Chopsticks on Oboe

Complete happiness

2011-05-29T11:44:00.005-04:00

My joy is complete. God has given abundantly more than I could ever wish for, "pressed down, shaken together and overflowing" (Luke 6:38).

On May 20, 2011 John and I became engaged.

How precious is Your lovingkindness, O God!
And the children of men take refuge in the shadow of Your wings.
They drink their fill of the abundance of Your house;
and You give them to drink of the river or Your delights.
For with You is the fountain of life;
in Your light we see light. (Psalms 36:7-9)

Love bade me welcome

2011-01-13T09:05:00.006-05:00

Love bade me welcome, yet my soul drew back,

Guilty of dust and sin.

But quick-ey'd Love, observing me grow slack

From my first entrance in,

Drew nearer to me, sweetly questioning

If I lack'd anything

"A guest," I answer'd, "worthy to be here";

Love said, "You shall be he."

"I, the unkind, the ungrateful? ah my Dear,

I cannot look on Thee."

Love took my hand and smiling did reply,

"Who made the eyes but I?"

"Truth, Lord, but I have marr'd them; let my shame

Go where it doth deserve."

"And know you not," says Love, "who bore the blame?"

"My Dear, then I will serve."

"You must sit down," says Love, "and taste my meat."

So I did sit and eat.

--George Herbert

Just breathe

2010-11-06T09:17:00.007-04:00

I was standing waste deep in water, gasping for breath. I love to swim. It had been a while since I had last swum, and I wanted to go for a long distance. On the last few laps I decided to give it my all and see how fast I could swim the pool. It wasn't very fast, but it certainly winded me, and therefore I was standing in the pool, trying to recover by taking deep gulps of air. I was so thankful for lungs that could fill with the life giving oxygen.

So many times we take air for granted. Breathing comes so naturally that we don't think about it, even though we use air constantly. Certain types of air are irresistible: salty sea air, balsam scented mountain air, and snow laden, crisp winter air. We might not realize how important breathing is until we are limited in our supply. When playing long sections on my oboe, I am so thankful for the composers who leave one or two rests to recuperate my lungs.

I was reading the other day in 1 Thessalonians 5:17 "pray without ceasing". It reminded me of a quote from Ellen G. White

“Prayer is the breath of the soul. It is the secret of spiritual power. No other means of grace can be substituted, and the health of the soul be preserved. Prayer brings the heart into immediate contact with the Well-spring of life, and strengthens the sinew and muscle of the religious experience. Neglect the exercise of prayer, or engage in prayer spasmodically, now and then, as seems convenient, and you lose your hold on God. The spiritual faculties lose their vitality, the religious experience lacks health and vigor.”—Ellen G. White, Gospel Workers, pp. 254, 255

How often do we pray? Do we take long intermissions in our prayer life and end up depleted as I was after swimming? Do we breathe prayer and cleanse our spiritual lungs as often as we cleanse our physical lungs? Without respiration there is no life. Lord, remind me to breathe prayers to You throughout my whole day.

Busy

2010-10-05T14:13:00.001-04:00

Recently my life has consisted of...

I am so thankful for...

But most importantly, I am indebted to...

Forever student

2010-09-26T07:51:00.000-04:00

I love studying biology. Yes, I know I'm a typical biology major, but I feel that the more that I study about biology, the more I realize how little I know, and how much I want to know.

My favorite part of the week is my Vertebrate Natural History lab. Wandering outside looking in crevices for lizards, or peering into streams for fish, is so exciting. The intricacies of the animal kingdom are fascinating.

It's a good thing that I have many more years of study ahead of me, because I doubt that I will ever get my full dose of studying in. I think I will be a professional student.

That's why this morning I was so excited to read this excerpt from EGW's Prophets and Kings. She had been describing heaven in glorious detail:

"There every power will be developed, every capability increased. The grandest enterprises will be carried forward, the loftiest aspirations will be reached, the highest ambitions realized. And still there will appear new heights to surmount, new wonders to admire, new truths to comprehend, fresh objects of study to call forth the powers of body and mind and soul." (PK 731)

Can you imagine? Having our whole, uncompromised minds that can soak up every bit of information that we acquire? The greatest thing to look forward to though, is that the Creator of all living things will be our professor.

