I’m actually missing it!

It’s over…

What a privilege it was to be able to serve with wonderful people from Edmonton, Calgary and Winnipeg on the planning committee. It was indeed interesting working with two generations of Christians, each having their different mindsets, different ideas, different perspectives, yet I love the fact that we still enjoyed each other’s company and laugh our heads off for the silliest things. I miss it! I miss laughing at silly things, doing stupid stuff and laughing to a point where we all couldn’t breathe. Hahaha. GOOD TIMES ^^

I am currently sitting in the hotel lobby right now, waiting for my ride to come back so we can head back to Edmonton. It’s a weird feeling. This familiar hotel lobby, filled with memories from this year and last. I cannot believe that the 49th CCCWC has come to an end! A full year of planning for a 4 day conference, seeing God’s work in these people and being able to serve God’s people was an amazing experience, and I am glad I followed Gods’ will.

I had a lot of firsts at this conference too. First time staying up all night doing work for God and not for school work or chatting with a friend, first time handling and counting so much cash from offering and not from Starbucks, first time learning how to use mail-merge, first time skipping so many meals, first time eating a lot of instant noodles to fill my stomach up, first time sleeping past 3am/4am for a few nights in a row and waking up by 8am in the morning, first time making it to almost every single breakfast (I skipped all breakfasts last year), first time enjoying the hotel food, first time being so sleep-deprived with other PC members that we laughed at almost everything for a couple of hours and most importantly - first time reading a few chapters of the Bible for a few days in a row and feeling God’s presence after reading them despite how busy we were trying to figure out logistical things.

There were so much more memory pieces, but they are so scattered and so vague right now… BUT you’ll find some of the “epic” moments that happened that I will never forget below [these are quite the ROFL moments]:

1. USB Fail

Ros sees some girl holding her nametag with USB coupon [after 60 people asking the SAME question] asks: “Are you here to ask about the USB?”
Girl responds: “Nope.”
Ros: “Oh okay, can I help you with anything?”
Girl answers: “Where do I get my USB key?”

2. Evaluation forms fail

One of the workshop ushers comes into the office and asks for an eraser. Priscilla finds out why… the answer is: a guy was given 10 evaluation forms to hand out to others, but he somehow “forgot” and ended up filling the eval forms himself – every single one of them….same ratings, same comments.. same handwriting…

3. Phone fail

Eva tries to save the CCCWC office phone number onto her cell phone, but she wasn’t sure which number it was, so she tries to call it to make sure it was right. Little did she know that the office phone number was actually a Koodo cell phone, so she walked to the one mounted in the office room provided by the hotel waiting for it to ring… Of course, it didn’t ring… but the phone by Priscilla started ringing… (but Priscilla did not know Eva was calling…)

Priscilla: “Hello?”
Eva: “Wei, Priscilla? Eva ah…”
They were only… a meter away from each other. Everyone in the office started laughing… really hard. Very EPIC.

4. Hairdryer fail

This occurred at 3:30am, while we were all working so hard, and chairman Leo went back to his room…

Eva: “Is that Leo blowdrying his hair?”
Priscilla: ” Eh, no, it’s from my laptop…the fan is quite loud”
**we all laughed, realizing Eva had asked the wrong question**
Karen: “I don’t think he needs to blowdry his hair… he doesn’t have much hair anyways.”
Priscilla: “Yeah, he can just use a towel…”

Well folks, this concludes some good laughs. Trust me, there were so much more. Time to go back to Edmonton! =)

Happy New Years Eve!

What do you do when...

...you get attacked by delegates when things aren't going right? What do you do when they ask you questions again and again? What do you do when they expect too much of you? Don't be hating, don't be judging. Key word: SMILE :D Remain calm, be patient, and smile big!

Yes, these people might be tards when it comes to attacking you with many different things. However, I was constantly reminded that these are God's people, and this is God's conference. So, I smile smile smile and smile for God ^^

I also had the opportunity to join one of the "fun" activities today by reading the book of Ephesians aloud in one of the foyers. It has been a while since I read that book in whole. I have noticed that I haven't spent much time dwellinhttp://www.blogger.com/post-create.g?blogID=3905703216141667347g in God's word, even in preparation for the conference. But this read-a-thon was quite a refresher.

Here are some great reminders for me:

[in respect to the conference]
"In him the whole building is joined together and rises to become a holy temple in the Lord. And in him you too are being built together to become a dwelling in which God lives by his Spirit." -- Ephesians 2:21-22

"Serve wholeheartedly, as if you were serving the Lord, not men, 8because you know that the Lord will reward everyone for whatever good he does, whether he is slave or free." -- Ephesians 6:7-8

[in respect to what our actions should look like]
"Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love. Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace. There is one body and one Spirit—just as you were called to one hope when you were called— 5one Lord, one faith, one baptism; one God and Father of all, who is over all and through all and in all." -- Ephesians 4:2-6

[in respect to my relationship with my parents]
"Children, obey your parents in the Lord, for this is right. "Honor your father and mother"—which is the first commandment with a promise— "that it may go well with you and that you may enjoy long life on the earth."" -- Ephesians 6:1-3

[in respect to my relationship with God]
"Finally, be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. Put on the full armor of God so that you can take your stand against the devil's schemes." -- Ephesians 6:10-11

Peacemakers: Making Peace on Earth

Time definitely flies. Five years ago, I was at CCCWC 2004 for the first time in Kelowna. Three years ago, I had the opportunity to travel all the way to St. Louis to go to Urbana 06. Two years ago, I went to NSLC 2007 and met a lot of Intervarsity students. Last year, I was asked to serve in CCCWC 2008 as business manager. Looking back at it, I never realized all these opportunities God provided me to attend and serve in various conferences this past five years. One word I can think of to describe this: WOW.

Something I decided to reflect upon tonight, as I sit beside my dearest treasurer who is currently occupied with some of conference stuff. Sometimes, I ask myself this question: do I ever ever… regret serving on this committee despite the options that God has given me? God offered me two options last year around this time, when I served at Winter Con: Urbana 09 vs. CCCWC 2009. I was asked to stay on the planning committee by the chairperson last year, yet (as most people knew about) Urbana 09 was something that I had been dreaming of since Urbana 06.

