A tribute to my Pa

I have been incredibly blessed in the family department. My family is seriously my biggest fan in life and for that I am so grateful. From afar they cheered me on, and being closer is even better. My mom comes to my house weekly to volunteer in the after school program and has recently recruited my dad. It's a huge help and a precious blessing to have them join me and love the kids I love.

My dad came the first week on his 57th birthday. I can't hardly believe my dad is 57 and that he would choose to join the chaos of Powerhouse on his big day. But, he pulled up in his clown car and I should have known not to be surprised.

The kids know who my dad is- a select few of them have a very healthy fear of him (I completely understand...and will keep that working in my favor for as long as possible!) One time when one of the boys broke a window I told him my dad was coming to fix it and he looked at me with big eyes and said "Is he going to be mad at me??". Double bonus: My dad lives close enough to fix my broken windows, and he has the scare factor still!

So, here comes Larry to join the fun. He was so fortunate to join us on gingerbread house day. My well intentioned themed days don't always play out as beautifully as I picture them in my head. I remember calling a parent that day, counting to ten more than once (one of my boys and I learned that from his anger management class :), and bribing the kids with a $10 cash money award for the best gingerbread house...I'm certainly not above bribes.

There was a whole lot of action going on- and I got a few concerned looks from my old man. But, it's just another day with my kiddos to me and I try to keep that brave face on in the midst of it. One thing led to the next and somehow all the kids were 'peacefully' creating their houses upstairs. The few who were mad at my insistance on partipcating even found themselves enjoying it.

I had snapped a few pictures and then turned around to find this:

I had to just pause for a moment and smile. It was quite beautiful and brought back many memories of sitting with my dad at the counter cheering me on then- and here 10 years later cheering on the ones I love.

The next week this is what I saw in the midst of the Christmas madness. And again, I am so humbled and blessed.

He brings to us so much confidence and peace, and provides a bit of security and love that so many of these kids crave- especially from a father.

I know you probably aren't surprised to hear that the kids aren't always angels. They have very trying moments and somedays I think to myself if I were a volunteer I'd be a goner. But, through those trying moments my dad and all my other volunteers have found what makes a person want to love these kids through those moments and for that I'm forever grateful.

To my dad...thank-you for loving the ones I love, and for loving me. It means the world to me to have you and Mom at the house each week and always just a short drive across town away. I am so lucky. Love you!

and...for your viewing pleasure...look at this fox :) ...

...his senior prom! homemade suit and all!

My personal weight watchers

My two boys- the ones that are rather famous at my house, the ones I would keep if it weren't weird, the ones that I learn more about patience and grace from than most anyone- they are to die for with one liners...

Nathan: "Kelsey, did your mom make this caramel puffcorn? It's delicious!"
Kelsey: "Yep, she did"
Nathan: "Gosh, it's so good but listen everyone be careful- it'll go straight to your thighs"
(sidenote: Helen and Deanna who provide weekly treats for us are bad news bears for my thighs ;). But, they pack so much love into their treats and the kids seriously love it. And I made sure to enjoy many pieces of that deliciousness"

Cheri: (referencing the same treat): "You just take one piece and walk away"
Joe Joe: "You know what a square is?" A square and a square and a square, you talk one small square after another and another and then before you know it you ate two whole pieces. You gotta watch out for those squares"

Sound advice my boys, sound advice.

I spoke briefly at the Women's Christmas Tea at my church this weekend. The theme was "Welcome to my Table" and I shared a bit about the beauties who sit at my table each day! Enjoy my cheesy tie ins to the theme :)

The knock on the door is like clockwork most afternoons at my house. It’s 2:55pm and if you know me at all you can probably picture my kitchen covered in cupcakes and frosting with a minimum of three to do lists hiding under all of the mess. I have a quick thought to hit the floor as I know they can’t see me but their laughter quickly changes my mind. I round the corner to the window at the door and I hear the announcement to the crowd, “She’s home!” followed by running feet and laughter. I am greeted by multiple smiles and great big hugs and quickly they come filing in. Somedays there are just a few, most days at least 10 sweet little babes. These are my neighbors that come to my table and without a doubt I can always say the cup at my table overflows. They make their way to various places in the house- the girls in the craft room, the boys fighting over the wii that we consistently can never figure out, and a few little ones at my feet trying to get a lick of frosting or a treat of some sort- they are smart kids. I have four hundred things I should accomplish before the middle school crowd arrives but those things quickly exit my mind as I listen to a story, quiz spelling words and lose in wii bowling almost every time. A quick 40 minutes and it’s time to clean up the glitter and pass out the Hershey kisses and I love yous  as I usher them out the door. In my heart I’m so grateful they sit at my table but devastated to send them away so quickly.

