So, its been almost a month since I've posted.
I appologize, it crosses my mind... and I think about it.. but... never post anything.
I do have a little update about school I can give everyone next week.
However, for now, just so you know I'm not ignoring you...
This week is exam week. Its been crazy busy trying to write all the papers, make all the presentations and study for the exams.
No joke, on Sunday, I spent 14 hours working on a paper... and that was only HALF of the emount of time it took to finish it. So currently, my life consists of sitting at a computer, reading, typing, studying and eating. Yes eating. I sit at a desk and eat... almost every hour I need a snack. Why? 1. Its like brain fuel 2. It continually having something in your mouth keeps you awake and 3. It... a stress reliever? ... yeah.. sure.
So far now. I'm the new coach potato... the one that studies and sits at on a office chair. A nerd potatoe.. possibly?
O, breaks over.. back to studying :)
Tuesday, December 8, 2009
Wednesday, November 11, 2009
More to come....
Just a quick update to whats been happen:
1. Goshen College womens soccer season ended with a sad loss and final record of: 5-11-1.
2. I recently began another class: weight lifting for women. Disregarding to how the title may make you smile... you don't want to mess with these women while they have weights :)
3. Gnats. I have fungal gnats. They have infested our whole apartment. Let me just say: I have learned a few things about these new roommates:
- One gnat can lay up to 300 eggs. THATS 300 gnats!!
- They are attracted to rotting or organic matter. i.e. fruit on the table and plant soil.
- They live up to 7 - 10 days
- They are attracted to light. This includes computer screens. They also have this odd attraction for flying up noses (a fact from roommates person experiences)
- They don't like: sand, cinnamon, disinfectant, and my person and most successful killer... rubbing alcohol.
However with all this knowledge. They are still non paying roommate, which will have to go. I'm determined to kill them without insecticide. Currently the population is down 70 % but don't forget 300 eggs a day... who knows what will happen in a day or two!
1. Goshen College womens soccer season ended with a sad loss and final record of: 5-11-1.
2. I recently began another class: weight lifting for women. Disregarding to how the title may make you smile... you don't want to mess with these women while they have weights :)
3. Gnats. I have fungal gnats. They have infested our whole apartment. Let me just say: I have learned a few things about these new roommates:
- One gnat can lay up to 300 eggs. THATS 300 gnats!!
- They are attracted to rotting or organic matter. i.e. fruit on the table and plant soil.
- They live up to 7 - 10 days
- They are attracted to light. This includes computer screens. They also have this odd attraction for flying up noses (a fact from roommates person experiences)
- They don't like: sand, cinnamon, disinfectant, and my person and most successful killer... rubbing alcohol.
However with all this knowledge. They are still non paying roommate, which will have to go. I'm determined to kill them without insecticide. Currently the population is down 70 % but don't forget 300 eggs a day... who knows what will happen in a day or two!
Monday, November 9, 2009
The Wonders of Apples
My first attempt of applesauce making turned out as not only a failure but also an embarrassment. With a craving for delicious applesauce I set out to create my own concoction and concoction was exactly what it was. Starting off on the right foot, I washed, cored and sliced the apples. I even had the right additives, classic sugar and cinnamon. However, when it became time to enter the ‘process’… with a cleaver grin on my face, I threw every apple slice in the glass vase and with the press of “purée,” the blender was creating applesauce. I thought, how great! That was, until the image of grandma’s applesauce didn’t compare to my so-called applesauce. Before me was a bowl of brown tinted, crunchy apple chucks covered in granules of sugar and spice.
Sadly, I must admit my applesauce was no juvenile attempt but that of a home economics accomplishing, chemistry passing high school student. I would have hoped the combination of those classes would’ve brought me some common sense of the composition of applesauce, but it failed. Thankfully, I can proudly say I have now become a master of the applesauce art.
Since applesauce is a rather simple process, the outcome taste comes down to personal preference of the consumer. There are a variety of options of texture and taste.
To begin: understanding the process. First apples must but washed, cored and sliced. Transferred the apples into a pot, adding enough water so the apples don’t burn: cover and boil on high heat until apples are ‘mushy,’ roughly 20 minutes. After the apples are cooked the consumer gets to decide what texture of applesauce they want.
- Chunky: (when cutting apples, also remove the skin) once cooked, using a potato masher, smash the apples until reaching a desired consistency. The potato masher will allow for some small ‘chunks’ to remain in the applesauce.
- Medium Chunky / Smooth – once cooked put the apples in a food strainer, this can be a traditional Victorian strainer, a hand strainer or even an electric mixer strainer. The results will be thinner and smoother.Next is the yum factor: taste. Taste depends on what apples you are working from.
Here are recommended apples for applesauce: Gala, Honeycrisp, Jonathan, Golden Delicious, Jonalicious, Jonagold, Melrose and Fuji. After apples are strained, stir in whatever sweeteners and spices (common: cinnamon, red hots or ginger) your pallet desires.
For me, applesauce is a taste of home, a taste of grandmas cooking, a taste of comfort. Now that you know the keys behind the wonders of applesauce, give it a try and enjoy the scrumptious taste that lingers in childhood memories.
Sadly, I must admit my applesauce was no juvenile attempt but that of a home economics accomplishing, chemistry passing high school student. I would have hoped the combination of those classes would’ve brought me some common sense of the composition of applesauce, but it failed. Thankfully, I can proudly say I have now become a master of the applesauce art.
Since applesauce is a rather simple process, the outcome taste comes down to personal preference of the consumer. There are a variety of options of texture and taste.
To begin: understanding the process. First apples must but washed, cored and sliced. Transferred the apples into a pot, adding enough water so the apples don’t burn: cover and boil on high heat until apples are ‘mushy,’ roughly 20 minutes. After the apples are cooked the consumer gets to decide what texture of applesauce they want.
