The Life and Times of Kimmyk

The End

2008-07-25T20:54:00.003-06:00

As my life as a Kessler has come to an end so has my blog. You can catch up on our new life together through our new blog; bushmansrus.blogspot.com.

A time for change.

2008-07-06T17:08:00.002-06:00

In 12 days 20 hours and 49 minutes, I will be a wife.... I'm still trying to wrap my mind around that!! I cannot even express the excitement that is bubbling inside of me when I think about how I get to spend the rest of my life with Daniel, God has blessed me so much through this man!! It seems as though about this time every year there seems to be some sort of change that occurs, whether that be, moving out, moving home, or starting school. This year will certainly have its changes, probably more than any other year that I have experienced. Not only am I getting married, but to make a long story short, it looks like we will be re-locating as well. This is certainly not something that we expected to happen right now, funny that that is usually how God works. And some of these changes will be harder than others, many tears will be shed I'm sure, yet with all the stress and scrambling to be prepared, there is peace. And even more than peace, there is joy and excitment of starting a new life together!! What gives me that joy is knowing that God has been so incredibly faithful to us and trusting that His faithfulness will not run dry! I would appreciate your prayers as we continue to make plans, there are still a lot of un-knowns with housing situations, and a job for myself, so if you think of us that would be sweet!! I'm also guessing that this will be the last time I will be posting as a Kessler, so I will update you with the new blog info soon. Hope y'all have a good day!

Oops!

2008-05-08T22:55:00.002-06:00

Okay so today I realized a big booboo that I made. Turns out the email address on our invitations is wrong, it's acutally kimanddanielforever@yahoo.com not .ca. So sorry to anyone who's been trying to send anything, I'm kinda kicking myself that I didn't catch that but oh well. Like my sister said, if that's the worst thing that goes wrong with wedding plans, I shouldn't really have to complain. Hope ya'all have a good week!

A Beautiful Sunday!

2008-04-28T18:41:00.005-06:00

We spent a lovely day yesterday with my family, we went mini-golfing, for a walk by the river, and finished it off with filling our chinese food cravings! It's finally starting to feel like spring around here!

We all got a kick out of Steph's outfit!!

2008-04-23T12:00:00.002-06:00

Less than three months left!! It's amazing how quickly time has gone by already, a lot has been done already but it seems that there is always more to do before the big day. I've had some people to bug me about posting some of the details so here goes... Chrystal, this is for you!

1. Who are your bridesmaids?

My maid of Honor is my friend Karis, and my bridesmaids are my friend, Jolene, my sisters, Steph and Miranda, and my soon to be sister-in-law, Tanya.

2. Candlelighters?

My cousin Chrystal and my sister, Jenna

3. Do you have your dress yet?

Yes, I got my dress like three days after I got engaged! My mom and sisters had the day off so we decided to go for a look. Turns out we found the perfect one right off the rack with very little hassle and no alterations!! We were very thankful!!

4. Where are the ceremony and reception going to be?

The ceremony will be at my home church in Waldheim, and the reception is going to be at the Jubilee Centre in Waldheim.

5. Is there a theme for the wedding? What are your colours?

I don't know about a theme, my colors are a minty green and black.

6. Are you registered anywhere?

Yes, Sears and Wal-mart

7. Will there be a dance?

ha... no... it would be fun but we are not really the big dancer type.

Engagement Pictures!

2008-03-21T16:55:00.007-06:00

So I guess some people are getting impatient with the proposal details so here we go.... Daniel told me he was taking me out for supper on Wednesday to celebrate our anniversary, so he shows up at my door with a dozen pink roses.... so sweet! He took me to Chianti's to eat, which happens to be my favorite restaurant and the first place we went after we started officially dating so that was special! After that we took a nice stroll by the river, it was a perfect evening... there was no wind and the sun was shining!! We walked across the bridge and stopped to get some hot chocolate at the coffee shop were we had our first date. He then took me to a picnic spot in the trees overlooking the river and we sat there for awhile. At one point he pointed off into the distance and told me to look (this was defiantly a Daniel move), of course confused because there was nothing there, I look back and there He is down on one knee. At this point, the tears were already coming... he showed me the ring and asked me to marry him and I guess, the rest is history!

We stopped in Waldheim that night to surprise my family, we had a lot of fun celebrating!! We are now in Watrous for a couple of days to visit Daniel's family and my soon to be sister-in-law, took engagement pictures for us! Thanks Tanya, I really appreciate you doing that for us, they look great and we had a lot of fun!

I am feeling so incrediably blessed to have the most wonderful man in the whole world actually want to marry me!! I am so excited to spend the rest of my life with this man and the journey that God has planned for us! Thank you Daniel for all you are to me, I love you so much!

I'm Engaged!!!!

2008-03-20T00:08:00.002-06:00

Just wanted to let y'all know that this evening, Daniel asked me to marry him!! I would love to have been able to call everybody to share the good news but it's kinda difficult getting ahold of everybody so I thought I'd do it this way!! I feel so incrediably excited right now... but it still hasn't really sunk in yet. I don't think I'll be getting much sleep tonight, my mind is already running a mile and minute. I'll let you know more details tomorrow of what went down tonight!! Goodnight!

Sunshine

2008-02-26T21:44:00.003-06:00

There's something about sunshine that makes me want to jump up and down with glee. To my delight these past couple of days have been filled with warm rays, something that I was beginning to forget through these long winter months. It made me happy, like there was hope that spring will come some day, that new life may be just around the corner. I can't wait until I can crawl into my flip-flops, take a stroll outside, and feel the warmth of those rays on my back. Someday.... summer will come.... somday.

On a totally different note, went to see Step Up 2 tonight with a friend of mine. Probably one of the better movies I have seen in a long time! It is at times like these where I kinda wish that my feet weren't both left and that my sense of movement wasn't so akward. Oh well... we all have different talents I guess... and that is definatly not mine. If you know me well enough you will know that that is very true, my dancing is not very pleasing to the eye .... if you can even call it that.