             Then before I know it the middle school kids begin to pile in. I’ve created a space for them at the table and with the help of an incredible team of volunteers we welcome and love them as they come through the door. This love might look like a plate of pancakes or sometimes just  a genuine hello how are you is all it takes. We have our trials, we spill milk and sometimes we even cry but above all else we try to serve patience, grace and above all else love. 6 usually quickly rolls around and we begin the cleanup and goodbye routine. This usually includes one moment of frustration with a gentle reminder to serve them patience. I normally take a few kids home and have some sacred car moments where suddenly barriers no longer exist and I listen and share. This is my table!

I don’t really know a life outside of this. My home has always been a place filled with kids and laughter my whole adult life.  It may sound just like roses, and a dream come true. Most days it is and all I can do is thank the good Lord for entrusting me with such a reality and opportunity as this. But, some weeks the days of why and how fill my head more than the smell of roses.  With having a table such as this comes the reality that my children live each day. Adults have wronged them, hunger has owned them and fear has changed them. They don’t always trust adults, they don’t always respect as though we often think we deserve and some days they just plain make you want to clear the table. But, if I pause for one second and “enjoy a meal” with them suddenly I once again can smell the roses. Their stories of loss, death, inconsistency and insecurity have caused in me a desire to show Jesus to them in the most real way possible. Luckily I am covered and filled with just as much grace as they need – enough grace to keep me seated at this table. 

At youth group at Wesley this week we read the birth story of Jesus. The kids then were asked to play a character in birth story of Jesus and interview them. Kid after kid they chose to be Mary and seem to be awestruck by her story. Funny as I so lightly state that Mary was the mother of Jesus and place her so easily in the manger scene, but yet through their child-like eyes they are fascinated. In Luke 1 it says this

Luke 1:38 and 46-55
"I am the Lord's servant," Mary answered. "May it be to me as you have said." Then the angel left her.

"My soul glorifies the Lord
and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior,
for he has been mindful
of the humble state of his servant.

Our challenge as we left was to choose to be Mary in our lives throughout the week. This meant in their words to be strong and humble and filled with grace.  I told them I’d be taking on the challenge too. As we were leaving just a few days ago and my patience was wearing thin one of the sweet girls must have sense my temptation to clear the table and she ever so gently reminded me of the story of Mary- to be strong, humble and filled with grace. So, that is what I will strive to serve each day at the table He has set before me. I am the Lord’s servant, may my soul glorify the Lord.

An almost picture update..

I had a beautiful blog post picture update written in word- I did it in the airplane...you know, didn't want any wasted time. But, turns out I don't know how to turn a word blog post into a published post. Also turns out December 1st is two days away which leaves a looming deadline more of a priority than figuring it out (and...Donnie, techonology wonder man, isn't hear to save the day, shoot)

So, instead you get three tidbits to leave you wanting more:

-I was typing addresses in to submit to a very generous organization who will donate holiday meals to the kids in the after school program. I asked one of the girls her address as I didn't seem to have it on her registration sheet (ignore that part, boss). She said oh just put this address down. I said no I need yours. Her response, "I don't know my address, we move so much I don't bother learning it at each place, so just use this one because this happens every day". I'm sure there are numbers and research I could give you on consistency and building relationships but those numbers don't matter when a living and breathing testimony from an 8th grade girl reminds you the importance of consistency and a safe place when many other things in her life don't provide that. We take it for granted so easily and I easily forget the reality these precious children live. So, the day in and day out that can seem hum drum to me is sometimes the most comforting and beautiful thing they will experience in a day. Talk about a little reality check

-I have two boys that I want to keep as my own that come to the house every day (Nevermind that we're closer in age than what would be appropriate, I adore these two). They are the most resilient and incredible kids ever- but of course the ones that keep me on my knees the longest. One of them needs to attend a concert for a school assignment. He didn't even consider asking his family but patiently reminded me the days leading up to the event about the concert. He's learned well how we work :). I texted one of my weekly volunteers very last minute (as is life right now!) asking if it was a possibility. His response was "3 people want a piece of me tonight but this would be my priority if nobody else can take him". Aside from how wildly popular this guys is (believe me, you'd enjoy a little time with him and his lovely wife as well!) I was so taken aback by his response. I gave him the details and of course proper dress attire and his response was, "Anything for the Nathanator". So blessed- these kids and myself are so incredibly blessed by a team of volunteers that give their evenings, days, hours, tears, and love each week. I daily am reminded when I turn off the lights and lock the door how perfectly this plan has fallen into place and how each person that joins us loves these kids as Christ has called us to love- and that, my friends, isn't always easy to come by. I am so overly grateful for each volunteer that has touched any part of this ministry. This dream would not be true without these incredible people. And by them I am so humbled and blessed!

