Final Week!

This week was crazy! The first half of the week, us mid-years had class. Then we got to join the full-years for the last day. And the weekend was full of activities and goodbyes :( But I am so thankful to have met these wonderful people and I can't wait to hear about what they do in the year after YOYL.

Monday we had devotions altogether and then I went to class: Sex, Dating, and Relating. We watched a teaching from Andy Stanley's series called "Love, Sex, and Dating". It was very good. Unfortunately after the tea break, the computer was no longer working so we got out early! My favorite line from the teaching was "Are you the person you're looking for is looking for?" It definitely changed the way I look at dating and "finding" the right person. Instead, you have to become the right person! After class I grabbed lunch at Cafe Andante. I spent some time in the study center in the afternoon and then hung out with Ntsako and Meghan. We went to Waterglen to buy gifts for our secret santas. Then there was dinner as usual.

Tuesday was a fun day! I started the morning with my own personal devotions and then went to class. We watched another of Andy Stanley's teachings and a teaching from an Australian guy. After class, Nomvula, Lorika, and I hung out in Emmanuel House for a while. Then I got to hang out with the Noviskies! We went to the Brooklyn Mall for ice cream! It was so nice to see them and spend time with them. After dinner, we did mini-plotties instead of regular duties. We had to clean our rooms and bathrooms and then the rest of the house. We had to wipe down the walls and the skirting, and we began the process of cleaning the curtains.

3D Art in Brooklyn Mall

Wednesday was our last day of class for the term. We finished the Andy Stanley series which I believe was absolutely incredible. Afterwards I went to the training center to print off some stuff and then headed to the house. I began washing my clothes so I could start packing up. Later I began cooking dinner. After dinner, we had house time. This is where the secret santas came in. First we had a prophecy/encouragement circle and then we got time to talk to everyone and say our favorite memory or something we will miss about them next year. It was a very sweet time and the house was full of people chatting, laughing, crying and just spending some family time with each other. Then we all got to open our secret santa gifts! We also had waffles with whipped cream. After awhile, we all started throwing cream at each other and once that ran out, we resorted to using flour. It was so much fun! The aftermath was extremely messy, so we had duties and cleaned up.

Thursday everyone was together for "class". We sat in a huge circle and told our "warmest" moments. In the beginning of the year everyone shares their "coldest" moment and so to end the year we share our favorite moments! It was amazing to hear everyone's encounters with God, and their favorite memories with their friends. I know I will cherish all the memories I have made!! Then we had chapel and community lunch. We got pizza for lunch! Nothing happened until later, when we had our final fitness. Guys and girls were altogether and it was actually optional. But we played a game of volleyball, Potters house vs. Emmanuel house. We didn't actually keep score, but I'm sure Potters won! Then we had super and later a group played mafia.

Friday we had plotties and everyone had to clean out their cupboards and begin packing. I had a meeting up at the church about graduation and what my serving duty would be. Once the house was all clean, I went to Menlyn with Ntsako and Nonto for last minute gifts. While we were there we ran into Meghan and Lorika. We had a fun time! Later we had a combined final house time with Potters and Emmanuel. It was awesome! We took the couches outside and sat in a huge circle and ate and then shared something about ourselves that no one knew. Then we played a few games of Murder in the Dark. I spent the "final" night in Ntsako's room.

Saturday morning was graduation! Everyone looked so so nice! My service duty was to put the coffee and tea out 15 minutes before graduation was over. Minx, Nonto, and I took care of that and then once it was over I got to meet my friends' families. It was very nice and we took some pictures and ate as much of the snack food that we could. Ntsako, Meghan, and I watched movies when we got back to the house and then later we had dinner at KFC. A lot of people left after graduation so the house was very empty and quiet.

Sunday morning Ntsako left. We all got up and said bye before we got ready for church. I didn't cry...very much. Then the remaining group of people here went to church. After church I said bye to Meghan and Lorika. For most of the afternoon I just made sure I had all my stuff in order, since we had to be out of the houses on Monday by 1. Then in the evening I went to the Young Adults service and met Lanina and Jonas (German volunteers at Abba house) there! It was so nice to introduce them to our church. They really enjoyed it too! After service we chatted until they started packing up. When I came home I got a chance to call my parents and do some last minute laundry.

It was an amazing final week and I'm looking forward to the next half of the year! But for now it's time to go home and spend time with family and friends!!


--sea'sadventures--

Biblical Worldview/Outreach Week

Well, I realize I am two weeks behind...again! But the past week was quite busy with outreach and so I didn't have time to post about the week before! So let's time travel back to November 2.

Monday we started back up with classes. We came back to Nation Changers/Biblical Worldview. We watched an old movie called "Luther" which was about Martin Luther. It was a very good movie and I enjoyed the re-enactment of the church history. After class I had a normal afternoon. Later I went to Waterglen and it's already decorated for Christmas!! I was so excited!! I LOVE CHRISTMAS! After dinner, we had flock. My flock leader isn't here right now, so another leader, Angie, took care of us. We walked to Grace House and made pancakes (crepes) and took a right/left brain test. I am apparently half and half. We had tons of fun though!