So, how did I come about to my decision? That would bring us back to the altar call last year at the conference. I remember as the business manager, I was so busy that I had no time for meals, no time to sit through main talks and workshops and my focus just wasn’t on God. However, God was gracious and did not forget about me - He showed me things and people and events that I had never even thought of before. I still remember when God touched my cold hearts, during the time of the altar call, I was so occupied with various responsibilities, trying to figure out places for delegates who respond to the altar call to be prayed for and taken care of. I remember running around like there was no tomorrow, and God paused me for that one moment to look around at my surroundings and showed me how weak and fragile people can be, even if they look strong on the outside. This gentleman who broke down in the corner in the ballroom, crying with his head down, was actually one of the members on the planning committee. Hard to believe, but I believe God touched him through the speaker and the words that came out from him, and he laid his life down before the Lord. I ran back to the general office looking for his brother, and I asked him to go comfort him…. I was surprised he cried… but that’s not it. What further shocked me was, I decided to go off to the Teen’s room to make sure things were going alright with the altar call and such, and I found most of the teens scattered inside the room, outside the room, in the hallways – in couples, in groups of three or four, alone, with a counselor, etc. I was amazed again by God as He showed His mercy and touched these children of His’. I went back to check on the brothers, and yet I found the image of Jesus calming the storm through them. My eyes started to tear up, and tears wouldn’t stop falling off. Yes, I started crying. God has touched me through these people, even though I didn’t hear the sermons. Isn’t it funny how God works? Ah-MAZ-INGGGG! At that time, I knew exactly what God wanted to show me: “Karen, look at this. This is my conference, these are my people and my children. You are my servant, and this is what I want to show you. It is through ME that people’s lives are saved, and touched and I do my work through you and the PCs.”

I kind of knew at that time, God was inviting me to serve in the conference again for the following year. I just couldn’t accept that fact. Urbana 09. Come on, a conference that I have been excited for since I went three years ago. I remember telling the chairperson and the hotel staff that they won’t be seeing me next year, I don’t plan to help out at all, yada yada yada. I remember as I walked to introvert alone and reflect on what I have seen, I saw one of the speakers who was a friend of Jon Lim and one of the planners for Urbana. I shared with her what was going through my mind, and what God was showing me and the decision that I will have to make when I head back to Edmonton. Something that she shared with me has kept me moving, even to this point when I’m tired and drained out: A conference is a conference, no matter how big or how small it is, it all belongs to God. No matter where it is, when it is, how long it is for, what it is for, remember that it is all for God. The conference belongs to God, and no one else. She was right. It doesn’t matter whether or not it is Urbana or Winter Con. We are serving God’s people, and we are sharing what God has to share with these future leaders of His kingdom. Does it really matter which conference you decide to go to and/or serve?

As for my final decision, you may ask? Well, I do admit that it was a hard decision to make. After much debate, I chose to serve in CCCWC 2009 again. There were times where people asked me why I wasn’t going to Urbana, or why I chose to serve in Winter Con again? There were times where I did regret, or get jealous of people going to Urbana. There were times where I thought of serving in Winter Con and then going to Urbana instead.

But up until today, seeing God pouring His blessings upon this conference (even if it’s just the beginning) – I knew I made the right decision to serve and I am glad I have followed His will, and allowed Him to guide me through.

"Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called sons of God." -- Matthew 5:9

How can I pray for YOU?

That is by far, one of the most powerful things I’ve ever heard someone say before. Not just asking the question: “how can I pray for you?”, but also following it through with action immediately, praying for them - in front of them, for them. I was blessed to experience this type of love this morning, especially after a long restless night.

Merry Christmas!

Happy birthday, Jesus <3

Miracles

I believe in miracles - do you?

Stressed...

... but not school-related. How ironic is that? Who would imagine that after my 8 page Chinese paper that was due on the 14th, I can still be stressed and stretched to the max, during my favorite time of the year?

After today, I have reached a conclusion: my relationship with Starbucks has come to an end, and I cannot wait until my last day of work. I don't love my job at Starby's as I used to, I absolutely hate the guts out of it. There are so many tards at work: co-workers that you need to hold their hands and guide them to do everything, co-workers who you want to throw pitchers at and stuff them into the stinky milk fridge in the back, the same co-workers who wants to leave early because of blah blah blah screws the rest of your shift over, shortage of partners on the floors causing misery in partners and customers, customers wanting their modified drinks and yells at your face for repeating it wrong, customers who goes through drive-thru just to order a $10 gift card or 10 of the $5 gift cards because they're lazy to get their asses out of their cars, and then there are those customers who orders 5 venti drinks of all sorts and asks for way too much. Seriously. These are just some of the reasons... but you get the point.

Well, I got myself into all this... and it all started with the promotion way back in late June, early July. Knowing that becoming a shift supervisor would require much more work and responsibility, I asked people whether or not I should accept the position. Of course, in the end I did, and do I much regret it? Unfortunately, the answer is yes. I do. I regret accepting the promotion... even though people think I'd make a good shift in the beginning. Starbucks' requirements of shift supervisors to work 24 hours a week is retarded. I mean, if you have competent shifts that can help you out, I'd give them merely 12 hours a week, or even less! I don't know what Starbucks really thinks... their policies are stupid.

Anyways, a lot has been going through my mind this past 6 hours.... why this and why that, and why not this and why not that. I have never been so introverted before... less than 10 sentences out of my mouth since I left work.... There have been a lot of things I am currently struggling through, and I'm still trying to get myself out of it at the moment. I hope God will give me time to reflect when I go down to Calgary and be on my own for like 5 days.

Surviving on 3 hours of sleep and having your parents make you run errands for them and drive them around when you wanted to take a nap just doesn't make a day any better.

I absolutely do not look forward to tomorrow's shift. It will probably be another crappy day, and the only way a day can turn upside down, is when you smile for God.

Word of the Day

So, the word of the day for the day (or should I say the year?)... is.... T-A-R-D.

Tard. Tard tard tard tard tard. I am one myself, and thjere are many other people out there! Dani and I both agree... that there are way too many tards at Starbucks... way... too... many! I think I've used this word too much today... but that's okay, because I know cute-tard loves her new name =)

On a side note, I handed in my resignation letter today, giving a 6 week notice to my dear Starbucks...

Dear Starbucks: I love you, yet I hate you at the same time. You bring my joy, yet you bring me misery and stress everyday. I have so many good people at work, yet you bring in stupid tards who are so incompetent at times...

So long Starbucks! Countdown to last day of work: < 41 days.

It's complicated...

I'm currently struggling through things right now... especially with my faith in God. I constantly ask Him why He's letting such things happen? And why now... and why all at once?

I have only told one person so far my echocardiogram results... because it's complicated and nothing is 100% confirmed yet. I don't see myself telling my family about it either.. because I know all they will do is freak out and freak out even more, especially my mother. Maybe I will... after I see a cardiologist.. and things are okay...

So.... my echocardiogram results... my doctor told me not to lose sleep over it... but right now, I just can't stop thinking about it. She said the lab technicians discovered that I might have minor pulmonary stenosis, which is narrowing of one of the vavles..., and they said advice from a cardiologist would be helpful, even though my heart is pumping a normal amount of blood throughout. She said it has probably been there since birth, but not discovered until now... however, no one will know because there wasn't any ultrasound done back then... she said it's better that she refer me to see one due to the PVCs she found on my EKG a while back... Well, Cardiac Ease will be calling me within a month to schedule me in to see a cardiologist, and I guess until then, I should stop thinking about it...

On the other hand, my bald spot in my head...a condition called alopecia areata... is getting treated with a lotion for now... and if it doesn't work, then we'll have to figure something out and maybe inject cortisol into the scalp..