-Living in Detroit we often shared the phrase to each other, 'get out of the neighborhood'. Sometimes you just need to step away and get a breath of fresh air. That I certainly did and I now feel as though I can conquer the world after an incredible vacation in Grand Rapids over Thanksgiving with the Mencke clan. It was everything beautiful that a vacation could be and I came back so refreshed and renewed. Keep my bed warm Mencke's...I'll be back!!

With Donevon and Delaney right before I left Grand Rapids- pure joy in those two little bodies! 

Be Still My Heart

When I lived in Detroit I directed a number of programs, one being the mentoring program on Thursday nights. This was a middle and high school program and such a unique thing. We had 40 incredibly committed adults and 70 incredibly tough but beautiful kids that came together and did many different things. These nights changed me- may have something to do with the role I'm in now. But, each Thursday night this father like figure Phil came strolling in- tall, with white hair and a deep booming voice. Every stinkin Thursday he'd run into me and stop dead in his tracks and cover his eyes and loudly proclam .."Be still my heart". He was so kind to me- like a proud dad and truly encouraged me when the incredibly tough part of the crowd we served would surface. I was so well taken care of in Detroit...but...I digress.

I was sitting at my pink table (pink..right wizzy??) in the dining room the other day with a smile that wouldn't go away watching all that was going on around me and those words boomed in my head..."Be still my heart".

Next to me was Emanuel, dominating at multiplication.com

Behind me was Tung dancing, with reckless abandon

At the TV was New Sudan and Ahmed practicing their bow and arrow

From the hallway I could hear Nyasabit and Awata creating masterpieces in the craft room

In the kitchen fixing things were two incredible men from my church that are so committed to this house and the ministry that happens here.

Downstairs were victory shouts from Joe Joe or Nathan after a completed ping pong duel.

Be still my heart. This is my life, my real life and I'm incredibly blessed to be in this place. Not everybody gets to do this. But, I do and I know this is exactly where I am supposed to be and what I am supposed to be doing. These kids have stolen my heart. They are so grateful and kind and teach me more about love and grace than all the Sunday school lessons I've heard combined. Gosh, I'm in love.

Check out these pics...you'll see why!!!

Some Wii action

Dance moves. boom.
New Sudan--Be.Still.My.Heart, seriously...i might just keep him.

You see what I mean?? Incredible!!!

In other GREAT news...my sister is engaged and boy are we excited!!! Congrats Kell and Andy- thanks for humoring me and taking this pic...not sure who was more excited at this point ;)

and then grace happened..

We're 4 weeks into school already in these parts. Hard to believe, as usual, life is whizzing by. I count my blessings daily, but voice my prayers probably a lot more.

It was a rough start to the year. I had a new part-time job, a new business and old and new kids at powerhouse who I love more than i want to somtimes. I was dealing with police officers, parents, strep throat and little sleep. A whole lot of not good combination. It was a new ballgame to me- a new reality of what I'm dealing with and a whole big realm of the unknown. I felt a bit scared, I wondered if I could really do this - in fact I knew I couldn't and fell flat on my face (or in my bed) in the arms and grace of our Jesus.

Then, a Friday came around. I usually take my kids on field trips on Fridays. They don't get a lot of opportunities. It's crazy to me how their stories can be so similar to the stories of my kids from Detroit- right here in little Sioux Falls where I was born and raised in the shelter of my perfect little neighborhood. But, it's the truth so onward we go. It was cold outside of course but we had planned to go 'orienteering' at the Outdoor Campus in Sioux Falls. I was already preparing myself for the negative attitudes, the complaints, the stubborness that so many of them cling to. We had to walk through the trails, find 4 points and race back to the bus all in hopes of a pizza party. I had my doubts.

But, then I got a glimpse of grace...right before my very eyes....

(some of the excited orineteers)

They were excited, they were kind, they were ready and they LOVED it. We got lost, we walked way further than we had to and in circles over and over again, and then we found the 4 points and had a footrace with another team to the bus. The whole time I got to hear the hearts of four beautiful kids on my team as we wandered through the trees (blessing in disguise, that lost part i guess). I got to hear them dream and laugh and work with each other to achieve. Best of all, I got to see them be positive, embrace the weather and encourage one another.

