found in God, even in the middle all that life presents each moment. I know this isn't a new-found concept. However, I also have realized that the choice is up to me whether I have that peace or not- because it is there for the taking.. however, I need to take time with my Lord if I'm going to have that peace. Not because He necessarily "withholds" it until we 'earn it' or anything like that.. but it's in knowing Him, understanding His character and seeing things from His perspective that bring true peace and understanding. Knowing Someone is literally always "there" for me, and cares, and knows what I'll have to face today and tomorrow.. can really ease a burden.
So.. relent: to His unending Love and unconditional acceptance of who you are right now.
:)
~Alicia
Wednesday, August 25, 2010
Today's the Day
It's FINALLY Thursday!! We are starting the 5th season of FireChoir today!! If it's not obvious, let me just make it very clear: I AM SO EXCITED!!!!!!!!! This is going to be a great season, I am already feeling it!
We have around 42 people signed up for the season, and many former members won't sign up until the night of rehearsal. So it will be interesting to see how many people we have in the next 2-3 weeks of rehearsals. No matter what, it will be a fun, exciting 14 weeks!
Please keep the leadership and choir in your prayers as we go through this season, especially for opportunities to get to know the choir members better and really invest in their lives. We all love music, but we are interested in people as well! We want to see great things come from this time of 'fellowship' per se, and see lives transformed even in small ways. :)
So.. 18 hours to go...!
Hugs and Blessings to all :)
~Alicia
We have around 42 people signed up for the season, and many former members won't sign up until the night of rehearsal. So it will be interesting to see how many people we have in the next 2-3 weeks of rehearsals. No matter what, it will be a fun, exciting 14 weeks!
Please keep the leadership and choir in your prayers as we go through this season, especially for opportunities to get to know the choir members better and really invest in their lives. We all love music, but we are interested in people as well! We want to see great things come from this time of 'fellowship' per se, and see lives transformed even in small ways. :)
So.. 18 hours to go...!
Hugs and Blessings to all :)
~Alicia
Thursday, August 5, 2010
Learning, Cleaning and Painting..And traveling: oh my!
Well, here it is already August. Hard to believe that time can go by so quickly sometimes. The past few weeks have been filled with many things:
LEARNING: Since the missionaries that I work with were preparing to go to America for a year of Furlough and fundraising, I've spent the last 3 months learning what I could to be able to take their places this fall and spring for FireChoir. Thankfully, I am not alone in this- I am working with a Dutch guy who will be directing the choir- my main functions will be administration: aka, making sure everything keeps running! We work well together, so I'm looking forward to this season. We've also formed a leadership team to help out as well, so this season is looking great already!
CLEANING AND PAINTING: By the time my Mom and I arrived in Netherlands, my Dad had found a place for us to live in, and moved a lot of their things into it. However, one thing that is unique about moving in and out of places here is that when someone leaves the place they were living in: when they move out, they take all the light fixtures and carpet and anything else that they put into the place.. It can come across as wasteful, but the idea is that everyone has a choice in making their home "theirs" without having to remove other things in the mean time. Simply a different way of thinking :)
So, we've been doing a lot of cleaning and painting. Some flooring is in and most of the painting is done. We would have probably been done by now, except for a change in plans. Just before I left the end of April, my maternal Grandmother was diagnosed with colon cancer. What a shock to find out 4 days before leaving. Thankfully my Mom's sister and husband were available to come stay with her for awhile, and we left April 27th. I never for one moment thought that I would not see her again.
But God often has other things lined up that we cannot see. On July 21st, my last Grandmother went to be with Jesus at 6:25 in the morning. My Mom had gotten back to see her just 12 hours before, and was with her as she took her last breath. What a blessing that God orchestrated that timing. :)
We were all back for the funeral, and I was able to see several friends and enjoy some time with them, in spite of why I was around. This was an unexpected blessing as well :)
And now, here I am in Netherlands once again, getting over JetLag! I'm not a fan.. haha. If you ever wonder what it's like: it's similar to taking cold medicine that is meant to make you sleepy, and then deciding to stay awake.. yikes! :)
And now, it's time to do some grocery shopping.. Thankfully the store is only a 5 minute walk from my house, so I can get there without a car or bus! :)
Blessings all... :)
~A
LEARNING: Since the missionaries that I work with were preparing to go to America for a year of Furlough and fundraising, I've spent the last 3 months learning what I could to be able to take their places this fall and spring for FireChoir. Thankfully, I am not alone in this- I am working with a Dutch guy who will be directing the choir- my main functions will be administration: aka, making sure everything keeps running! We work well together, so I'm looking forward to this season. We've also formed a leadership team to help out as well, so this season is looking great already!
