25 Days till Christmas (and counting!)

Yah, thats right, 25 days to Christmas! I think one of the best things about Christmas is the build up to it. After Halloween, stores get out Christmas stuff, there is Christmas music on the radio, and Tv specials, and Christmas Commercials, not to mention snow!! Am I one of the few people left that acutally like the snow and the cold? Christmas just isnt CHristmas unless there is snow! (or maybe its that fact that we live in S. Manitoba, and just have to have snow for winter, I mean come on, a brown winter? No snow? What are you doing living here then?) I love getting freezing cold outside (whether its going to and from work, building a fort outside etc etc) and then going inside with the Christmas lights on, and enjoying a nice cup of hot hot chocolate, with out the Marshmellows all while enjoying Christmas music! Doesnt that sounds good? So yah, Christmas is soon, which also means that friends are coming home from the city and other schools (How many for sleeps leah??? 10? or so?) So that is an added bonus this year, one which i am waiting for. SO yah, life is going good. Cherish life and enjoy pics (from COreys baptism)













My little cousin, William Santiago (isnt he cute?)

Tonight

What an evening. Tonight, I witnessed my brother take the next step in his walk with Christ, but getting Baptized. Congrats Corey! The Day started off like any other. Woke up, went to Church, came home, Lunch, scrapbooked a bit on my Chalo album, supper you know, the usual. I learned earlier this month that Corey was getting Baptized today, and I couldnt wait. My insides felt like they would jump out at times. I was just excited. So here it was, now it came and went, and what an evening that was. Corey started it off with giving his testimony (which I was also interested in hearing), so with family close by, he spoke. Now its too bad that he had hockey on Friday and some idiot (also known as another hockey player), nailed him in the throat with a puck (and I Wonder why I love that game!??!), so yesterday he could hardly talk, and though it was better today, it was still hard, well, not hard, but it wasnt his normal, strong clear voice. Also getting baptized was an 87 year old lady from town. That in itself was something. Although she knows some english, not enough to speak her son read her testimony, and stood by her. I thought she would get poured (like with the cup), but NOPE, she was fully immersed, and boy was she ready to go! Her exitement after she came out, waving to the people and just the look on her face, was amazing. It was how baptizim should be, pure joy and excitment. You could tell the whole congeration felt genuianly happy and amazed for her. What in inspiration.
But yah, watching Corey go under, was great, yet again, parts of me wanted that to be me. After the service was over, my aunt who was sitting behind me, smiled and asked me "so when do we get to see you get baptized?" I just smiled and said, "we will see", and we will. I havent really thought about it much since earlier, but once again, the thought is now there. My plans are to go to europe, go to capernwray and see where I am after that. I am not waiting for some big revelation, or maybe I am, but maybe I Need to come back with a new attitude on somethings, or just a new outlook on life.

Overall, it was a good evening, and I plan on putting up pics from tonight as well (I am on Coreys Laptop). It was great to see family out from coulee and , dare I say, Winkler... but hey, its family:D Plus I got mom Christmas gift (which she is curious about now!). All in All, agian it was a good evening.
So heres to a good week, and yah, to life, to the freedom we have in Christ, to live for him, proclaim his name in songs, friendship, fellowship, laughter, family, life and love! God I love you!
Cherish Life!

What a day!

I think I laughed more today at work, then actaully working! You can for sure tell that Christmas is in the air! today and yesterday were very relaxed because orders were few, and the boss was gone (party!), and yah, so it was a good time. Sceret Santa is going on, so you will leave, and then come back and theres something on the table for you, so theres that, and then from that, someone got the Idea to MAKE a christmas tree out of Cardboard and 4 ply greeen bristol board (down isle 25 if youare interested!) so we spent 45 minutes doing that towards the end of the day. It was sooooooooo funny. Kind of one of those things that you just had to be there. It was like people were all on something, or just very tired or something crazy. It helps though, things like that, makes the day more interesting and fun at least!Oh and I realized today that I Have 5 sick days that I can take, and if you dont take them, you dont get paid for em, so I am thinking, gone in 4 months, why not take one on friday! (have to check with the Boss tomrorow, but heres to hoping!) So yah, good day. Just wait, a few more days like today, and I wont want to leave, umm... ok, not sure what that was about, I think I am still recovering for al lthat laughing! But yah,, work is going good, and I will loook back on it as being a good experience! (someone should write taht down!)
Till next time

UPdate

This past weekend, was my cousins wedding. First of, I really dont like gettting dressed up-grad dress, that was fine and I would do it again, but anything other then that, for some reason, I dont like it-wierd I know. Other then that, a wedding is a wedding. It was good. The Ceremony was short, not even half and hour, with an hour break in between before supper. Supper was good, with a dance after, but I was tierd and didnt feel like going, surprise suprise I know.