Not much else is new, work is busy as usual. Lots of staff changes which has its challenges but nothing I can't handle. Losing me roommate in a week and a half, she's getting married. I'm going to miss her around here, I have a feeling its going to get kinda lonely. But hopefully not for long because I'm planning on moving in with another friend of mine in a couple of months so I am really looking forward to that! Well, until next time, take care,

2008-02-09T17:43:00.000-06:00

Oops, it seems as though I am not too good at this whole blogging thing... two months without a post, not too good. I'll have to blame that on a combination of busyness and procrastination.

It is at times like these where I question why my ancestors decided to settle here in Saskatchewan, pretty much one of the coldest spots in the world right now. I don't like winter as it is (after Christmas anyways), and when you through in this deadly cold bout, it just about does me in. Although I shouldn't really complain that much because I have a warm place to sleep at night, that is more than some people can say.

Fortunately, the biting bitter cold outside doesn't affect the warmness in my heart. I am continually amazed at the blessings in my life. It excites me to see that as time goes by, a little but more of God's plan for me is revealed, and as that happens I can look back and realize that the challenges and hard times of the past all work towards His greater plan. And as I try to figure life out, I am thoroughly blessed by the people in my life that show me love and encouragement. For that I am so thankful!

I will try my best to be more faithful in updating, bye for now.

Life

2007-12-15T21:48:00.000-06:00

Wow... realized I haven't posted in quite a while and thought maybe I should give a little update even though there is not much new from the last time I posted. If I had to use one word to best describe the last month, it would probably be JOY. I don't really know how to elaborate more than to say my heart is at peace and I am content. Sure there are the occasional bad days here and there, and of course the questions of an unknown future sometimes run too much through my head. Yet I am quickly brought back to this sense of contentment, this confidence in God's goodness and faithfulness.

"I have seen you in the sanctuary and behold your power and your glory. Because your love is better than life, my lips will glorify you. I will praise you as long as I live, and in your name I will lift up my hands. My soul will be satisfied as with the richest of foods; with singing lips my mouth will praise you. - Psalm 63:2-5

Skating at the Bessboroug

A reason to celebrate!! My roommate/best friend got engaged last weekend. Congratulations Jared and Karis, I am so excited for you!!

2007-11-13T14:57:00.000-06:00

I have to say that these last couple of weeks I have had especially a lot to be thankful for. One of them being that I have finally found a place to live in the city!! We discovered the place through a friend and I am now living in a condo while the owners are south for the winter. It is amazing how many prayers were answered through this and I am continually amazed at His perfect timing. The condo is huge for one thing, with two large bedrooms, and two sitting areas. Complete with underground parking and a jacuzzi tub!! It is close to work for both my roommate and I and is very affordable! We moved in last weekend and are already thorougly enjoying our accomadations, the baked goods from our many sweet neigbours have been a real treat as well (it pays to live in a seniors complex)!!!

Here are some pics from the last few weeks;

Danie's sister and brother - and- law went with us the the Riders game on November 3rd. It was cold but we all had a good time!!

Yes, that's right. Christmas is here at the Kessler house!! We set up the tree this past weekend!

A New Chapter

2007-10-27T16:40:00.000-06:00

I'm sure y'all have heard the rumor but I thought I'd confirm that yes, it is indeed true. I am dating Daniel Bushman. God always amazes me with His timing and I wake up every day with a heart filled with gratitude. I am excited about this new path that I am heading down, which is yet another testament to His un-ending faithfulness.

2007-10-14T19:21:00.000-06:00

This last couple of weeks has not been an easy time for my family as my grandpa Loewen passed away on the 4th of October. Pretty much the whole family was able to come out for the long weekend as we said good-bye and celebrated the life of Grandpa. It's incrediably difficult to lose someone you love yet God has promised to bring hope. His faitfulness never fails as I see evidence of every day.
I was relieved with joy when I recieved a phone call last weekend saying that my friend and I had finally found a place to live. I had prayed about it and it seemed as though God was putting this aparment right in our laps. So we put a damage deposit down and I began to relax and get excited. However a couple of days ago, I recieved some bad news. The people that lived in the apartment were being evicted, that was the reason that it was available, however circumstances changed and they were now being un-evicted. Which meant that we were on the search....again. My heart dropped, it didn't make sense. And honestly it still doesn't. It's hard not to be discouraged, and even harder to realize that no matter how many times disappointment, hurt, or pain arrises, He still expects complete, undeniable faith. I am brought back to the many blessings that He has poured into my life, and that is what gives me hope. Not to focus on what He has taken away but on what He has given us from the incrediable out-pouring of His love.

2007-10-04T22:52:00.000-06:00

When peace, like a river,

attendeth my way,

When sorrows like sea billows roll;

Whatever my lot,

Thou has taught me to say,

It is well, it is well, with my soul.

WE MISS YOU GRANDPA,

YET WE ARE REJOICING WITH YOU AS YOU

SIT AT THE FEET OF JESUS

2007-09-13T22:36:00.000-06:00

I thought that I'd give a little update on my life, it feels like I haven't in awhile. Apartment hunting still has come with no success and I had to move home a couple of weeks ago. Though disappointing, I know that there is something better in store for me, it's the patience thing I'm struggling with. I commute every day to work since I am still working at the clinic, this has acutally come as quite a blessing. The drive is peaceful and has been really good for my prayer life.
Coming back from Romania has been like what you could call a "mountain top experience", where I was pumped about God and life, excited about everything that He has done. Unfortunatly along with the mountaintop there is the inevitable valley, and although I wish that I could walk a more stable line, I still manage to get caught in that ravine. It's when I start to lose focus is when the devil easily tempts me where I am weak. My motives become more selfish, my acceptance be other people starts to become more important than my desire to serve Him. So, I've had to spend some serious time re-focusing and re-evaluating my life. Sometimes I don't know what that looks like, yet He always seems to provide the wisdom I need at the time when I need it.
The thought of going back to Romania has never been far from my thoughts and it seems to be tugging at my heart more and more every day. If you would've asked me a few months ago if I would consider full-time ministry I would've probably shook my head and laughed. It's funny how God plants desires in our hearts that we know can only come from Him. I don't really know what is going to happen, when, or for how long, but the thought is there. It scares me yet excites me at the same time!