- Chunky: (when cutting apples, also remove the skin) once cooked, using a potato masher, smash the apples until reaching a desired consistency. The potato masher will allow for some small ‘chunks’ to remain in the applesauce.
- Medium Chunky / Smooth – once cooked put the apples in a food strainer, this can be a traditional Victorian strainer, a hand strainer or even an electric mixer strainer. The results will be thinner and smoother.Next is the yum factor: taste. Taste depends on what apples you are working from.
Here are recommended apples for applesauce: Gala, Honeycrisp, Jonathan, Golden Delicious, Jonalicious, Jonagold, Melrose and Fuji. After apples are strained, stir in whatever sweeteners and spices (common: cinnamon, red hots or ginger) your pallet desires.
For me, applesauce is a taste of home, a taste of grandmas cooking, a taste of comfort. Now that you know the keys behind the wonders of applesauce, give it a try and enjoy the scrumptious taste that lingers in childhood memories.
Thursday, October 22, 2009
Catching Sand Crabs
As odd as it might sound, I found this activity rather entertaining and captivating. These little creatures no bigger than a thumb, are known as the sand crab. They spend most of their life buried under the shifting sand along beaches shores. Popping their heads above the sand when a wave comes in, they stick out an antenna and clean off bits of sand, eating plankton and sea debris.
The sand crab has only one movement: backward. They can only bury themselves in sand by using their back legs. As difficult as this may sound, they are remarkably quick, which is where the challenge comes in. Are you quick enough to catch a sand crab?
Now don’t just go out and start digging for sand crabs, there is a method. Follow these simple rules and you will soon be a sand crab catcher.
The sand crab has only one movement: backward. They can only bury themselves in sand by using their back legs. As difficult as this may sound, they are remarkably quick, which is where the challenge comes in. Are you quick enough to catch a sand crab?
Now don’t just go out and start digging for sand crabs, there is a method. Follow these simple rules and you will soon be a sand crab catcher.
1. See. First, you must stop out the location of your sand crab. Get in your position and start looking. When the tide breaks, recedes and the sand settles, looks for tiny air bubbles protruding out of the sand. You can also spot sand crabs by looking for what appears as small volcanoes, holes with raised ridges. This defines your “target area.”
2. Scoop. The tactic is being as quick as the sand crab, meaning dig fast! Sand crabs don’t like to have their positions revealed, so when their location is in threat, they will bury themselves farther into the sand. Scoop at the sand around and over the bubbles, taking a hand full of sand. Sift through the sand carefully for the sand crabs camouflage shell can be easily missed. Another way, besides visibly looking for a sand crab is by feeling for it. A small vibration in your hand will indicate you’ve caught one. The vibrations are the sand crabs legs attempting to dig through the sand in your hand. If you were unlucky, wait for another wave and try again. It may take several tries, but the excitement of catching something spectacular is worth the wait.
3. Show. If you were successful in your sand crab hunting, once all the sand has been brushed away or you’ve rinsed your hand, your new little friend will be resting in your hand. Soft-shelled sand crabs are typically used as bait for fishermen or since they have the largest sensory neurons than any animal, they are used in laboratories for neurological testing. However, if you aren’t planning taking any fishing trips or working in the lab, it is best if you bid farewell to your new friend and release him back into his hole.
So the next time you find yourself as the shores lines, bored with nothing to do or in search for an adventure, don’t forget about the sand. It’s amazing what you can dig up!
Thursday, October 15, 2009
Becoming a "Gardener"
This past year, the idea of gardening and producing one’s own resources has become very intriguing to me. Along with another housemate’s help I can now proudly say I have “gardened.” Pay attention as I use this term loosely for I am still a beginner, far from knowing all the knowledge of gardening. Even though I was not able to be a part of the “harvest” of the La Jara MVS unit garden, I thought I’d share a few key factors that I learned about gardening. Keep in mind, I am no expert, just a person that learned (often the hard way) the basics of what one should know about gardening.
The basics of gardening by Meg:
1. Read the seed package closely. When it says to plant seeds three inches apart, plant them three inches apart. Not following the instructions can result in a giant mass of carrots growing together, a mess that can be tedious to dig up, separate and replant.
2. Upside down tomato plants. This new trend is creative way to bringing the garden indoors. After starting a tomato plant transplant the baby vegetable into a container or bucket that has a preexisting or self made hole in the bottom. Simply insert the plant upside down through the hole and fill the container with soil. Attach string, wire or a hook and hang the plant in a sunny location. Word of wisdom, until the soil and roots have grown into the container, place a pot underneath it, for gravity will take place and water will be on your floor.
3. Soaker hose. This is a great effective way to distribute water closely to the base of the plants, helping converse water as well as saving you time. It’s a great new innovation that has been introduced to gardening. The warning: the ease of the soaker hose can also leave allowance for forgetting to turn it off. Over-watering can be the side effect of this product.
4. Start small. Don’t put yourself over your head. I know that it’s exciting to think about having carrots, watermelon, cantaloupe, zucchini, lettuce and all those delicious foods. However, when it comes time to replant the baby veggies outside, you need to have a layout of where you are going to plant everything. Twelve watermelon plants, ten cantaloupe plants, six zucchini plants and one raised box equals overcrowding. This just reiterates my first note: read the back of the package and pay attention to plant growth size.
If you are a first time gardener: good luck. I found there is so much excitement in watching a plant grown and a satisfaction when bringing that one carrot to the table and knowing it is a product of your nurtured garden.
The basics of gardening by Meg:
1. Read the seed package closely. When it says to plant seeds three inches apart, plant them three inches apart. Not following the instructions can result in a giant mass of carrots growing together, a mess that can be tedious to dig up, separate and replant.
2. Upside down tomato plants. This new trend is creative way to bringing the garden indoors. After starting a tomato plant transplant the baby vegetable into a container or bucket that has a preexisting or self made hole in the bottom. Simply insert the plant upside down through the hole and fill the container with soil. Attach string, wire or a hook and hang the plant in a sunny location. Word of wisdom, until the soil and roots have grown into the container, place a pot underneath it, for gravity will take place and water will be on your floor.
