Today is not my favorite day. Neither was yesterday.
You see, those sweet little Austrian girls I get to spend so much time with were sick last week. Coughing up a storm. I tried my hardest to teach them to turn away from people when they cough, and to cover their mouths with their elbows...but they are just so stuck on the concept of sharing that they couldn't resist this opportunity.
I thought I was in the clear this weekend after they seemed to be over it.
Wrong.
I've got that from-the-chest cough, where if you breathe in too deeply, you hear the wheeze. It's really attractive--you all should come visit and see. I mean, if you do visit, I might be knocked out on the couch by 9pm, like I was last night...or on self-imposed bed rest, like today. But I promise I'll do my best not to share...
All this to say: if you're a praying person, I would be pretty thankful if you'd include my health in them today.
Grace and peace,
Hilary
Tuesday, November 22, 2011
Saturday, November 19, 2011
Insecurities
Today, as I was walking through my forest, I had one of those occasions where I heard a truth that tore me apart a little. I was listening to a podcast from a sermon given last month at a church in Colorado, and it started off as sermons from that church often do--it was interesting enough to keep my attention, factual, and honest.
But about halfway through, the preacher hit a little closer to home than I was expecting. The sermon is called "Letting Go of Pride," yet he started talking about something that I don't normally associate with pride. At minute 21, the preacher dove right into insecurity. It was so thought-provoking and just relevant to my life in the last few months. There's no way I can reproduce the thoughts that Chad Bruegman shared in that sermon, so I would really recommend that you download the podcast and listen to it yourself.
If you're not iTunes savvy, or you would need visual to really keep your focus, you can click right here, find the sermon under "Welcome Bowlers" and hit October 16th's message.
Grace and peace,
Hilary
But about halfway through, the preacher hit a little closer to home than I was expecting. The sermon is called "Letting Go of Pride," yet he started talking about something that I don't normally associate with pride. At minute 21, the preacher dove right into insecurity. It was so thought-provoking and just relevant to my life in the last few months. There's no way I can reproduce the thoughts that Chad Bruegman shared in that sermon, so I would really recommend that you download the podcast and listen to it yourself.
If you're not iTunes savvy, or you would need visual to really keep your focus, you can click right here, find the sermon under "Welcome Bowlers" and hit October 16th's message.
Grace and peace,
Hilary
Monday, November 14, 2011
Gifts with meaning
DISCLAIMER: If you are the type that gets angry when people talk about Christmas before Thanksgiving is over, I'm sorry (that you're such a grinch. Just kidding). But if you're getting ready to start holiday shopping anytime soon, bare with me these first couple of paragraphs, and you could benefit from what you find.
I know I make myself just one of the crowd when I express my love for Christmas. But really, it is just my absolute favorite time of the year! I feel like skipping when I walk downtown and see the beautiful lights and evergreen foliage...and with treats as tasty as peppermint hot chocolate or Oma's sour cream jelly drop cookies, I don't even care how many calories they contain.
It's a time when one is meant to be surrounded by family, enjoying the fresh scent of the Christmas tree and the nostalgic claymation rendition of Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer. When the Halls pull out the fresh crab, clam dip, and 15 different kinds of mustard for our Christmas afternoon ham sandwiches. When my mom and I fight over who actually owns the ornament of the kitten tangled in yarn (it's mine, by the way), or whether the dress I wore to the SF Ballet Nutcracker when I was 8 was blue or purple (in case you're wondering, it was blue).
Christmas is a time to remember the birth of Christ. To think of a King born in a manger, of the wise men and the angel announcing the birth of a savior.
Among these Christmas-y traditions, there is the one that no child will ever let their parents forget: the exchanging of the gifts. Of course it's a fun tradition, but it can be a real pain-in-the-you-know-where. Sure, you could get Dad another tie or Mom another lotion set, but you could also make your gift more meaningful. A couple years ago, after I spent much of my summer working in north-eastern China and learning from a few Americans working in North Korea, I decided to do something different for Christmas. Since North Korea was often on my mind and I knew that my Aunt and Uncle didn't need any new candles, I chose to buy 10 pairs of winter boots that would go to North Korean children instead of buying gifts to give to family.