O Lord, you are my God;

I will exalt you and praise your name,

for in perfect faithfulness

you have done marvelous things,

things planned long ago.

-Isaiah 25:1

August at a glance

2007-09-01T22:05:00.000-06:00

Mir, Jen, and I at Circus Gatti in Saskatoon.

Fun times after the show!!

Sister time at the Canad Inn in Winnipeg

Mark and Amy's Wedding (Friends from Bethany)

Jo and I at the reception

Cousin Cheryl-Lynn and Lyndon's wedding in Winnipeg

After the ceremony

2007-08-24T23:07:00.000-06:00

Where did the time go? I can't believe that it has been over three weeks since I got home!! It has been pretty crazy this last while!! With two weddings, apartment hunting, and finding a car, it was actually quite overwhelming!
Finding an apartment has come with no success, the housing market is ridiculous in Saskatoon right now and trying to find any place to live seems near to impossible. I have done my share of worrying and freaking out, however God is reminding me of His faithfulness. Trust seems to be one of the many things that He has to teach me over and over again. I know that He has a plan for me, that His is in control of this situation dispite how hopeless it may seem. It seems like every time we would go to look at a place something would not work out and I would be super discouraged. My mom reminds me that God obviously has something better in mind for us. You are right, Mom. He does, and even though it sucks, His plan far outweighs what we could have imagined for ourselves.
I could have more to write but I'm signing off for tonight, GO TEAM E.R (Steph and I are having a season 5 party!!!)

I miss you Romania!!

2007-08-01T15:17:00.000-06:00

My team

At the baby hosptial in Bucharest. The little baby I'm holding is called "Peanut" because he is so tiny, it's hard to believe that he is 5 months old!! He was born very premature, his mother died during childbirth. I wanted to take him home so badly!!

This was at the carnival that we had the last day for the kids. Here they are with their gift bags and the clothes that we were able to give them.

Me and my girl, Mirella

Aren't they just so precious! They melt my heart every day!!

Almost done

2007-07-30T12:31:00.000-06:00

I can't believe that today is my last night in Romania, where has the time gone?! Looking back, it is amazing to see how God has been working in the lives of the orphans as well as in my life! Leaving the girls is so incrediably hard, even harder than last summer, thankfully the story doesn't end here. Yesterday during debriefing, we were asked to think of three words to describe our summer. Now it is impossible to describe everything that happened in three words but it sure sums it up pretty well. My words were; RELATIONSHIPS, PRAYER, and HOPE. I chose relationships because returning a second time, it was spent continuing the relationships that were already started. I thought that it would be easier returning since we had already been through the superficial stage of getting to know each other, however easy wouldn't be the way I would describe it. Although I was able to pick up a little bit more Romanian, the language barrier seemed to be a bigger hurdle this summer. I wanted to go deeper, wanted to intiate discussion about their lives and the goodness of God!! There wasn't always a translator around when needed and the few words I know seemed to be too simple for what I wanted to convey. Yet that doesn't stop God from working, and there were exciting discussion moments and even just returning was a huge deal to them. God also taught me a lot about the power of prayer; it was so amazing to see the prayers from last summer that were answered!! There were changes in the girls, small steps maybe, but definatly able only through the work of God!! He reminded me that I can't take the burdens of these kids onto my own shoulders but to bring it all to him, to lay it at His feet because He is the only one who has the power to heal!! And hope. A week and a half ago I recieved the devastating news that my cousin Rosanna's husband was killed in a car accident. My heart was weeping for the pain that Rosanna is going through, I was constantly praying that she would find comfort in His arms. That mixed with saying goodbye to the kids made for quite the emotional week. However throughout this month he had been showing me glimpses of hope. Hope in the promises, that He will remain faithful to his childern. That he will comfort the brokenhearted. I saw a lot of pain. Stories that I never wanted to hear. Sometimes I felt as though we should give up because we weren't making a difference, felt that progress could not be seen. Yet it was in those moments that he brought a glimpse of hope, a child's word of thanks, little things to show me that He is indeed working. PRAISE GOD!! There is so much more I could write about and maybe I will yet, if you want to know more or have any questions I would love to hear from you. Hopefully I can post some pictures when I get home in the next couple of days. Thank you so much for all who were praying, if you could continue to pray for the girls at the orphanage that would be awsome. Also my cousin will continue to need an abundance of prayer at this incrediably difficult time.

We stand and lift up our hands,
for the joy of the Lord is my strength,
we bow down, we worship you now,
how great, how awsome is He

Sweet times in sweet places

2007-07-12T05:33:00.000-06:00

Buna zewa!!
I can't believe that I have been here for two weeks already!! Time has flown by!! Program is going well with the kids even though there are times of frustration. Yesterday was a bit of a trying day because the director of the orphanage told us to take all the kids for the whole day. This is a problem because normally we take the younger girls in the morning and do more a serious bible study with the older girls in the afternoon. So, needless to say it has been challenging trying to redesign our day. It's also so much more difficult trying to control twice the number of kids, one on one time seems to be almost impossible!! However it is clear to see that God is working despite the difficulties, I have been able to have a couple of deeper conversations with one of the girls!! It is also awsome to see how they notice that we treat them different than what they are used to, that even when they test our boundaries, they keep coming back, longing to simply be near us!! We did a skit about the story of Hosea yesterday and it was exciting to see how attentive they were and seemed to grasp the concept of forgiveness that we were trying to portray!! I also love to hear them sing!! Those are the most beautiful moments, off-key and all, because praising God is the most beautiful sound to His ears!!

I'm here!!