Work was good today, kind of wierd though because a few people took the day off, and then slowly by slowly people left cuase they got sick. There were at least 4 people that ended up going home sick. I really hope I dont get it. But I hear that that is going around else where as well, But Mondays over, so only 4 days left. Lucky darcy only has two more days of school this week, b/c thursday and Friday are no school days. Just Keep thinking Europe Nikki! Speaking of which, I found this cool thing on the internet that would automatically count down teh day till I leave, but I have no idea how to put that on here so it works! regardless though, assuming I get my passport one of these days, 4 months from now I will be in the air, or actaully in Germany at Maja's house! Wow 4 months. I will admit time has actually gone by pretty quick! Yet there are also days and hours where I could swear that that second hand froze on the clock!
So yah, things are good here
Cherish LIfe!

Life

Well, I just got back from playing my grandma in Rumi cube (she won yet again, 2 out of the 3 games!!) And like so often, we just got to talking, talking about this and that. I could go into detail, but I am off to an early bed and am just waiting for Ipod to update. Overall, We talked about the medical area, cancer around the area, death that sort of thing. Now I dont know if shes trying to hint at something (as in something wrong with her, and Please God I hope not), of if its just on her mind these days. But like I said, we were just talking, and I realized again that I am so blessed. To have people that love me like they do, to live in a safe (though boring) town, to be able to openly talk about things, religion, politics etc etc and dont have to be afraid of getting caught. But most importantly, I was reminded that all things come in God's time, and though we may not understand it, its for the best. Life will always be full of questions and wonders, but I guess that is what makes life interesting. Perhaps the song that I have on now, sums up what I am trying to say

Made to worship
Chris Tomlin
Before the day

Before the light

Before the world revolved around the sun

God on high

Stepped down into time

And wrote the story of His love for everyone

He has filled our hearts with wonder

So that we always remember

Chorus:You and I are made to worship

You and I are called to love

You and I are forgiven and free

You and I embrace surrender

You and I choose to believe

You and I will see who we were meant to be

All we are

And all we have

Is all a gift from God that we receive

Brought to life

We open up our eyes

To see the majesty and glory of the King

He has filled our hearts with wonder

So that we always remember

Chorus:Even the rocks cry out

Even the Heavens shout

All the sound of His holy name

So let every voice sing out

Let every knee bow down

He’s worthy of all our praise

Some more

So here are a few more, the smaller ones are pillow covers, and the larger ones are bed covers 

Check these out

Ok, so heres the delio with these things. Long story short, Moms boss at work, gets these to sell for a lady down in Africa, who paints em. My question for you, which one should I get, or consider for a Christmas gift from the parents? I am looking at painting room brown with some rusty orange/red colour, so keep that in mind. Leave a comment, let me know Also, if you are interested in one, there are more, check out Christmas in the Country, at Barb Wiebes house west of town area. They will be for sale there. Let me know 

So its been a while

I dont have anything prfound, or interesting or anything like that today, so it will just be an update. Things are going good. Work is still work, but its keeping me busy, and reminding me daily, that you have to work for the things you want. I know I will appreciate things more if I work for them, though working isnt always fuun! During breaks, I am listening to The Narnia series on my Ipod. My little brother has the CDS, and I am done The lion, The witch, and the wardrobe (I started with that cause I knew the stor), and now I am almost done The Magician's Nephew. I must say though, that Aslans voice really really REALLY bugs me!!! The way they build up to new life coming up, the start of Narnia, to first hearing Aslan;s voice, really is a let down. the Build up was great, but Aslans voice sounds like a kitten stuck in a door! Really it not a good voice, for someone who is suppose to be the creator of Narnia. Listen to it sometime if you dont know what I am talking about. So Yah, work is going good, and I am still counting down the days, not only till Christmas, but till I leave! Only 4! Months to GO!!! I am so excited (I just hope my passport all comes smoothly)

Christmas stuff is all out, our house is full of lights, although mom says there are less then there usually are! Moms Christmas baking a bit each day, the puzzles are out (we already finished one!) The tree is also up, along with lights and decorations! So Christmas really is in the air!