Incredible how Christ shows up in my moments of little faith. The moments where I question and wonder if this is what I'm supposed to be doing each day, if it even matters. Then He shows up and works through these precious children to teach me and grow me. It's my prayer they experience Him, too, through the few hours we spend together each day.

and my top ten reasons I haven't been blogging,,,

...in pictures of course, because it's much more interesting that way!

Soaking up every last second with this girl before we become phone besties again. Luckily we're really good at it, but, boy was it a treat to have her here the last six months.

Starting a cupcake business and seriously living a dream. I still wonder sometimes if it's for real. check out www.jcakesbakery.com. Huge shout out to my forever friend and her hubs the Norris'

Hanging with these guys again. School started out of nowhere and I have 17 lovlies joining me at the house everyday. I would do just about anything for these kids and am excited for round 2 with them and some new ones!

Fall flavors :). Check out the website- but with a new season brings new flavors. Currently taking suggestions! This is caramel apple, and is to die for (but, i maybe say that about them all- just ask my hips :)

Back to school picnic at the park- one of many summer events. This is a little piece of my Heaven right here. Love these kids and this park and the relationships I've been able to build in the neighborhood over the summer. I'm seriously again living a dream- and the faithfulness of Christ literally in my backyard.

Two of my bests, married. Best day of the summer- seriously fun party and happy as can be for these two who mean the world to me.

Living it up at the 'sand at the lake' as Joy calls it in the last few weeks of summer with my BFF, forever friend, and her babe. We took full advantage of summer days and became tight with coffee shop owners, thrift stories and the mad streets of downtown Sioux Falls. F-U-N

Add in a new part-time teaching gig with ELL kiddos, a gaggle of new piano students, my dear family and friends...life is good. I hit the brick wall of 'need to sleep more' yesterday and happily collapsed into my bed thinking of how incredibly blessed I am. I am doing a lot of everything I love and though somedays I wonder if I am going to make it- I wake up everyday knowing I am exactly where I am supposed to be. I live the grace and mercy and faithfulness of a Jesus who loves me more than I can comprehend. Can it get much better than that?

xoxo, jess

1.

Nanc

I was once young and lacked the wisdom I hold now. I once was mortified at the thought of becoming my mother. But, I recently stopped at her house one Saturday morning to find her with a cup of coffee in hand, cookbook on her lap and a talk show on the tube (She was also wearing a fleece and wrapped in a blanket...this was June- that I have not inherited from her!!)It was in this moment I realized how much I was becoming her. And in my old age and as I grow in wisdom...I am so proud to follow in her steps- the beautiful, intelligent, strong woman she is :)

A list for your enjoyment:
1. Have you seen the faces I make? In my very expressive (and fast- that's not from my mom..) speaking I make her faces (and her mother made those same faces, precious)

2. Shoes at the door, not in the closets where they belong...DRIVEs ME NUTS. I used to wonder why she always freaked about us putting our shoes away. Now I promptly walk straight to the closet. I am becoming her.

3. I always bring a sweater. When I lived in Detroit I taught this lesson to many and proudly stated how Nancy always brings a sweater (and usually wears it next to my all-seasons shorts clad father)

4. The Heupel sweet tooth. We all have it. In my recent baking endeavors it has become glaringly obvious that this trait has been lovingly passed to me...and my hips.

5. The teacher voice. When we were both teaching during Vacation Bible School at church a friend walked by the room and thought it was me teaching when it in fact was my veteran teacher mother. Grateful for this one too.

6. Entertaining. Since living in Sioux Falls I have humbly tried to be the hostest with the mostest and use the cute plates and dishes that we so unneccesarily collect in the backs of the cupboards. Though, welcoming and providing for people in my home is something I see modeled from her all the time!!!

7. Cookbooks, oh the cookbooks. I used to make so much fun of her growing shelf and cupboards full of cookbooks. Now it's guarenteed at least once a year I find a cookbook as a gift- usually from her that I 'read' cover to cover (see #4...)

8. My mom has taught forever- at least as a kid that's how it seems. And, as retirement inches nearer and nearer (and her victory dance gets rehearsed) I see her gift with children and am blessed beyond words to share that passion with her as we now work side by side with 'my kids' (even if they make her crazy ;)

9. I don't like to admit this one....but recently my whole family left Sioux Falls. I've never been in Sioux Falls by myself- and when I hugged my dad goodbye as he was leaving for Canada to fish with the boys I silently screamed through his window...'call me when you get there'. Then chuckled to myself as I remembered how I didn't understand this requirement until I was the 'mom' waving goodbye. Whoa..reality hits!


I could continue ...probably forever as daily I laugh to myself at how funny life is and how honored I am to become my mother. She's my biggest fan and one of the most incredible people i know.

Love you Ma!!