CLEANING AND PAINTING: By the time my Mom and I arrived in Netherlands, my Dad had found a place for us to live in, and moved a lot of their things into it. However, one thing that is unique about moving in and out of places here is that when someone leaves the place they were living in: when they move out, they take all the light fixtures and carpet and anything else that they put into the place.. It can come across as wasteful, but the idea is that everyone has a choice in making their home "theirs" without having to remove other things in the mean time. Simply a different way of thinking :)
So, we've been doing a lot of cleaning and painting. Some flooring is in and most of the painting is done. We would have probably been done by now, except for a change in plans. Just before I left the end of April, my maternal Grandmother was diagnosed with colon cancer. What a shock to find out 4 days before leaving. Thankfully my Mom's sister and husband were available to come stay with her for awhile, and we left April 27th. I never for one moment thought that I would not see her again.
But God often has other things lined up that we cannot see. On July 21st, my last Grandmother went to be with Jesus at 6:25 in the morning. My Mom had gotten back to see her just 12 hours before, and was with her as she took her last breath. What a blessing that God orchestrated that timing. :)
We were all back for the funeral, and I was able to see several friends and enjoy some time with them, in spite of why I was around. This was an unexpected blessing as well :)
And now, here I am in Netherlands once again, getting over JetLag! I'm not a fan.. haha. If you ever wonder what it's like: it's similar to taking cold medicine that is meant to make you sleepy, and then deciding to stay awake.. yikes! :)
And now, it's time to do some grocery shopping.. Thankfully the store is only a 5 minute walk from my house, so I can get there without a car or bus! :)
Blessings all... :)
~A
Tuesday, June 22, 2010
"In His Time..."
When my parents and I were first starting out as missionaries, I was 5 years old. We left our church where I had all my first memories, and traveled around the mid-and-eastern United States. One of favourite things to do was listen to music and sing.
One day, we were staying at someone's house, and I had the song "In His Time" playing. I started crying, because I understood that our lives were changing and I was sad. But mostly I cried because the Holy Spirit touched my heart through that song. It's the first time I remember Him doing that..
So, through the years God has used that song in many ways: to remind me that His timing is indeed right and with my best interest (that's not always how I've seen it, but with trust...);
The past year has been a prime example of that 'timing'.
When I came back to the States in June 2009 after an incredible 3 months in the Netherlands, I couldn't wait to get back, and planned to leave in August or September at the latest. I pushed to go to my mission's training in June so that it would be possible to return so quickly. This was God's first step: I met amazing and wonderful people while I was there, and know that it was exactly in HIS plan for me to go there at that time.
I was still determined to leave in Aug/Sept. But God had different plans. And for many reasons. Here are some of them... :)
June
I attended a 2-week training for Missionaries and MA's. I met tons of people, and reconnected with many as well. Some lifelong friendships were begun that month.
I was also able to visit some friends that I had met over here- there were 2 different missions' teams that came to NL that I helped out with in April and May '09- and I was able to visit several of them!!
July
My beloved Grandmother went to be with Him. I was with her when she died. That's all I want to share about that at this point- but being there was something I would never change for anything.
September
I helped one of my very wonderful friends get ready to move to Florida, and had the privilege of bringing her to the airport. It was a sad time, but I am glad I could be there during that transition.
November
I had the honour and joy of singing in my very wonderful friend's wedding. It was such a beautiful wedding, a wonderful day. I met many wonderful people! The crazy thing about this day was that I woke up sick. I thought maybe I just had a bit of the flu or a bad cold or something. I had started the week with a new job, and my body was taking quite a toll from it. So I stayed in bed all day. I didn't take any medicine because I wanted to make sure I'd be coherent enough to sing at the wedding!
So I made it through the wedding just fine. I left right after the ceremony, took some medicine, and went straight to bed. I knew this wasn't your normal, average cold. Or even flu.
Turns out- I had the H1N1 virus!! It was horrible!! For those of you that can relate, it was akin to having 'le paludisme' or MALARIA!!! I hadn't been that sick for years. It took me 2 weeks to recover. I wouldn't have minded missing that experience, but hey- it was an experience!
