Merry Christmas from Avidadventurer :)
The Christmas Story-as told by kids
About Me
- Global Expeditions
- This blog chronicles my adventures since my junior year of college to..everywhere. Primarily it consists of life experiences and God stories in Honduras, Costa Rica, and Panama. Enjoy and God bless!
Saturday, December 22, 2012
Tuesday, December 11, 2012
King Tut's Treasures
This is an article I wrote for the school newspaper about the 6th grade field trip to the King Tut museum. It was a great opportunity to connect faith and learning!:
King Tut's Treasures
On November 1st, sixth graders had the
opportunity of a lifetime!
Together, alongside Mr. Almack, Mrs. Harrill and me, they
traveled to Museo Reina Torres de Arauz to explore the treasures and artifacts
of Ancient Egypt and King Tuthankamen. King Tuthankamen was an Egyptian pharaoh
who died at a young age, but it is all the “stuff” he left behind that reveals
to us more about life in Ancient Egypt during his time. The 6th
graders not only were able to see artifacts from King Tut’s tomb but several
rooms filled with exhibits on topics such as the relationship between Greece
and Egypt, Ramses II, Cleopatra, Akenhaten, the pyramids, the mummification
process, and the mysteries surrounding Ancient Egypt.
The replicas the museum used were very realistic, and the 6th
graders were inspired in the creation of their own museum exhibits for their
Ancient Egypt and the Near East project. The students also were able to do a
scavenger hunt for the many gods the Egyptians worshipped. In the words of one
6th grader: “Their beliefs were so complicated! It would have been
easier to believe in the true God, Yahweh.”
One of our favorite exhibits at the museum was where we were
all escorted into a cave, an exact replica of the Book of Caverns, complete
with painted hieroglyphics covering the walls and telling the story of their
beliefs about the afterlife. They even had sand on the floor!
When we returned to school, Mrs. Harrill had a special
surprise for all of us! She told us her recruiting friend from a school in
Cairo, Egypt, had sent hieroglyphic bookmarks to the 6th graders at
CCA as a gift and a reminder to pray for them.
It is very difficult to be in school in Cairo, because of
many riots and violence in the country. Also, people cannot worship God as
freely there, and Christians are persecuted. When our CCA students see their
Cairo bookmarks, they can remember their fun time at the Egypt museum and to
pray for the students at the Cairo Covenant School.
Curundu Christmas Party
Twas 5 days before break, when 6th through 8th grade
Planned a fun party to give, share, celebrate
The presents were wrapped on the tables with care
In hopes that Curundu soon would be there
When up pulled a bus with the windows rolled down
Loaded with kids, not one had a frown
Meeting their buddies with hugs and high fives
The students kneeled down with care in their eyes
They guided the kids through a game and snack line
To visit Mrs. Claus and her elf--very kind!
They helped the kids listen during a skit
and watched little eyes widen when finding their gifts.
Feliz Navidad! They shouted in glee
alongside their buddy, attached at the knee
Jump ropes and make-up, hula-hoops and toy cars
The students learned that to love, there's no need to go far
Soccer balls in hand, the kids waved goodbye
Hasta luego and we'll see you next time!
Planned a fun party to give, share, celebrate
The presents were wrapped on the tables with care
In hopes that Curundu soon would be there
When up pulled a bus with the windows rolled down
Loaded with kids, not one had a frown
Meeting their buddies with hugs and high fives
The students kneeled down with care in their eyes
They guided the kids through a game and snack line
To visit Mrs. Claus and her elf--very kind!
They helped the kids listen during a skit
and watched little eyes widen when finding their gifts.
Feliz Navidad! They shouted in glee
alongside their buddy, attached at the knee
Jump ropes and make-up, hula-hoops and toy cars
The students learned that to love, there's no need to go far
Soccer balls in hand, the kids waved goodbye
Hasta luego and we'll see you next time!
Saturday, December 1, 2012
Radical
Ever since the International Day of Prayer for the Persecuted Church this year, I've subscribed to receive daily ministry updates and prayer requests from Open Doors International. (Which I'd highly recommend if you want to a) deepen your prayer life and b) become more aware of God's work and global events around the world.)