JUNE

Well June has come and it almost gone and I'm no longer surprised at how fast life is going. Though, through ups and downs and really loving every single minute of it!

Here is a brief rundown:

June 1st: Went to Vegas on the best vacation ever. Of course there are no pictures because you know what they say about Vegas (actually, I took none and my fellow vacationers have a bunch of them). It was so so so much fun!!

Immediately from the airport with sparkles from Vegas in my hair I set off to church for VBS- Pandamania! There are also no pictures of this as I was in full kid mode with panda ears and hiding from 'secret Roman guards'. You missed out this year.

Then my BFF from high school got married and Joy and I got to personally attend are butts off for her wedding. We also happened to make the wedding cake and all the cupcakes too. This was a blast and the beginnings of some excitement!!

Next I met up with my college friends in the OC and laughed into the wee hours of the night over the fabulous game of 'Things'. I highly recommend. Since college four years ago, weddings and now babies too it was incredible to sit around the table with these people I hold so dear. Even more incredible to be able to sleep through the night until I wanted in the morning as the babies portion does not apply to me :). Little sleep, lots of fun- so worth it!

Under God's Canopy started at Wesley for the summer. I'm heading up the middle school crowd this summer and with some anxieties about entertaining middle schoolers from 8am-6pm ahead of time- we had an awesome first day. We did some photography, videography, dancing, skits, ice cream, crafts, catch phrase, nail polishing and just time spent together. And, they were SO GOOD. All anxieties out the window and looking forward to this week. We have 5 Wednesdays left with plenty of activites planned to keep them out of trouble. My loves...Joe Joe and Damius

A few days later on Saturday at Meldrum Park we had a Water Fun Day for the Whittier Neighborhood. We did slip n slide, water balloons, sand castles and the kids' (and volunteers!!) favorite...dump buckets of water on Jessi. Cute. Regardless though there were about 30 out who enjoyed probably the most beautiful day of the summer yet and we had a ball. I'm so thankful for the people who volunteered- I couldn't have done it without them. We have two more community events planned for the summer. So much fun and truly what makes me my heart beat!

And next up, JULY! Wedding showers, basketball camp, bachlorette parties, Wild Water West, the lake, and hopefully days full of sunshine.

xoxo

one month

One month later. One million things later. Where does the time go.

So much has happened. I'll give you a super brief rundown:

girls night with makeovers, nails, and late night viewings of Modern Family after Jessi fell asleep- happens everytime. Field trip to Auntie Annie's Pretzels, we all made and ate our own pretzel the kids had a blast. 2nd chance animals rescue to tour and play with puppies. The kids were sure the black lab Jade needed to come home with us. Though I LOVE labs, I highly disagreed (for now!). Homework, alka seltzer rockets, painting t-shirts, and cakes and goodies from so many people. 6 weeks of soccer ending with a freezing cold (on May 14th- what?!) community picnic in the park. Was a huge hit with the kids- and even caused some to hit but thats a story for another day. Completed English classes with my adults who I will miss dearly. Had my first piano recital with my students who did an awesome job!! Ran another 5K and improved my time. Celebrated my golden birthday with the best friends EVER was surprised, loved and celebrated for a whole week. I am so blessed. The list could probably go on and on. We have been on the move (as if I would have it any other way!)

However, as I was going through pictures to share I found this one:

and coudln't help but to stop and smile. I'm not even sure who took it and for some you may be thinking it's a bit odd. But, for me, I need to tatoo it to my foreheard, or I suppose my heart will do for now. I get so caught up in the busyness sometimes. I'm constantly walking circles in my house trying to keep kids in line, or wiping down the counter, or folding the blanket for the 6th time on the back of the couch. I'm writing lists, checking off lists, and squeezing out every minute of every day. But, I have to remember to stop sometimes and treasure the moments with these dear kids that have become such a constant part of my life. I need to let the garbage overflow, and not worry about the loud noises from the basement (ok, maybe thats a bit too far), but sit and really listen to his stories which will fascinate the life out of you and engage in what is important to him in that moment. Sometimes this will be the only time he's really listened to in this day, the only moment will he'll feel as important as he really is and I need to remember to embrace it as often as possible. Sometimes by 6 o clock I'm ready to rip my hair out or sometimes already have, but I just need to remember these precious moments with 'my kids' and revel in the privelege and blessing I have to work with them. After losing my precious grandmother a few weeks ago my grandpa says probably almost everytime I visit him, "We all can learn a lesson from this, even me. We just never know what will happen, what tomorrow will bring". And as I sit and hold back the tears or at least hope he can't see them with his limited vision suddenly my lists go out the window and my beeping phone seems irrelevant and I embrace the precious moments with him as he now learns to live life without his beloved.