John

2010-09-13T06:47:00.001-04:00

Happiness is dating my best friend

Happiness is having God as the center of our relationship, for God is the center of happiness.

Maine...

2010-08-17T13:22:00.000-04:00

...Is beautiful

The Great General Conference

2010-07-09T18:40:00.000-04:00

For the past few weeks I have been working at the 59th General Conference Session in Atlanta Georgia. For those who might not know, the GC is a time for leaders (called delegates) in the Seventh-day Adventist church to get together and vote on different important issues to direct our church. Delegates are not the only ones to go to the sessions though, it is a time for people to come from all over the world and connect with other Adventists, and get spiritual refreshing. In the evenings and mornings, wonderful speakers from all over the world give devotional talks and updates on the missions in their Unions.

I was working with a team of Oakwood students at the information booths for the convention. This gave me a great opportunity to meet new people, as well as see many old friends walking past.

My team at our information booth

One of the many highlights of my time there was people watching. It is so heartwarming to observe people reconnect with those who they haven't seen for 15 years or more, and look at the utter joy on their faces as they embraced for the first time in decades.

Some good friends that were missionaries with us in Malawi

Another highlight was the sheer abundance of nationalities that were present at the meetings. Even though there were so many nationalities, they all were joined together with a bond of brotherly love. It reminded me of the song "red and yellow, black and white, all are precious in God's sight".

Some friends I met in Russia

With 80,000 people together working for the Lord, made my mind turn to Jesus' return. Think of the people from "every nation, tongue, tribe and people" all gathered together in one big "General Conference" in heaven! Not only will we see people who we haven't seen for 15 years, but we will see grandparents, parents, brothers, and sisters who have died long ago. We won't just see famous preachers and evangelists like Mark Finley, we will also see people like Abraham, Joseph, the apostles Peter, John, and Paul. We won't just see musicians like Wintley Phipps, we will also see J. S. Bach, Vivaldi, and Buxtehude. People from every country, every religion, every region of the earth will be living peacefully together, because they all love their Redeemer.

Wintley Phipps

The best part of the great reunion in heaven, will be meeting our greatest Desire: Jesus. Our God who died for us, that we might be together with Him.

We have this hope that burns within our hearts,

Hope in the coming of the Lord

We have this faith that Christ alone imparts

Faith in the promise of His word!

We believe the time is here,

When the nations far and near

Shall awake and shout and sing

Hallelujah, Christ is King!

We have this hope that burns within our hearts!

Hope in the coming of the Lord!

Sharpening knives

2010-06-20T14:47:00.001-04:00

Last Saturday night I had nothing to do. This is a very rare occurrence in my life, and I realized that I must quickly fill that vacant block of time with something useful. That is when I came up with the bright idea of sharpening our knives in the kitchen. I pulled out my sharpening stone and blithely began to stroke away. Sharpening dull knives took longer than I had expected. Several hours later, I was getting a little tired of my newfound occupation, but continued on my mission, convinced that sharp knives were well worth the effort.

Standing by the kitchen counter with knives scattered around me made me think of Hebrews 4:12 "For the word of God is living and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart." The Bible is a tool that needs to be acuminated through constant use. Through prayer, the Holy Spirit will sharpen the Biblical concepts in our thoughts, making them useful to our lives. Let's not allow our Bibles grow dull with neglect, but continually read and pray for the great Stone to sharpen our spiritual swords.

What many do not know about Maryland

2010-06-14T21:21:00.001-04:00

Maryland state bird: Baltimore oriole (it's beautiful to see these bright spots of sunshine in the forest)

Maryland state flower: Black eyed susan

Maryland state crustacean: Blue crab (believe me, if you go swimming in the summer in the Chesapeake Bay, you will understand why this is our state crustacean)

Maryland state insect: Baltimore checkerspot butterfly

Maryland state reptile: Diamondback terrapin (The Terrapins are also the name of Maryland University's basketball team)

Maryland state song: Maryland my Maryland (interestingly, this was written to encourage Maryland to join the Confederate States of America. Lee ordered his troops to sing this song as they marched through Frederick, but were given the cold shoulder since Frederick was staunchly for the Union)