I just had to share this powerful devotional. Whether you are "standing strong through the storm" or giving God glory for calming the seas, this is a message of challenge and of encouragement for all Christ-followers. God has the victory!
RADICAL CHRISTIANITY
(by Paul Estabrooks of Open Doors International, 2011)
"Radical Christianity is a lifestyle, not just a mindset. Radical Christianity is concerned with:
It suffers regularly, soars often, sweats daily, saturates everything and spreads everywhere. Radical Christianity calls sin black, hell hot, hypocrisy evil, Satan a liar and judgment sure. It doesn’t back down, sit down or stay down. Radical Christianity doesn't depend on the strokes of others to keep it going. It doesn’t acquiesce in the face of loud opposition, fold under pressure, wince under criticism, tarnish under time, die under duress, fade under technology, nor rot under moisture. It doesn’t rust, retreat, renounce, reconsider, return or renege.
Radical Christianity always lifts up Christ, knocks down barriers, marches over objections, overwhelms pessimism, gobbles up cynicism, and tramples down skepticism.
Radical Christianity gives lavishly, prays relentlessly, claims abundantly, works feverishly, preaches powerfully, serves lovingly, perseveres patiently and believes expectantly! Radical Christianity dares to challenge the prevailing standard to make it God’s.
It never plays to the grandstands, nor waters down its position, nor adjusts its principles, but rather is a thermostat that controls its surroundings, never a thermometer that merely adjusts to them.
It is never big, popular, stylish, convenient, in vogue or in-step with the world. Its adherents are few, its sound clear, its philosophy unpopular and its rewards great. Its disciples aren’t rewarded by this world but are those to whom Christ will say, “Well done!”
A congregation of believers was worshiping in a Sunday service in Peru when a squad of heavily armed "Shining Path" rebels came rushing in. “We’ve heard that this group is committed to God. How many of you are willing to die for your faith? Raise your hands,” he commanded.
Fearing they would be slaughtered, most of the congregation remained still. But a small number of believers tentatively raised their hands. The others were released and the commander said, “Those of you who raised your hands, stop worrying. We’re not going to kill you. We just wanted to see who in the congregation believed enough in their faith that they were willing to die for it. That’s the kind of radical commitment we’re looking for.”
I just had to share this powerful devotional. Whether you are "standing strong through the storm" or giving God glory for calming the seas, this is a message of challenge and of encouragement for all Christ-followers. God has the victory!
RADICAL CHRISTIANITY
(by Paul Estabrooks of Open Doors International, 2011)
"Radical Christianity is a lifestyle, not just a mindset. Radical Christianity is concerned with:
- Conquering, not cowering.
- Sacrifice, not superficiality.
- Victory, not verbiage.
- Scoring, not slumming.
- Penetration, not pandering.
It suffers regularly, soars often, sweats daily, saturates everything and spreads everywhere. Radical Christianity calls sin black, hell hot, hypocrisy evil, Satan a liar and judgment sure. It doesn’t back down, sit down or stay down. Radical Christianity doesn't depend on the strokes of others to keep it going. It doesn’t acquiesce in the face of loud opposition, fold under pressure, wince under criticism, tarnish under time, die under duress, fade under technology, nor rot under moisture. It doesn’t rust, retreat, renounce, reconsider, return or renege.
Radical Christianity always lifts up Christ, knocks down barriers, marches over objections, overwhelms pessimism, gobbles up cynicism, and tramples down skepticism.
Radical Christianity gives lavishly, prays relentlessly, claims abundantly, works feverishly, preaches powerfully, serves lovingly, perseveres patiently and believes expectantly! Radical Christianity dares to challenge the prevailing standard to make it God’s.
It never plays to the grandstands, nor waters down its position, nor adjusts its principles, but rather is a thermostat that controls its surroundings, never a thermometer that merely adjusts to them.
It is never big, popular, stylish, convenient, in vogue or in-step with the world. Its adherents are few, its sound clear, its philosophy unpopular and its rewards great. Its disciples aren’t rewarded by this world but are those to whom Christ will say, “Well done!”