Last saturday, I got to see big brotther corey play hockey again. WOw was that good to watch him play the game! This was the first game i had seen for like, 2-3 years! (Hey, thats huge for me!) Though he did get a goal, he also got two penalties, which is not like him, but maybe hes growing up! Regardless, though I almost lost the keys out in Landmark, no joke, it was really worth it to go.
so yah, thats just a quick update, like I say, things are pretty much the same here, I just have to keep telling myself to enjoy where I am now (besides, I am learning lots about the working force, and what it means/expectations, when workin in a company)

Small town thoughts, round 2

Ok, ok. I just got back from a Junk to Joy Banquet at our Church (thanks Grace, it opened yet another eye for me) Though there are negative things to living in a small town, (find me a town that doesnt have bad things about it), there are just as many good things as well, other then the saftey and security (which I am very glad for) For instance, the people, not all people, but people who just seem to make everyones day, they always have a smile on their face, and an open and willing heart and soul. They are just over all good caring people. I really dont know how else to describe them. They are the ones that will take you in, feed you, clothe you, all while looking beyound what they see. Beyound the physical features, or another persons past. Thats what this Junk to Joy program is about. Letting people know that there IS a God who loves them, regardless of past mistakes, through spending time with them, wood working and crafts. I know, I am sure you have all heard this 1000s of times, but maybe this time it will sink in. WE DONT HAVE TO LEAVE OUR COMMUITY FOR MISSIONS! heck, we dont even have to go to saskatoon, or any other province withiin the country. There are missions right at our doorsteps. I am guilty of this as well, I want out, and I want to make a difference to someone out in the world...but God came a knocking like he usually does right when you know what you want.. and reminded me, and also showed me again tonight that "Nikki there are missions right here, NOW. Right where you are." And by Missions, I dont mean, "hey lets make so and so a "Project" and get them to go to church, I mean an acutally servent, loving heart who truely cares for the person.

In a small town, those people stick out, or at least they should. I look at my own family, and instantly i could name a bunch of people that have made a difference. Grace-your work with April (hope you dont mind me using this), wow, what a caring heart, and tho it maybe hard at points, keep at it, God is working through you to reach out to her again. I know he is! Thank you for challenging me, making me think!. Leah-wow girl, you have done more for me then I think you will ever know. And tho we dont see each other as much/email as much, you are still my go to girl if I ever need advice on certain things (*cough cough!*) lol. Pearl- Your minstry through your quilting, 7:00 AM phone calls (ok not that early!) camping, waffle suppers, and just hangin out with people, including me, has impacted me so much. Your love and support is so amazing. thank you thank you thank you! The list could go on and on for me, but it there are more people, non family members that also need to be recongized. Teachers (JT and PK-your classes always challenged me, both spiritually, and well, acidemically as well!), Youth leaders- Marv and Deb, Nathan and Niki. Thank you so much all of you! Keep Challenging me and making me think in my walk wth Christ. Ben and Cindy the work you do with the refugee families that come in, amazing and I am so glad that there are people like you guys! The Seniors of our town-though we dont always agree, you guys are the prayer warriors for us here and there. We couldnt do it without you financial, and most important prayers!
Do you get my drift yet? There are tons and tons of people. These are just a few who have affected my life, but i know that tthere are others in this town and in your life that have impacted you. I hope that this will make you think, and perhaps tell them how much they mean to you.

So when Anne, the founder of Junk to Joy, read the statisitcs of the drug and Drinking abuse etc in and around this area, the numbers are surprising for a "good clean Mennoonite" community. But God is a GOd of second chances, second chances for me and for you, and maybe just maybe, God is using you to be a beakon of light for someone else. Take the oppportunity, but dont do it your self, Do it with the strenght and Power of our Lord and Savior!!
Cherish life!

(So yah, comment, so that I actaully know people read these things!)

Am I being to hard?