2 A.M. So unfortunately we were on punishment for not doing self-wash for a few weeks. Over the weekend, more self-wash was left and so we ended up having punishment. Guess what that was? Running two laps on the field in the middle of the night. I can't say I enjoyed any bit of it, except I was trying to adjust my attitude. When I looked up, I saw the beautiful night sky, and bright stars. This made my heart happy and reminded me of how beautiful this earth is and I am so thankful God created so many lovely things.

Tuesday most everyone was tired from our night-run, but we persevered. For devotions, we had to write down what we were trusting God for in these last few weeks of the year. Then we began class, watched some more Francis Shaeffer videos. After the tea break we had a guest come and speak to us about restorative justice. I really enjoyed it. The concept is about bringing the criminal and victim together for reconciliation and forgiveness so after the incident, neither party holds on to bitterness. After class I went to Waterglen. Later, Micaela offered to do my nails for the end-year function...and just for fun. The evening was full of lively conversation, indoor games, songs, and fun.

Wednesday we had another guest speaker in class. He discussed end times and how our worldview of that effects the way we live and interact with people. Nothing too exciting happened in the afternoon. After dinner, there was the seeking session which was amazing as usual. It was particularly special because Auntie Pam shared a vision she had for the church. It was quite powerful and inspiring to experience the amazing changes happening here!

Thursday was quite a chill day. Neil talked more about the end times and cleared up misconceptions we might have about Revelation. Then we had chapel and my friend Nomvula "led" worship. It was so awesome to see her step up and sing in front of everyone. It was also a powerful time in worship. I believe there is a season beginning in this church of recognizing all of us are united. All tongues and all nations coming together to worship God. They had us sing in our mother tongue and pray in different languages. Then there was community lunch as usual. And then we had a fun afternoon!

Friday we began the day with cleaning and plotties as usual. I was on garden and Meghan and I sang Christmas songs while we cleaned out the dust bins. It made the work not as gross. For most of the afternoon everyone just chilled and then began to get ready for the end-year function! My friends were fascinated when I curled my hair with a flat iron. It was very entertaining for them. Everyone got ready and looked B-E-A-utiful!! We walked up to the function hall, which was decorated to look like Sophiatown (South Africa circa 1950s). It was incredible! We took pics, had snacks, people performed dances and songs, we ate, and then they cleared the tables for a dance floor! It was an amazing night!!

Saturday I slept in and when I woke up I went outside to enjoy the day. Nothing else happened until the evening and my friends and I went up to the church because they were showing the Cinderella movie. We thought it would be a low-key event so we didn't really dress up, but when we got there lots of people were in dresses. We still had fun!

Sunday was my first time to work tuck shop (basically a concession stand). We loaded up all the goods, took 'em to the area, set up, sold stuff, packed up, went home. It was fun for my first time! In the afternoon, I offered to help Jenny dye her hair. I'd never done it before but it turned out great! That evening we had a meeting about our outreach. I had already packed and I was super excited!

Monday we got up early so we could leave by 7. We got to say bye and load up and head out around 7:30. We went to Mokopane which was roughly two and a half hours away. Once we got there we met up with the pastor. His name is Brother Mike and he did YOYL in 1999 I think. We took him to a few schools just to confirm what time we were supposed to go over the next two days. We got to back into town to shop for groceries for the week. Around 1 we went to a school and did a program. The kids were so sweet and I think they really enjoyed it! As we finished, we prayed for the teachers. On the way out I was high fiving and hugging all the kiddos, I was especially popular because I am white and we were in an area where that is very rare. We went back to the church and settled in to our "community" room where we would chill and eat. That evening I helped Daniel make supper, we fixed Texan steaks that we bought. They were amazing, but not quite Texan. Later, us girls got dropped off and the house we would be staying at. We all slept in the same room, Minx and I shared the bed, and Nonto offered to sleep on the floor. It was incredibly hot, all day and all night. There was no A/C so that made it a little bit uncomfortable, but we did get some sleep because we were all just exhausted.

Tuesday we went to two schools back to back early in the morning. We had a few technical difficulties but everything still worked out. At one of the schools we had extra free time to play with the kids. They were a lot younger and since I don't speak their language it was difficult for me to communicate but they still laughed and smiled at everything I said. We didn't have another school until 1 so I tried to take a nap in the church. The last school for the day was a little difficult. They had just finished writing exams so I think they were ready to go, but we still did our thing and prayed for them. We went back to our "community" chill spot until it was time to head over to Minx's church. Her dad is a pastor at a church in Mokopane so we just set up a time to visit them. They kinda had a special service just for us. They did worship and then introduced us. We did our dramas and dances and talked about the meaning behind them. Each of us gave our testimony and Minx sang two songs. It was so touching to see her do that! Then Daniel preached for a bit and after the service we met everyone and talked. Minx's mom even had food for us! It was a very nice and memorable time.

Wednesday was our last day and we had another early start. We went to a school and they were very lively. I really enjoyed it. Then we went to another in town and it was difficult to get them to pay attention because there were a lot more of them. But before we started I got to chat with some of the kids and they spoke English very well and they were so surprised and intrigued that I was from Texas! On the way out from this school I was bombarded with kids reaching to touch my arm and my hair. I ended up being dragged and tugged around a little bit, but I still put on a smile because I know I might be the only kind white person they meet. Afterwards, Brother Mike took us to get spatlow (I have no idea how to spell it, but it sounds like spot-k-low) this is a South African meal of fries, balogni, cheese, chicken patty, hot dog, cheese, fried egg, and hot sauce, all between a few slices of bread. I could not eat the whole thing. We went back, gathered our things and headed home. We got a nice welcoming and even though we were just gone three days, I missed everyone so so much! I got cleaned up and got to go to the seeking session.