Maryland state tree: White oak (we had the largest white oak tree in America, until it was blown down in 2002)

Maryland state dog: Chesapeake bay retriever

Maryland state boat: Chesapeake bay skipjack (incidentally, these are the last working sailboats in the US)

Maryland state sport: jousting (yes, that's right, baseball is just a little too modern for us)

And to top all

Maryland state dinosaur: Astrodon jonstoni

Jeremiah and car doors

2010-06-10T20:07:00.000-04:00

I shifted uncomfortably from one foot to the other. I was in a parking lot between a proverbial rock and hard place. To be exact, my finger was situated all too snugly between the car door and the frame of the car. We have been using a rental car this weekend that does not have an automatic lock, so each door must be locked separately. Somehow, while locking up the car, I miscalculated the time that it would take for the door to close compared with the time it would take to move my finger from the door frame. So there I was, with finger in a locked door, and no way of escape.

I quickly looked around to see if anyone could lend a hand. The car next to mine had three people gathered around it talking about their vehicle. I gave a pleading gaze their direction and entreated them to lend a hand. One of them (I take to be the car dealer) looked up, gave me a disapproving glare, and then quickly shifted his glance back to the car he was so intent on.

I was quite stuck. I had no way to open the door because of the security of the bolt, I couldn't reach through the opposite door, because I couldn't maneuver myself around with a finger caught in the door, and I couldn't simply press a key to open the lock. I tried pulling and wiggling my finger out, but it wouldn't budge. There was nothing else to do. Then it struck me! I needed to pray.

I have been reading Jeremiah in my devotions recently. Judah was in terrible straits. They had been in the grasp of the Devil for centuries, and they were about to be taken into captivity. God was pleading through Jeremiah for Judah to return their loyalty to God, to leave their dangerous courting with evil, and turn back to God. He promised that if they but showed a desire for God He would "deliver you from the hand of the wicked, and I will redeem you from the grip of the terrible (Jer. 15:21)."

I was not "flirting with the evil" car door, but I certainly felt like I was in "the grip of the terrible" when I cried out to God. I mustered up all my strength and with a mighty pull, I wrenched my finger away from the abominable door.

Though it was a relatively small thing for God to do for me, I was reminded that God can save us when we cry to Him, whether it be something like saving us from cars, or saving us from eternal death. We must never forget to call out to Him in our every need. His promises will always hold true.

Almost done...

2010-04-26T16:33:00.000-04:00

Two finals down...

Ornithology...

Chemistry...

Two more to go...

Issues of natural science and religion...

History...

God is so good!

Definitions

2010-01-29T16:12:00.000-05:00

Basis of Evolution=Selfishness

Basis of Creation=Selflessness

Peace on earth, good will to men

2009-12-25T19:58:00.000-05:00

I heard the bells on Christmas day
Their old familiar carols play,
And wild and sweet the words repeat
Of peace on earth, good will to men.

I thought how, as the day had come,
The belfries of all Christendom
Had roll'd along th'unbroken song
Of peace on earth, good will to men.

And in despair I bow'd my head:
"There is no peace on earth," I said,
"For hate is strong and mocks the song
Of peace on earth, good will to men."

Then pealed the bells more loud and deep:
"God is not dead, nor doth He sleep;
The wrong shall fail, the right prevail,
With peace on earth, good will to men."

~ Henry W. Longfellow -- 1863

Praise the Lord that everything is in His hands, and He will come again and bring peace!
Merry Christmas everyone!

Life-lessons in 13.1 miles

2009-08-02T16:05:00.000-04:00

"Therefore, since we have so great a cloud of witnesses surrounding us, let us also lay aside every encumbrance and the sin which so easily entangles us, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of faith, who for the joy set before Him endured the cross, despising the shame, and has sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. For consider Him who has endured such hostility by sinners against Himself, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart." -- Hebrews 12:1-3

Last week I participated in a half marathon. The run took place in Boyds/Germantown Maryland, a picturesque spot with sunny horse farms and big, shady trees overhanging the road. As I was running, I couldn't help thinking of Paul's words in Hebrews 12, where we should run the race of life with one Goal in site. As I was reflecting during the run, I thought of several life-lessons that can be deduced from a simple, endurance run.