2007-07-02T02:51:00.000-06:00

I arrived in Romania on Friday!! We had the weekend of orientation in the capital of Romania, Bucharest. Through that we were able to bond together as a team, learn what our assignment was, and learn a little bit abouty what to expect in the coming month. I will be working in the Alexandria orphanage, which is the same one that I was at last year. We will be starting program at the orphanage in the next couple of days. Today we are doing a bunch of planning and preparing. I am so thankful to be back, my heart is overflowing with joy!! I know that there will be challenges but God has proven his faithfulness and power and through Him we can move mountains! I know that God is already working here in Romania, it's exciting to see what He has already done and I'm excited about what He is going to do in the future! Thanks to all those that are praying for me!!

My bags are packed, I'm ready to go....

2007-06-27T23:00:00.000-06:00

Well, the day has finally come....well almost. Yup. I depart tomorrow from the Saskatoon Airport at 2:2o in the afternoon. I fly to Toronto and have to spend about 5 hours there before my 6 hour flight to London. I have a 7 hour layover there before my final 3 hour flight to Bucharest. It's going to be a very long day but I'm happy to say that right now I'm more excited than nervous!!

I am so blessed to have this opportunity and it amazes me how God has provided in ways I never thought possible. I'd appreciate your prayers as my journey continues. Pray that I would have complete confidence in His power and that I will surrender myself to be used completely by Him. Pray for the children, that their hearts would be opened and that they will come to know the perfectly fulfilling love that He has for them. Also pray that my team will be unified and will be able to work together to glorify Him in all we do. Thanks for all those who are already praying!! Internet access is limited so I can't make any guarantees, but I will try my best to update throughout the month.

"It does not, therefore, depend on man's desire or effort, but on God's mercy. For the Scriptures says to Pharoah :"I raised you up for this very purpose, that I might display my power in you and that My name might be proclaimed in all the earth"" Romans 9:16-17

2007-06-12T19:30:00.000-06:00

Life is grand isn't it??! God amazes me everyday with how good He is!! My fundraiser on Saturday went amazingly well!!! There was some stressful moments when I wondered if there would be enough desserts, or later wondering if anyone was going to come at all. However thankfully, He is faithful. There weren't a ton of people there, but those who were there were so incrediably generous. I recieved way above and beyond what I expected, the grand total was over $1000!!!! WOW!!!! My heart is just filled with gratitude, excitement, and peace knowing that this is where I am supposed to be and He is providing everything that I need. I want to give a huge thank you to all those who came out and supported me, you are truly a gift from God. I also want to thank Mir for doing the bidding, you did great and everybody loved you!! Thanks Steph for being my organizer, you always know how to keep things in order!! Thanks Jenna for being my donut seller, who wouldn't want to buy from you?? Thanks to Dad for helping me set up and take down!! And a special thanks to my mom for taking so much time and effort baking for me, you amaze me!! Sorry I don't have any pictures, I only thought of taking some after the evening was done.

It's been a busy couple of weeks, preparing for my trip, and with so many things going on. Time is just flying by, I can't believe that I will be leaving in just a couple of weeks!! I sure have been enjoying the time though, I'm never bored, there always seems to be something special going on or special people to spend time with. Trying to figure out where I'm going to be living in the fall/late summer is also something I'm thinking about. If anyone knows of any places in the north end of Saskatoon that are open, let me know. Bye for now!!

Sunshine Treats

2007-05-31T11:10:00.000-06:00

I love sunshine! There is nothing like a warm sunny morning on the balcony after a week of gloomy, cold rain. Life right now is pretty swell. Sure there are days when I feel a little lost in this crazy thing called life, some nights I lay awake too long worrying about things I can't change or decisions I need to make or feeling sorry for myself. However mostly these days I am content.... and excited!! I am excited about going back to where my heart lies in Romania and seeing what God is doing there again! This past while God has also placed on my heart a new thirst for His word, and am excited about what he has to teach me through that.

Nothing else really new, work is going well, having some sweet times with friends and family, still don't know what I'm going to do in the fall, but that's okay. If anyone cares, I'm having a dessert (sorry, not desert for those who know what I'm talking about ... how embarrassing!) auction to raise support for my trip. This will be on Saturday June 9th at 7:30pm at Waldheim MB Church. It should be a good time, I'll share a bit about my trip last summer and what I'll be doing again this summer. There will be lots of delicious treats and maybe even some special music. Even if you don't want to buy any desserts you can still come to watch Miranda auction them off. That will be a show in itself!!!! Hope you all have a wonderful sunny weekend!! Bye for now.

Lovely Long Weekend

2007-05-21T12:08:00.000-06:00

I love long weekends. This weekend especially has been muchly enjoyed, it was a much needed break!! My parents went away for the weekend so I headed to the 'heim to hold down the fort until they returned. The weekend consisted of a little shopping, some chick flicks, and even a cousin fireside bush-pie party! Fun times! It was pretty hilarious watching Steph and Mir trying to chop the wood for the fire, but hey, they managed to get a pretty good one started!!

I'm actually 21?

2007-05-04T21:51:00.000-06:00

This week has been a busy one. It was my birthday on Tuesday, and like most years, it doesn't really feel any different being a year older. This year, however, is the first time I've started to feel old. I mean, 21 isn't really old at all, I'm sure there are tons of people that wish they were 21 again. However it's kind of scary realizing that I'm an adult whether I like it or not, and that means taking the responisibilities and decisions that come along with that. Oh well, that's life, besides, the older I get, it seems, the more exciting and adventurous life becomes even if there are more difficulties to get through. The older I get, the more I get to see of God's power and faithfulness, that's definatly something to get excited about!

My friends took me out to Earls one evening this week, thanks for planning that Jo, it was lots of fun. My family took me out on my birthday to The Cave. We had a really nice meal together and was spoiled with gifts, my mom even made me a delicious cheesecake!! I felt really special!! Thanks guys!!

Not really much else to report, I'm working this weekend as well as next weekend. I'm also working a bunch of evenings this week. It's going to be a rough stretch, maybe a little lonley, but I'll get through it.

Hope y'all have a great weekend!!

Chapters of life

2007-04-22T20:35:00.000-06:00

It was grad at Bethany Bible College today and my sister, Steph graduated with honors with an excite program certificate. Way to go Steph!! I'm proud of you!!