However, if Joe Joe keeps farting while I sit next to him, I may need to listen from a distance. :)

love well xoxo, jm

Meldrum Soccer League

Thanks to a grant from the Sioux Falls Area Community Foundation we started the Meldrum Soccer League this past Saturday. When I worked in Detroit a fabulous mentor and friend, John Ribbing, started a flag football league. I've written about his program on this blog before and was one of the most popular programs for the kiddos at City Mission. I had the privelege of helping out with this program for a couple seasons and was so excited to use what I had seen and learned in Detroit in the Whittier neighborhood.

Many kids in the Whittier neighborhood don't have opportunity to be on organized sports teams. We have a beautiful park right next door to my house and I couldn't get the idea of a sports league out of my head pretty much from the day I moved in. Any day the sun is shining and you drive by Meldrum there are at least 400 kids playing at the park :). Seemed like a logical plan to get some teams going over there.

So, after writing and receiving a grant, ordering some soccer balls, rounding up the troops and of course purchasing some scooby doo snacks, the Meldrum Soccer League began. It was rainy, but I think soccer and rain just have to go together. We had about 30 kids come out, 15 volunteers and plenty of hot dogs to round out the day. The kids had a ball- literally :) and a brand new jersey thanks to Frank at Dakota Alliance soccer club. They thought this was the coolest thing ever, and they looked like the coolest things ever too.

I'm again amazed at the faithfulness of God even in what some would say are the little things- but they are big to me. What a humbling opportunity to simply play soccer and love on the Kingdom Christ has placed before us. I don't know why I'm always blown away by his faithfulness, for He has never let me down!

We have five Saturdays of soccer left, would love to have anyone join us to meet and love the kids of the Whittier neighborhood!

joy.

I have two boys that come everyday to the Powerhouse, without fail, they are here EVERYDAY. They are the kind of boys you fall in love with but need those extra prayers of patience that you request each day. Yesterday we handed out flyers together after tutoring at church for our upcoming soccer program. We split up into groups. Of course these two boys and I wound up in the same group. Don't pray for patience my friends or you'll end up in the group with the boys that you love, but pray for :). Usually by hour four with the kiddos you can imagine the state I'm in. But, as we walked the streets of the neighborhood that I'm quickly falling in love with these two boys laughed, continuously with unspeakable joy. They simply look at each other, do some sort of 6th grade boy grunt, maybe say something inappropriate- you have to pick your battles folks- and they just laugh and laugh and laugh. Like one of those good belly laughs, that doesn't end. And, suddenly those prayers for patience turn into joy and you can't help but laugh with them as you realize how full of joy they are. Suddenly I don't care that they are wrestling in the dirt (though I may have laughed at them when they rolled in the dog poop), or walking in the persons grass after asking them two million times not too, but rather I am full of the joy that comes from the smile on their face and the laugh in their belly. We're learning about the fruits of the spirit at the hosue and this was the most tangible life lesson of joy I'd seen all week. Funny how often the students become the teacher.

Picture update

Some pictures for your viewing pleasure.. (starting with now and going backwards, oops :)

St. Patricks's Day fun with some of my students. I told them all to wear green and then I forgot so baby room blanket to the rescue. They told me I looked like the King of Libya. What?! I love me a holiday celebration! (We made rainbow cupcakes)

Above: after months of painful practicing and memorizing of multiplication facts the kids earned a trip to the indoor inflatable jumping place. They had a blast. It's a great place!

<--- That kid kills me. He's a fine young man and deserved all the celebrating for the day of his birth. By his request we had another fabulous Karen ice cream cake and then also made churros (thanks fo the fabulous Rhonda)

Below: bowling. For Cindy's birthday she wanted to go to bowling. I won't tell you who seriously got a score of 6, despite the score still had a ball :). Always fun to go on field trips with these 'angels'. Shoutout to Jimmy at Eastway for hooking us up!

Cindy's birthday cake request: a tie-dye cake. Probably the most hideous cake I have ever made. I seriously considered throwing it away though time would not allow! Her immediate remark, "That is the sweetest cake I have ever seen". See why I love them!


Valentine's Day-another reason to celebrate (and pull out the streamers right Brian!?). We had heart shaped pizza and white cherry hot chocolate with strawberry dipped marshmallows all through a swirly straw. The marshmallows are still stuck in the swirly straw, yum. These kids seriously love hot chocolate.