Outreach was an incredible time and I really enjoyed having the opportunity to share God's love with those kiddos!

Thursday we had the day to relax and recover. I slept in and then did my laundry and re-organized my stuff. Then we had chapel and community lunch. After that, Wesley took Ntsako, Meghan, and I to the police station so Ntsako could get some stuff certified. As we were about to leave, an older gentleman began preaching and sharing some interesting stuff. At first I was very guarded and worried he might just be crazy. But in the car we talked about how he is really just unashamed and brave to openly speak as he did. Later we celebrated Ndzaka's birthday! We sang to her and there was even cake! We usually don't have duties on Thursdays, but in order to begin preparing to leave, we had a mini plotties.

Friday we had plotties, but it was a little different since we did most of it the night before. We also had extra time in the room to clean the walls and deep clean like usual. During plotties the pegging game resumed. Ntsako and I tagged people with clothes pins, it was just as hilarious as the first time. Karabo even joined us! It makes the cleaning go by faster and more fun! As we were outside cleaning the freezer, Nomvula had the hose pipe and she was drenching people. For community project, the mid-years cleaned the van that we took to Mokopane. That place was dusty, so there was dirt inside and outside. Later, Meghan and I fixed dinner. We decided to make chicken and veggies and tortillas! It was my first time to ever make homemade tortillas and they turned out ok! Everyone said it was delicious! And later that night a few people from Emmanuel house, Nthando, Angie, and Bandile came over to our room as well as people from other rooms in Potters. We had tons of fun! We played mafia and chatted until late!

Saturday was actually a little boring. I had nothing to do all day. Although later I got to call my parents and Big Joe and Mathile!! It was very nice and I think I spent almost four and a half hours in total talking to those Texans. Jenny had been waiting for me that whole time so we could go sit on the hill and chat. She really is a sweetheart and we had some good conversation.

Sunday YOYL students were honored in the morning service. So we had to wear our YOYL t-shirts. They had us stand up at the end of the service and they prayed for us. We also had communion and prayed for rain again. Nothing else really happened in the afternoon. Then we had the evening service where we were honored again and this time we went to the front to be prayed for. It really hit me that we only have a week left and then a lot of these guys will be moving on and away into God's call on their life. I am really going to miss them when I come back but I am so thankful for the friendships I've made in this time!!

I only have one more week of classes and then Term 2 is finished! This has been an amazing first half of the year of my life!! I can't wait to see what the next half has in store!!

--sea'sadventures--

Ladies Week & MAD Rave Week

I know I am behind on my blog but the last two weeks were busy! But they were amazing!!

Ladies week:
It was a wonderful time to connect with each other and learn more about being soft and strong women of Faith!

Monday we got up and had breakfast and had one teaching from Auntie Pam then went to a park. We had a picnic and enjoyed the great outdoors with each other. After we ate, we had time to wander around and my friends and I took pictures and walked in the little river. It was tons of fun! We even made bracelets in the park. Later we had a yoga class and then after dinner we watched Becoming Jane and had delicious dessert!

Tuesday the morning routine was very similar, except we did not have a teaching in the morning. Then we went hiking at Fairie Glen! This was also amazing and of course we took more pictures!! After the hike, we came back for lunch and had most of the afternoon to chill. We also had a "practical" session, Carin came and taught us how to make malva pudding! It was so fun and now I can make it back in Texas! Also, more people came and shared their testimonies and gave encouragement and we had a Q&A session. After dinner we watched the first episode of the series Sherlock.

Wednesday morning Auntie Pam's niece came and talked about incredible things and about being a woman of faith. She has even written a book! After lunch we had another session and then we did aerobics...in the rain! Ok, it wasn't actually raining that much but it made it very fun! We had another session in the evening, after dinner.

Thursday we had more sessions about prayer. After lunch we went to Jam & Daisies for tea and cake! We all got dressed up and fancy. We took tons of pictures there too! When we got home we had the rest of the afternoon to chill and then we had dinner. After dinner we had a Q&A session with some of the guy leaders in the church.

Friday was the last day of Ladies Week and we finished strong. Raquel talked for a bit and then we got to listen to music and chill while we colored. It was actually quite relaxing to just sit and chat and color. The guys came back around lunch time and so we cleaned up the houses and settled back into our normal rooms. I also finally received a package my mom sent me from home!! It was a perfect way to end the week.

Saturday was quite average and it was also an off-weekend so lots of people went home. I went to Cum Books, a Christian book store, and then we all watched season three of Arrow. It is so so so good.

Sunday was more of the same. However, in the evening, I got to go out with the Noviskie's! We arranged to pick up the two German volunteers from Abba House and then eat at Ed's Diner. The food was delicious and the milkshakes were wonderful but the time together was even better. It is so easy to connect with them!