My two wonderful friends also graduated, with their Bachelor of Christian Studies!! Congratulations Randi and Karis, I'm proud of you as well!!

I remember last year at this time, I was a wreck! It was the time for good-bye, and since that was my last year at Bethany, I was quite emotional. I also remember feeling nervous and a little scared for what was to come, a new chapter of my life was beginning and I had no idea how the story was going to go. The uncertaintly wasn't something I liked but God was faithful! In high school I thought I had my life all planned out, I was going to go to bible school for a year, go to school for interior decorating, get married, and eventually start my own decorating shop. Sounds perfect right? Ha, it's funny how when God gets ahold of the pen, he changes the direction to His ending. Giving up the pen up for me has not been easy and I've tried to take it away numerous times somehow thinking I knew what needed to come next. I'm still in the process of learning to give that up, however I know now that giving God that control is when the most wonderful and amazing things happen that you would've never imagined. Not to say that there weren't times of struggle, and when the story seemed so bleak, yet what He does promise is faithfulness, and a constant love! And not to say that I have more direction in life, that with Him in charge, I know what's going on.... nope its more like the opposite. It's scary to not know what's coming next, what I should be doing in a year, or even next month. I guess that's why they call it trust, it would be too easy if He showed us every detail of our story before we had a chance to live it and learn from it. So I used to think that I needed to have every detail of my life planned out, to make sure I had at least a 5 year plan however the more God changes my desires, the more He softens my heart, the more I like the idea of letting Him have complete control of my pen and not worrying so much about how my story is going to go because He is the greatest Author that will ever be... and I already know the ending. An everlasting life with Him, what could be greater than that?

"Therefore we do not lose heart. Though outwardly we are wasting away, yet inwardly we are being renewed day by day. For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all. So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen. For what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal. "
2 Corintheans 4:16-18

Road trip!!

2007-04-15T21:20:00.000-06:00

This weekend I headed out to a wedding in Steinbach, Manitoba. Congratulations Josh and Erin Joy!! The wedding was so beautiful, it was encouraging to see how God had brought them together and how they are fully desiring to do God's will.

There were a few carloads of people from around here that headed out and we had lots of fun hanging out together. After the wedding on Saturday, we spent the afternoon soaking up the sun and enjoying a wonderful barbeque! I was so excited to get that taste of summer, it made me look forward to the months ahead, I don't think I have ever been more anxious for the season to fully arrive! We went back to Winnipeg for the evening where we hung out at The Forks and enjoyed the best cheesecake ever at Baked Expectations. It was a really good weekend however I am sick of being in a vehicle!! We spent about 20 hours driving in the last 2 and a half days!! I'm so glad I went though, I love weddings!! I'll have a lot more to go to this summer!! It's back to work tomorrow though, I'm trying to be positive but sometimes Mondays are a struggle for me!! I hope you all have a great week!

Edmonton Pics

2007-04-03T14:33:00.000-06:00

Here are some pictures of our recent trip to Edmonton. Good times were had shopping, eating, swimming, and just hanging out. The above picture is Jenna holding her last baby tooth, it came out while we were shopping. Randomly she started yelling that she lost her tooth and her mouth was all bloody... it was pretty funny!

A complaint free world?

2007-03-27T18:26:00.000-06:00

I haven't posted in awhile because, well, my life has been pretty uneventful since my last post. I'm looking forward to a much needed mini-holiday with my family in Edmonton this weekend. I don't think the whole family has spent more than a couple hours together in months and miraculously we all have the weekend off. So I'm looking forward to some bonding time whether that be during the 12 hours of driving we'll be doing or through the much anticiapted Ikea stop!!

I was watching Oprah this afternoon (yeah that's right), and acutally I was kind of inspired. She had invited a pastor to talk about his challenge , a complaint- free world. He started this challange in his church and gave them bracelets to remind them. He challenged them to wear the bracelete for 21 days, if you catch yourself complaining you switch the bracelet to the other arm and start over. The goal is to keep the bracelet on the same wrist for 21 days. I don't agree with everything that the church is promoting, however the concept is great. We can't change the world as some are saying with this campaign however God can! I catch myself complaing a lot.... it's either the weather that's too cold, the week that is too long, the weekend that is too short, that everything is too expensive, or that life is just too hard! Yet what if I disciplined myself to Praise God and thank Him for what He has given me instead of begging Him to give me what He hasn't. What would change in my relationship with Him if my focus was Praise? Would people notice? Think of the example that would be of pointing people to Christ! How exciting! I want to give this a try so call me on this if you catch me complaining. I ordered some of the free bracelets they are giving out! I ordered 10, does anyone else want one?

It's official!

2007-03-12T21:42:00.000-06:00

Yes.... that's right. It's official... I'M GOING BACK TO ROMANIA! The long awaited package was sitting in my mailbox as I opened it with glee this afternoon. I was so excited I screamed a little and did a little dance in the living room! I leave on June 28 and the summer ministry lasts 5 weeks. I haven't decided yet if I want to stay longer or not, that will probably depend on my job. The joy in my heart right now is insurmountable and my desire to hug those kids and tell them again how much God loves them is growing so strong! I never in a million years thought this is where I would be at this point in my life. It amazes me how God uses us in ways we never thought we could. When I think about it too much I get a little nervous .... okay a lot nervous. However my excitement is much stronger, that God is letting me be a witness to His incredible work in the lives of those children! How did I get to be so blessed?

Babies, birthdays, and special moments

2007-03-07T11:07:00.000-06:00

The days were quite full last week, family was out from BC so we spent a lot of time partying. My cousin Chrystal stayed at my place in the city for the week, we had lots of fun catching up! We spent our time playing our favorite card game "Phase Ten", watching some good movies, trying to make a first class meal for ourselves (note the emphasis on the word trying, our desert was pretty much a disaster), and of course what girls do best; talking. During the week we also had quite the loewen get- togethers. Faspa at Aunt Mary-Anne's to celebrate grandma's 80th birthday, this also inculded oohing and aahing over the new babies in the family. We had a baby shower for cousin Jocelyn and little Aiden on Wednesday, and of course the big celebration on Friday night at the Drop-in centre in Warman. There we put on a small program for Grandma which included a funny skit put on by the cousins (at least I hope it was funny!!) , a slideshow, a few songs, and a poem. Good times are always had with the loewen gang, I am so thankful that our family is still able to get together and celebrate.