3. Soaker hose. This is a great effective way to distribute water closely to the base of the plants, helping converse water as well as saving you time. It’s a great new innovation that has been introduced to gardening. The warning: the ease of the soaker hose can also leave allowance for forgetting to turn it off. Over-watering can be the side effect of this product.
4. Start small. Don’t put yourself over your head. I know that it’s exciting to think about having carrots, watermelon, cantaloupe, zucchini, lettuce and all those delicious foods. However, when it comes time to replant the baby veggies outside, you need to have a layout of where you are going to plant everything. Twelve watermelon plants, ten cantaloupe plants, six zucchini plants and one raised box equals overcrowding. This just reiterates my first note: read the back of the package and pay attention to plant growth size.
If you are a first time gardener: good luck. I found there is so much excitement in watching a plant grown and a satisfaction when bringing that one carrot to the table and knowing it is a product of your nurtured garden.
Tuesday, October 13, 2009
O... Soccer
Soccer. I knew that sitting in the stands while I had an opportunity to play soccer would have be a regret.I would always wonder: could have I made it playing again? Would I be good enough? I’d think about what it felt like to step on the dewy green field, stand under the field lights and sit after a game, soaking wet, exhausted and completely satisfied of giving your all.
Although, joining the team has now diminished the regret of “I wonder,” I now have a new regret. I now found the sport I love – soccer – to hold no enjoyment. Many factors have brought me to this point.
1. Joining the season late.
2. Sitting on the bench ...its definitely been a new view of the game.
3. Lastly, getting injured.The biggest downfall of playing soccer again. On the second day of practice I strained my quad. Through x-rays the doctor has confirmed the diagnosis of a strain, but there was no further insight to the cause of pain.
So most of my soccer time is now consumed with learning how to ultrasound my own leg, physical therapy as well as a lot of standing and watching. Its been emotionally and physically rough to get through, but hopefully it will improve.
(p.s. thanks to the fans that sat through the cold weather games :) )
Although, joining the team has now diminished the regret of “I wonder,” I now have a new regret. I now found the sport I love – soccer – to hold no enjoyment. Many factors have brought me to this point.
1. Joining the season late.
2. Sitting on the bench ...its definitely been a new view of the game.
3. Lastly, getting injured.The biggest downfall of playing soccer again. On the second day of practice I strained my quad. Through x-rays the doctor has confirmed the diagnosis of a strain, but there was no further insight to the cause of pain.
So most of my soccer time is now consumed with learning how to ultrasound my own leg, physical therapy as well as a lot of standing and watching. Its been emotionally and physically rough to get through, but hopefully it will improve.
(p.s. thanks to the fans that sat through the cold weather games :) )
Sunday, September 20, 2009
Meg Gongwer # ? .... Not Yet Determined
Update Time!
As rumors have been going around, I am the newest member of the women's soccer team.
Soccer was never in the plan, however, after watching the team play, I began to miss it. After running into the men's soccer coach, pieces fell into place. I met with the women's soccer coach a week later and we began discussing the possibility.
My first practice: I died. No enhailor, out of shape and attempting to go full speed.... after just the first drill I was huffing and puffing. Having a full year off of playing soccer was becoming inevitable. Within the first few days I had manages to already injury myself. Pushing myself a little too hard, the predicted happened... I strained my quad.
The coach has been very optimistic, trying to put me in all the games and get my minutes in. I on the other hand have been a little reluctant, often feeling 'unready' to play again. Wisdom has finally taken over and I have been resting this past week and will continue to rest my quad this week. I have no longer been attending practice (watching practice is a temptation that often results in my participation), but have taken up working out on the track and machines. The goal and hope is to be on the field by the end of the week.
I'm getting restless for that competitive sprint with the defender, the solid shoot on goal, laying a ball into the back of the net and stepping off the field soaking wet, exhausted and satisfied.
As rumors have been going around, I am the newest member of the women's soccer team.
Soccer was never in the plan, however, after watching the team play, I began to miss it. After running into the men's soccer coach, pieces fell into place. I met with the women's soccer coach a week later and we began discussing the possibility.
My first practice: I died. No enhailor, out of shape and attempting to go full speed.... after just the first drill I was huffing and puffing. Having a full year off of playing soccer was becoming inevitable. Within the first few days I had manages to already injury myself. Pushing myself a little too hard, the predicted happened... I strained my quad.
The coach has been very optimistic, trying to put me in all the games and get my minutes in. I on the other hand have been a little reluctant, often feeling 'unready' to play again. Wisdom has finally taken over and I have been resting this past week and will continue to rest my quad this week. I have no longer been attending practice (watching practice is a temptation that often results in my participation), but have taken up working out on the track and machines. The goal and hope is to be on the field by the end of the week.
I'm getting restless for that competitive sprint with the defender, the solid shoot on goal, laying a ball into the back of the net and stepping off the field soaking wet, exhausted and satisfied.
Thursday, September 3, 2009
The Big Update
My term in Colorado came to an end... about a month ago. (Whoops)
For Colorado:
1. I do NOT miss driving vans and the station wagon.
2. I do miss seeing the mountains.
3. I do NOT miss the car chart.
4. I do miss waking up know what the weather will be like. Same as the day before and same as it will be the next day... SUNNY :)
5. I do NOT miss the TEAL kitchen.
6. I do miss the food and the AMOUNT of supplies/food we had on hand.
7. I do NOT miss the wimpy "rain" storms.
8. I do miss 0% humidity.
9. I do NOT miss being so far away from family and friends. :)
10. I do miss the experimental garden, the freedom to knit, the "cleaning-singing parties," green chilies, the delicious meal nights, and the wonderful people of my unit.