December
God renewed a friendship that I hadn't had in nearly 9 years. This is a big WOW and Miracle, to say the least. He renewed other friendships that night as well, between others :)
February
Some friends of mine helped me put on a concert to raise funds for returning to the NL. The true beauty of this was that several of us hadn't had any contact with one another because of a brokenness and other things, which aren't important to note. However, the reason beauty shined that night was because of God's healing grace that covered us all. He reconciled us all to Himself and with each other. This is something that I was waiting to see in Heaven. What a true blessing to have here on earth. And can you imagine? If I had left when I planned.. none of that would have happened. God truly has it all worked out.
April
I was finally "cleared" to leave. We were going to leave in a week (my Mom and I were there, traveling together). As we were looking online for tickets, everything was at least $800+, and that was a little steep. But we'd were going to take it. At the very LAST second, I got an email from a lady that said she'd found a flight for under $600!! And it was only ONE layover!! WOW! We were thrilled!
........the day we were leaving was the day the volcano erupted in Iceland. Wow. We didn't make our flights. I was going to be able to sing in the FireChoir concert that was happening a week after I landed in NL.. but it wasn't to be. We ended up leaving 12 days later.
During that time, we found out that my Grandmother has terminal cancer. This news was, and is, devastating. However, it would have been crushing if we hadn't been there to be with her during that time. My Mom was able to go with her Mom to the biopsy and other appointments that she would have missed, had the volcano not delayed us from going. Again, another "God-thing".
These are just a few of the things that I was able to experience this past year. So the lesson learned? Trust God. In all my ways. Because He sees ahead. He knows all my days. And knows best.
One day, we were staying at someone's house, and I had the song "In His Time" playing. I started crying, because I understood that our lives were changing and I was sad. But mostly I cried because the Holy Spirit touched my heart through that song. It's the first time I remember Him doing that..
So, through the years God has used that song in many ways: to remind me that His timing is indeed right and with my best interest (that's not always how I've seen it, but with trust...);
The past year has been a prime example of that 'timing'.
When I came back to the States in June 2009 after an incredible 3 months in the Netherlands, I couldn't wait to get back, and planned to leave in August or September at the latest. I pushed to go to my mission's training in June so that it would be possible to return so quickly. This was God's first step: I met amazing and wonderful people while I was there, and know that it was exactly in HIS plan for me to go there at that time.
I was still determined to leave in Aug/Sept. But God had different plans. And for many reasons. Here are some of them... :)
June
I attended a 2-week training for Missionaries and MA's. I met tons of people, and reconnected with many as well. Some lifelong friendships were begun that month.
I was also able to visit some friends that I had met over here- there were 2 different missions' teams that came to NL that I helped out with in April and May '09- and I was able to visit several of them!!
July
My beloved Grandmother went to be with Him. I was with her when she died. That's all I want to share about that at this point- but being there was something I would never change for anything.
September
I helped one of my very wonderful friends get ready to move to Florida, and had the privilege of bringing her to the airport. It was a sad time, but I am glad I could be there during that transition.
November
I had the honour and joy of singing in my very wonderful friend's wedding. It was such a beautiful wedding, a wonderful day. I met many wonderful people! The crazy thing about this day was that I woke up sick. I thought maybe I just had a bit of the flu or a bad cold or something. I had started the week with a new job, and my body was taking quite a toll from it. So I stayed in bed all day. I didn't take any medicine because I wanted to make sure I'd be coherent enough to sing at the wedding!
So I made it through the wedding just fine. I left right after the ceremony, took some medicine, and went straight to bed. I knew this wasn't your normal, average cold. Or even flu.
Turns out- I had the H1N1 virus!! It was horrible!! For those of you that can relate, it was akin to having 'le paludisme' or MALARIA!!! I hadn't been that sick for years. It took me 2 weeks to recover. I wouldn't have minded missing that experience, but hey- it was an experience!
December
God renewed a friendship that I hadn't had in nearly 9 years. This is a big WOW and Miracle, to say the least. He renewed other friendships that night as well, between others :)
February
Some friends of mine helped me put on a concert to raise funds for returning to the NL. The true beauty of this was that several of us hadn't had any contact with one another because of a brokenness and other things, which aren't important to note. However, the reason beauty shined that night was because of God's healing grace that covered us all. He reconciled us all to Himself and with each other. This is something that I was waiting to see in Heaven. What a true blessing to have here on earth. And can you imagine? If I had left when I planned.. none of that would have happened. God truly has it all worked out.