Yesterday was also a pretty good day, I had the day off work which was really nice. My mom took me out for lunch and we had a good talk, I love her so much! The evening was spent with friends, dinner out at Chianti's, and then and time of sipping Timmy's and singing worship songs. I love times like that!! Oh and the flowers are a gift from my roommate; how sweet!!

I have been anxiously awaiting word on Romania stuff but still nothing has come. It's hard for me to wait patiently because I like to have my life figured out however God always seems to point out that He is the one that needs to have control over my life, not me. It is forcing me to trust God because time is slowly creeping away and so much stuff still needs to be figured out. There seems to be a lot of things in my life right now that I catch myself worrying about, however His words from Isaiah have been a good reminder for me;

"So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand." Isaiah 41:10

Prayers, Starbucks, and chinese food

2007-02-18T15:41:00.000-06:00

I was pretty excited about the new stat holiday in February and I am now thouroughly enjoying the much needed long weekend! On Friday one of my friends and I drove all around the city trying to fulfill our chinese food craving. It took us four hours to simply have supper and pick out a movie!! Figures... basically that's how it is with the adventures of Kim and Jo. On Saturday we got to spend some much needed time with my friend from Bethany that I never get to see anymore!! The three of us had a lovely day shopping, chatting, and of course, while sipping on lattes. Today I had a nice meal with the family after church and am having one of those great lazy Sunday afternoons.

I must say that I am feeling really good about life right now. God has answered so many prayers with work and such and even though there are still so many unanswered questions, I am at peace. God is good! That's all I have to say right now.... ciao.

Happy Valentines Day?

2007-02-15T18:53:00.000-06:00

I'm not going to lie and say that I absolutley love Valentines Day because frankly, it's not really true. I have actually been known to dread the day at times because along with the day often brings feelings of lonliness and emphasizes the fact that I don't have a "special someone" in my life. As this years day began to approach I thought that it would be a little dreary for me especially since I had to work the evening shift so I couldn't even hang out with my girl friends. However the day turned out to be not so bad, why, you ask? I think part of it had to do with a reminder from the One who loves me most. I got to thinking, why does Valentines have to be about guy/girl relationships? Love covers a lot more than just the romantic aspect. Love from The Father is the truest and most beautiful love that we could ever recieve, so why do I think that love from anyone else will be able to fulfill me? Valentines Day for me was a reminder to celebrate that love that He so freely gives. Instead of flowers, I have the promise that He will never leave me. Instead of diamonds, I have to gift the of eternal life! The only difference is that He doesn't have to ask me to "Be Mine", because I am already His. This is not to say that I don't wait for someone to sweep me off my feet, in fact, I came to appreciate and admire the beautiful relationships that I see around me, however I know I can be sure that His love is forever perfect and absolutly everything that I need.
Sorry, this might have been a little cheesy and you might not have wanted to know all that about me but this was what was on my heart today. I hope that y'all had a special day!!

10 Things I learned this week (or was reminded of)

2007-02-02T23:21:00.000-06:00

1. Never go anywhere without a toque and scarf. (You never know when a random walk to Starbucks will occurr.... especially in -30 weather when I have to walk accross the river!)
2. Always watch your step when crossing the street. (I slipped at least three times on my way to work, to the amusement of, I'm sure, a few drivers)
3. Stressing about life just stressses me out (and keeps me awake at night) so what's the point?
4. Alphabets is my new favorite cereal (it beats the stash of honey-nut cheerios I got from camp that I've been living off of for the past 5 months!)
5. When trying to find the place you are looking for, rely on your gut. (rather than a friend, that shall remain nameless but you know who you are! .... then I might not have ended up at the opposite side of the city)
6. Even though it sucks, the trials in life are meant to refine us to be more like our Father.
7. Being from Waldheim is pretty sweet because there always seems to be someone around that you know (this is especially wonderful when van trouble arise and a sweet lady follows me home while driving 60 kms just to make sure I make it allright!)
8. Friends bring such joy to my life!! I love you all!!
9. Sisters are wonderful too!! (I like that we can talk and laugh together, I love spending time with you guys and I honestly miss that when we all get too busy!)
10. As I sit here writing this I am reminded of how much God has blessed me with and how sometimes I neglect a truly thankful heart!!

2007-01-27T23:59:00.000-06:00

Although I have experienced a few frustrations this past while it is encouraging to me to see that God is working despite the fact the doubts seem to be streaming at me full force! I recieved a letter this week from one of the girls at the orphanage whom I got really close to. Her name is Mirella and her words brought such joy to my heart,

"Hello Kim, This is Mirella. How are you? I hope fine. I hope you didn`t forgot about me and you tell your parents about me and how we spend the summer. I know you pray for me, I will try to pray for you, too. We spend beautiful moments in the summer...things are ugly without you. I cry when I remember you. I love you and everything about you. I believe you won't forget about me. Thank God for bringing you here to us. I love you but I love God more. Please forgive me for saying that, but God is great and is more important!"

How exciting!! It is so amazing to see how God is working in her life. To acknowledge that God is most important to her is huge!! I remember having a conversation with her in the summer about how she felt that God wasn't a big priority in her life. To hear that she is learning and growing is so exciting for me! She also went on to tell me how she had quit smoking which had been a big addiction for her the past few years. I wish that I could be there right now to witness the change and to be there to answer questions and be alongside her as she grows however I know that God is working there and His plan for her is more than I could imagine! This week has brought some discouragment which always seems to foster doubt in my life yet He always brings a reminder, whether big or small, that He is always in control!

Romania again?