<-- again, this boy- kills me. This is Carlos he's 1+ and the happiest baby you'll ever meet. His mom is one of my students (and one of the hippest moms ever) and also my neighbor. I couldn't have moved into a more perfect location. She walked across the street last night to deliver some fabulous Mexican treats. This was at the Valentine's Day party, hence the heart necklace. My he's quite talented don't you think. I smile so big thinking of this family :)

Posts to come: Meldrum soccer league, coming soon! Words (still) Travel (life at the jail)

Happ Wednesday!

Ticking time bomb work bag

Let's just put this out there, it's been a long long time again. I have some fabulous pictures of things that have gone on that I hope to post soon. I have been having F-U-N!! I read a quote recently that went something like this, "Those living a full life are too busy to write about it" ...I blame that one this time!

But this morning, I bring you the first edition of "what's in the work bag". I thought of this this morning as I got in my car and my bag sounded as if it were going to explode and here's why...

-Catchphrase. You kno the electronic one that beeps really fast and then buzzes cause you lose. Well, I put it in my bag this morning and hope to give it a run with my adult English students. We played Scategories (my ALL TIME FAVORITE) last week and they loved it. This may prove a little more difficult, but what great vocabulary practice right?!

-A dead fish. Yep, you read that. We've recently started a new adventure of a giant fish tank at my house one of the girls gave us. It used to be nice and peaceful sounding like a waterfall, now I have to unplug it sometimes in the evenings- especially during the bachelor. We started with three fish- lost two. Then added 4 more plus one snail (which I love), and lost 1. Well, after calling the fish store as it was D.O.A. they said bring in the body we'll give you a new one. I had already flushed it- I'm such a rookie at this game. So, they made an exception for the rookie and new fish #4 fell to the fate of the filter and was discovered sucked to it at tutoring yesterday. After shrieks and lots of disgustingness we fished (ha) it out, well as much of the body that didn't fall apart and put it in a bag and into the work bag it went this morning so the rookie gains a few points with the pet store and receives a new fish. Let's hope 3rd times a charm and this one stays alive.

-400 Farm Bureau Financial business cards. One of my dear friends is a relentless salesman (jk :) and wanted to be sure to offer my students and families I work with proper coverage if needed. This may have caused some competition to another dear friend that works there as we refer to each other as 'first friends' and therefore he thinks he has dibs on my people. However, his 400 business cards have not found there way into my work bag...hmmmm

-An apple and two oranges. This is a neccesity as if I come unprepared I will fall prey to a large bag of pretzel M&M's or sugar cookies from the cookie jar. I blame this all on Emily. Therefore, fruit in the work bag at all times. (however, sometimes fruit and the cookie jar occur simultaneously, but ya only live once!!)

-Froot loops, green construction paper, scissors and glue. To make a shamrock of course. It's St. Patricks' Day season and if you know me I love all things holiday so I pass that on to the little people in my life. Rainbows and shamrocks, just puts a smile on your face

-Files, binders, papers all the normal things that keep me on my toes and satisfy the Type A side of me that loves to make lists, organize, email and be partly administrative.

And there you have it...just a day in the life of what leaves with me in the morning for a day of adventures around Sioux Falls.

xoxoxo

Some things I love...

-These animals. Seriously, they make my heart so full. In the midst of homework arguments and discipline they really crave love and attention which comes through structure and consistency...and oatmeal raisin cookies and hot cocoa and marshmallow too :) (this was at our hotel pool Christmas party, we had a ball!!!)

-Grocery shopping. Especially Sunday afternoons when it's busy. Believe it. If someone would hire me to do their grocery shopping I'd do it full time, or heck just send me with a list. I love watching people and checking out the aisles for new found treasures. It's the little things right?

-Creating and Friday afternoons at my house. See the massive pile of stickers behind my sweet girl Cindy there. What girl has that many stickers?! I LOVE to create things, and to provide that opportunity to the kids and others in my life. A common heard mantra of mine...'Oh, we can just make that!!' Friday afternoons are like none other around here....field trips, baking, movies, and of course...creating.

-Teaching piano lessons. My students are the sweetest and it makes me proud to see them progress and learn- and seem to love it (though, i know the real trials of practicing too!)

- This song: www.youtube.com/watch?=sn2a73B0uB0 (Come Awake, by IgniterMedia)

- Diamyn's ice cream birthday cake made by the fabulous Karen Reade. This cake is fabulous all on its own but it also signifies the incredible amount of people that invest in these kids and support this program and all that goes on here. From snow shoveling, cookie baking, putting the foosball table together, practicing multiplication- we are well loved.

The Bedazzler

Every Wednesday at the Powerhouse is craft day with Rhonda (which is a very important detail!! WE LOVE RHONDA!!!). The kids know it and expect it and are usually quite enjoyable for the two hours we craft together.