April
I was finally "cleared" to leave. We were going to leave in a week (my Mom and I were there, traveling together). As we were looking online for tickets, everything was at least $800+, and that was a little steep. But we'd were going to take it. At the very LAST second, I got an email from a lady that said she'd found a flight for under $600!! And it was only ONE layover!! WOW! We were thrilled!
........the day we were leaving was the day the volcano erupted in Iceland. Wow. We didn't make our flights. I was going to be able to sing in the FireChoir concert that was happening a week after I landed in NL.. but it wasn't to be. We ended up leaving 12 days later.
During that time, we found out that my Grandmother has terminal cancer. This news was, and is, devastating. However, it would have been crushing if we hadn't been there to be with her during that time. My Mom was able to go with her Mom to the biopsy and other appointments that she would have missed, had the volcano not delayed us from going. Again, another "God-thing".
These are just a few of the things that I was able to experience this past year. So the lesson learned? Trust God. In all my ways. Because He sees ahead. He knows all my days. And knows best.
"In His Time..."
When my parents and I were first starting out as missionaries, I was 5 years old. We left our church where I had all my first memories, and traveled around the mid-and-eastern United States. One of favourite things to do was listen to music and sing.
One day, we were staying at someone's house, and I had the song "In His Time" playing. I started crying, because I understood that our lives were changing and I was sad. But mostly I cried because the Holy Spirit touched my heart through that song. It's the first time I remember Him doing that..
So, through the years God has used that song in many ways: to remind me that His timing is indeed right and with my best interest (that's not always how I've seen it, but with trust...);
The past year has been a prime example of that 'timing'.
When I came back to the States in June 2009 after an incredible 3 months in the Netherlands, I couldn't wait to get back, and planned to leave in August or September at the latest. I pushed to go to my mission's training in June so that it would be possible to return so quickly. This was God's first step: I met amazing and wonderful people while I was there, and know that it was exactly in HIS plan for me to go there at that time.
I was still determined to leave in Aug/Sept. But God had different plans. And for many reasons. Here are some of them... :)
June
I attended a 2-week training for Missionaries and MA's. I met tons of people, and reconnected with many as well. Some lifelong friendships were begun that month.
I was also able to visit some friends that I had met over here- there were 2 different missions' teams that came to NL that I helped out with in April and May '09- and I was able to visit several of them!!
July
My beloved Grandmother went to be with Him. I was with her when she died. That's all I want to share about that at this point- but being there was something I would never change for anything.
September
I helped one of my very wonderful friends get ready to move to Florida, and had the privilege of bringing her to the airport. It was a sad time, but I am glad I could be there during that transition.
November
I had the honour and joy of singing in my very wonderful friend's wedding. It was such a beautiful wedding, a wonderful day. I met many wonderful people! The crazy thing about this day was that I woke up sick. I thought maybe I just had a bit of the flu or a bad cold or something. I had started the week with a new job, and my body was taking quite a toll from it. So I stayed in bed all day. I didn't take any medicine because I wanted to make sure I'd be coherent enough to sing at the wedding!
So I made it through the wedding just fine. I left right after the ceremony, took some medicine, and went straight to bed. I knew this wasn't your normal, average cold. Or even flu.
Turns out- I had the H1N1 virus!! It was horrible!! For those of you that can relate, it was akin to having 'le paludisme' or MALARIA!!! I hadn't been that sick for years. It took me 2 weeks to recover. I wouldn't have minded missing that experience, but hey- it was an experience!
December
God renewed a friendship that I hadn't had in nearly 9 years. This is a big WOW and Miracle, to say the least. He renewed other friendships that night as well, between others :)
February
Some friends of mine helped me put on a concert to raise funds for returning to the NL. The true beauty of this was that several of us hadn't had any contact with one another because of a brokenness and other things, which aren't important to note. However, the reason beauty shined that night was because of God's healing grace that covered us all. He reconciled us all to Himself and with each other. This is something that I was waiting to see in Heaven. What a true blessing to have here on earth. And can you imagine? If I had left when I planned.. none of that would have happened. God truly has it all worked out.
April
I was finally "cleared" to leave. We were going to leave in a week (my Mom and I were there, traveling together). As we were looking online for tickets, everything was at least $800+, and that was a little steep. But we'd were going to take it. At the very LAST second, I got an email from a lady that said she'd found a flight for under $600!! And it was only ONE layover!! WOW! We were thrilled!