2007-01-21T17:58:00.000-06:00

Romania has been on my mind a lot these days, my heart keeps tugging in that direction. Decisions aren't an easy thing for me, sometimes I think too logically and ignore my heart. Yet other times I feel that I act too quickly without thinking through the consequences. There are a number of things that seem to be holding me back on my decision and I don't know if they are valid concerns or if I should just trust that this is really where God wants me. I got an exciting package in the mail yesterday, it was a dvd that one of the girls on my team made of our trip. As I watched that, my heart ached to be back there loving those girls! This morning in church someone came and told me that she was going to start raising money through her piano students for me to go back to Romania! That is so huge and it amazes me how supportive the community around me is! I am getting pretty excited about it and I would appreciate your prayers as I wrestle with this decision. The sermon this morning also got me thinking, the focus was about being light and salt to those around us. The question came to mind, am I too concerned about where God wants me and neglecting to be a light where I am right now? Am I living that light in everything I do? Definatly not to the extent that God intended for us. It's one thing to be on a missions trip, where you are delibaratly trying to show Gods love, most often to people that you will never see again. Yet it seems more difficult to reach the people that we work with or come in contact with on a continual basis. I think for me it is probably the fear of rejection or fear of coming across with a "holier than thou" attitude. I often blame it on the excuse that there is lack of opportunity, however I think that it's me that lacks to take action on the opportunities. Hopefully this is something that I will be more deliberate in, I wanna let my light shine! Whether that be here or in Romania, or anywhere else around the world, how exciting that God uses us to be His light for His glory!

Blizzard!!!

2007-01-10T15:47:00.000-06:00

So, as you can see, we are being blown away by some incrediable weather patterns. That's right folks, it's the blizzard of 2007. It all started when I woke up this morning and looked out the window and almost fell off my bed. Actually it started long before that but I slept in. People are getting stuck everywhere and travelling anywhere inside the city or out is extremely trecherous. Jo called and told me she locked her keys in her car at work, that was a God thing because she tells me she would've gotten stuck and balled like a baby if she would've drove herself. Her area of the city is basically blocked off so she got a ride here and we are partying like its 1997!! Actually, truth be told, we are a little worried about friends and family that are out in this weather. It's pretty bad out there, can't even see the other side of the street! It's kind of exciting to be involved in an adventure such as this. So keep safe out there!

Life and all its possiblities!

2007-01-08T18:22:00.000-06:00

One of my friends and I were talking the other day about how when we are frustrated with circumstances or have some heavy decisions to make we roll our eyes and sigh..."oh life". This of course is suggesting that we have to accept the situations that we find ourselves in yet are none too pleased, a feeling of hoplessness seems to escape. Yet being a woman of wisdom, she expressed something a little more optimistic; "Oh the possibilities of life!" Yes, life has its curveballs and sometimes we seem to be overwhelmed with the circumstances that life throws at us. However God is so much bigger than life and His plan for us should bring hope and even excitement in the possibilities. This week I have been thinking a lot about what my future looks like, this is a time when I am forced to think about what needs to happen for the year to come. Right now it all seems so unclear, I know that Romania is somewhere in my future however beyond that all plans seem like a blur. It starts to scare me because I feel that I should have some sort of life plan, like I should have a bigger goal set before me. Should I be going back to school? If so to do what? Should I be satisfied in the job that I have or should I be striving for something better? I always seem to find myself wanting more. I was thinking the other day how ridiculous it really is to be constantly asking God to give me this or that, to let this happen or not. Why would I desire something other than what God's will for my life is? Why do I think that these things will fulfill me? The only true and perfect things come from Him. He knows far more than I do what I need, His plan for me is far greater than even I could imagine? So why do I worry? Why do I feel like I have to have control over future plans? Human nature I guess. I guess my new years resolution could be to put that in the hands of the Father and instead of getting frustrated and overwhelmed, to get excited in what God has in store for me, to be content in saying "Oh the possibilites of life!!"

Christmas Pics

2006-12-28T10:25:00.000-06:00

Top left: Us sisters posing after the Christmas Eve program
Top centre: At the Loewen gathering on Boxing Day at the Travellodge
Top Right: A delicious Turkey Dinner on Christmas Day with the family
Left: A chocolate and cheese fondue on Christmas Eve...Yum!!
Bottom: A nice Christmas meal and gift exchange with friends at
Moxies

It's Christmas!!

2006-12-23T20:21:00.000-06:00

Christmas is almost here! I just love the Christmas season and it always seems to go by so quickly, this year not being any different. Unfortunatly I have to work right until Christmas eve which is kind of hard for me to adjust from the 2 week break I'm used to getting while at school. I've come to appreciate more time with family at Christmas and the traditions we keep are held more dear in my heart. Some of my favorite Christmas traditions are staying up late with my sisters Christmas Eve watching Christmas specials and waking up super early to open our stockings in the morning. I remember me and my sisters always trying to make a lot of noise in order to wake the rest of the family. We then take turns opening presents and then enjoy a yummy breakfast where we are allowed to eat as much junk food as we want! That was always a plus for us...chocolate for breakfast!! As much as I love family and traditions, I have come to realize the importance of recognizing why we celebrate. I went to see "The Nativity" this season and it really gave me a new perspective on the birth of Christ. It told the story through the eyes of Mary and Joseph. I had never really understood how difficult it would have been for both of them. First there was the issue of Mary acually believing what the angel told her and to be able to trust God through all that would have been so difficult. She would have been an outcast, she possibly could've even been stoned. Yet she was faithful despite what the world thought of her and the circumstances around that. To have faith and to be able to trust as Mary did is something that has tugged my heart this Christmas. I hope that you all have a wonderful holiday season, Merry Christmas and God bless!

Snow Day!