Anyways, a lot for me to think through and reflect. And while you're reading this, may I ask that you be keeping me in your prayers. This isn't easy for me.. and I really need faith and trust that God will take care of it...

Coffee?

I'm currently "studying" in Cameron.... and this morning, I was debating whether or not to have coffee to "wake" me up.

I ended up not getting any because I had a hard time deciding... below are my two choices:
1) Tim Hortons: gross, disgusting coffee that tastes like coffee diluted with A LOT of water.
2) Starbucks: crappy coffee that has a 95% chance of being made wrong...

Oh, Aramark... no wonder I have troubles debating whether I should even get coffee at all from you guys... maybe an energy drink will do instead...

One interesting note on the side. At Timmy's in CAB today, I saw this girl with a Starbucks cap and a green apron opening a bag of coffee behind the counter. How ironic is that... and HOW WRONG is that? VERY WRONG.

Anyways, just figured I might want to blog a bit about this.. since I have my netbook with me :) Peace out and good luck on your finals :)

Done blogging for life!

.... JUST KIDDING.

Well, I am done my stupid blogs for Chinese. After two sleepless nights, I have finally finished BS-ing about crap on Chinese literature and referencing it to other people's blogs and such.

http://kchung-china414.blogspot.com/

THIS IS OVER. I better get at least a B on this blog... or else... this course requirement is stupid. Take so much time and effort and drains you out... and it's only worth a freaken 15%... anyways.

Moving on.. EDPY 404 cramming.. here I come!

Do you love what you do?

I gotta admit, working at Starby's is not the best thing in this world. If you ask me today whether or not I like my job, I would probably say no. If you ask me another day whether or not I hate my job, I might say no.

I have this love-hate relationship with Starby's right now. Sometimes it's a place filled with joy and love, yet there are times where you just want to throw a pitcher into someone's face.

I think I need to learn... how to appreciate and love my job.

Blessed~

I am blessed to have amazing family and friends. What would I do without these wonderful people in my life?

Another birthday came by and gone, and each year, God pours more and more blessings on me and it just gets better and better!

Many birthday wishes & text messages, beautiful cards with meaningful words, a blue compact netbook, a warm fuzzy hoody... various cakes of sorts... McDonald's McNuggets...birthday hugs, birthday bumps, chilling out in the ASK office, having deep conversations and sharing testimonies.. there is just so much more!

Thank you, God! You are absolutely amazing.

What's better?

What's better than getting text messages on a stressful, rough day and reading a blog from a good friend?

What's better than sitting at Starby's, people watching... spending time with your favorite person at Starby's on her 1/2 hour break...going on an adventure in a blue PT Cruiser traveling 10 blocks down to another store to get Mocha powder for the store.... eating McD's and asking for a grande scoop of ice, laughing at your face...pondering at your wonderful customer serivce, and blogging about my wonderful morning spent with you?

The answer to the above is... NOTHING :) I love spending time with you! <3 Thank you for brightening my day all the time, and I am grateful to know that you think about me during my roughest times!!

:D

PS. I think I will start blogging more when I am at a coffee shop, the environment seems really fitting to be blogging :)

Memories :)

This past week at Large Group for ASK, we talked about the theme "appreciation". Who do I appreciate, and what does appreciation mean to me? Well, I appreciate all my friends and family who supported me through the ups and downs in my life, share silly moments with me, cry with me and laugh with (and at) me. I love the life God has given me and the people He has blessed me with.

After reading one of my friend's blog about "Things that make me happy" and another friend's blog "A piece of 'you'", I decided to write down a few sentences (and more...) about some very important people (that have made a difference in my life somehow) in my life that summarizes our friendship (something that I will say to you in person one day... and will remember for the rest of my life).

Here we go: (Warning... this might be a long read, and it is in no particular order)

• We met through my initial creepiness (which I have not done ever since). Why did I creep you? I don't know. Why did you even let me creep you? Who knows... I met you through a mutual friend, and then one day found you randomly on Xanga, and then later on, Facebook, we switched MSN contacts... phone numbers... we became friends eventually. We had the same class together for a semester, and we share similar Myers Briggs profile: INFP :) You have taught me a lot and supported me through my down times, especially when I lost trust in people. Thank you for your friendship!
  
  
• You gave me the nickname "Moldy", because I always mold my life away at the library before an exam cramming. You creeped me the second time we saw each other, even though you disappeared pretty quickly afterwards. It's funny how we think the same sometimes, and how what you say would sound like something that I would probably say.... I never knew our friendship would go so far, but whenever I needed someone to talk to, you were there. When I am stressed or sick or down, you would send me an e-card that would brighten my day. When I needed something to be prayed for, you prayed for me. You offer 24/7 "counselling" and therapy. I have enjoyed our fun dates and I look forward to more and continuing to grow our friendship :) You will forever be my HB!
  
  
• What more can I say about our friendship? We hated each other a year ago because you scared the crap out of me when I asked you if you were quitting your job. We never really talked until the year of 2009. But somehow we became friends at work, we enjoyed our shifts together and we send regular text messages to each other! We talked about God at work when we used to work our Saturday mornings and we started calling each other SICs...we started putting notes and Green Apron cards on each other's windshield. We drank a lot of tea on Valentine's Day together for our Tea Passports, and shared lots of great memories together. Thank you for letting me be your only Asian friend, and thank you for being one of my closest non-Asian friend EVER (I don't have much non-Asian friends that I can share my life with). Thank you for your encouragements and presence in my life. We are great examples of cultural gaps, and don't ever forget. I am coming to your weddding!
  
  
• Although you are seven years younger than me and you're a boy... you have made a difference in my life. I have always wondered why God made this happen, when I wanted a siblings and cousins within 3 years of my age. Thank you for letting me slap you, hit you, hug you, laugh at you and such whenever I get stressed out and tired. Thank you for being my 3rd alarm clock and waking me up, even though you fail half the time to wake me up. I am glad we are talking a lot more than we used to. I am thankful for you :) I can't wait to see you graduate from high school and go to University!
  
  
• We share the same birthday together, although you are just one year younger than me. I met you when I was in elementary and I can't believe we have been friends for way over a decade (and I am sorry I have lost count already...). I can't believe even though we have been friends for such a long time, the time we spent together in person has only been less than half a year (especially since you were in Cambodia for so long and now that you live in Calgary). God has blessed me with a sister like you, and allowed us to meet again when you came back to Edmonton for a visit with your crouches one year! Random, but how great! It's our birthday in less than 10 days. Happy birthday in advance!
  
  
• I love the nickname I gave you: Stinky Tofu. Although I haven't tried it yet, it must be... good. I hope you like your nickname, because I definitely do. Although I've known you for a while... we didn't really get to talk and hang out much until this year. Thank you for keeping me up when I am in class fighting off my drowsiness and for keeping me "cold" when the room was super warm. I love your random texts, and I am glad I got to know you a lot better this year. I will never forget going to bubble tea with you twice in two days and witness you drop a tray into the garbage can at McD's. PS. I know how to drive you home with my eyes closed now! :p
  
  
• Although you are all the way in Vancouver right now, and we rarely get to meet up when you were in Edmonton... you have made a difference in my life. I have enjoyed our coffees and dinners and talks. Our conversations always brings us together and reminds us of God's presence in our lives, even though sometimes we might not feel it at the moment. Best wishes in your staff at EC! I can't wait to share more God-stories with you!
  