Monday I got to go to Berakah again with Chandra! Because it was an off-weekend, we did not have class on Monday. We went and it was great! The kiddos are starting to learn my name now so I hear "Mamma Sarah" instead of "Mamma Chandra" when I go. It always warms my heart to see their smiling faces. When we got back I got to stay and have lunch with the Noviskie's. They also had some co-workers over to honor them for helping Berakah. We had a delicious Mexican meal! Enchilada casserole, rice, beans, guacamole(that I made!), chips, and salsa. It was so awesome. Chandra even let me take the left over chips and salsa home so I could let my friends taste it!

MAD Rave Week:
Tuesday classes began again. The mid-years split up from everyone so we could focus on preparing for outreach. This whole week was dedicated to coming up with ministry dances, songs, games, and ice-breakers to use on outreaches. The first day we came up with our team drama, and kid songs. After class I had some time in the study center and then we had fitness and dinner. Then after duties we had our salsa party!! My friends came into my room and we all had chips and salsa. They all thought it was good...but too spicy. haha! We had to eat the skittles my mom sent to cool off.

Wednesday we had Walk the Word on Revelation. Then we came up with the ladies dance and the guys came up with their dance/drama. And we also finished up more of the kid songs. Because we got most of it finished, they told us we would go on a picnic the next day! So after class I went to Waterglen to get my picnic food. Later we had dinner and then we went to the worship rehearsal and then to the seeking session. The last thing I had to do was write out my testimony to finish outreach prep.

Thursday we handed in our written testimony and reviewed all the dances and dramas we had come up with. Then it was picnic time! We went to the Union Buildings and sat under a tree and just chilled. It was a nice way to end the week of preparation. After we came back, Ntsako and I jammed out and karaoke sang random songs. It was tons of fun! For fitness, we went on a walk. Then I went to get dinner from Steers with Kerry. Later I got to talk to Christy because she got engaged!! I am so excited for her and Chase and I can't wait to start helping with wedding prep!! Then a bunch of us were just chilling in the room and Ntsako braided my hair and people were also jamming out in the lounge. It was a great way to end the day.

Friday we had plotties in the morning. Ntsako and I were running around putting pegs(clothes pins) on people and it was so so funny! Joely taught me well :) Then we had community project and for the first half we were on garden duty. We were digging holes for a future garden. The last half we got to switch and go weed. In the afternoon we went to apologetics class and we talked about suffering. It was a very good discussion. After dinner, Meghan, Ntsako, and I sat outside and talked. Then we decided to make sugar cookies. It was so fun and they turned out pretty good.

Saturday, Lisa, Nomvula, Meghan, Ntsako, and I got up early and went to Menlyn. We went in search of outfits for the end-year function which is next week. We went in several stores, tried on stuff just for fun and Ntsako found a dress for me. We had tons of fun! I think we spent almost five hours in the mall! We were exhausted and we did not want to walk home, so we called a taxi. It was so worth it. When we got home Ntsako and I tried to find the A&E version of Pride and Prejudice but it would not load. But never fear, we shall watch it before the year ends! I got to call my parents and then before I knew it, the day was over.

Sunday we had a guest speaker at church and he was great! We all got on our knees and prayed for rain and then he talked about Defeating Anxiety. It was an incredible and encouraging and powerful message. Also it was my brother's birthday!! In the afternoon, Jenny, Meghan, Ntsako, and I went to Menlyn for a movie. We walked back in time for the evening service. Afterwards, we came home and we jammed out once again karaoke style until duties time.

These past two weeks were really really great!! I can't believe how fast time has been flying since I've been here. We have three more weeks left and I will get to go on a three-day outreach in that time. I am really looking forward to what God will do!!

--sea'sadventures--

Biblical Worldview Week 2

Sorry it's taken me a long time to update, but this was last week for me!

Monday was quite a long day! We finished the Nation Changers videos with Dr. Graham then we watched some Francis Shaeffer videos. In the afternoon we had Apologetics class about Miracles. We had great discussion and teaching on that topic. Then for flock we watched a movie about sisters and it made me miss my sisters!

Tuesday was another great day of class and we discussed articles and movies. I had a mostly chilled afternoon and then I cooked dinner with Chloe! We made a delicious meal! After dinner I went with a few people to get ice cream from KFC. We had a fun time.

Wednesday we began with Walk the Word on the book of James. Then Michael Neumann taught about Engaging/Discerning movies. Then we got to watch Bruce Almighty! After lunch I took a nap and it was nice and cold outside because it was about to rain. Then I went up to the church for a meeting about Hot Chocolate Circles which I had volunteered to help at. All the YOYL students had to do was lead a small group in a 15-20 minute discussion and drink hot chocolate! For dinner, KerryAnn, Chloe, Natalie, and Nonto and I went to a Chinese place which was really delicious.

Thursday was the last day of class for the week! Delwyn taught us and we had awesome discussions! We talked about practical theology and that was really intriguing and helpful. After class we had chapel and then community lunch. Later, Ntsako, Nomvula, Meghan, and I made pancakes. I realized that American pancakes are not the same as South African pancakes. We ended up making both but SA pancakes are more like crepes. For fitness, all the ladies went on a walk. Later I got culturized to Afrikaans music! It's got it's own unique sound and I kinda like it. It rained really hard and it even hailed!