A congregation of believers was worshiping in a Sunday service in Peru when a squad of heavily armed "Shining Path" rebels came rushing in. “We’ve heard that this group is committed to God. How many of you are willing to die for your faith? Raise your hands,” he commanded.
Fearing they would be slaughtered, most of the congregation remained still. But a small number of believers tentatively raised their hands. The others were released and the commander said, “Those of you who raised your hands, stop worrying. We’re not going to kill you. We just wanted to see who in the congregation believed enough in their faith that they were willing to die for it. That’s the kind of radical commitment we’re looking for.”
RESPONSE
Today I commit to being a radical Christian and give everything I am and have
Today I commit to being a radical Christian and give everything I am and have
to Jesus.
PRAYER
Pray for Christians in conflict areas
Pray for Christians in conflict areas
who must regularly put their lives on the line."
Standing Strong Through The Storm (SSTS) A daily devotional message by SSTS author Paul Estabrooks
© 2011 Open Doors International. Used by permissionMonday, November 26, 2012
La Pintada
I received a knock on my door this morning, "Hey, we're going to La Pintada today. Wanna come?"
It was the Pilliod family, all ready with the country music and their red truck, which they call "Little Mule," waiting outside.
"Sure!" I quick put in contacts, stuffed my money and passport in a bag, and hurried down the stairs to meet them.
An hour later, we find ourselves urging "Little Mule" on, as we chugged up the hill to La Cabana National Park. Our plan was to head to La Pintada, but since it was a clear day, we made a pit stop for pictures and a picnic of empanadas from Quesos Chela. The view was astounding..and I couldn't even believe I was looking at Panama. Lush green mountains lined with pine trees, bordered by sheer rock cliffs, contrasted with the serene, blue-grey ocean in the distance. You could see Chame, several little towns in between, and a cross on top of the nearest mountain. Plus, it was a gorgeous, sunny day with clear views in all directions.
Following this uphill adventure, we continued on to our destination town: La Pintada. La Pintada is known mainly for two things: 1) this is where the traditional Panamanian hats are made, and 2) there are rocks with petroglyphs here. Guess which of these we found??
Well, after driving down what seemed like every road in the little town, passing the church plaza area several times and a policeman who never stopped the crazy gringos in the pick up truck, we went down one road that said it led to the river. Sure enough, it did! I won't mention that we went off-roading down a steep hill to get there, but we found it!
It was wonderful to stretch our legs and climb over the tiny pools that had formed in the rocks along the bank and watch the sediment-laden river rush by us. We paused to take in the tranquility of it all: then suddenly, we heard branches crashing down right behind us. We whipped around, expecting to see an animal. But it was a person! He was a short man with sun-baked wrinkles, wielding a machete, and working to clear the land. He was wearing a sombrero pintado (painted hat-the traditional Panamanian hat). He gave us directions to the hat-making place.
We ended up not finding it, which is just as well because we later found out that everything in that town was closed for the holiday. We drove down little roads to explore awhile, and stumbled upon a cigar factory. The owner's face lit up when she saw us, and she agreed to explain to us a little bit about how they made the cigars. It was fascinating to learn about this local business; they literally roll each cigar by hand. They also had jewelry and hats for sale. Probably the only place open in the entire town that day. We paid her for her time.
Next, we went on a search up rugged mountain roads for the rocks with the petroglyphs. We didn't find them, but we did see a guy waiting on the side of the road. We asked him if he knew where the petroglyphs were and we'd give him a ride in the back of the pick up truck in exchange. Fair deal, he thought, and hopped in.
We drive back down the mountain, until there is barbed wire on either side of us, a thick, grassy area, laden with rocks and cow pies. Our "guide" starts enthusiastically pointing towards the side of the street. "This must be it," we agreed and pulled over.
What an adventure that was! Climbing over or scooting under barbed wire, crossing the river (good thing I had my Keens!), and finally following our guide to two different sets of rocks with moss-covered engravings on them. We would have NEVER found those petroglyphs without our guide. He said that there was another rock that had petroglyphs on it but it was currently underwater, but we could see it if we came back in March. Ha!