1) As we were setting off, a torrential downpour met us, and from then on we had intermittent showers along the way, this kept us runners refreshed and cool. Whenever the sweat of the world is covering us, God sends us "showers of blessing" to refresh us on our journey.

2) Every two miles us weary runners were refreshed by water and Gatorade, and as we run our race of life we are revived along the way with the Water of Life and the bread of God's word.

3) At the time when it was most needed, trainers, bystanders, or other runners would shout out words of encouragement. This would cheer us all and we would in turn send words of encouragement to others. In rough times on this earth God sends us messeges of hope to us, to "look up, it's not far now" and "keep going, one step at a time". These make us all the more willing to press on and build others up.

4) To be honest, there were miles that I was in great pain, and other miles that I just wanted to give up, yet I kept in mind how I wanted to finish the race. In the same way when we run the race of life there are times when we are discouraged or just want to give up, but keep pressing on towards the goal of being with Jesus.

With our great Trainer by our side, no matter what difficulty may arrise, God will be able to pull us through and give us a crown of glory when we meet our goal.

Humorous God

2009-07-05T16:15:00.000-04:00

God has a sense of humor.

Last week I felt that I really needed some solid time in prayer. Even though I believe that we should always be engaging in prayer, this time I particularly felt that I needed some uninterrupted time with my Lord.

I knelt down and began speaking earnestly with God. Just then, my dog, Tinka (who had been resting peacefully by my bed), decided to get up and start grumbling at me to pet her. Unwilling to be distracted, I continued my prayer, but this time asking God to avert the distraction.

Tinka thought about it for a while, and since she did not get the response that she wanted, promptly lay down on my legs! Now I was virtually "pinned down" to praying! God changed the distraction to a blessing, and in a way that made me laugh! He has such a sense of humor!

Only two years

2009-05-13T15:12:00.000-04:00

A few weeks ago a lady came to Fredheim. She is about fifty years old, and has a big, friendly smile, and brilliant, twinkling eyes. When you look at her, you wouldn't realize that she has only, at most, two years to live.

I have never met a person with such love of others and bright outlook on life, even when her own is slipping away. I often sit at her table during mealtimes, and never a day goes by without the whole table bursting out with laughter because of jokes she has made.

The most impressive thing that I have seen is that she is such a strong Christian. She always speaks about how God has transformed her life, and that one day Jesus will come again to save the whole world. She always mentions that whatever happens, whether she lives or dies, God knows the end from the beginning and He will make sure that everything will "work together for good, to those who are called according to His purpose."

She really lives a life worthy of her Savior and Friend, Jesus.

The Savior and the Rock

2009-04-16T04:25:00.000-04:00

I am gulping for air, my head is sinking under the foaming waves. I begin to disappear in the murky depths. I cry for help.

I hear a voice! A strong, friendly hand reaches down and pulls me out from certain death.

He sets me on a solid Rock. He holds my dripping self close to Him, and tenderly promises never to leave me. As long as I want Him there, He will stay with me, and keep me on the solid Rock, no matter how the waves crash about it.

He has saved me. No, I will never leave.

I agree

2009-04-06T06:48:00.000-04:00

"If I had to choose, I would rather have birds than airplanes."

-- Charles Lindbergh

I agree

"Only a tiny sparrow"

2009-04-02T05:05:00.000-04:00

I am only a tiny sparrow,
A bird of low degree;
My life is of little value,
But the dear Lord cares for me.

I have no barn nor storehouse,
I neither sow nor reap;
God gives me a sparrow's portion,
But never a seed to keep.

I know there are many sparrows;
All over the world they are found;
But our heavenly Father knoweth
When one of us falls to the ground.

Though small, we are never forgotten;
Though weak, we are never afraid;
For we know the dear Lord keepeth
The life of the creatures He made.

I fly through the thickest forest,
I light on many a spray;
I have no chart nor compass,
But I never lose my way.

And I fold my wing at twilight
Wherever I happen to be;
For the Father is always watching,
And no harm will come to me.

I am only a little sparrow,
A bird of low degree,
But I know the Father loves me;
Have you less faith than we?