For Now:
Currently I am now at Goshen College studying a Communication Major. So far I have been enjoying my experience. I live with three other girls in an apartment. However, less cooking and knitting goes on these days. Classes have begun and it looks like I'll have quiet a bit going on. Its definitely and adjustment from unit life and working everyday. Good thing I had those three weeks of "summer break" in there to help me "adjust." :)
For Colorado:
1. I do NOT miss driving vans and the station wagon.
2. I do miss seeing the mountains.
3. I do NOT miss the car chart.
4. I do miss waking up know what the weather will be like. Same as the day before and same as it will be the next day... SUNNY :)
5. I do NOT miss the TEAL kitchen.
6. I do miss the food and the AMOUNT of supplies/food we had on hand.
7. I do NOT miss the wimpy "rain" storms.
8. I do miss 0% humidity.
9. I do NOT miss being so far away from family and friends. :)
10. I do miss the experimental garden, the freedom to knit, the "cleaning-singing parties," green chilies, the delicious meal nights, and the wonderful people of my unit.
For Now:
Currently I am now at Goshen College studying a Communication Major. So far I have been enjoying my experience. I live with three other girls in an apartment. However, less cooking and knitting goes on these days. Classes have begun and it looks like I'll have quiet a bit going on. Its definitely and adjustment from unit life and working everyday. Good thing I had those three weeks of "summer break" in there to help me "adjust." :)
Tuesday, August 25, 2009
Tuesday, August 4, 2009
Wrapping Up
With things coming to an end, so much everything I'm working on.
I've been frantically packing (mom and dad can verify that with the UPS bills) :) as well as finishing up all work projects and person projects.
Personal Projects you ask? Yes, I knit know.. I have projects :)
Here are some of the projects I've FINALLY finished!!
I've been frantically packing (mom and dad can verify that with the UPS bills) :) as well as finishing up all work projects and person projects.
Personal Projects you ask? Yes, I knit know.. I have projects :)
Here are some of the projects I've FINALLY finished!!
Friday, July 31, 2009
The Final Adventures
Things are winding down in Colorado.. well kind of.
I haven't been working at the church in over a month, since it is summer and the youth are all dispersed over summer camps and family vacations. However I have been keeping busy pulling together the county website that I am creating. You know, its a little intimidating to be emailing everyone who works in the courthouse with emails that pretty much say, get me your information or you get nothing. Yikes :)
The website is coming together though, I hope to be launching it either tomorrow or early next week (fingers crossed).
However right now, a little catch up on the recent activities.
Pretty much groom wore knights outfight, bride eventually put on butterfly wings. Said own vows. Ate Pizza for the reception, later had bowling lanes reserved (we didn't go to this).
2. Instead we went to the rodeo :)
The best part: the contest where little kids rode sheep!!! Below is a picture of the winner (she was 5 years old). I'd never stick my child on a sheep.. but it was hilarious!
I haven't been working at the church in over a month, since it is summer and the youth are all dispersed over summer camps and family vacations. However I have been keeping busy pulling together the county website that I am creating. You know, its a little intimidating to be emailing everyone who works in the courthouse with emails that pretty much say, get me your information or you get nothing. Yikes :)
The website is coming together though, I hope to be launching it either tomorrow or early next week (fingers crossed).
However right now, a little catch up on the recent activities.
1. A wedding. I went with Mary Jo, however this was not a traditional wedding. I could explain it all... but I think the next picture of the bride and groom will explain it. (pic coming tonight)
2. Instead we went to the rodeo :)
The best part: the contest where little kids rode sheep!!! Below is a picture of the winner (she was 5 years old). I'd never stick my child on a sheep.. but it was hilarious!
Thursday, July 23, 2009
Mission Completed
Ok... so I've been putting on posts for one reason:
catch up.
For what seems like two months I keep trying to play catch up... but ... now... I opted to just skip what was missed.
Let me tell you about this week!!
I HAVE MET MY GOAL
I HAVE SUCCEEDED
I MEGAN GONGWER
HAVE CONQUERED ALTITUDE!!!!!
Yes, it is true. Finally!! This weekend I successfully make whole wheat bread (3 of 5 loafs turned out) pumpkin spice whoopie pies AND apple cinnamon whoopie pies!!!
I have now met my goal and can return to Indiana, satisfied :)
catch up.
For what seems like two months I keep trying to play catch up... but ... now... I opted to just skip what was missed.
Let me tell you about this week!!
I HAVE MET MY GOAL
I HAVE SUCCEEDED
I MEGAN GONGWER
HAVE CONQUERED ALTITUDE!!!!!
Yes, it is true. Finally!! This weekend I successfully make whole wheat bread (3 of 5 loafs turned out) pumpkin spice whoopie pies AND apple cinnamon whoopie pies!!!
I have now met my goal and can return to Indiana, satisfied :)
Monday, July 13, 2009
Convention
Sorry it has been a while since I've been home from convention... but I do have stories.
First off ... we got our van fixed right before heading to convention.. this means 26 hours there... we DID have air conditioning :) After WAY TOO LONG in the van together all six of around sane in Ohio.
The week was full of activities. Our days began at 7am, when we made our 25 minute walk from our hotel to the convention center. Then the day began.
7:45am - begin standing guard / ushering for youth morning worship service (pretty much we got to be bounces) :)
(Worship service 8:45am - 10:15am)
11:00am - Lunch
11:30 - Servant Project leaders Mtg
11:45 - Prepare for youth groups / orientation to service projects
12:00 - leave for service project
5:15pm - arrive back
5:30 - dinner
6:00 - usher / work at youth evening worship service
(Worship service 6:45 - 8:30)
8pm - work at MMN booths representing MVS
11pm - walk back to hotel
12pm - sleep
My service project that I took groups out on was going to a camp specifically designed for youth with handicaps. The camp was a non-profit organization, beautifully up kept, and mostly reliant on volunteer help. After an hour and a half bus ride (two hours one day) the youth were prepared to work. Our project... painting cabins. The three hour bus ride every day didn't help my mood for service, but it was great working with different youth groups.