  
• I met you at a conference about 5 years ago. In between, we lost a couple years... but God somehow brought us back together last year. We took classes together, and we saw each other on Tuesdays/Thursdays from 9 to 5. You know me well enough that I get grumpy by the end of the day. I like your computer-like writing and your OCDness with your notes. I always look back at our silly moments and laugh at how mean we are. I miss saying "No!" in your tone and just laughing at silly things! I am glad we get to graduate together on the same convocation stage!
  
  
• We call each other "best friends", and we make people jealous. Although we might not be close like best friends should, but I enjoy our hangouts and our random conversations. I believe that we will be able to talk more deeper stuff and continue to laugh at our stupid stuff together. I say "just saying" a lot because of you now. Thank you, best friend =)
  
  
• Telepathic buddies. We think so much alike that it is impossible to believe. Too bad you are all the way in London right now, and I miss you a lot! I still remember exactly how we met at NSLC 2007, and we were roommates, even though you were...so far away from meI can't wait to Skype with you and share with you things that's been happening in my life!
  
  
• We travelled to Urbana 2006 together (because we both decided to go very last minute), and we confused the customer service person at the kiosk. We share a lot of laughs together and I am glad I got to know you! Even though I won't be able to go to this year, you better not let other people replace me!
  
  
• "I missssss you..... EW.... Jay-Kay". Haha, ohhh neighbor. I like how we have a love-hate relationship :)
  
  
• Thank you for spending time with me in CAB every week :) You make my spares less boring because you laugh at me and we laugh together about many things! I still don't think there's a problem with eating a slice of pizza with a knife and a fork... and thank you for stealing i-coke pins for me so I can get a cute limited polar bear from the icoke.ca website.
  
  
• Thank you for giving me hugs all the time when I see you. I love seeing you on campus and at church. I still have a lot of hug tokens left... and I hope they never expire. I will promise you that I will shower, just for you :) Also, I will make sure not to eat much McDonald's because you hate it so much <3. Wo ai ni!
  
  
• If it wasn't you, I wouldn't have made the decision to go to Urbana and eventually become an emerging leader in ASK. Thank you for being my mentor through my undergrad years!
  
  
• My favorite memory of you must be on July 1, 2008, as we crossed High Level Bridge and we faced the waterfall... and you pushed me aside because I was too "slow"... haha. Nahh, there are so much more memories. I love Leehom, and SO DO YOU :)
  
  
• Thank you for my Ugly Doll, and thank you for always fixing ShareBear for me all the time. Don't worry, the Ugly Doll doesn't remind me of you anymore :p
  
  
• Drama... and Skype. We talk a lot more than we get to see each other, and even though you say you don't miss me... I bet you do ;) Let's race to finish Beyond the Realm of Conscience first. I will definitely win. Hehe.
  
  
• You and your Keita. That's all you really talk about and care about. Geez. Haha, jk. Too bad you are all the way in Seattle right now. But you're back this weekend. I hope we get to spend some quality time together! I miss you lots!
  
  
• I still remember that garbage can we liked to push each other into back in high school. I hope you do too, because you miss going into it :p
  
  
• I kept the heart you made me with the $5 bill! Thank you for missing me and loving me all the time :) You are a wonderful child, and I always love seeing you at work!
  
  
• ...... to be continued and editted when I think of more :)

Thank you for the differences you have made in my life! I love you all very much and I am excited to spend time with you guys one day and share life!

Do not worry

A close friend of mine blogged about "Are you happy today?" last night. In her blog, she mentioned about a friend asking her if she looked happy today and what her response was, and about how we all have worries and how she trusts God to guide her to His way. I won't go into details of her blog, but I will talk about my current feelings.

If you were to come up to me and ask me if I was happy today, I would definitely respond... yes, with a bit of hesitation. While only a couple of my close friends knows how I actually feel today.....Today, I fear. I thought about a lot of things, and I was not acting like myself. I was worried. I was frustrated. I wanted to burst into tears... hide in my corner and just be by myself. I was pretending to be happy, to be friendly and to be open, but I was so tired out by the end of the night...drained by conversations and I just want to be by myself...reflecting through things in my complex mind.

Something happened today that caused me to worry about my future. I don't know what God is trying to do... nor do I know what the future holds. I think I worry too much sometimes....

"Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or drink; or about your body, what you will wear. Is not life more important than food, and the body more important than clothes?" -- Matthew 6:25

"Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own." -- Matthew 6:34

These two verses are so hard to live out, but I am trying to pray about it and letting the verses steep into my brain...

There will be an update soon, once things are sorted out....

I'm NOT stupid....

Yes, I repeat. I'm NOT stupid!

I was enjoying my Sunday afternoon nap when all of a sudden my mom wakes me up to listen to a call that was for me. I turned out to be pretty cranky because my nap was so grand.... but below is the conversation... (at least from what I remembered anyways...oh, and the man had a very thick accent which was hard to understand):

Me: ".... hello....?"
Man: "Hi, is this Karen?"
Me: *obviously...damn it...* "Yes..."
Man: "I'm calling on behalf of the U of A (blah blah blah blah blah).... is your address _________?"
Me: *wtf* "Yup... "
Man: "I'm doing this research (blah blah blah blah blah) for woman and (blah blah blah blah blah)...
Me: "Ok..."
----- after a short while of him talking ------
Man: "So, we were wondering if you are interesting in a monthly donation of 10 dollars."
Me: *wakes up* "No thank you."
Man: "But.. it's blah blah blah blah blah......something... tuition cost... blah blah blah. It's very minimal"
----- pause ------
Man: "Have you considered just a really small donation? Just 5 dollars a month."
Me: "Did you not understand? No, I have other financial obligations...."
Man: *disappointed voice* "Thank you for your...."
*click*

Yup, I just hung up on him. Honestly, University of Alberta...? Man...? Calling...? Asking for donation and support from a poor student who pays more than five grands for tuition? You gotta be kidding me. It's not my fault if the university isn't using their money wisely and going poor..... and most importantly, I'm not that stupid....

Anyways, from my caller ID on my home phone.. the number is 780-248-1594. WITH NO NAME or what so ever... so people... be careful....

Thank you sir for ruining my beautiful nap.

Things that I miss....

It's been over a week since I've been sick.....there are just so many things that I come to realize that I really miss...

I miss being able to talk in full sentences without sounding like a mad man...
I miss drinking ice water and cold drinks at work....
I miss getting to drink bubble tea and have ice-cream...
I miss eating chocolate and unhealthy snacks....
I miss singing :(
....and so much more!

But I am at the same time thankful for friends, brothers and sisters and family! Their support, care and prayers really warmed my little heart when I was sick.