........the day we were leaving was the day the volcano erupted in Iceland. Wow. We didn't make our flights. I was going to be able to sing in the FireChoir concert that was happening a week after I landed in NL.. but it wasn't to be. We ended up leaving 12 days later.
During that time, we found out that my Grandmother has terminal cancer. This news was, and is, devastating. However, it would have been crushing if we hadn't been there to be with her during that time. My Mom was able to go with her Mom to the biopsy and other appointments that she would have missed, had the volcano not delayed us from going. Again, another "God-thing".
These are just a few of the things that I was able to experience this past year. So the lesson learned? Trust God. In all my ways. Because He sees ahead. He knows all my days. And knows best.
One day, we were staying at someone's house, and I had the song "In His Time" playing. I started crying, because I understood that our lives were changing and I was sad. But mostly I cried because the Holy Spirit touched my heart through that song. It's the first time I remember Him doing that..
So, through the years God has used that song in many ways: to remind me that His timing is indeed right and with my best interest (that's not always how I've seen it, but with trust...);
The past year has been a prime example of that 'timing'.
When I came back to the States in June 2009 after an incredible 3 months in the Netherlands, I couldn't wait to get back, and planned to leave in August or September at the latest. I pushed to go to my mission's training in June so that it would be possible to return so quickly. This was God's first step: I met amazing and wonderful people while I was there, and know that it was exactly in HIS plan for me to go there at that time.
I was still determined to leave in Aug/Sept. But God had different plans. And for many reasons. Here are some of them... :)
June
I attended a 2-week training for Missionaries and MA's. I met tons of people, and reconnected with many as well. Some lifelong friendships were begun that month.
I was also able to visit some friends that I had met over here- there were 2 different missions' teams that came to NL that I helped out with in April and May '09- and I was able to visit several of them!!
July
My beloved Grandmother went to be with Him. I was with her when she died. That's all I want to share about that at this point- but being there was something I would never change for anything.
September
I helped one of my very wonderful friends get ready to move to Florida, and had the privilege of bringing her to the airport. It was a sad time, but I am glad I could be there during that transition.
November
I had the honour and joy of singing in my very wonderful friend's wedding. It was such a beautiful wedding, a wonderful day. I met many wonderful people! The crazy thing about this day was that I woke up sick. I thought maybe I just had a bit of the flu or a bad cold or something. I had started the week with a new job, and my body was taking quite a toll from it. So I stayed in bed all day. I didn't take any medicine because I wanted to make sure I'd be coherent enough to sing at the wedding!
So I made it through the wedding just fine. I left right after the ceremony, took some medicine, and went straight to bed. I knew this wasn't your normal, average cold. Or even flu.
Turns out- I had the H1N1 virus!! It was horrible!! For those of you that can relate, it was akin to having 'le paludisme' or MALARIA!!! I hadn't been that sick for years. It took me 2 weeks to recover. I wouldn't have minded missing that experience, but hey- it was an experience!
December
God renewed a friendship that I hadn't had in nearly 9 years. This is a big WOW and Miracle, to say the least. He renewed other friendships that night as well, between others :)
February
Some friends of mine helped me put on a concert to raise funds for returning to the NL. The true beauty of this was that several of us hadn't had any contact with one another because of a brokenness and other things, which aren't important to note. However, the reason beauty shined that night was because of God's healing grace that covered us all. He reconciled us all to Himself and with each other. This is something that I was waiting to see in Heaven. What a true blessing to have here on earth. And can you imagine? If I had left when I planned.. none of that would have happened. God truly has it all worked out.
April
I was finally "cleared" to leave. We were going to leave in a week (my Mom and I were there, traveling together). As we were looking online for tickets, everything was at least $800+, and that was a little steep. But we'd were going to take it. At the very LAST second, I got an email from a lady that said she'd found a flight for under $600!! And it was only ONE layover!! WOW! We were thrilled!
........the day we were leaving was the day the volcano erupted in Iceland. Wow. We didn't make our flights. I was going to be able to sing in the FireChoir concert that was happening a week after I landed in NL.. but it wasn't to be. We ended up leaving 12 days later.
During that time, we found out that my Grandmother has terminal cancer. This news was, and is, devastating. However, it would have been crushing if we hadn't been there to be with her during that time. My Mom was able to go with her Mom to the biopsy and other appointments that she would have missed, had the volcano not delayed us from going. Again, another "God-thing".