2006-12-11T20:11:00.000-06:00

On Saturday a bunch of us went sledding at the hill on Spadina. It was such a perfect day for being outside in the snow, it was warm and there was no wind! We had tons of fun trying to squish as many people as possible on one sled. We all took a number of tumbles and I have to say that I was definatly sore the next couple of days. Jo managed to fall on top of me one time and another I was the back person going backwards down the hill. It felt like I got half the hill up my jacket...Good times! Afterwards we headed to Poverino's for dinner. The day was kind of a farwell thing for one of the guys I went to Bethany with. It was a great way to spend a Saturday and I'm glad we could all get together to do that.

2006-12-07T12:20:00.000-06:00

Every day I am amazed by how much God loves me and how that love is evident all around me when I take the time to notice it. Although this week seems extremely long, I must say that it has been a good one. I have been doing a lot of thinking, which has kept me awake until the wee hours of the night and all sorts of emotions seem to be flowing out whether I like it or not. I've done a lot of thinking about the future and what that holds for me and where my desires fit into that. God has also shown me things in my life that I have been holding onto, things that are not healthy for my relationship with Him and with others. So, I've been trying to put that in God's hands this week rather than trying to carry the load on my own. It's hard because my pride gets in the way but once I see how much it is actually hurting me and I start letting go, it is the most freeing thing in the world. God is always telling me that He knows what I need more than I do, but that always seems to be a struggle for me. I am so thankful that He never gives up on me and never fails to show that He loves me. These last couple of days it feels like every time I sit down to spend time with my Lord, I am brought to tears by how Perfectly Amazing He is. How the Creator of the Universe loves me, how He delights in me, and sings songs over me. I sit there and feel like praising him not only for what He has done but simply for who He is. The song "Amazed" by Jared Anderson has meant a lot to me this week, here are the lyrics;

"You dance over me while I am unaware,

You sing all around but I never here a sound.

Lord I'm amazed by You!

Lord I'm amazed by You,

how you love me"

2006-11-28T10:51:00.000-06:00

Sorry, It's been awhile since I've posted anything because I've kept putting it off but here it is. A few weekends ago my friends and I took a roadtrip to Edmonton. We had been planning something like this for quite some time and we were very excited! We had a great time hangin' out and shopping together. It was so good to be able to celebrate friendship and enjoy life together! Good times! It was a good reminder of how much I value friendship and how important these relationships are in my life. I thank God that He gave me the friends that I have because they have helped me grow, kept me sane, and always encouraged me. Here are a few pics from the weekend,

We stopped in Manville on the way back, I mean
4 girls on a road trip, who could resisit?

Yes, that's right... we took my mini-van! We had

to have room for our stop at Ikea!!

We dressed up nice one evening and ate a upscale

restaraunt. It was lots of fun!
Here we are at West Ed, ready to shop!

2006-11-08T14:42:00.000-06:00

For those of you who don't know, I am currently living in the city and working at a medical clinic. This in itself is a huge God thing. My plan was to attend Saskatoon Business College this fall to obtain my Medical Office Assitant certificate but at the end of the summer, I felt that it wasn't really where God wanted me. I have always told myself that I would never take a year off school to work, however it's funny how God has His way and changes our heart in the process. So here I am in the city and really enjoying it, of course it has it's challenges however I am learning so much and I know that this is all part of the growing up process. These past couple of weeks God is teaching me a lot about contentment and finding joy in Him rather than trying to find it in what is going on around me. I often feel like I should be doing more, being more, and living more, and the "if only's" start to run through my head. I often feel like I should be out there trying to save the world but really here I am working in the city. Should I be doing something more so that I will feel more fulfilled? Yet I was reading through Psalms the other day and chapter 34 verses 8-10 really encouraged me, "Taste and see that the Lord is good; blessed is the man who takes refuge in Him. Fear the Lord, you His saints, for those who fear Him lack nothing. The lions may grow weak and hungry, but those who seek the Lord lack no good thing." It was like God was saying to me, Kim, you may not have everything you want, or you may not be doing everything you want, yet if you are truly loving and seeking my heart you won't be missing any good thing. I'm starting to notice God not only in the big things that He has done in my life, but also in the simple ways that he shows His love and where I can also be a reflection of that. Whether that be through a shoulder to cry on when I'm feeling lonely, through patience when things are just not going right, or whether that be through the random encouraging conversations in the sauna with friends (which by the way, wasn't even on for the forty-five minutes we were in there talking...no wonder we weren't sweating yet). Yes, God is good and His love endures forever.

My Summer

2006-11-01T10:25:00.000-06:00

I thought I'd start off by sharing a little bit about my summer since it was probably the most life changing experience of my life. Last fall I felt God calling me to do missions somewhere, particularly orphanage work. With much prayer and consideration, I decided to go to Romania with an organization called Heart 2 Heart International Ministries. For those of you that know me, you'll know that this is something way out of my comfort zone and I spent many hours worrying. It is still amazing to me how God provided the means for me to be able to go despite my doubts and concerns, it was definatly affirmation that this was where I was supposed to be. This trip was the hardest thing I ever had to do, yet it was the most rewarding, and I would never trade the experience in a million years. In Romania, I worked at an all-girls orphanage with a team made up of 8 young women from accross the United States and Romania. I fell in love with the kids and my heart broke every day as I witnessed what they had to live through on a daily basis. I couldn't imagine not having someone there to take care of you and love you. It broke me how these kids responded to love, some of them soaked it up but other pushed away because they did not know how to react to love. God taught me so much about building confidence in Him, about his unfailing mercy and I learned more of who I am in Christ. Anyways, I could go on for hours but here are a few pictures to give you a bit of an idea,

This is one of the girls I got really close to, her name is Mirella.

2006-10-31T11:25:00.000-06:00

I told myself that I would never start a blog for the single reason being that everyone else was doing it. However here I am with a blog of my own and starting it not because someone told me to but because this is what I want to do. This is surprising because my hesitancy is directly linked to my insecurity, honestly I am scared about what people will think of my writing and my thoughts. However, the exciting thing is that I am starting to grow up and although still a struggle for me, I am beginning to see the importance of God's approval of me rather than man's. So, dont' expect this to be super exciting and flashy, I just thought some people might like to see what's going on in my life. Here goes, I guess....