We dropped him back in town with our thanks and a tip and headed home, a little wet but savoring the fun, and a little loco, experiences we had in La Pintada and on our journey. We sang along to country tunes, and the "Little Mule" carried us back to Clayton once again.
It was the Pilliod family, all ready with the country music and their red truck, which they call "Little Mule," waiting outside.
"Sure!" I quick put in contacts, stuffed my money and passport in a bag, and hurried down the stairs to meet them.
An hour later, we find ourselves urging "Little Mule" on, as we chugged up the hill to La Cabana National Park. Our plan was to head to La Pintada, but since it was a clear day, we made a pit stop for pictures and a picnic of empanadas from Quesos Chela. The view was astounding..and I couldn't even believe I was looking at Panama. Lush green mountains lined with pine trees, bordered by sheer rock cliffs, contrasted with the serene, blue-grey ocean in the distance. You could see Chame, several little towns in between, and a cross on top of the nearest mountain. Plus, it was a gorgeous, sunny day with clear views in all directions.
Following this uphill adventure, we continued on to our destination town: La Pintada. La Pintada is known mainly for two things: 1) this is where the traditional Panamanian hats are made, and 2) there are rocks with petroglyphs here. Guess which of these we found??
Well, after driving down what seemed like every road in the little town, passing the church plaza area several times and a policeman who never stopped the crazy gringos in the pick up truck, we went down one road that said it led to the river. Sure enough, it did! I won't mention that we went off-roading down a steep hill to get there, but we found it!
It was wonderful to stretch our legs and climb over the tiny pools that had formed in the rocks along the bank and watch the sediment-laden river rush by us. We paused to take in the tranquility of it all: then suddenly, we heard branches crashing down right behind us. We whipped around, expecting to see an animal. But it was a person! He was a short man with sun-baked wrinkles, wielding a machete, and working to clear the land. He was wearing a sombrero pintado (painted hat-the traditional Panamanian hat). He gave us directions to the hat-making place.
We ended up not finding it, which is just as well because we later found out that everything in that town was closed for the holiday. We drove down little roads to explore awhile, and stumbled upon a cigar factory. The owner's face lit up when she saw us, and she agreed to explain to us a little bit about how they made the cigars. It was fascinating to learn about this local business; they literally roll each cigar by hand. They also had jewelry and hats for sale. Probably the only place open in the entire town that day. We paid her for her time.
Next, we went on a search up rugged mountain roads for the rocks with the petroglyphs. We didn't find them, but we did see a guy waiting on the side of the road. We asked him if he knew where the petroglyphs were and we'd give him a ride in the back of the pick up truck in exchange. Fair deal, he thought, and hopped in.
We drive back down the mountain, until there is barbed wire on either side of us, a thick, grassy area, laden with rocks and cow pies. Our "guide" starts enthusiastically pointing towards the side of the street. "This must be it," we agreed and pulled over.
What an adventure that was! Climbing over or scooting under barbed wire, crossing the river (good thing I had my Keens!), and finally following our guide to two different sets of rocks with moss-covered engravings on them. We would have NEVER found those petroglyphs without our guide. He said that there was another rock that had petroglyphs on it but it was currently underwater, but we could see it if we came back in March. Ha!
We dropped him back in town with our thanks and a tip and headed home, a little wet but savoring the fun, and a little loco, experiences we had in La Pintada and on our journey. We sang along to country tunes, and the "Little Mule" carried us back to Clayton once again.
Panama Pictures
 |
| A glimpse into my classroom (before school started-I'll take an updated photo soon) |
Also, I am super proud of my 6th grade Ancient Civilizations class. Check out photos of our Night at the Museum, here: Night at the Museum
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| Playa Bonita: where we had our church women's retreat back in October |
 |
| On very accurately named, Playa Bonita (Beautiful Beach). Only 15-20 minutes from the school. |
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| Volleyball tournament with students vs. staff |
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| We've made many trips out to the Amador Causeway--one of my favorite spots in Panama City. |
 |
| There is an awesome view from the Causeway of the city skyline. |
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| The view from Ancon Hill, overlooking the Panama Canal. |
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| The Panama Canal Museum at the Miraflores Locks |
 |
| Learned how to make arepas (a Venezuelan meal) with my Spanish tutor, her son, and his friend. |
 | ||||||||||
| Map of Panama (made by students for Fiestas Patrias)--Many more places to visit!! |
Return to Boquete
11-24-12
Thanksgiving Break is here! And I have returned to Boquete, a small town tucked into the mountains, about 7 hours from Panama City. Four teachers and I, loaded up our suitcases and in the spirit of adventure, took the long bus ride to David and a chicken bus to Boquete. The town greeted us as usual with pouring down rain and cool winds, and we were elated to step inside our warm cabin of a hotel with its couches perfectly positioned next to the fireplace and a shelf of books. This is vacation!