-- "A Christian's Secret to a Happy Life" Hannah Whitall Smith

Appearances

2009-03-31T04:14:00.000-04:00

She was pudgy and always had acne on her face. Because of this, she was never popular at school. As she studied, other kids whispered about her "ugly" looks. She had a tender heart though, and always stuck up for other kids that were laughed at. She was a friend to all those who needed one...

She was slim and spent several hours each morning putting on makeup and doing her golden hair. She knew she was "beautiful," and wouldn't acknowledge other "less popular" people. As she walked, people would whisper about the "beauty" that just passed...

My question about these two analogies is: "what makes a person beautiful"? Is the amount of makeup, or the nice clothes make you more beautiful than others? If you are not popular, does that make you of less worth than others that are?

1 Samuel 16:7 states: "For God sees not as man sees, for man looks at the outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart."

The Bible states that our outward appearance will be changed when Jesus comes anyway. Our inward appearance is something that we will have for eternity.

I would like to propose to my blog readers to spend less time trying to make your outward appearance more attractive, but try to adorn your heart in such a way that it is pleasing to God.

A prayer answered

2009-03-25T14:44:00.000-04:00

I yawned and rolled out of bed onto my knees. As I began my morning prayers, I mentioned to God that I really wanted to have a meaningful conversation about Him to someone that day.

I worked in the morning, and that enabled me to go for a walk with the guests to the mountains. It was extremely icy, so I walked with our oldest guest in order that he would have help on the slippery parts so he wouldn't fall.

His name is Hans Olaf, and he has been a regular at Fredheim for as long as any of us can remember. He is 93 years old and goes out skiing everyday, unless it is summer, when he swims. In the summer, he lives in a small cabin about a mile from the nearest house. During the winter though, he makes his residence here at Fredheim. My boss always introduces him to the news guests as "Fredheim's mascot".

As we walked, Hans Olaf and I talked about many various things: How the weather was, where he liked to travel, his favorite foods, ect. We then decided to rest awhile on the steps of an old house, built in the 1600s. The snow was beautiful, sparkling in the bright Spring sun. Not a cloud was in the sky, and it was such a dark blue, that my photos couldn't even register the color.

I mentioned to Hans Olaf how wonderful God was, creating such a beautiful earth. He heartily agreed, then continued to speak more about Creation, and what days each thing was created. We spoke about the New Earth, and how even more glorious it would be. There we will have no more crying or pain, and everything will be created anew with even more beauty than we can imagine! We will not even need the sun, because God will be our light! Even though there is 73 years difference between Hans Olaf and I, the years seemed to dissipate as we both excitedly talked about our mutual Friend, Jesus.

I felt such a blessing through our conversation, and praise God that He does answer prayers!

"No longer will you have the sun for light by day, nor for brightness will the moon give you light; but you will have the Lord for an everlasting light, and your God for your glory." -- Is. 60:19

They're coming! He's coming!

2009-03-04T12:21:00.000-05:00

I can't believe my parents are coming!!!!!!!!!!!! The day is fast approaching until they arrive, and on Friday afternoon I will be on my way to the airport to pick them up! My parents have been my mentors, educators, and best friends for as long as I can remember, and I am so happy that they are coming here to visit. I am on the edge of my seat in anticipation of their soon arrival! As each day is marked off the calendar, I think of the preparations they are making to come over, and their excitement matched with mine as they board the plane tomorrow. You can be sure that I am busily getting prepared so that they can get the "real Norwegian experience."

I couldn't help thinking how Jesus must feel as He prepares to come and take us heaven. Do we look with eager anticipation for Him? Does He look down and see us all in a flutter getting things prepared for His arrival? Or does He see us lackadaisically going about our everyday life? Are we prepared for His coming? I pray that as each day is marked off on our calendar, we will be even more eager for Jesus' return, knowing that it is one less day until He comes!