I'm thankful for everyone in my life who makes my day a beautiful day =)

AND, I'm thankful for God who never changes! He has blessed me through the week that I have been sick, especially through my midterm and presentation!

Storm-calming Jesus

That day when evening came, he said to his disciples, "Let us go over to the other side." Leaving the crowd behind, they took him along, just as he was, in the boat. There were also other boats with him. A furious squall came up, and the waves broke over the boat, so that it was nearly swamped. Jesus was in the stern, sleeping on a cushion. The disciples woke him and said to him, "Teacher, don't you care if we drown?"

He got up, rebuked the wind and said to the waves, "Quiet! Be still!" Then the wind died down and it was completely calm. He said to his disciples, "Why are you so afraid? Do you still have no faith?"

They were terrified and asked each other, "Who is this? Even the wind and the waves obey him!"

Pastor Henry really encourages us to stand before the alter and lay our lives down for several occasions and making different commitments and praying special prayers. Today was one of those days. The story he focused his sermon on today was "Jesus calms the storm". Although I only had an hour of sleep the night before due to an early staff meeting, and I dosed off a bit here and there during the sermon, I felt God was talking to me and reaching out to me.

So when Pastor Henry asked those who wants Jesus to step into their lives and calm their storms to kneel before the alter as we sand the song "Still", I slowly moved up to the front and knelt before the Lord. I have never done such a thing before in my life because I care about what others think about me. But today, I was able to drop those thoughts and prayed a special prayer to let God take care of my everything. And I was happy to not be alone because other brothers and sisters were up there on the alter with me. Thank you, God!

Hide me now
Under your wings
Cover me
within your mighty hand

When the oceans rise and thunders roar
I will soar with you above the storm
Father you are King over the flood
I will be still and know you are God

Find rest my soul
In Christ alone
Know his power
In quietness and trust

Happy Thanksgiving!

There are SO many things I am thankful for, and this includes all of you =)

HELLO LOVE: I will rise!

There's a peace I've come to know
Though my heart and flesh may fail
There's an anchor for my soul
I can say "It is well"

Jesus has overcome
And the grave is overwhelmed
The victory is won
He is risen from the dead

And I will rise when He calls my name
No more sorrow, no more pain
I will rise on eagles' wings
Before my God fall on my knees
And rise
I will rise

There's a day that's drawing near
When this darkness breaks to light
And the shadows disappear
And my faith shall be my eyes

Jesus has overcome
And the grave is overwhelmed
The victory is won
He is risen from the dead

And I will rise when He calls my name
No more sorrow, no more pain
I will rise on eagles' wings
Before my God fall on my knees
And rise
I will rise

And I hear the voice of many angels sing,
"Worthy is the Lamb"
And I hear the cry of every longing heart,
"Worthy is the Lamb"

And I will rise when He calls my name
No more sorrow, no more pain
I will rise on eagles' wings
Before my God fall on my knees
And rise
I will rise

Hello Love. I just came home from Chris Tomlin's concert. One word: "AMAZING". It was refreshing, and I had the opportunity to spend good quality time with God.

Honestly, since school started, being at school for 15 hours a week sitting through lectures, working a minimum of 24 hours per week at Starbucks drains the heck out of me. Along with that, I recently started volunteering with a program called "Study Buddy", which takes up 5 hours of my time each week. If you think about it, that's pretty much equivalent to working a full time job.... but a lot worse because I'm doing so much all at once. I do feel a bit drained and tired...and this week, was not the best week ever, especially when I feel like I have gone through a whole emotional roller-coaster with God and other people.

Tonight, I had great opportunity to drop everything and put myself into true worship with God: singing to Him, talking to Him, lifting my hands up to Him, praising Him. It made me reflect on how much time I actually spend with God when I am so occupied with all these other things - I know the answer, and I am sure God does too.

God wants us to focus on Him, and put Him as #1 in whatever we do, both you and I. What do we spend most of our time on? Are the things we spend time on the most worth us spending time on them? Take the time to reflect the amazing things that God has done and will do in your life, let God transform us as we continue to grow in Him.

Let us rise when He calls our name!

I am back!

Hello everyone!

I... A-M.. B-A-C-K. After having friends complaining that I haven't blogged for so long.. I will slowly come back. Dor is sitting across from me right now doing her Sudoku....while she is SUPPOSE to do her homework... or study. But that's okay. I love spending time with her because every minute is so silly and fun =)

Anyways, let's start my blog off with some highlight text messages on Monday (because it was so so so windy). I texted some of my friends the following text, and shown below are their various responses (they shall remain anonymous...and I only chose some to blog about). They totally made me laugh - I hope they will make you laugh too =)

Karen: "It's so windy out there - don't get blown away today!"

Response #1: "Lol its okay, i survived sat so dont worry =) today isnt too bad =)"
Response #2: "Haha very funny lol gah i need to hermit tonight=("
Response #3: "My wig almost flew off...wait i mean hair... ... ... o_O"
Response #4: "Lol its okay I already celebrated 22.. I can celebrate 23 in the air lol"
Response #5: "I only want to fly away if I don't get blown back lol"

Hope that made your day, because it made my day ^__^

Text of the day from me to a friend: "If you do mold... I think i'll still love you :) or, i'll mold with you. Or we can have a mold date instead of a study date :D"

Peace v^_^

Life can be fragile....

... so cherish the ones you love and care for.

Today, my mom came home with the news that two of her manager's relatives died from a car accident around midnight-ish. She asked if I knew one of them... I told her I did, but I was never close to her or anything. I feel a bit uneasy right now, and it seems that there are certain things going through my mind right now. One of the aunties that passed away was my grade 3 Sunday School/Worship teachers. She was probably one of the first teachers in my life teaching me about God when I first came to Edmonton. The impact might not seem to be as big back then... but thinking back into the past, I think every person that God places into my life has had an impact on me. So, I think her death somewhat impacted me....

I don't think I make much sense right now.... but yea, I'm feeling a bit sad... The first person I actually thought of was her son. I'm friends with him, but not really close... I'd say.. more like "hi-bye-how are you" friends? I think it's hard to lose one of your parents. I started to think what would happen if I lost mine.... I don't really want to think about it.... *sigh* I hope he feels better soon. I bet this is quite the big impact on the family, especially since it's a big family... and this past couple of months are wedding-months. I pray that God will help them through whatever they are going through right now.

I know I haven't been blogging for a while, but I will get back to it soon. SO much happened in between the last time I blogged and now. But I probably won't go back and track down what happened. I hope to update this blog soon.

Interview with God

This ain't the first time I've seen this slideshow called "Interview with God", each time I see it again, it feels that God is speaking to me through the music playing and the words are speaking out to me. Hope this can be somewhat inspirational to you too, as you read through the script :)

I dreamed I had an interview with God.

“So you would like to interview me?” God asked

“If you have the time” I said.

God smiled

“My time is eternity”

“What questions do you have in mind for me?”

“What surprises you most about humankind?...”

God answered...

“That they get bored with childhood. They rush to grow up and then long to be children again.”