We even had the privilege of going to the Rock Restaurant for jazz night and a gourmet style Thanksgiving dinner.
Mostly our time here has been relaxing, reading, exploring the marketplaces and little festivities the town is having for the Panama holidays; however, yesterday was a different story!
We headed up to Boquete Tree Trek (where I had done my coffee tour before) and met our friendly guides for our Zipline Canopy Tour. For Esther and Katy, it was their first time ever ziplining, and they were amazing! Despite the drizzling rain and cold temperatures, we had a blast zipping over breathtaking views of river rapids, coffee farms, and waterfalls. It was definitely a bonding experience as we cheered each other on crossing the 70 meter to 410 meter long wires.
Por supuesto, our zipline tour was followed by a coffee tour and the chance to warm up again. It was so fun to share this experience together; we even ran into two teacher families from the school!
The next day we took a taxi out to Cascada San Ramon and our taxi driver took the scenic route back to our hotel, giving us incredible views of the Boquete area, even seeing a little castle on a hill. When we asked about it, he said something to the effect of, "yeah, in Boquete people build whatever they want." Hilarious.
Thanksgiving Break is here! And I have returned to Boquete, a small town tucked into the mountains, about 7 hours from Panama City. Four teachers and I, loaded up our suitcases and in the spirit of adventure, took the long bus ride to David and a chicken bus to Boquete. The town greeted us as usual with pouring down rain and cool winds, and we were elated to step inside our warm cabin of a hotel with its couches perfectly positioned next to the fireplace and a shelf of books. This is vacation!
We even had the privilege of going to the Rock Restaurant for jazz night and a gourmet style Thanksgiving dinner.
Mostly our time here has been relaxing, reading, exploring the marketplaces and little festivities the town is having for the Panama holidays; however, yesterday was a different story!
We headed up to Boquete Tree Trek (where I had done my coffee tour before) and met our friendly guides for our Zipline Canopy Tour. For Esther and Katy, it was their first time ever ziplining, and they were amazing! Despite the drizzling rain and cold temperatures, we had a blast zipping over breathtaking views of river rapids, coffee farms, and waterfalls. It was definitely a bonding experience as we cheered each other on crossing the 70 meter to 410 meter long wires.
Por supuesto, our zipline tour was followed by a coffee tour and the chance to warm up again. It was so fun to share this experience together; we even ran into two teacher families from the school!
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| CCA reunion! |
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| Coffee Tasting |
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| Riverside Inn, our "home" in Boquete |
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| The 500-piece puzzle we solved together :) |
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| San Ramon Waterfall |
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There seem to be rainbows everywhere in Boquete! Frequent reminders of God's promises!
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Sunday, November 25, 2012
Gamboa Union Church
One Sunday I had the privilege of attending Gamboa Union Church, about 45 minutes outside the city. It was amazing to sit in the pews of a church I had heard a great deal about while growing up and meet and talk with Pastor Wilbur, a long time friend of my grandpa. Over the years, the little church has maintained its focus on seeking and saving the lost, whether through overseas mission, welcoming different YWAM teams, or ministering to the indigenous groups in the area. It was a joy to worship in this diverse and welcoming church body.
I recently finished reading Pastor Wilbur's book, entitled: Finding Freedom in Panama. It is his incredible account of ministering to prisoners at the Renacer and Modelo prisons during a time of political unrest in Panama. I was awe-struck to hear how God, in all His sovereignty, redeemed some of the worst situations imaginable and used them to set many spiritual captives free, forever changing lives by the power of Christ and the transforming work of the Holy Spirit.