A few weeks ago Nathan asked if I had the bedazzler. Apparently this is a real thing- one of those as seen on tv things. I told him there was no need for a bedazzler and that I indeed was the bedazzler. So, I set to work and used the most trusty craft tool yet, the hot glue gun, and bedazzled his white gloves with gold and silver sequins. Following the bedazzling Bafo and Nathan practiced Micheal Jackson moves in the kitchen. Just another day at the house..

Fast forward a week and Nathan had asked me everyday since then to continue with bedazzling and do the other side. Though I am the bedazzler I refused to do the otherside partly because my fingerprints had been burned off. So, he declared he would do it. He got out the glue gun and breathed down my neck until I would sit next to him and give him the adult supervision he was requesting (exact words my friends, this kid is a trip!!). So, he set to work bedazzling the other side of the gloves. Not too long and some of the best things ever came out of his mouth...

"Jessi (because he says my name 50 bazillion times a day), I am BEAST at the glue gun"

"Jessi, you have been replaced and now I AM THE BEDAZZLER"

I count this year a complete success as Nathan has achieved a love for the glue gun and accomlished the pretentious title of the Bedazzler.

Thank-you craft day Wednesdays and Nathan for being THE bedazzler, just love that kid!

vaca

It's been a long time yet again...and my faithful followers are remaining faithful but pretty soon might give up on me! It's been a whirlwind of a month and had plenty of ups and downs. The holidays always invite craziness and add the 20+ families I work with and this season that proved itself to be true yet again.

About a year ago two beautiful young ladies had made their home in my house and my bed and i was ripped way out of my comfort zone as I walked the road of grieving the loss of their mother with them. It was tragic and heart-breaking but one of the most real times in my life where I tried desperately to be Jesus and love these girls even when I didn't feel like I knew how. I remember the day of the funeral returning home from the office to help iron their clothes and get them ready and my house was filled with the laughter and the aroma of the flat iron- these children absolutely amazed me. Those moments of laughter when all the siblings were together squished in my little house began the process of healing togheter and made them stronger as a family. It was a hard start to the year but proof yet again of God's faithfulness and that He goes before all things and works all things together.

I made the decision final in the next few months of the beginning of 2010 to move back home. Never did I think I would move back home but my heart yearned to be here and I knew it was time. It was hard to tell those that were so dear to me, but I knew in my heart of hearts it was right, and that has continually proven to be true.

My three years in Detroit taught me invaluable lessons, but most of all taught me how to love beyond what was within me but with what Christ has given me. So, I loaded up the (not so trusty lately, grr) Bonnie and my dearest friend Dana and we journeyed back home.

Home has been everything and more than I thought it could be. I have laughed more and slept less than I could have ever asked for, and been provided for in ways that I coudln't have imagined. My family and community here welcomed me back with open arms and I am so blessed.

However, it's funny how God carves your path as this year ended similar to how it started with tragedy and heart ache, but this time it was not new to me. A family I work with had a house fire three days before Christmas and lost everything. This mother and I are very close due to various other tragedies and yet she stands strong and fights hard for her children- a precious 3 and 7 year old. So, the apartment hunt began, donations came rolling in, and an effort to make Christmas happen for this family was immediately in the works. We fought hard for three days I felt major defeat but saw truly miraculous works of God and hours before Christmas eve they were in a beautiful apt with Christmas tree in tow. Most mornings I felt helpless, not sure where to turn to except the arms of Christ and though I have to admit I almost gave up hope- He proved yet again to go before all things. The week before Christmas and ones following have been hard, and led me to uncharted territory. But as proven in my last three years of ministry He doesn't leave your side. The love and grace of Christ gave me power yet again to love like Jesus and be His hands and feet. I am so honored and blessed to walk with this family who has truly become like my own.

Today we took the 7 year old to a new school due to the move and a little part of my heart cried with him when we waved goodbye. He is so precious to me. Then we went to change some addresses as well and worked with a woman named Becca. My friend thought her name was vaca...which means cow in Spanish...so there we sat in the social services waiting room laughing til we cried that some crazy American was named cow. Benilda sat there and mooed and I had tears of laughter in my eyes. Don't worry, I cleared things up and assured her we aren't all that crazy, at least not crazy enough to name our children after cows. This was exactly where I wanted to be, and know I needed to be sharing life with this precious friend of mine. It hasn't been easy and there has been ups and downs, but I have been absolutely blessed with a burden to get calls at 2am and drive around for days looking at apartments, and deliver blankets and pillows on Christmas eve morning as I love the people the good Lord has entrusted me with.

Absolutely, positively so blessed to call this my life.