“That they lose their health to make money and then lose their money to restore their health.”

“That by thinking anxiously about the future, they forget the present, such that they live in neither the present nor the future.”

“That they live as if they will never die, and die as if they had never lived.”

God’s hand took mine and we were silent for awhile

And then I asked...

“As a parent, what are some of life’s lessons you want your children to learn?”

God replied with a smile,

“To learn they cannot make anyone love them. What they can do is let themselves be loved.”

“To learn that it is not good to compare themselves to others.”

“To learn that a rich person is not one who has the most, but is one who needs the least.”

“To learn that it only takes a few seconds to open profound wounds in persons we love, and it takes many years to heal them.”

“To learn to forgive by practicing forgiveness.”

“To learn that there are persons who love them dearly, but simply do not know how to express or show their feelings.”

“To learn that two people can look at the same thing and see it differently.”

“To learn that it is not always enough that they be forgiven by others. But that they must forgive themselves.”

“And to learn that I am here always.”

My very first guitar - Jairus!

Today was a very exciting day, I bought my very first guitar with my pay cheque! This decision took me a while because I was afraid to over-spend money on the guitar that I might not play. But....I finally bought it, and I think it was the right decision!

I went to AXE in the morning and asked the guy about guitars and he showed me a few... one was too big, one felt weird.... one was too expensive..... and then he gave me some time to look around and what not. So there I was... in a guitar room all by myself.... looking down the aisles for the "perfect" one. Some didn't feel right....some necks were too thick... some necks were too thin. Some of the body was too big....too small. I didn't like the shape of some of the bodies....too expensive and out of my budget. But then I came across one that I kinda liked. The perfect body, the perfect neck.....and the perfect sound! And, most importantly, the price was reasonable too. I sat there....very indecisively trying out the guitar. Placed it back to it's original position and grabbed a couple other guitars....but nothing felt as great as the "one". At that very moment, I couldn't believe that I found the one.... the perfect guitar!

I happily finished the transaction and went home with it. Set the guitar stand and placed the guitar on the stand, right beside the piano. On the way to work, all I had in my mind was... I better tell my mother this... or else she will not be very impressed that I spent over $300 on a guitar....I was rather surprised my mom did not object to it or anything at all....and I really wanted to name my guitar.... I was discussing with Sheh at work what I should name my guitar. She said I should name it a boy because of it's color... and it makes more sense that way to me anyways. I wanted something biblical and meaningful.... but nothing too common, like Matthew, Mark, Luke, John. I cracked a joke and told her I wanted to name it Jesus. LOL. But that did not happen. It would have been cool though.... but yeah.

So I got home after work and looked up some names for my lovely guitar. I narrowed the names down to the choices of: Obadiah (servant of God), Jotham (God is perfect), Joash (God-given), Jairus (He shines), and Lemuel (dedicated to God). I had a particular name in mind...but I also asked a few of my friends. Out of the most was Lemuel.....and Jairus. But because I personally prefer it ot be Jairus, and it matches my guitar a lot more.... it is now named Jairus, and as I play God's songs, I want to be reminded that I am playing it for God, and keeping in mind that Jesus shines through music.

Well, welcome to the family, Jairus! I will be taking good care of you and letting others see your light!

Happy day!

Going to Calgary in less than 12 hours :) Happy and excited.

Had my interview with DM for shift supervisor at Starbucks, and it went well! Amen :) Training starts next week....I wonder if that's the right decision or not. Praying :)

Ah, I'm gonna miss everyone....friends heading off to camps, out of town and on missions trips. But may God bless all of them and let them grow in Him throughout those times.

Bleh, need to work out and start parking......

Our new MANGO car....(or lemon...)

What a day...

It's been 12 hours of chaos, and I am finally home. It feels great to be home....just to sit down and relax, and rest my soul :)

I couldn't really sleep last night.... 1) it was too hot, 2) napped for 4 hours during the day....OH WELL. But I woke up this morning....to go with my parents to run errands for the new car we're getting. Our parents bought a used 2003 Mazda 6....for a relatively good price. Except...it was yellow. YELLOW. It looks like a mango...which means, my parents will be driving a mango down the street....

This morning was rather stressful....had to deal with the owner of the car speeding like there was no tomorrow on the road....my dad's awesome English and Mandarin skills....and attitude from the AMA service rep. It was amazing that I lasted that 3 hours of chaos and non-sense....but right after I exploded at the AMA service rep....God pretty much pulled my mind and told me to calm my butt....and I reflected upon how I would have lived that 3 hours instead, and what would have happened if I actually thought about what Jesus would do before taking action. It was stressful, frustrating...and I ripped a piece of white hair out by accident -.- oh noes...

Work was rather interesting. After 2.5 hours of work with my 15 min break, we experienced a power outage for a period of over 1.5 hours. It was fun, I got to text and sit and just laugh :) DB came in to visit, it was fun. Hahah. We did some cleaning and were about to leave...then by 6:30pm...the lights went back on again. DARN! So closeeeeeee... Haha. But oh well.

Hm, what else....I need to go work out... I feel it's somewhat necessary.....maybe I'll go tomorrow after work.

My goal this summer is to buy a guitar before summer is over and make myself learn and polish my skills...so I can play more besides the simple GDCAE chords. :) Also, I've been kinda starting to touch up my piano skills too. I love playing worship songs, it's so calming and peaceful, it's my way of worshiping and spending time with God too. Yay!

Until then... I'll blog more later. :)

All The Good and Bad I Give To You

"All The Good and Bad I Give To You" is so easy to say, but so hard to do. But I would like to remember this, knowing that I can lift up anything and everything to Jesus, good AND bad.

I didn't have a good day today. To be honest, I had multiple feelings today. Happy, sad, mad, frustrated, angry, anxious....pissed off... disappointed... upset.... all because stupid things happened. The world doesn't revolve around just one person, very unfortunately, you don't always get what you want, and just because of one person...it doesn't mean everyone have to do something about it. I have feelings too....did anyone think about how I felt when things like that happen? Things were already planned... but all had to change because of what happened.

I prayed for peace... but I didn't feel any better. I prayed for comfort...DK part 2 helped pray for me too =) She warmed my cold, bitter heart, although I didn't get to talk to her or see her in person. I was touched by the love that God was showing me through people who cared at work... through Him clearing up the skies and letting me watch the sun set...

I pray for peace... I pray for love and forgiveness. Lord, will you shower them down like rain?

Questions stirring up...

I have a really bad habit of sleeping on the couch at night...especially when I have to wake up early the next morning. This morning, I woke up to a conversation between my brother and mom about my brother's bible study at fellowship last night. My brother shared about what he learned at fellowship: "the difference between a person growing up in Christian family and a person going to church sometime at his/her life". Which reminded me of something we talked about at bible study yesterday during small group: "What's the difference between being a Christian and following Jesus?"....there are so many questions to think about and to wonder about!

Up!

I loved the new Pixar movie "Up". IT was so good.