I would encourage you to do something similar. I have five links that enable you to:
1. Give a donation to a meaningful organization in a family member/friend's name
2. Purchase an "actual" gift to give someone, but which will also benefit a great cause
3. Buy locally. I know this isn't on the philanthropic side of things, but supporting your local entrepreneurs is a great way to "love your neighbors" and stimulate the local economy
1: Free Wheelchair Mission
is a fantastic organization. Since I was in charge of international service in our APU Rotaract club last year, I chaired an event to raise money for them--so this one is significant to me. Somewhere around 100 million people in developing countries are affected by diseases hindering their mobility--yet they don't have access to wheelchairs. This leaves them to just crawl on the unsanitary ground, exposing them to more illnesses or a life of isolation, dependent on whoever will take care of them. Just a $63.94 donation to FWM pays for the materials, construction AND DELIVERY of a wheelchair.
2: Kavalena
is a small company started by my friend Val, who graduated from APU with me in May of this year. Val sews and sells beautiful infinity scarves. 50% of the profits directly benefit The Bright Connection, an organization in China benefitting children with cerebral palsy and autism. The company is new and small, but as business accelerates, Val plans on broadening the beneficiaries.
3: Enzi Imports
is powered by the mother of an ex-boyfriend. Cheri speaks and lives with passion and I have a lot of respect for her. Enzi Imports empowers women from places where women don't have the opportunities to live unoppressed, independent lives. Enzi sells beautiful, necklaces, bracelets, earrings and headbands handmade by African women. They also partner with Assist International to provide micro-enterprise opportunities for Kenyan and Ugandan women. With these loans provided, women are able to open their business, receive training, and stand on their own two feet.
4: Trade as One
provides you with gifts which you can give without guilt. By purchasing from Trade as One, you are returning dignity to producers in the developing world. You can be sure that these workers are paid fairly for their products and labor. Plus, the variety on Trade as One is ridiculous. Whether you're buying jewelry, chocolate, bags, coffee, beauty supplies, stationery (the list goes on!), you can feel good about supporting people who need the support.
5: The Original Basket Boutique
isn't exactly local for everyone. My point here is GO LOCAL! OBB Eureka is owned by my mom, so I am a little bit biased, but seriously, her baskets are beautiful! Just click on the link and look at them. She can create all-Humboldt product baskets, which makes it even better. She can accommodate recipients with diabetes. She can take care of your golf-lover or your chef. In fact, I have yet to see an order stump my mother. She's even created a gardener's gift, using a hose instead of a basket. Or a dinner basket, using a colander to hold pasta, sauce, cooking utensils and spices. Or a wedding basket set up in a beautiful wooden clock. I could go on. But I won't. (Except to tell you that she delivers within Humboldt county and ships nationwide. And if you own a business, she can help you, too! She's done orders of 100+ for businesses. Ok. I went on. But now I'm done.)
Please share this post or these links with others gearing up for Christmas shopping. Let's give gifts this year in the right spirit.
Grace and peace,
Hilary
I know I make myself just one of the crowd when I express my love for Christmas. But really, it is just my absolute favorite time of the year! I feel like skipping when I walk downtown and see the beautiful lights and evergreen foliage...and with treats as tasty as peppermint hot chocolate or Oma's sour cream jelly drop cookies, I don't even care how many calories they contain.
It's a time when one is meant to be surrounded by family, enjoying the fresh scent of the Christmas tree and the nostalgic claymation rendition of Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer. When the Halls pull out the fresh crab, clam dip, and 15 different kinds of mustard for our Christmas afternoon ham sandwiches. When my mom and I fight over who actually owns the ornament of the kitten tangled in yarn (it's mine, by the way), or whether the dress I wore to the SF Ballet Nutcracker when I was 8 was blue or purple (in case you're wondering, it was blue).