Friday we had plotties and community project. I jammed out to the Beach Boys while cleaning because I was wearing my Hawaiian shirt, it just felt right. Then we re-arranged the lounge for ladies week and did some more prep for that. After dinner we played Mafia and it was tons of fun!

Saturday I woke up and went to do the Hot Chocolate Circles and it was so cool! My group of girls were very talkative so that made my job easier. They were incredibly sweet and excited about the day. On the way back we all rode in the back of Johan's truck. When I got back a few people were cooking and so I ate a bit and then I was introduced to Trevor Noah. Not literally. He is a South African comedian and so we watched two of his shows. He is hilarious! I didn't understand all the references but it was still great. Later I got to call my parents and chat with them for awhile, and I even got to talk to two of my youth pastor's kids!

Sunday was the first day of Ladies Week! We didn't go to church, instead we all packed up and went to Lydia's house to swim and play pool and ping pong and just chill. We even watched a movie and we hung out for the morning. By the time we got back it was lunch time and Emmanuel House was all decorated! All the girls moved into Potters and so we had time to adjust and move our stuff to different rooms. The guys left and so we've got the houses to ourselves!! After dinner, Auntie Pam came and talked about dignity and she asked up to talk about what it is like to be a woman in today's society. It got me really pumped up for the week!! Then we watched an episode of Sherlock and we had dessert.

--sea'sadventures--

Nation Changers Week 1

This week we began talking about Biblical Worldview aka Nation Changers. I love it so far! It is incredible how much you need to understand about culture and worldview in order to make a change in a nation. But it starts with us and we can make that change!

Monday was still off so I had time to re-settle in to my room. Each term we change to rooms, so I have two different room mates. I was lucky enough to stay in my room so I did not have to take everything out and re-arrange. Later I went to Waterglen with Jenny and we talked about our holidays and this next term.

Tuesday was the first day of class! We watched some news clips and then discussed them. I got lunch from Café Andante and then chilled in the study center for a bit in the afternoon. We had flock in Menlyn and we went bowling. Then we got ice cream and chilled. It was good to spend time with everyone and catch up after the break.

Wednesday was another great day of class. South Africa also played USA in rugby and totally destroyed them! Which I am completely fine with because I really wasn't aware that America had a rugby team and I would've been even more surprised if we were any good. Then I went to the soaking session and it was amazing as always!

Thursday morning we had a meeting about this term and end of the year stuff for the full years. Then we had a shorter class session and then chapel. Chapel was amazing! Richard Lewis, a pianist from the UK, has been here this week and he led worship and it was a great first chapel of the term! Auntie Pam talked about Adventures in the Spirit. In the afternoon we all chilled outside and it almost rained.

Someone even did my hair all pretty!!

Friday we had plotties and community project/weeding in the morning. Then in the afternoon I chilled and then fixed dinner for the house. That was another fun time! I used the last of the taco seasoning I brought :( but it was delicious!! I'm still really missing my Tex-Mex food though! After dinner, a few of us girls sat outside and talked. It was a great time!

Saturday I got up early to go to Menlyn with Meghan, Nomvula, Ntsako, and Lisa. WE HAD A BLAST! We went into nice stores and tried on beautiful and ugly dresses. We even met a famous singer, Zonke, at Musica! She is very sweet! Then when we got back I got to talk to my mom for a little bit. We haven't really experienced many technical difficulties but we did this time. But we sorted it out and still got a nice chat. Later I watched October Baby with Erin, Jade, and Mariette. We had it all set up and watched it outside and that was so cool!! This movie makes me cry every time!

Sunday we all went to church and heard from a guest speaker. David Demian brought an amazing word about the Lord's Dwelling place and allowing the Holy Spirit's plan to be our only plan...no plan B or C. It was very awesome to hear him speak. Then I came home and relaxed until evening service.  David Demian spoke again and it was powerful! There was an incredible worship time and then straight into the word. He spoke again about the Lord dwelling in us not just visit!! He also gave a powerful prophecy over South Africa and Hatfield Christian Church. It was amazing to be a part of that and to hear about all the amazing things God is stirring up! I can already tell God is moving in new and different ways.

--sea'sadventures--

Holiday

My two weeks of holiday have begun!! I am so excited because I am spending it with the Noviskie family. I am so thankful for them!

Monday I went with Chandra to Berakah. I was incredibly excited because this was one of the places we served on our mission trip last year. I got sit in and watch and help one of the classes. The children are adorable and so friendly! Then I helped the littler ones get lunch and I sat with them and they are so cute!! They loved playing peek-a-boo with me and they got snot and pap all over me but it was totally worth it. When we got back we picked the kids up from school and then took them to gymnastics and art. We finished the day with breakfast for dinner!

Tuesday I helped Mike and Chandra sell corn dogs at the kids' school carnival. We were busy all day!! 

Wednesday I got to sleep in a little and then head over to Abba house. Abba house is a safe house for kids who have experienced trauma and are orphaned. The kids are so sweet! I played with them and I also met two German volunteers who are my age. They are serving at Abba house for the next ten months and I really hope to get to know them and hang out with them! Later we celebrated the end of the term for the kiddos with an ice creams from McDonald's. 