Overall, VERY busy week. But it was a good experience, with fun times, and I even got to spend time with mom :)
p.s. Sherry .. you'd be proud. I make REAL popcorn at the house. I'm getting good enough to barely have any kernels .. and I can eat it ALL by myself :)
First off ... we got our van fixed right before heading to convention.. this means 26 hours there... we DID have air conditioning :) After WAY TOO LONG in the van together all six of around sane in Ohio.
The week was full of activities. Our days began at 7am, when we made our 25 minute walk from our hotel to the convention center. Then the day began.
7:45am - begin standing guard / ushering for youth morning worship service (pretty much we got to be bounces) :)
(Worship service 8:45am - 10:15am)
11:00am - Lunch
11:30 - Servant Project leaders Mtg
11:45 - Prepare for youth groups / orientation to service projects
12:00 - leave for service project
5:15pm - arrive back
5:30 - dinner
6:00 - usher / work at youth evening worship service
(Worship service 6:45 - 8:30)
8pm - work at MMN booths representing MVS
11pm - walk back to hotel
12pm - sleep
My service project that I took groups out on was going to a camp specifically designed for youth with handicaps. The camp was a non-profit organization, beautifully up kept, and mostly reliant on volunteer help. After an hour and a half bus ride (two hours one day) the youth were prepared to work. Our project... painting cabins. The three hour bus ride every day didn't help my mood for service, but it was great working with different youth groups.
Overall, VERY busy week. But it was a good experience, with fun times, and I even got to spend time with mom :)
p.s. Sherry .. you'd be proud. I make REAL popcorn at the house. I'm getting good enough to barely have any kernels .. and I can eat it ALL by myself :)
Tuesday, June 23, 2009
The MVS Motivation... That Never Dies
Changes... so many changes.
Our house has again struck motivation. I woke up on Thursday morning and made a slight comment about Nate's bathroom.... 30 minutes later ... a make-over was planned.
The weekend took on multiple projects.
1. We had a tree that was pushing out neighbors fence over / growing over their roof
2. Our white fence was 50 years old and rotting
3. The house needed scraping (we're repainting the outside of the house)
4. Disappearance of the giant shrub
5. Finishing Nate's Bathroom
Some details....
1. The tree
The tree actually grows thorns on it. So when jumping on a pile of branches to "flatten" them. You don't want to fall... it leads to lots of scratches... especially when you fall on your butt. However despite of this, don't worry, we were safe. While removing tree branches and limbs we used a safe method. Hooking a wrench to a rope, throwing it in the tree to snag a branch, and pulling the branch away from the room while Andy stood on a ladder and operated the chain saw.... see... safe :)
2. The fence
The fence was built along with the house ... over 50 years ago. Nate worked with the saw and began cutting it down... the fun part came in at the main base fence polls. The were rotten enough that you could kick them over or pull them straight out of the ground. We all felt the gratification of destruction.
3. The siding
To help deal with scrapping the paint of the house, we've been provided with some .... tools. Heat guns... basically two of them are like stove eye lets and one that is a hair dryer.. the difference however is that these heat up to 400 degrees.... and melts paint :)
4. The shrub
Mary Jo can finally see out here window ... as the giant scrub that was in front of here room, over growing into the house is now...gone!
5. The bathroom
We are proud to now present a welcoming bathroom... with paint on the walls and the touch of three girls.... who doesn't want a welcoming bathroom?! :) (Sorry, no pic. from before... it was all white, ceiling paint and the cupboards were covering one wall w/ lime green paint on the inside/ Now the shower half of the bathroom is painted tan (ceiling also repainted), we created open shelving by taking off the cupboard doors and repainting the inside of the cupboard.
And don't forget about our earlier projects: the living room and back yard:
Our house has again struck motivation. I woke up on Thursday morning and made a slight comment about Nate's bathroom.... 30 minutes later ... a make-over was planned.
The weekend took on multiple projects.
1. We had a tree that was pushing out neighbors fence over / growing over their roof
2. Our white fence was 50 years old and rotting
3. The house needed scraping (we're repainting the outside of the house)
4. Disappearance of the giant shrub
5. Finishing Nate's Bathroom
Some details....
1. The tree
The tree actually grows thorns on it. So when jumping on a pile of branches to "flatten" them. You don't want to fall... it leads to lots of scratches... especially when you fall on your butt. However despite of this, don't worry, we were safe. While removing tree branches and limbs we used a safe method. Hooking a wrench to a rope, throwing it in the tree to snag a branch, and pulling the branch away from the room while Andy stood on a ladder and operated the chain saw.... see... safe :)
2. The fence
The fence was built along with the house ... over 50 years ago. Nate worked with the saw and began cutting it down... the fun part came in at the main base fence polls. The were rotten enough that you could kick them over or pull them straight out of the ground. We all felt the gratification of destruction.
To help deal with scrapping the paint of the house, we've been provided with some .... tools. Heat guns... basically two of them are like stove eye lets and one that is a hair dryer.. the difference however is that these heat up to 400 degrees.... and melts paint :)
Mary Jo can finally see out here window ... as the giant scrub that was in front of here room, over growing into the house is now...gone!
5. The bathroom
We are proud to now present a welcoming bathroom... with paint on the walls and the touch of three girls.... who doesn't want a welcoming bathroom?! :) (Sorry, no pic. from before... it was all white, ceiling paint and the cupboards were covering one wall w/ lime green paint on the inside/ Now the shower half of the bathroom is painted tan (ceiling also repainted), we created open shelving by taking off the cupboard doors and repainting the inside of the cupboard.
Thursday, June 11, 2009
New Members
We've had two new members join our house.