Christmas is a time to remember the birth of Christ. To think of a King born in a manger, of the wise men and the angel announcing the birth of a savior.
Among these Christmas-y traditions, there is the one that no child will ever let their parents forget: the exchanging of the gifts. Of course it's a fun tradition, but it can be a real pain-in-the-you-know-where. Sure, you could get Dad another tie or Mom another lotion set, but you could also make your gift more meaningful. A couple years ago, after I spent much of my summer working in north-eastern China and learning from a few Americans working in North Korea, I decided to do something different for Christmas. Since North Korea was often on my mind and I knew that my Aunt and Uncle didn't need any new candles, I chose to buy 10 pairs of winter boots that would go to North Korean children instead of buying gifts to give to family.
I would encourage you to do something similar. I have five links that enable you to:
1. Give a donation to a meaningful organization in a family member/friend's name
2. Purchase an "actual" gift to give someone, but which will also benefit a great cause
3. Buy locally. I know this isn't on the philanthropic side of things, but supporting your local entrepreneurs is a great way to "love your neighbors" and stimulate the local economy
1: Free Wheelchair Mission
is a fantastic organization. Since I was in charge of international service in our APU Rotaract club last year, I chaired an event to raise money for them--so this one is significant to me. Somewhere around 100 million people in developing countries are affected by diseases hindering their mobility--yet they don't have access to wheelchairs. This leaves them to just crawl on the unsanitary ground, exposing them to more illnesses or a life of isolation, dependent on whoever will take care of them. Just a $63.94 donation to FWM pays for the materials, construction AND DELIVERY of a wheelchair.
2: Kavalena
is a small company started by my friend Val, who graduated from APU with me in May of this year. Val sews and sells beautiful infinity scarves. 50% of the profits directly benefit The Bright Connection, an organization in China benefitting children with cerebral palsy and autism. The company is new and small, but as business accelerates, Val plans on broadening the beneficiaries.
3: Enzi Imports
is powered by the mother of an ex-boyfriend. Cheri speaks and lives with passion and I have a lot of respect for her. Enzi Imports empowers women from places where women don't have the opportunities to live unoppressed, independent lives. Enzi sells beautiful, necklaces, bracelets, earrings and headbands handmade by African women. They also partner with Assist International to provide micro-enterprise opportunities for Kenyan and Ugandan women. With these loans provided, women are able to open their business, receive training, and stand on their own two feet.
4: Trade as One
provides you with gifts which you can give without guilt. By purchasing from Trade as One, you are returning dignity to producers in the developing world. You can be sure that these workers are paid fairly for their products and labor. Plus, the variety on Trade as One is ridiculous. Whether you're buying jewelry, chocolate, bags, coffee, beauty supplies, stationery (the list goes on!), you can feel good about supporting people who need the support.
5: The Original Basket Boutique
isn't exactly local for everyone. My point here is GO LOCAL! OBB Eureka is owned by my mom, so I am a little bit biased, but seriously, her baskets are beautiful! Just click on the link and look at them. She can create all-Humboldt product baskets, which makes it even better. She can accommodate recipients with diabetes. She can take care of your golf-lover or your chef. In fact, I have yet to see an order stump my mother. She's even created a gardener's gift, using a hose instead of a basket. Or a dinner basket, using a colander to hold pasta, sauce, cooking utensils and spices. Or a wedding basket set up in a beautiful wooden clock. I could go on. But I won't. (Except to tell you that she delivers within Humboldt county and ships nationwide. And if you own a business, she can help you, too! She's done orders of 100+ for businesses. Ok. I went on. But now I'm done.)
Please share this post or these links with others gearing up for Christmas shopping. Let's give gifts this year in the right spirit.