Thursday was Heritage Day! So we went to a "parade" at the Union Buildings. There were so many people! A few people were dressed up to represent their heritage and some people were performing songs and dances on a stage. The whole parade part on the street coming in, was not organized at all but all the floats and costumes were incredible! After the parade we went to a place called Roadhouse for milkshakes. This little place was the closest Africa has to a Sonic haha but it was great! It began to rain a little so we came back home. 

Friday I did nothing really until the evening. We went out to Menlyn for dinner and then played ping-pong at the Fun Zone before we went to see a movie. We watched Max which was a very good dog movie. Made me miss my puppy though! While we were playing ping-pong, Charis found a grasshopper and she caught it for her bug project. I volunteered to carry this big bug in my purse. Yes, I carried a live grasshopper in my purse. It was very memorable! 

Saturday I realized that my first week of holiday was just about past! I went with Chandra and Charis to go swimsuit shopping before we went to Kruger. That night, a missionary couple that are friends of the Noviskie's came for dinner. It was so beautiful to listen to their story and their plans to return to Africa. They have been planting churches in the heart of Africa for twenty years and they recently returned to the US but now it is time for them to come back. It was amazing to make another connection with missionaries. 

Sunday I went with Charis to help at C4G (Children 4 God). It was so fun! I really just watched to see how they run their children's service and I helped when I could. Later, Mike set up some American football to watch! That was so nice and made me feel a bit more at home. Then I packed my bags for Kruger!

Monday we drove almost five hours to Kruger National Park. We stopped at the same gas station that we stopped at on the way to Bulembu last year!! It was very neat to see that familiar place. As soon as we got to our cabin, the kids and I swam. Our cabin was amazing though! We were right outside the park and we could see across the Crocodile River! We saw an elephant right outside our window! That night we walked up and down the fence to look/listen for leopards.

African Fish Eagle

Tuesday we went into the park. We spend all day on our game drive looking for wild life. We saw almost everything the first day, except cats. There was a leopard sighting in a tree, but there was so much bush and traffic that it was difficult to see. We saw tons of birds, impala, kudu, rhinos, elephants, zebras, and giraffes. At one point we listened to Christmas music!

Wednesday we went to a place about an hour away for horseback riding! It reminded me of all the times at PK Lake and Red River when our family goes horseback riding. Surprisingly, the terrain was quite similar to New Mexico! However, when we saw kudu in the bush I really realized I was horseback riding in Africa! The owner and her daughter were extremely friendly and kind to us. They showed us around their farm and we got to hear their heart for what they do. We left and had dinner back at the cabin and then went on a night drive in the park. We did not see as much, but we did see two smaller cats and lots more impala.

Thursday was our last day in the park. We went in pretty early and before ten o'clock we saw a leopard and a lion!! Everyone was so excited to have seen the Big 5 on this trip!! The Noviskies told me that they have been going on game drives since they've been here and have never seen a leopard but that day we saw one! Right by the road too!! We were completely satisfied and then we went to a braii-ing spot in the park for lunch. There was a pool that we got to swim in and then we ate and left. On the way out, close to sunset I spotted another leopard in a tree!! We were the only car around and so we got a perfect view of it and we got great pictures. Then as we continued our way out it got completely dark and we saw four lionesses in the road! We rolled our windows up quicker than you could even say "lion" and they walked right past us. It was crazy!! It was a perfect way to end the trip!

Friday we had to leave. We got back to Pretoria around two and chilled for the rest of the day.

Saturday we went to Brooklyn mall and watched Hotel Translyvania 2. It was a very cute movie.

Sunday I slept in through church and did some laundry. I got to talk with my parents and catch up with them and tell them all about my holiday. Later we had pizza for dinner and watched a little more football. Then Mike drove me back to the community house and I settled back in my room. It was so nice to see my friends again and talk about the holiday! Then a few of us girls watched One Night With the King.

It was an absolutely wonderful holiday! I am so so thankful for the Noviskie family and their wonderful hospitality. I am truly blessed with my South African family

--sea'sadventures--

Understanding The Bible/Term 1 ends!

Monday was the first day of our class called Understanding the Bible. This is by far my favorite classes. We began with a Bible trivia game that was quite difficult! Once we discovered we know less of the Bible than we thought we did, we talked about how important it is to understand the Bible, and understand it in the way it was meant to be understood. After lunch I had time to study and relax. I also had a mini-dance party with my roomies. It was tons of fun and I they bring me so much joy. Now after dinner, Ntsako and I realized that we need to bring awareness to dolphin violence. Did you know that dolphins kill people? Also they have bigger brains than humans. So we began a journey of bringing awareness to this situation. Later, Kerry and Minx and I went to Crawdaddy's for flock time. I had the best milkshake I've ever had. Words can not even describe how amazing it was.

Tuesday class was very good and we had homework! We had to read the book of Philemon and really "look" at it and write out things we noticed. In the afternoon we had fitness and we played Netball. This is basically a mix between basketball and football. It was so much fun!! My team had a lot of fun and we did really well! Later I got to talk to Christy which was so nice. She is doing great things at UTD and I can't wait to see what else God has planned for her future!!

Wednesday we continued talking about Philemon in class. After class I went to Waterglen with Chloe, she is awesome! Then after dinner we had house time! We watched a movie called Mom's Night Out, it was a cute movie. We also had ice cream....and a DANCE PARTY! It was a lot of fun!!