I went to watch it with Danielle today :D It was indeed some quality DK time. Who would have thought that we can be such good friends. Lol. It's true. Many people know that over 80% of my FB friends are ASIAN, and that the rest are all non-Asians but they're either from school or work. Well, I would have to say, outside of IVCF and fellowship, it is just rare to meet a Christian outside of any "church" scenarios. Yea, I would consider her as one of my close non-Asian friends. Hahaha. Weird to say, but I enjoy my time and feel so comfortable with her. We've known each other for a year now, we work at Starbucks together (well, not for long because her last week is this week). I still remember how we weren't very friendly to each other back then either. I thought she was scary because of an incident that happened back in October and we didn't end off in a very friendly term...It wasn't until after I quit and came back that we started "talking" more, and the past few months...just enjoying ourselves with each other! Too bad she'll be gone to Camp Nakamun this summer to work there and then moving to BC for her nursing degree. I think I will miss her. Hahaha...but I bet we'll still keep in touch, through our blogging fun :D

Anyways, my other highlight of the night would probably have been spending time with my fellow ASK friends at Tai Pan. After small group, the 8 of us decided to just go eat some mid-night snack. Haha, we had our embarrassing moments ordering and sorting things out, even the waiter laughed at us. And...we scared people away. Haha, and we didn't leave til 12:25am. But man, was it fun time. I miss just hanging out and being with these friends!

In summary, today was a very good day. Good day to blog about happy things, and reminding myself to write down things that are meaningful to me :)

Oh yea, Elaine and Min are in town ^^ I missed them soooo much!

Romans 12:2

"Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God's will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will."

Happy moments, PRAISE GOD.
Difficult moments, SEEK GOD.
Quiet moments, WORSHIP GOD.
Painful moments, TRUST GOD.
Every moment, THANK GOD.
God's Blessings on you today.

So....STRESSED!!!!

I'm so stressed -.- I have a midterm tomorrow... and I still have TONS of reading left to read.....:(

Missing my students

I had the opportunity to go to this dance gala thing tonight and saw my students perform! It was awesome XD I actually... missed them a lot! The show was... okay. Haaha, Paid $10 to see my students perform, and be stuck with annoying people who just doesn't shut up -.-

I left after they did the "Red Fan Dance", then got to talk with Desiree, said hi to a few girls... hugged some girls and had fun! Wow, I miss them a lot. Ahaha. :)

Chasing Love ^^

WOW. Just came back from the World Vision charity music drama. It was pretty good. I got to see some old friends, met some new friends. The story was kinda confusing, but I got the main point out of it, I think.

Ada Choi is so pretty and Sammul Chan is SO HOT =) I didn't drool....but the girls in front of me went crazy....and according to my friends, there were a lot of middle aged women screaming. Ahahah. Oh crazy people. I didn't take much pictures though, but it's okay, seeing them in person was satisfying already. <3

Christians in a Workplace (Continued)

I'm sleepy right now, but I will keep this short.

So I think back in the beginning of the month (which was just...a bit over a week ago), I was talking about how I discovered there were more Christians at work, but we never talk about God or anything related to Christianity.

Well, today... I got to work with two of my favorite peoples to work with at work (whom I found they were both Christians in the past month). So I kinda broke the ice, and I asked them if they find it interesting to see Christians in a workplace. We talked about how it was surprising to know that some people are Christians and some are really obvious based on the things that they do. We talked about our favorite bible verses and our favorite worship songs, and why it is so hard to love certain people and purpose in life. I think it was the best shift ever (of course, it was challenging in ways unexpectedly).

But WOW. It was fun :) God brings surprises to our lives everyday. God is good, all the time. All the time, God is good!

And last but not least, remember, "Laughter is the best medicine to everything :D". Yay!

Thank the LORD... for anything is possible with GOD!

Amen. Amen. AMEN!

After all these months and all that stuff going on, things finally fell through and my dad got his money back through some legal assistance and issues. His ex-"partner" (aka the biggest jerk in the world) ended up paying my dad back his share when he sold the restaurant shortly he got injured back in October. The good news doesn't end here, asides getting money back, the lawyer only charged us a bit less than $1000 :) Which is quite "cheap", because he charges at least $300 an hour and we've been working with him since January.

As for how I feel, honestly, I have never seen such a big jerk in my life! When you think it's un-real on the TV shows, sometimes it can be quite realistic in the real world....All these drama that went on following my dad's incident back in October..... drama at home, at church, people spreading rumors about what happened in the "restaurant" world. I don't know what else to say, I still remember when I found out last year, I was pretty angry with this jerk. Through several incidents, my parents really taught me how to remain calm, and God gave me the patience and calmed my anger. I was to a point where I would either punch him in the face or kick him....But yea... I don't want to know what's gonna happen to him, nor do I really care either. As a "brother"-in-Christ, he shouldn't have done such things to hurt his "brothers". But, again, it's not for me to judge. Judgment comes when the Lord returns. All I can pray for is that he will be able to live a life worthy of a calling and that people will still love him for what he has done. But as for now, all I can say is, our family can finally live in peace without this jerk being in the way and causing us trouble.

Like my friend's status on Facebook: "Thank the LORD, for anything is possible with GOD!"

I want to sleep...

I want to fall asleep, but I can't. I took out my retainers..... I think that must be one of the reasons why I can't fall asleepe. I'm not even tired right now.......and I am working in 6 hours. Gah >.<

I just saw a video on a friend's Facebook - a video of a surprise birthday cake for their Chinese teacher. It's not the first time I have seen a video like this. This totally reminded me of the surprise farewell card my students made for me on my last day of student teaching and they were trying to hide it from me. That feeling is indescribable. You feel happy, and touched, and sad and excited and many more...! There are so many layers to that feeling. I wonder what it takes to be a successful teacher like Mrs. Li. Although I have never had her as a teacher, many of my friends have, and it seems that students plans surprises for her and loves her so much! I really miss my students from Ottewell, although I have been keeping in touch with some of them.

Wow, that was just a random thought at 1:30am...time to try to fall asleep again.

Don't like being bossed around

I hate being bossed around. I hate being told to do things, especially by people younger than me AND when I know what I am doing. These people just have no respect for people. ARGH.

Anyways, I got my retainers today. Top and bottom, clear and I only have to wear them at night. Blessed that my dentist only charged me the lab fee, but not the actual retainer fee. That saved our family 400 bucks. :)

Almost got into a car accident today - twice. Thank God I'm still alive.

School starts tomorrow and I picked up an extra 4.5hr shift. What am I doing?

Clumsy as always

I just did something stupid and I am in pain. I wandered around the house with my toothbrush (yes, I can never brush my teeth in one position) and I was walking into the kitchen to go to the bathroom... and I jammed my left pinky toe right into a box and then tripped.... and yes... ran my toothbrush right into the wall which almost stabbed me. -_____- goood thing it didn't stab in any further.... or else o.O

*SIGH* I wish I wasn't so clumsy and forgetful at times....such a "big head shrimp".