Second, I was struck by the lesson that: When we obey, God blesses. Even if it's our "little lunch of loaves and fishes", God will multiply what we surrender to Him to use and use it in a way that we never imagined was possible. So what do we have to fear?
2 Timothy 1:7
"For God did not give us a spirit of fear and timidity, but a spirit of power, of love, and of self-discipline."
Saturday, November 24, 2012
Isla Taboga
11-04-12
With Fiestas Patrias in full swing, this meant a month full of intermittent holidays and chopped up school weeks, the month everyone had been long expecting: November.
One of the adventures four other teachers and I got to share on a day off was visiting Isla Taboga. A forty-five minute ferry ride from the end of the Amador Causeway, we watched as the city skyline shrunk into the horizon. Our Clayton apartment, CCA, our weekly routines and frequented places, all left behind. It felt like Taboga was a world away. A different Panama.
White sandy beaches decked with colorful seashells and clear water with a gentle tide all made Isla Taboga a perfect day trip from Panama City. We read, walked on the beach, swam in the cool water, and explored the little town with as a local put it ^solo tres restaurantes^. Meeting some British ladies who were also searching for a place for breakfast, we discovered a hotel cafe with an amazing view of the ocean. We exchanged international experiences, and I was inspired to hear how traveling changes and expands one`s perspective on the world. It was a special and refreshing time.
The ferry back allowed us another opportunity to look around and admire the paradise around us, seeing the Bridge of the Americas, Playa Bonita (where we had had our church women`s retreat just weeks ago), and a line of ships getting ready to enter the canal. As I unboarded the ferry and gazed back to see where we had come, I reflected on the journey from where God had brought me: from Illinois to California to Honduras to Costa Rica, and now this new chapter in Panama. Multiple times in my life God has affirmed that He is my help and deliverer and gives me a firm place to stand (Ps. 40). Wherever I am, I can serve Him with the confidence He is there.
Psalm 40:1-3
I waited patiently for the Lord;
he turned to me and heard my cry.
2 He lifted me out of the slimy pit,
out of the mud and mire;
he set my feet on a rock
and gave me a firm place to stand.
3 He put a new song in my mouth,
a hymn of praise to our God.
Many will see and fear the Lord
and put their trust in him.
With Fiestas Patrias in full swing, this meant a month full of intermittent holidays and chopped up school weeks, the month everyone had been long expecting: November.
One of the adventures four other teachers and I got to share on a day off was visiting Isla Taboga. A forty-five minute ferry ride from the end of the Amador Causeway, we watched as the city skyline shrunk into the horizon. Our Clayton apartment, CCA, our weekly routines and frequented places, all left behind. It felt like Taboga was a world away. A different Panama.
White sandy beaches decked with colorful seashells and clear water with a gentle tide all made Isla Taboga a perfect day trip from Panama City. We read, walked on the beach, swam in the cool water, and explored the little town with as a local put it ^solo tres restaurantes^. Meeting some British ladies who were also searching for a place for breakfast, we discovered a hotel cafe with an amazing view of the ocean. We exchanged international experiences, and I was inspired to hear how traveling changes and expands one`s perspective on the world. It was a special and refreshing time.
The ferry back allowed us another opportunity to look around and admire the paradise around us, seeing the Bridge of the Americas, Playa Bonita (where we had had our church women`s retreat just weeks ago), and a line of ships getting ready to enter the canal. As I unboarded the ferry and gazed back to see where we had come, I reflected on the journey from where God had brought me: from Illinois to California to Honduras to Costa Rica, and now this new chapter in Panama. Multiple times in my life God has affirmed that He is my help and deliverer and gives me a firm place to stand (Ps. 40). Wherever I am, I can serve Him with the confidence He is there.
Psalm 40:1-3
I waited patiently for the Lord;
he turned to me and heard my cry.
2 He lifted me out of the slimy pit,
out of the mud and mire;
he set my feet on a rock
and gave me a firm place to stand.
3 He put a new song in my mouth,
a hymn of praise to our God.
Many will see and fear the Lord
and put their trust in him.
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