The first member is Nicole, the new volunteer joining us. She is also another Midwestern in the house ... coming from no where else than ... Goshen, Indiana :)
The second member came to us a lil differently. His name is.... "the cat." Currently a name hasn't been agreed upon. He enjoys the attention of animal deprived MVSers and the occasional composition / left overs.
The first member is Nicole, the new volunteer joining us. She is also another Midwestern in the house ... coming from no where else than ... Goshen, Indiana :)
** DISCLAIMER: Even though the subject APPEARS to be inside ..it is not a member of "MVS" and is not eligible to be "INSIDE" the unit home. It is merely the community "FRIEND" whom frequently visits the MVS unit members residence.
Saturday, May 30, 2009
Rocky Mountian Camp.... Again
This was my fourth time at Rocky Mountain Mennonite Camp. The Mennonite Voluntary Service had a retreat where all units across the US could get together. Thankfully for us it was only four hours away :)
It was great seeing some friends from other units and people we met at our beginning orientation. During the week we had a sessions with a speaker, a little bit of worship, free time, and unit presentations. ... when we put up the photos of before and after the living room make over ... all we heard were gasps. Many people we made comments of the unbelievable improvements we've made to the house, as well as how many activities our house has done together.
During the week a group of us took a hike up the mountain. It was under two hours long ... but steep. However, being from high altitude us La Jara folk were already aclimated... NOT... I was dying! I thought it'd be easy for me ... seeing how I'm used to the altitude. However hiking UP a mountian... UP.. thats the key part. I live in a valley where there rarely are stairs. I never have to go UP!!! However we all made it to the top... even the Kansas flat landers :)
During the week I was also able to see some family! Zachary and I got lots of quality time together :)
And lastly, we went back to the Boulder unit for the rest of the weekend. It was great being in the city, being able to walk to store, being able to walk in the RAIN, feeling .. HUMIDITY!!!! Our last venture for the weekend was going to the National Park. Where we hiked around. All of us girls wore flip flops, being told that we weren't ever going to be hiking a mile... haha.. well it wouldn't been helpful to know part of that mile... would be throught SNOW. The rangers that did catch sight of our thin layers and sandals did nothing but smile and shake their heads. And yes, even though we were freezing cold ... we continued to stay in the rain (at points singing : "I'm Singin' in the Rain") and we had a good time.
It was great seeing some friends from other units and people we met at our beginning orientation. During the week we had a sessions with a speaker, a little bit of worship, free time, and unit presentations. ... when we put up the photos of before and after the living room make over ... all we heard were gasps. Many people we made comments of the unbelievable improvements we've made to the house, as well as how many activities our house has done together.
During the week a group of us took a hike up the mountain. It was under two hours long ... but steep. However, being from high altitude us La Jara folk were already aclimated... NOT... I was dying! I thought it'd be easy for me ... seeing how I'm used to the altitude. However hiking UP a mountian... UP.. thats the key part. I live in a valley where there rarely are stairs. I never have to go UP!!! However we all made it to the top... even the Kansas flat landers :)
Monday, May 18, 2009
Weekend Escapes
This weekend the MVS unit from Boulder, CO came to stay with us. This meant we had a house full of 7 people. Needless to say ... morning showers were tricky.... :)
On Sunday we took a trip up to Zapata Falls and the sand dunes. The Zapata Falls freeze over during the winter, making a beautiful frozen sculpture that's hidden in the "cave." Although with the warming weather it was already mostly melted. Now in order to get up to the falls, it's a small hike up the stream into the cave. This isn't too bad ... the hike isn't long, the rocks aren't too slippery and the streams not too strong. However there was one thing ..... the water. The water was only 15 / 20 degrees. That's colder than ANY ice bath I took in college. At first touch it doesn't seem bad, but after you're feet are fully submerged, the sudden shock of coldness and the full wrath of the temperature catches up to the brain. The shooting pain travels from the toes to the calves. After ten minutes you are numb enough to not even realize if you are just walking flat footed or if you really are bending your toes / foot as you take a step.
Thankfully we were able to warm our feet up once at the sand dune. As the snow melts off the mountains, a spring stream is created through the sand dunes. A small stream of fresh (but not cold) water steadily flows, constantly changing directions, branching off and merging together, shifting sand, pushing stones, never to be the same twice. We hung out for two hours, burying of feet in the steams sand, running around splashing, and digging in the sand. We only wished we had all the shovels, buckets, and toys the little kids had .... :)
It was relaxing, exciting, and fun. I even remembered the SPF ... so no burns on Megan :)
On Sunday we took a trip up to Zapata Falls and the sand dunes. The Zapata Falls freeze over during the winter, making a beautiful frozen sculpture that's hidden in the "cave." Although with the warming weather it was already mostly melted. Now in order to get up to the falls, it's a small hike up the stream into the cave. This isn't too bad ... the hike isn't long, the rocks aren't too slippery and the streams not too strong. However there was one thing ..... the water. The water was only 15 / 20 degrees. That's colder than ANY ice bath I took in college. At first touch it doesn't seem bad, but after you're feet are fully submerged, the sudden shock of coldness and the full wrath of the temperature catches up to the brain. The shooting pain travels from the toes to the calves. After ten minutes you are numb enough to not even realize if you are just walking flat footed or if you really are bending your toes / foot as you take a step.
Thankfully we were able to warm our feet up once at the sand dune. As the snow melts off the mountains, a spring stream is created through the sand dunes. A small stream of fresh (but not cold) water steadily flows, constantly changing directions, branching off and merging together, shifting sand, pushing stones, never to be the same twice. We hung out for two hours, burying of feet in the steams sand, running around splashing, and digging in the sand. We only wished we had all the shovels, buckets, and toys the little kids had .... :)
It was relaxing, exciting, and fun. I even remembered the SPF ... so no burns on Megan :)
Sunday, May 17, 2009
The Final Game
Soccer season finally came to an end.