Serving at church again

I slept in today.... so I missed church -____- slept in... even after Oli texted me... I don't re-call hearing any alarms at all. When I woke up, it felt like a nightmare. I have never ever skipped church for the past few years.... and sleeping in is just the lamest excuse...

So, something's been going on my mind recently: serving at church, or rather.. be more involved with my church. I have decided to help out in the summer with JMC and go back to teach Sunday School in fall. I think I am done taking a "break".... so yea, we'll see how that goes, but for sure I want to be connected with my church more.

Other than that.... I'm living a pretty boring life. Work, sleep, eat, work sleep eat. WORK SLEEP and eat. School starts again soon....but I only have classes on Tues/Thurs from like 1pm to 4pm... so I'm not sure what things are like.

Ew, I'm getting my retainers this week.... EW.

Christians in a Workplace

Work has been brutal for the past few days, or rather... weeks. New manager, new transition period. Partners frustrated, people calling in sick, angry workers. Unsatisfied at all.

But interesting fact: I have been discovering that there are Christians at my workplace! I dunno why, but it's an indescribable feeling. I feel touched and powerful! Although our conversations often surround how much work sucks (well, it does) and not around God. But it just seems like it's an awesome feeling to note that!

Well, hopefully work will get better soon, or else I might seriously explode.

A visitor from Calgary :)

Min came up with her parents to pick up Mon. I got to spent time with her and some friends, which was kinda neat. We went to Hank's place for dinner and then headed out to Green's for bubble tea. Then, we went back to her place and just hung out and sat down :) Brought back a lot of good memories. I miss her so much! But it's funny because we're at a stage where we miss each other, but we don't have to always see each other :) Amen!

On the other hand, I'm done my IPT with a pass... and it feels weird being done. Haha. I think I connected with my students well, and I feel like I am their friend..... weird. Hopefully things will be okay, and we can all keep in touch here and there! Hopefully...nothing bad ever happens....

So tired -___-

One more school week left!

I feel excited, because there is only 5 more school days left and I will be fully done my IPT. I feel sad, because I am gonna actually miss these junior high kids.

To be honest, I hated them the first week. Not hate, but dislike. They had attitude, glares and stares and it was intimidating.

But now, we have fun together! At least with most of the students, anyways. We laugh together, we learn together, and it's the funnest experience in my life!

I hope that one day we will all get to meet again, whether it is in school or outside of school :)

B... and D?

So embarrassing... I can't differentiate my sounds between B and D....

-____-

Interesting fact

So...my grade 7 students found out that I spoke Cantonese today. Haha, so funny. I think I am gonna miss my students :'(

Let go and Let GOD :)

I saw this phrase on my friend's MSN today: "Let go and let GOD". It reminded me of a similar phrase that one of my friends like to say "Just try your best and let God take care of the rest". A lot of times we try to take control over our lives, and what we do might not be pleasing to God.

So, why not let go and let God? :)

Touched by God :')

So, today was Easter Sunday. The message from Pastor Trickey's sermon was: "Jesus is alive, rose from the dead!" translated... "ONE GOT OUT". Because one got out, many of us sinners got out as well :)

There was baptism today also during service. God touched my heart through the baptism candidate's testimonies. Three people got baptized today:
1) A 12 year old kid got baptized, and he knew the concept of being baptized and what it meant to be a Christian.
2) A friend's father who went to church for nearly 20 years, and his physical and spiritual healing from his suffering of a tumor in his pancreas. God did amazing things with this man, from diagnosis to surgery, it only took 2 weeks.
3) A friend who started going to church in grade 10 and attended TYF in her first year of university. Found God through TYF fellas and loves TYF and God a lot.

We also sang some songs today that really touched me. One of my favorite songs is: "Beautiful One" by Tim Hughes.

We had light refreshments after service today - Chinese buns. And... I had 5. Haha. So....full. :D

Happy Easter!

Beginning to feel.... left behind

It wasn't until today that my feelings were confirmed...about something that I didn't want to help again. I am feeling that I am falling apart with ASK. I have no idea what is going on in ASK, with ASK and such.... should I even go to ASKamp? I don't know....

Feeling excluded, while seeing people being included at the same time. Segregation... different personalities...closing my eyes and praying that God will lead me back to a lighted path again...

Good Friday

I didn't even realize it's April 10th already.... time sure flies by fast. REALLY FAST.

Manager got fired..

Wow, news spread fast. Almost everyone at Westgate Starbucks knew that our manager got fired o.O Why? No one knows....all I know is that her boss called her to the training room to notify her....

How can you even get your ass fired? -____- I know you're a bad manager, but not bad to a point where you have to get fired and let go.... *sigh* Hopefully the new manager is nice and loving and caring.....

Frustrated...

I hate it when people are so bitter and emo! Honestly, let it go and live with it! Frick, it angries and frustrates me, and I hate it when people ask stupid questions or tries to step into my life.... go mind your own business! AHHHHH. I hate it.

SIGH.

Headache..

My head hurts, my body feels weak. I don't like this feeling :(

First WC Meeting :)

Man, I was so tired today.. I fell asleep watching "E.U." -___-. I woke up in time for the first meeting for Winter Con. The dynamics are a little different now, the way Chinese VC says things reminds me of Ros when I first sat through a few meetings with her. A bit too serious for me.... on the other hand, Mr. Registrar was a bit quiet today, hmm. I pray that God will provide us with a happy committee this year, like we did last year :)

Meeting went well overall, I am now the "Hotel Business Manager", dealing with hotels stuff, but willing to lend a hand to whoever is needed. That's kinda nice, kinda flexible. I like it. I volunteered to help revise the LR manual today, and I thought of Amy :D I'm kinda excited to be at WC this coming year!

Anyways, just wrote my one page reflection....I can't wait to go to bed.....hopefully it's a short day tomorrow!

Can't wait until Spring Break :)

I am so looking forward to spring break. A time to rest, to play and to spend time with God and family and friends.

Praying hard that I will pass this EDFX course. I have friends that are really supportive and praying for me, and I'm forever grateful.

Remember, Karen - confidence, positive and effort! You can do it ^.^

Car accident...

I decided to start a blog that I will write more in again. I think it is helpful to reflect and to journal down my thoughts and go back to read it in the future.

Today I came home after a long day at school, my dad told me about my mom and my brother got into a small car accident today. A jeep apparently hit the back of the car and the bumper is completely destroyed. It's been a mess but I am glad my mom and my brother are not injured or anything. I have a feeling there are something going on in my mom's mind right now...I am not sure what it is. She went to bed pretty early, I hope things are okay with her. I pray that my mom will be okay (I know she will, because she is strong). But pray that she can get some good rest and face a new day tomorrow, and that tomorrow will be a better day.

As for my first day back at Ottewell, things are going okay. I am not as stressed, so thank God. I thank God for people who have been praying for me. My first day going back was not as expected as I thought it would be.

6 out of 23 days completed for my IPT. Only 17 school day left of student teaching, and it will be all over. I can't wait!

Looking forward to a better day tomorrow!