Grace and peace,
Hilary
Wednesday, November 9, 2011
He is a provider
That's kind of been the theme of my last week or two. I mean, it's always been true, without a doubt in my mind. But it's kept coming up over and over lately.
I'm far away from home. I've been kind of homesick lately, especially for my sisters.
But He has provided me with 2 sweet Austrian girls to smother me in hugs when I need them.
I miss my American friends and living so close as across campus to them.
But He has provided me with a church family, through which I have found a community of believers who laugh with me, learn with me, and encourage me when I'm not feeling top-notch.
It's hard to keep in touch with people 9 hours behind, and some relationships are better just to let go.
But He has provided me with friends who show me that I'm worth the effort and has provided me with the strength and peace to let others go.
November marks 6 months from college graduation. This means the class of 2011 begins paying back student loans. I'm not exactly making the big bucks on this adventure.
But He has provided me a job including meals, health insurance, housing, and enough money for a little traveling and train tickets to church every weekend.
I'm far away from home. I've been kind of homesick lately, especially for my sisters.
But He has provided me with 2 sweet Austrian girls to smother me in hugs when I need them.
I miss my American friends and living so close as across campus to them.
But He has provided me with a church family, through which I have found a community of believers who laugh with me, learn with me, and encourage me when I'm not feeling top-notch.
It's hard to keep in touch with people 9 hours behind, and some relationships are better just to let go.
But He has provided me with friends who show me that I'm worth the effort and has provided me with the strength and peace to let others go.
November marks 6 months from college graduation. This means the class of 2011 begins paying back student loans. I'm not exactly making the big bucks on this adventure.
But He has provided me a job including meals, health insurance, housing, and enough money for a little traveling and train tickets to church every weekend.
It seems like every time I've needed reminding, something really obvious shows me that I'm taken care of. I needn't worry too much, because He is a provider.
Grace and peace,
Hilary
Monday, November 7, 2011
Hungarian High
Goodness, gracious, I know some pretty wonderful people. I'm still on a high from my week in Hungary. The emotional price for living so far from home can be pretty hefty sometimes, but I realize how worthwhile it is when I reconnect with those from my "other homes."
I had a few days off because of a national holiday last week. Elisabeth suggested I do a trip during that week, because I wouldn't have to take vacation time. The day after we talked about that, I got an email from the bus company I used to visit Hungary in June. 50% discount on tickets to Budapest. THEN, one of my old Hungarian classmates posted in our class facebook group, suggesting we have a little reunion--for the very weekend I'd be in Hungary. Sounded like a fantastic combination to me, so I went ahead and bought my round trip tickets for a whopping $12.87.
THAT'S RIGHT, FOLKS! $12.87. That's less than I pay for the round trip ticket from Hollabrunn to Vienna every weekend.
My time there was such a thrill! I spent a couple days in Budapest with Levi and Zsombi--once again enjoying the sights that I know, but still just as impressed with them as the first time I discovered them 5 1/2 years ago. I stand by what I've said time and time again: Budapest is one of the most beautiful cities I've seen! The beautifully lit buildings by night, charming, cozy cafes by day, the Danube, the parliament, the Buda hills and castle.
When Zsombi's dad happened to be in Budapest and driving to Debrecen, so we caught a ride with him there and my excitement multiplied. I do love Budapest, but the people I care for most live in Debrecen. I got to see 2 of my 3 host families, plus my "honorary" host family. We strolled through the city center, walked the dog through the botanical gardens behind the university (but don't tell anyone! The sweet old man just (ahem) looked the other way when we brought in the pup), ate at old restaurants and just enjoyed "home."
I was so nervous about my class get together! The 2 classmates I still talk with the most (and who I've gotten together with the last couple times I've visited) had to stay in Budapest for work, so they weren't coming. I've only been sporadically in touch with a few of the others, thanks to facebook. These classmates focused on German in high school, so just chatting away in English wasn't an option. And yes, I can speak Hungarian, but it was so intimidating to think about a whole night of catching up with these people, even if it weren't in another language.