These are just a few of the things that I was able to experience this past year. So the lesson learned? Trust God. In all my ways. Because He sees ahead. He knows all my days. And knows best.
Friday, June 18, 2010
CRAZY WONDERFUL LIFE
Wow, life is crazy! And Wonderful! And incredibly busy. Today I get to attend my very FIRST real, Dutch wedding! I am so excited. They are 2 very good friends of mine, and I am so happy to see them coming together in marriage and celebrating with them. The fun thing is, not only do I get to attend: I get to SING in the wedding! WOW! What an honour :) At the church service, they have a time of worship, so some other people and I are leading that. I'll post pictures.
The interesting thing about here is that the government requires a civil ceremony for marriage. The church ceremony is only optional if you want to have it-- but it's not considered legal. So they often have their civil ceremonies sometime during the week, and then the church one on a Friday or Saturday. It costs anywhere from €300+ up to €1200 for the civil ceremony-- however, there is usually a day of the week that it is free, depending on where the couple is from. So many Christians opt to have their civil ceremony on that "free" day, and have their church ceremony on another day. I say hoorah for saving the money! Plus, that means you can have a whole week to celebrate your nuptials every year!
Well, I'm off for an errand. Things are great, and busy. I am so thankful to be here. I was just remarking to my friend the other day that I feel so at home here--- as if it were "meant to be". Imagine that? :)
Love to you all!!
~A
The interesting thing about here is that the government requires a civil ceremony for marriage. The church ceremony is only optional if you want to have it-- but it's not considered legal. So they often have their civil ceremonies sometime during the week, and then the church one on a Friday or Saturday. It costs anywhere from €300+ up to €1200 for the civil ceremony-- however, there is usually a day of the week that it is free, depending on where the couple is from. So many Christians opt to have their civil ceremony on that "free" day, and have their church ceremony on another day. I say hoorah for saving the money! Plus, that means you can have a whole week to celebrate your nuptials every year!
Well, I'm off for an errand. Things are great, and busy. I am so thankful to be here. I was just remarking to my friend the other day that I feel so at home here--- as if it were "meant to be". Imagine that? :)
Love to you all!!
~A
Thursday, May 27, 2010
Whirlwind of a Life
Hello everyone!
I have been back on the continent of Europe for just 4 weeks and 1 day and have already been to 4 other countries besides the Netherlands! All of that, plus getting over jetlag, painting our house, enjoying Queen's Day (Koninginnedag), an All Europe Retreat for missionaries in Europe, seeing old friends and making new ones, volunteering and camping 6 days at an outdoor festival called Opwekking (meaning revival or awakening)...
And that doesn't include sleeping, eating, figuring out where things are again, and trying to speak 4 different languages at random times to various people! Life is good!
I am so very thankful and grateful to be here. In many respects, it was a very long journey getting back here- and yet, God has blessed and strengthened me along every step of the way. It is incredible to know and Trust that He has it already figured out, and I am right where I am supposed to be. I am honoured to be here, doing what I do- I can't think of a better life!
I will include some pictures of my adventures very soon! Much Love and blessings!
~A
I have been back on the continent of Europe for just 4 weeks and 1 day and have already been to 4 other countries besides the Netherlands! All of that, plus getting over jetlag, painting our house, enjoying Queen's Day (Koninginnedag), an All Europe Retreat for missionaries in Europe, seeing old friends and making new ones, volunteering and camping 6 days at an outdoor festival called Opwekking (meaning revival or awakening)...
And that doesn't include sleeping, eating, figuring out where things are again, and trying to speak 4 different languages at random times to various people! Life is good!
I am so very thankful and grateful to be here. In many respects, it was a very long journey getting back here- and yet, God has blessed and strengthened me along every step of the way. It is incredible to know and Trust that He has it already figured out, and I am right where I am supposed to be. I am honoured to be here, doing what I do- I can't think of a better life!
I will include some pictures of my adventures very soon! Much Love and blessings!
~A
Saturday, May 1, 2010
WE ARE HERE!!!
Well.. We finally made it! After 12 days of waiting to see what would happen, we were able to get on 2 airplanes and arrive safely in Schiphol airport in the Netherlands on Wednesday, April 28th. One bag came on Friday since it missed the plane! But everything and everyone is glad to be here :)
We are focusing on settling in to the house and getting over JetLag. I think this is the best transition for JetLag that I've ever had- so I am enjoying that aspect. The house is going to take a lot of work, so we're doing what we can in between head bobs (JetLag induced naps, haha)! It is coming together bit by bit.