Thursday was the last day of class! Then we had chapel. During Chapel, the school presented YOYL with a gift! Last year they celebrated 25 years and so the school promised us a gift, which is a beautiful painting representing the 25 years of YOYL. After chapel we had community lunch and it was a beautiful day outside! Then everyone had to get ready for Stories of Hope. It was an event held by the YOYL full-year students. It was very cool! They performed some of the routines they do on outreach and shared testimonies of how outreach went. I really enjoyed it!! I also *finally* received a letter from my mom and sister!

Friday the holiday began! First we did plotties in the morning then I packed up my stuff and chilled. Later I walked to the Noviskies, they are being so kind to let me stay with them for the two week holiday!! I am so very thankful for them! We went to their friend's house for a braii. Their friends were missionaries in Yemen and Jordan for 11 years! It was amazing to meet these people and make new connections.

Saturday I slept in and had some time to chill. I also found out that I have been accepted to A&M...again. I am actually excited but still praying about whether or not this is the next step for me. I am almost fully convinced that it is but don't be surprised if it's not! Then I went with Chandra to help shop for groceries and then we got ready for dinner. I also got to call my mom and dad and while I was on the phone with them Jonathan called! So I was talking to my parents in Texas, and my brother in Asia! It was interesting and very cool, I am incredibly thankful for technology!! Then we had some delicious burgers and watched a movie.

Sunday I again got to sleep in and yes, I skipped church. But I caught up on some rest and it was nice and quiet, which there is not a lot of that in the community houses. I also got to watch the Cowboys game from last week!  I am so thankful that I will get to spend this holiday with the Noviskie family! They are so awesome!!

--sea'sadventures--

Hearing God's Voice

This week we started a class about hearing God's voice!

Monday was the first lesson and Auntie Pam taught us first. Then Ester taught another lesson. They both involved looking at pictures and waiting and listening to what God wants to tell us through the picture. We got a chance to pick a picture for ourselves and write what the Lord told us and then we picked a picture for someone else and wrote something from the Lord for them. It was very cool to get the chance to minister and be ministered to in class. Then I went to Waterglen with Minx and Nonto the two mid-year girls. Later I got most of my stuff ready to move back into Potters house!

Tuesday Ester and Auntie Pam taught us again. We learned about lecto divino and then inward, outward, and community disciplines. These we probably my favorite teachings. Then on the way home it started raining! I had to run home because my clothes were outside on the line! And of course, as soon as I get half my clothes off, it stops raining. It was a nice five minute rain so I got to leave the rest of my clothes outside. After lunch I officially moved all my stuff back into Potters and we cleaned the house so when the outreach teams got home it would be nice. We had silent evening so, after announcements we had to be completely silent until class the next day. It was very very nice. I had extra time (and quiet time) to do my devotions. 

Wednesday a few different people spoke to us in class about how God speaks to them in different ways. The outreach teams came home in the afternoon!! It was so awesome to have them back and I missed them so much! I got to hear a lot of their stories until the soaking session at church which was very good. 

Thursday during class we exercised how five senses and the point was that God can speak to us through every sense! After class we had time to relax before chapel. Later in the afternoon we had fitness and we played baseball which was a lot of fun! Then a lot of us went to a concert at the church. It was one of the church member's orchestra. We had fun even though it was more of a rehearsal performance. 

Friday we did plotties! Then for community project we weeded the vegetable garden. It was nice and sunny and hot outside. Later I got to chat with my dear friend Christy! 

Saturday was very chill. I slept in and then relaxed until a group of us went to Menlyn Mall. We had fun walking around and we ate at a place called Parrots. When I got home I got to call my Mom and Joely and Mati. It is always so nice to talk with them! 

Sunday morning Stuart Bell preached again and it was a very encouraging message! After the service I came home and got to chat with my Dad. Then I had a lot of free time until the evening service. The evening service was very powerful! We talked about sonship vs. slavery and then being heirs. It was incredible and I can't believe how much I am absorbing here! 

It's been a fantastic week!

--sea'sadventures--

Work Week

Monday was off! I got to sleep in and relax the entire day! We chilled until after dinner, and for flock we went to Cappuccino's. It was just me, Nonto, Minx, and Kerry and we had a very good time. While we were eating we saw a mouse!! In more or less words, we basically freaked out and everyone else was so chill. The manager came up to explain that due to construction on one part of the mall, there have been mice. Isn't that comforting? Ha! Well we had fun with it anyway and ended the night by stopping at the candy store for sweets.

Tuesday was the first day of work week! This is so we have the opportunity to apply what we learned in LTS. We worked with the venues/hospitality department at the church. The first day was very easy. We helped clean up after a funeral and we did some inventory. After lunch we met up with Mieka to learn about how our personality tests turned out. It was a color based test. And most of our team is green! This means we are laid back and chill, which perfectly describes most of us. My scores were nearly even across the board, so I was green, blue, red, and yellow. It was very fun to learn about how each of us respond to things based on our personality.