My nerves were all for naught. I can't believe how much I enjoyed myself! Classmates greeted me by name, they looked genuinely happy to see me, they were interested in my life and I just heard all night long how good my Hungarian still is. Flattery, I must say, is a great stress reliever in situations like this. After chatting with my old friends, those 5 years didn't seem like such a long time.
I spent my last couple days up north in Eger, in the wine region of Hungary. My honorary host family decided to make a little family vacation up there for their Fall Break, and I was invited along. Oh, my friends, it was just breathtaking. The trees were showing off their deep red, loud orange and lemony yellow leaves, leaving me constantly wide-eyed and open-mouthed. We saw natural hot springs and went to an 800 year old (!!!) abbey in the hills.
It was a fast 6 days, but a breath of fresh air out of my Austrian routine. I can't wait to go back to see them again in a couple months!
Grace and peace,
Hilary
I had a few days off because of a national holiday last week. Elisabeth suggested I do a trip during that week, because I wouldn't have to take vacation time. The day after we talked about that, I got an email from the bus company I used to visit Hungary in June. 50% discount on tickets to Budapest. THEN, one of my old Hungarian classmates posted in our class facebook group, suggesting we have a little reunion--for the very weekend I'd be in Hungary. Sounded like a fantastic combination to me, so I went ahead and bought my round trip tickets for a whopping $12.87.
THAT'S RIGHT, FOLKS! $12.87. That's less than I pay for the round trip ticket from Hollabrunn to Vienna every weekend.
My time there was such a thrill! I spent a couple days in Budapest with Levi and Zsombi--once again enjoying the sights that I know, but still just as impressed with them as the first time I discovered them 5 1/2 years ago. I stand by what I've said time and time again: Budapest is one of the most beautiful cities I've seen! The beautifully lit buildings by night, charming, cozy cafes by day, the Danube, the parliament, the Buda hills and castle.
When Zsombi's dad happened to be in Budapest and driving to Debrecen, so we caught a ride with him there and my excitement multiplied. I do love Budapest, but the people I care for most live in Debrecen. I got to see 2 of my 3 host families, plus my "honorary" host family. We strolled through the city center, walked the dog through the botanical gardens behind the university (but don't tell anyone! The sweet old man just (ahem) looked the other way when we brought in the pup), ate at old restaurants and just enjoyed "home."
I was so nervous about my class get together! The 2 classmates I still talk with the most (and who I've gotten together with the last couple times I've visited) had to stay in Budapest for work, so they weren't coming. I've only been sporadically in touch with a few of the others, thanks to facebook. These classmates focused on German in high school, so just chatting away in English wasn't an option. And yes, I can speak Hungarian, but it was so intimidating to think about a whole night of catching up with these people, even if it weren't in another language.
My nerves were all for naught. I can't believe how much I enjoyed myself! Classmates greeted me by name, they looked genuinely happy to see me, they were interested in my life and I just heard all night long how good my Hungarian still is. Flattery, I must say, is a great stress reliever in situations like this. After chatting with my old friends, those 5 years didn't seem like such a long time.
I spent my last couple days up north in Eger, in the wine region of Hungary. My honorary host family decided to make a little family vacation up there for their Fall Break, and I was invited along. Oh, my friends, it was just breathtaking. The trees were showing off their deep red, loud orange and lemony yellow leaves, leaving me constantly wide-eyed and open-mouthed. We saw natural hot springs and went to an 800 year old (!!!) abbey in the hills.
Then I had the pleasure of figuring out how to eat the village's specialty. A whole trout on my plate.
It was a fast 6 days, but a breath of fresh air out of my Austrian routine. I can't wait to go back to see them again in a couple months!
Grace and peace,
Hilary
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