Thanks for all your prayers and well wishes, and so on :) I love and appreciate you all!
Blessings
~A
We are focusing on settling in to the house and getting over JetLag. I think this is the best transition for JetLag that I've ever had- so I am enjoying that aspect. The house is going to take a lot of work, so we're doing what we can in between head bobs (JetLag induced naps, haha)! It is coming together bit by bit.
Thanks for all your prayers and well wishes, and so on :) I love and appreciate you all!
Blessings
~A
Saturday, April 17, 2010
Delay
Well, it is almost Sunday. We were supposed to leave for Amsterdam on Thursday, but because of the volcano erupting in Iceland we have been delayed! I'm sure everyone has heard the news of that, but thought I would let you know we were also affected. Thankfully we hadn't left town before we heard the news and were able to come back home and wait it out. That is the good news!
At this point we are not sure when we'll be able to leave again. Hopefully early on this week- it's anybody's guess at this point. We're trusting in the Lord to bring us there when it's time! :)
Blessings all- we appreciate your prayers for strength and patience during this time!
Love to all :)
~A
At this point we are not sure when we'll be able to leave again. Hopefully early on this week- it's anybody's guess at this point. We're trusting in the Lord to bring us there when it's time! :)
Blessings all- we appreciate your prayers for strength and patience during this time!
Love to all :)
~A
Friday, April 9, 2010
7 days
In 7 days, I will be sleeping in my house in the Netherlands!!
Yes, the doors have been opened wide, and I am finally going to be able to return to the Amsterdam area to work with the FireChoir. I will literally hit the ground running!.. Ok, maybe figuratively, but it might as well be literal. I will arrive Friday, April 16th and have 3 days to recover from JetLag. Monday and Thursday we have 2 practices for the choir, and then Friday the 23rd and Saturday the 24th will be the FireChoir concerts!
Sounds like a LOT for 2 weeks' time- and it is! :)
Enough said, I need to get back to packing.. my plane leaves soon, and I don't want to miss it!
THANK YOU for your faithfulness and Love & Support. :)
Love you all
~A
Yes, the doors have been opened wide, and I am finally going to be able to return to the Amsterdam area to work with the FireChoir. I will literally hit the ground running!.. Ok, maybe figuratively, but it might as well be literal. I will arrive Friday, April 16th and have 3 days to recover from JetLag. Monday and Thursday we have 2 practices for the choir, and then Friday the 23rd and Saturday the 24th will be the FireChoir concerts!
Sounds like a LOT for 2 weeks' time- and it is! :)
Enough said, I need to get back to packing.. my plane leaves soon, and I don't want to miss it!
THANK YOU for your faithfulness and Love & Support. :)
Love you all
~A
Sunday, March 21, 2010
CUT!
Well, I did it! I decided to cut my budget nearly 40%! This means that now I only have $900 in monthly pledges left to raise, and then I can leave for the Netherlands! My cash budget is also nearly fully raised, so once that is complete, any cash offerings that come in will go directly towards the monthly pledge need. For example: If someone gives an offering of $120, it will be divided into 12, $10 for each month. This brings the needed amount for monthly pledges down.
The concerts are April 23 and 24, so I NEED to get back SOON so that I can have time to practice with the choir- I will be singing 1 solo for sure- and also be a part of the mic'd ensemble. It's urgent! :) The desire of my heart is to bring God glory by doing what He has called me to do, and my heart-strings are being tugged, even as I write this to you! I hope that you hear the excitement that I feel as I look toward this incredible opportunity with great anticipation and joy. How refreshing to follow God's plan, and be in His hands!
Please email me at: aliciathomassen@gmail.com if you feel that God wants you to support this ministry. I will get information to you :)
Many blessings and Love!
~A
The concerts are April 23 and 24, so I NEED to get back SOON so that I can have time to practice with the choir- I will be singing 1 solo for sure- and also be a part of the mic'd ensemble. It's urgent! :) The desire of my heart is to bring God glory by doing what He has called me to do, and my heart-strings are being tugged, even as I write this to you! I hope that you hear the excitement that I feel as I look toward this incredible opportunity with great anticipation and joy. How refreshing to follow God's plan, and be in His hands!