Our last game resulted in a win of 13 - 1. Within the first eight minutes of the game we were ahead 4 - 0. By half time we huddled up and laid down a new rule. "You're only aloud to shoot the ball with your opposite / non dominate foot." Lets just say this didn't go over very well. However three more goals were made ....
Throughout the season the kids opened up to us and were soon able to joke around with us.
This season was very different from the last season, one difference being the ending record of four wins and two losses. It was a short season, but we all - players and coaches - had a blast.
Our last game resulted in a win of 13 - 1. Within the first eight minutes of the game we were ahead 4 - 0. By half time we huddled up and laid down a new rule. "You're only aloud to shoot the ball with your opposite / non dominate foot." Lets just say this didn't go over very well. However three more goals were made ....
Throughout the season the kids opened up to us and were soon able to joke around with us.
This season was very different from the last season, one difference being the ending record of four wins and two losses. It was a short season, but we all - players and coaches - had a blast.
Friday, May 15, 2009
O Sun.. Where Art Thy Burn?
Sorry I've been so slow at updates.
Last weekend was rather eventful ....
My friend from Kansas, Jesse, came back out for another visit. Nate was estatic about another male in the house ... which with them having each others back, resulted in mockery of throw pillows and decor. Another male in the house also brought on a challenge .... guys vs girls basketball game.
Saturday was an amazing day. Warm and sunny... a great day for two soccer games. Right our team had two soccer games. Sadly to say... it didn't go well. We had our teams first loss... but it wasn't even a loss... it was a blow out. Ending score being 15 to 4. The second game happened to be playing the same team... requesting for a shorter game ... we did alot better. However still lost 6 to 1.
That day also resulted in many house members feeling the wrath of the Colorado sun. Then sun which, in the valley, is 7,500 feet closer than we are used to. I laughed at my slightly red burn at first... that was... until it started to peel .... dumb sun. A lesson was learned by us all that day ...
SPF: quite vital.
Last weekend was rather eventful ....
My friend from Kansas, Jesse, came back out for another visit. Nate was estatic about another male in the house ... which with them having each others back, resulted in mockery of throw pillows and decor. Another male in the house also brought on a challenge .... guys vs girls basketball game.
Now, us girls pretty much dominated the whole game .. maintaining a good and steady lead... that was till the score came to girls 20 guys 19. We were playing to 20 with a win by two points .... that two point win... crushed our game. Resulting in a comeback from the guys, and their unjustly win.
That day also resulted in many house members feeling the wrath of the Colorado sun. Then sun which, in the valley, is 7,500 feet closer than we are used to. I laughed at my slightly red burn at first... that was... until it started to peel .... dumb sun. A lesson was learned by us all that day ...
SPF: quite vital.
Monday, May 4, 2009
Smell the Grass!
The snow's finally gone and soccer season is in swing! We had our first game two weekends ago.. FINALLY.
It's always a great feeling to watch the kids play and see what we've taught them click. During the middle of games we'll see them do some skilled move that will blow us away ... and they'll be so happy when they understand why we've been doing skill drills. Mary Jo and I are still protective coaches that "encouragingly" yell and give directions. It's still happening that you'll see Mary Jo or I dash down the to the other side of the field to explain something to a player. Most recently we've been explaining... "yes, you're the keeper, you CAN use your hands..." or "... no, you're the keeper, you can't go run up to take and dribble the ball, stay in the box..." They keep us on our toes.
(at half time of our first game I had to give a lesson of throw-ins
... a crucial part we forgot to review)
So far our season is going A LOT better than the fall season.
Game #1: win 7-0
Last weekends double header: Game #2: win 9-2
Game #3: (forfeit = automatic win) however we still scrimmaged (tie: 4-4)
We already beat our wins of last season... (last season wins:1) :)
It's always a great feeling to watch the kids play and see what we've taught them click. During the middle of games we'll see them do some skilled move that will blow us away ... and they'll be so happy when they understand why we've been doing skill drills. Mary Jo and I are still protective coaches that "encouragingly" yell and give directions. It's still happening that you'll see Mary Jo or I dash down the to the other side of the field to explain something to a player. Most recently we've been explaining... "yes, you're the keeper, you CAN use your hands..." or "... no, you're the keeper, you can't go run up to take and dribble the ball, stay in the box..." They keep us on our toes.
... a crucial part we forgot to review)
So far our season is going A LOT better than the fall season.
Game #1: win 7-0
Last weekends double header: Game #2: win 9-2
Game #3: (forfeit = automatic win) however we still scrimmaged (tie: 4-4)
We already beat our wins of last season... (last season wins:1) :)
Thursday, April 30, 2009
The Complications of Communication
Sorry, it's been a while since I've blogged.
Recently things at work have become a little stressful. At the church I have been planning a mission trip for my youth group. Another church invited our youth group to join there's, taking a trip to Arkansas. The week long trip sounded great, so planning began. However shortly prices were raise by hundreds per person, meals were thrown on, and vehicle rental added. A decent priced trip quickly rose thousands over my expectation.
For over a month I have been working with the other church clearing up details, finding prices, getting financial budgets and approvals. Every week there became a new problem to overcome. The other church was even willing to cover a big amount of the cost for our youth group, something I was extremely grateful for. Yet, even with this it came down to myself being the only adult with my youth group. A mission trip where I didn't feel any support from the church, as well as one that I, as an Americorps volunteer, was unable to lead with any religious associations (prayer, devotion, meditation, or discussion). It quickly became a trip that no longer felt "right" to me.
Today after a meeting with the pastor and contact with the other church, I have official called off the mission trip. Even though I know it is not my fault for all the problems, I feel as it is a failure of myself that it didn't work out.
I pray another opportunity will come up for my youth group. Now I have to face my youth members, deliver the news, and work through the disappointment.