For those of you who know me, you will know by now, or at least you should know, my feelings towards small towns. Maybe its just the point where I am at in my life, or maybe I am just using it as an excuse by now, I'm not sure. Anyways, the other day, I was coming into town off the high way, and a thought just popped into my head and I was quite surprised by it. It was "Wow, I am really gonna miss this place!" Wierd I know, but perhaps its the security of it, or the feeling of being home, and "knowing" the town, the people, the way of life. It didnt seem to fit with my current way of thinking and looking at the town, all the negative things about it. I will admit that a town like Altona, is where I want to raise a family, just for those reason of security, and the feeling of home. That doesnt mean it will be Altona, but hopefully some small town somewhere like it.

But Like I said, right now, I just need to get away. Away from the mennonite culture, away from the sense of knowing "everything about Everyone." Its kind like if you dont fit in to the way of life as it is here, or if you dont meet the right expectations of other people, then good luck being accepted and fitting in. I have talked to people who have lived here all of their lives, since they moved here, and still dont feel accepted to some point. Now I dont want this to be a downer for anyone, but I wonder how many other people in town feel that way. Your Grade 12 year, you hear plans of what lots of people want to do. Sure most go to university, but there are also those that want to get out. Is that just a mindset that "oh i am done school, so i can leave" or is there someting about small towns that drive people away?

There are days when I honestly feel like I am a robot living in a bubble. wake up, take the same streets to work, work with the same people, take the same streets back, have supper, go to the rink (especially now with hockey starting...), come home etc etc and go to bed knowing that the next day will be very similar. Maybe I am over analyzing things, maybe I am not. I could go on, but I dont want to spend my Sunday complaining about something that I can't change alone. Besides, my Chalo scrapbook is waiting for me. But yah, let me know what you think, am I being to hard? Just using it as an excuse, or can you relate as well? So yah, post a comment and whereever you are, just live life and enjoy it ( I know I know I nee d to eat my own words!)

Hokus Pick...(Who??)

On my way to work, I always listen to music on my Ipod, and since I just put a lot more songs on it, the more variety there is, the better. Some of the new songs I put on were off my VERY old Hokus Pick songs off my cds that I havent listend to forever! They have this one song called "True Believer" and apart from the style (which I will admit, isnt all bad) if you listen to the lyrics, they are quite something.

The part about "trying, crying, denying" really hit me, along with "giving up, running out, full of doubt." It reminded me as Christians, we will ty, we will cry, we will at some point deny Christ. There will be points in our lives where we want to give up, we are running out of "steam", or faith. Full of doubt. Yet the desire to be a true believer will remain. Tears will come when a loved one passes on, we will try to remember that they are in a better place, yet the tears are still there. But you may say, "we live in a Small, Mennonite community, how could we deny christ?" Quite simple, just look at the schools, the work place, the malls and all. There are lots of opportunities. Through coversation, when someone laughs at Christianity or God, and we stand there, hands in our pockets, is that denying Christ? I think so.

I know from experience how easy it is to want to throw your hands up and go "screw it, i Give up!" Who isnt full of doubt sooner or later? Parts of me wonder if I will make it once I am in Europe, off the plane. I have my doubts. Will I make the right connections, take the right trains/buses. Will I get to were I need to be on time and all. believe me, the doubts are there. (But I am still so excited!) I know through it all, God WILL see me through it all, he will lead me on, take my hand and help me stand.

So yah, read the lyrics below and think about what they mean to you, dont just read them and go oh that was nice, and move on, STOP and really think about them, even for a few moments. Perhaps they will challenge you, make yourself ask questions, or even just have taken the time to acknowledge God for those few moments!

I'm not a rock

Do i believe it or not

For i have denied

T.he grace i received by name
The saints of old

Chickened out when the roostercrowed

Still they were forgiven

Without consequence or blame
{chorus}:

I'm trying, crying, denying

But i want to be a true believer

Giving up, running out, full of doubt

Still i want to be a true believer
When even my best

Has fallen short of the test

I see His arms outstretched

To the low & the wretched to save
Lowest of the low, where can i go

Drowning in a pit, lift me out of it

Lift me up
Lift me up, fill my cup, lead me on

I want to be a true believer

Lead me on, take my hand, help me stand

I want to be a true believer

(Oh and check out, "Learning as I go" Lyrics by Hokus Pick as well, a great message in reminding us that life of a Christian, is a never ending, learning journey!)
Cherish LIFE