My friend Jesus

2009-02-25T05:20:00.000-05:00

I recently had a test in Norwegian. We had pages of naming things, verb tenses, dictation, and various other related topics. Then I got to the last page -- essay. The directions were to write about a friend. Simple enough. I quickly scrolled through a list of my friends in my mind, thinking about how cool they are, and how much I could write about each one. One friend stuck out in my mind, though. I tried to brush the thought aside, thinking of other friends that I've studied with, grew up with, and played with, but no, none of those were right for my essay. I needed inspiration. The former thought kept pressing on my mind. "No," I thought, "no one here is even a Christian, my teacher would just laugh and put a bad mark on the test". "You must," came the thought "they are just looking at your Norwegian, not the content, you can be a witness for Me too..." Finally I gave in. "Only if You help me," I prayed.

Picking up my pencil, I started to write about my friend: Jesus.

I wrote about how He came to this earth to live with us and show us what love is. He healed the sick, and taught many wonderful things, yet many people still didn't like Him, and even killed Him. However, He did not remain dead. He arose again, and went to heaven where He is now. In John 14:1-3 it says that He will come again to take us to live with Him soon. He loves both you and me very much; He is the best friend anyone can ever have.

God's promises

2009-02-09T07:49:00.000-05:00

"'Come now, and let us reason together,' says the Lord, 'Though your sins are as scarlet, they will be as white as snow; though they are red like crimson, they will be like wool". -- Is. 1:18

"Purify me with hyssop, and I shall be clean; wash me, and I shall be whiter than snow." -- Ps. 51:7

Norwegian class and the Bible

2009-02-01T12:27:00.001-05:00

I recently started a Norwegian class in downtown Kongsberg. I am really enjoying my time there. We are certainly an international class though. Iraq, India, Bulgaria, Chile, Portugal and USA are the countries we represent (I'm the only one from the States). I love being with such a multicultural group, and enjoy talking to the people about their countries.

Our class starts at 8:30 am, and I usually catch a ride with Jan Robert into town as he goes to his school. Sometimes he goes very early in the morning, so I wait in the SDA church in Kongsberg until it's time to head to class.

A few days ago, I went into Kongsberg church early. I had about an hour before class started and I settled down with my devotions. I prayed that God would show me someone that day that needed to know about Him, and that He would give me words to say to encourage him or her towards Jesus. After my prayers, I settled down to read. Somehow though, I felt an urge to leave for school. Picking up my things, I headed out down the street. There was no one at my class, so I pulled out my Bible to read again. A short time later my Hindu classmate showed up for class, also early. Sitting down next to me, she leaned over and asked what I was reading. I told her what it was, and she asked me why I was reading it, because "not that many young people read the Bible nowadays." Silently offering a prayer to God for help, I gave a testimony of what the Bible meant to me and why. She seemed quite interested, later she asked me to come over to visit her sometime.

I was so glad that God had prompted me to go to the right place at the right time, so that I could share just a little about God's great gift to us, His inspired Word.

Dare to be a Daniel

2008-12-04T02:21:00.000-05:00

Standing by a purpose true, heading God's command

Honor them the faithful few all shout for Daniel's band

Dare to be a Daniel

Dare to stand alone

Dare to have a purpose true

Dare to make it known

I've been reading Daniel recently in my devotions, and I must say that I was struck at how Daniel stood up for what he believed in, even when it seemed like the whole world was working against him. So often as we walk through life we take the easy road out. "Just go with the flow," is a saying often repeated.

I have also been reading in the Great Controversy, and it brought to my mind how strong some of the early reformers were. Under great persecution, in the flames of the stake, they still would not back down, but would proclaim the strait truths of the Bible.

We have it easy here in the western world. We have no death sentences against those who read the Bible, but what happens when they do come? Will we stand strong like the reformers? Will we "dare to be a Daniel"?

"For if we died with Him, we will also live with Him; if we endure, we will reign with Him; if we deny Him, He will also deny us; If we are faithless, He will remain faithful, for He cannot deny Himself" -- 2 Tim 2:11-13

Sabastian

2008-11-10T09:12:00.001-05:00

He heaved himself up onto the seat with a little effort, flipped the hymnal to a random page, opened his mouth and sent out a wailing heard across the church. Later during intercessory prayer, I could hear him mumbling serenely with folded hands and tightly closed eyes. Sabastian is only two years old, and it is very enjoyable to see his sincere devotion to Jesus, doing what he can to sing and pray like the "big people".