Recently things at work have become a little stressful. At the church I have been planning a mission trip for my youth group. Another church invited our youth group to join there's, taking a trip to Arkansas. The week long trip sounded great, so planning began. However shortly prices were raise by hundreds per person, meals were thrown on, and vehicle rental added. A decent priced trip quickly rose thousands over my expectation.
For over a month I have been working with the other church clearing up details, finding prices, getting financial budgets and approvals. Every week there became a new problem to overcome. The other church was even willing to cover a big amount of the cost for our youth group, something I was extremely grateful for. Yet, even with this it came down to myself being the only adult with my youth group. A mission trip where I didn't feel any support from the church, as well as one that I, as an Americorps volunteer, was unable to lead with any religious associations (prayer, devotion, meditation, or discussion). It quickly became a trip that no longer felt "right" to me.
Today after a meeting with the pastor and contact with the other church, I have official called off the mission trip. Even though I know it is not my fault for all the problems, I feel as it is a failure of myself that it didn't work out.
I pray another opportunity will come up for my youth group. Now I have to face my youth members, deliver the news, and work through the disappointment.
Monday, April 20, 2009
Soccer Season
Our second soccer game was canceled. This snow is becoming a problem. Mary Jo and I are bummed about not having a game yet ... but we're trying to look on the bright side ... at least they'll get lots of practice in :)
We've been ending our practices with some type of drill or activity that will get the kids to run. The goal: wear them down before passing them back to parents (a key for getting parents to like you as a coach ;) ) Two weeks ago we were doing a drill where I'd lightly kick the ball away from them and they would all have to chase the ball. Upon getting to the ball they would have to stand in a line and pass the ball (with their hands) over their head, under their legs, over the head, under .... till the last person in line. We do this a few times and then I unleash :) On the last one, I'll punt the ball as hard as possible and off they sprint, grins on their faces. Well, half way there most of the kids are pooped out and walking.
Last week we did a new drill. Follow the leader. This is where Mary Jo and I would jog around the field doing funny things. The kids would jog directly behind us and do as we do. So off we'd go, skipping, jumping, shuffling, zig zagging. We did this for a little bit, then Mary Jo and I started to do froggers (a funny motion where you squat down like a frog and jump as high as possible) after doing a few Mary Jo and I glanced back to make sure they were following correctly. What did we see? A few kids walking, one completely sitting down, and the rest ... just standing and watching. Yes, if you would have been there to witness this, you would've seen two adult coaching leaping around a field with a pack of ten-year-olds watching. Needless to say, that immediately concluded our practice :)
We often make fools of ourselves, but laugh it off and enjoy the company of our team.
Hopefully this Saturday we'll have our first game!
We've been ending our practices with some type of drill or activity that will get the kids to run. The goal: wear them down before passing them back to parents (a key for getting parents to like you as a coach ;) ) Two weeks ago we were doing a drill where I'd lightly kick the ball away from them and they would all have to chase the ball. Upon getting to the ball they would have to stand in a line and pass the ball (with their hands) over their head, under their legs, over the head, under .... till the last person in line. We do this a few times and then I unleash :) On the last one, I'll punt the ball as hard as possible and off they sprint, grins on their faces. Well, half way there most of the kids are pooped out and walking.
Last week we did a new drill. Follow the leader. This is where Mary Jo and I would jog around the field doing funny things. The kids would jog directly behind us and do as we do. So off we'd go, skipping, jumping, shuffling, zig zagging. We did this for a little bit, then Mary Jo and I started to do froggers (a funny motion where you squat down like a frog and jump as high as possible) after doing a few Mary Jo and I glanced back to make sure they were following correctly. What did we see? A few kids walking, one completely sitting down, and the rest ... just standing and watching. Yes, if you would have been there to witness this, you would've seen two adult coaching leaping around a field with a pack of ten-year-olds watching. Needless to say, that immediately concluded our practice :)
We often make fools of ourselves, but laugh it off and enjoy the company of our team.
Hopefully this Saturday we'll have our first game!
Thursday, April 16, 2009
Spring Snow = Snowballs
Easter morning.
Excitement was in the air ... until I looked out the window and saw, again, snow. I had an Easter egg hunt planned for all the children at church. However, with having a few inches of snow, this provided a problem. The solution was easy. Indoor Easter egg hunt.
Excitement was in the air ... until I looked out the window and saw, again, snow. I had an Easter egg hunt planned for all the children at church. However, with having a few inches of snow, this provided a problem. The solution was easy. Indoor Easter egg hunt.
While I was in the church service, I had a few youth members "hide" Easter eggs in the gym. Now, first off... the gym ... not very many hiding spots. Once church was let out the children grabbed their baskets and dashed to the gym. Upon turning the corner their eyes opened wide and the sound of muffled "wow" could be heard. There upon the children was a gym floor COVERED with neon eggs. Needless to say, there was a mad dash of children on the floor, scooping up eggs. :)
Arriving home, I walked through the door, grinned at Mary Jo and simply asked .... "wanna go play outside?" Ten minutes later, Nate, Kiley, Mary Jo and I were all bundled up. Immediately we all began to make a snowman. Problem only being, there were four of us each making the snowman's base. The result. Four giant balls of snow that even with all four of us, could barely be lifted. The end result: Mr. Snowman and baby.
Arriving home, I walked through the door, grinned at Mary Jo and simply asked .... "wanna go play outside?" Ten minutes later, Nate, Kiley, Mary Jo and I were all bundled up. Immediately we all began to make a snowman. Problem only being, there were four of us each making the snowman's base. The result. Four giant balls of snow that even with all four of us, could barely be lifted. The end result: Mr. Snowman and baby.
We all slowly headed indoors. However, right before entering the house Kiley chucked a ball of snow at Nate and RAN inside to the safe haven. This left Nate and I outside... which also result in a full out snowball fight. House, cars, snowman and bushes became blockades. To the point of heavy breathing, soaking wet, and laughing too hard ... a truce was called.
Sadly, to end this story.... six hours later our friends we gone ... until next snow... :)
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