Please email me at: aliciathomassen@gmail.com if you feel that God wants you to support this ministry. I will get information to you :)
Many blessings and Love!
~A
The Beauty of Boldness
Hebrews 4 says, "15 For we do not have a High Priest who cannot sympathize with our weaknesses, but was in all points tempted as we are, yet without sin. 16 Let us therefore come boldly to the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy and find grace to help in time of need".
How amazing to know that Jesus knows exactly what we are going through at all times because, not only did He form us, but He actually lived as a human being! This amazes me. I often forget that He understands me completely- God created every fibre of my being, and knew me intimately before I was even born (Psalm 139).
God is teaching me boldness; if God had a cafe, I would order "Boldness, with a side of Grace, please!". All too often, people mistake healthy boldness for a license to wrecklessly demand whatever they think should be theirs. But I counter that a healthy boldness will always be lined in Grace and Love.
The Bible says to come boldly to the throne of Grace.. to receive mercy and grace.. Does that mean we come to God with our list of things we want (or even think) we need, and "Demand them"?? No, definitely not! We come boldly: meaning without shame and disgrace- because Jesus has taken that on for us- and we can stand in God's presence with freedom and without guilt.
~A
How amazing to know that Jesus knows exactly what we are going through at all times because, not only did He form us, but He actually lived as a human being! This amazes me. I often forget that He understands me completely- God created every fibre of my being, and knew me intimately before I was even born (Psalm 139).
God is teaching me boldness; if God had a cafe, I would order "Boldness, with a side of Grace, please!". All too often, people mistake healthy boldness for a license to wrecklessly demand whatever they think should be theirs. But I counter that a healthy boldness will always be lined in Grace and Love.
The Bible says to come boldly to the throne of Grace.. to receive mercy and grace.. Does that mean we come to God with our list of things we want (or even think) we need, and "Demand them"?? No, definitely not! We come boldly: meaning without shame and disgrace- because Jesus has taken that on for us- and we can stand in God's presence with freedom and without guilt.
~A
Monday, March 15, 2010
Thursday, March 11, 2010
Wednesday, February 3, 2010
Upcoming Concert
I am SO excited to announce an upcoming event. Some friends have volunteered to help me with a Benefit concert to raise money for me!
Here are the details:
Worship Concert
When: On Saturday, February 20th
What Time: 7pm
Where: Life Assembly of God, 2409 Clearwater Rd, St. Cloud, MN, 56301
Cost: Free--- there will be a Free-Will offering taken.
Please come! Invite everyone and anyone- you will not be disappointed. The people that are playing and singing with me are absolutely phenominal vocalists and instrumentalists!
Blessings- Hope to see you there!!
If you have any questions, please email me: aliciathomassen@gmail.com
~A
Here are the details:
Worship Concert
When: On Saturday, February 20th
What Time: 7pm
Where: Life Assembly of God, 2409 Clearwater Rd, St. Cloud, MN, 56301
Cost: Free--- there will be a Free-Will offering taken.
Please come! Invite everyone and anyone- you will not be disappointed. The people that are playing and singing with me are absolutely phenominal vocalists and instrumentalists!
Blessings- Hope to see you there!!
If you have any questions, please email me: aliciathomassen@gmail.com
~A
Saturday, January 16, 2010
Faith Promises
To get back to the Netherlands by the end of February, it will take: Faith, money, and prayer!
Financially, I need:
25 people who can commit $25 per month
35 people who can commit $20 per month
50 people who can commit $15 per month
60 people who can commit $10 per month
Will YOU be one of these people?!
Please email me at: aliciathomassen@gmail.com for more information -OR- read the preceeding blog about how to go online to sign-up. I need to get these faith promises in as soon as possible so that I can leave asap!
And don't forget- you are not limited by the amounts listed above- if you want to give more, or less.. that's wonderful!
God bless you. And I Love you!
~A
Financially, I need:
25 people who can commit $25 per month
35 people who can commit $20 per month
50 people who can commit $15 per month
60 people who can commit $10 per month
Will YOU be one of these people?!
Please email me at: aliciathomassen@gmail.com for more information -OR- read the preceeding blog about how to go online to sign-up. I need to get these faith promises in as soon as possible so that I can leave asap!
And don't forget- you are not limited by the amounts listed above- if you want to give more, or less.. that's wonderful!
God bless you. And I Love you!
~A
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