Wednesday we shadowed people who work in the department. I shadowed Mamma Macy and we cleaned the bathrooms on the training center floor and then we washed tons of dishes! After lunch we did more of the same cleaning. We were free in the afternoon until the "soaking/seeking" session at church. Each week these services get better and better! I am excited to see and hear about what God has in store for this next season for Hatfield.

May this forever embarrass me now that it's on the internet

Thursday we switched the people we shadowed and I worked with Elizabeth. Everyone washed windows in different areas of the church. I helped Elizabeth wash the windows of the mother's rooms and the bathrooms. We also had to take down the curtains to have them washed. We got those windows nice and clean! After we finished that, the team met back up with Auntie Nini. She took us to get yellow fabric to wrap the trees for the spring celebration on Sunday. After we found the perfect fabric she bought us hertzoggies. A traditional South African dessert. They were amazing and it was the first time any of us had had them! Then she took us to get t-shirts to match our color personality. After we found t-shirts there was a storm coming in, so Auntie Nini took us to her house (she had to look for something there anyway). We weathered the storm there and she made us ice cream coffee! It was a very good time and I loved hanging out with her! She even told me she would take care of me while I am here. She took us back to the church and we got home before it started raining more.

Friday was the last day of work week! We had to take the yellow fabric and wrap the trees. We became the "tree yellowing" team. We had tons of fun even though it was chilly outside. After that we had lunch to celebrate the end of work week and to honor Kerry because it was her birthday! We got to chat and end the week with fellowship.

After "yellowing" the trees

Before we "yellowed" the trees

Saturday I had every intention of going out and hanging out with some people but it was cold and rainy. So it made the perfect day to stay in and watch movies with everyone!

Clouds over Emmanuel house

Sunday was the spring celebration at the church! Stuart Bell from Lincoln, UK came to preach and it was a very good message! After the service everyone got ice cream! Due to the weather over the weekend, everything was moved inside. So Hatfield's Got Talent took place in the main auditorium. Kerry was one of the three finalist and she crushed her performance! It was very fun to see her up on stage and cheer for her. After that, I went home to chill before the evening service. During the evening service we talked about Forever Father, which has been the theme for the term. It made me really miss my dad but I got to chat with him after the service which was very nice!! Also after the service there was a jazz/soul night. Many talented people came and sang and the band was killing it! It was a wonderful was to end the spring celebration and kick off this new week!

I am keeping all my friends and family back home in my prayers and if there is anything specific you need prayer about feel free to message me!! I've got tons of prayer warriors around me that will jump in and agree with y'all in prayer about what you need!

Also huge shout out to everyone who has been praying for me! I am looking forward to sharing all my experiences with y'all when I get home!!

--sea'sadventures--

LTS Week 4

Monday we started our last week of LTS!! After class, I had my classic lunch which consists of a peanut butter sandwich and a piece of fruit (if we have fruit) then I went to the study center for wifi. Yes I studied a little, but I actually listened to the past messages I've missed from home. It was so very nice to hear James preach! I also got to chat with Big Joe on her Last First Day of High School!! Then I got a nice nap in before dinner. After dinner we had flock time and my flock wrote letters to God of what we want to see happen in this year. It was very cool!


Tuesday the outreach teams left in the morning :( I have missed those guys so much! Three of the five teams left this time so there are not as many people hanging around. Because of that Potters house (my house) moved into Emmanuel house. It was weird to pack up three weeks worth of stuff and head down the hill to the other house. In the morning I my counseling session and right after that was LTS. And after LTS there was a break and in the afternoon I went to an apologetics class where we discussed predestination. It was a very good day and very long day.

Wednesday was another semi-normal day. We had LTS in the morning and then the afternoon free. Usually on Wednesdays I go to the worship service/rehearsal but for the rest of this term they are also having a soaking session during that time. This is a worship service that is open for the Holy Spirit to move and work in everyone's lives. It was a very good and filling service!


Thursday was graduation day!! We had two short LTS sessions in the morning. One of the videos did not work so we had to resort to a back up plan, which was another good video. Then we had chapel, and two of the mid-years gave their testimony. After chapel we had a celebratory lunch with donuts! I cooked dinner and it turned out great! I think almost everyone went back for seconds. After dinner we had duties. Typically we do not have duties on Thursdays but we actually had to go do duties in Potters house to prepare for a kids camp they were doing this weekend.



Friday we had plotties in Emmanuel. I cleaned the bathroom. After plotties we had a little downtime before community project. This community project was......WEEDING! We had to get the village looking very spiffy for Sunday because they are having an 'open' day for potential YOYL students. So we cleaned up and then had the rest of the day off.

Saturday I got to sleep in! Saturdays are always chill days and since I am finished with LTS I can now watch movies or series on the weekend! It was very nice to just veg out. I got to talk with my mom and dad in the afternoon which is always nice. Then I even got to chat with Hannah! It was very nice to sit outside by the church (where the wonderful wifi is) and talk to my people back in Texas.

Sunday was also a great day! I did have to get up and move all my stuff back to Potters for the open day. But I went to church which was a great service and then came back and got to chill until the evening service. After the evening service we have Connect. This time we had a celebration in honor of someone who is about to adventure into a new area. She had been in charge of Young Adult service for a while I believe. But we had food and a live band to celebrate! I even tried to teach my friends how to line dance to one of the songs! It was a very fun evening!!