Then I began to think what it must be like for Jesus to see His little ones singing and praying before Him. Even though I can't understand Sabastian's garbled Norwegian, I can just imagine God the Father and Jesus leaning forward to catch every little word from the little boy's heart. I bet they are delighted to listen as he joins his voice with the rest of the congregation in hymns to his Maker.

Sometimes we are ashamed to pray aloud, or we don't want to sing, in case someone would criticize us. We should take our inspiration from seeing little children lifting up their voices to God. It doesn't matter what people think, or what others may say, the only thing that matters is that we offer our best for Jesus, just like little Sabastian.

* Let it snow, let it snow, let it snow! *

2008-10-28T10:37:00.000-04:00

Hurrah for snow!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! It is supposed to snow 20 cm tomorrow here at Fredheim! What we got today was a little appetizer! Here are a few more pictures of the winter signs! I'm dreaming of a white Christmas...

well dressed

2008-10-07T09:00:00.000-04:00

This morning I worked in the kitchen as a slight variation to the doctor's office. Yulia put me to work on the salad dressing. I dutifully poured in the soymilk, oil, and yeast, trying to figure out what ingredients to mix in to make it flavorful yet healthy. Humming a little Greig to myself, I pushed the buttons to "high". The blender worked beautifully, and I was tallying up the benefits of garlic as I turned off the machine, my dressing almost complete. I just had to throw in a little dill, and it would "smakte veldig godt!"

The lid had a mind of it's own though. I pushed. I pulled. I pushed and pulled. Pulled and pushed. Finally with a zing it came off. Next thing I knew, salad-dressing was flying everywhere all over the counter, onto the floor, all over my apron, and down my shirt. Even if the dressing wasn't meant for external use, I must say after that episode, that I was pretty "well dressed".

Seventh-day Adventist's message

2008-09-22T02:06:00.000-04:00

"So what's different in Adventism?" She narrowed her eyes as she asked the question. I was having breakfast with the Norwegian guests. We spoke about the upcoming election, America and various other issues that Norwegians like to discuss with Americans. Then suddenly one lady popped up with the question.

"I've heard about the Sabbath, but what else do you believe that is different than Lutheranism?" I began sharing a few different things that we believe, praying all the time that I say the right things, pointing out the truth, yet not bulldozing her over with doctrine. Presently she stated "I think that the Old Testament is a bunch of junk" (she actually used some more pointed words, that I am not going to repeat). "The God of the Old Testament was vengeful, unforgiving, and killed everyone."

Wow, she brought in a whole new aspect, but I jumped at the chance to explain my God to her.

I have read through the Bible several times, and it seems that the more I read through it, the more I see that the God of the Old Testament is the same as the God of the New. I shared with her Bible verse after Bible verse in the Old Testament showing that God is a loving God. I explained that God had blessed the Israelites over and over again, but they would not heed God. They would prefer to go down their own course and disregard God's love for them. By straying away from Him, they would often fall into the hands of their enemies, but as soon as they cried to God, and turned away from sin, He would save them. I related the story of Hosea and Gomer, and how Hosea bought Gomer back to him, even though she had wronged him terribly. This is exactly the way that God loves His people. He was willing to die Himself that we could understand how much He loved us.

This is the real message of Seventh-day Adventists. God loves us tremendously, so much in fact that His Son was willing to die for us, that we might believe in Him and be saved. Praise the Lord for His goodness towards us, and that He shows us a true picture of Him in both Testaments, as a loving, forgiving God.

"Fredheim bonding weekend"

2008-09-16T15:55:00.000-04:00

Last weekend I went on a "Fredheim bonding weekend." Most of the staff at Fredheim went about two hours north of here to a cabin, owned by one of the nurses here. We had a great time getting to know each other better and goofing around. These are a few pictures of our weekend.

Our cabin

Berit and Bjørnar, our hosts

Some of the men with natural forrest mustaches

All of the girls of Fredheim

Farf

2008-09-11T07:02:00.000-04:00

My Fathers father (or Farf, for short), has been such a blessing to me.

Over the past ninety years he has gathered much experience and wisdom. I love to hear him as he speaks about his childhood in Denmark, the years of hardship during World War II, the emigration to America, or his mission experiences in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. There are so many miracle stories of how God led them. His stories are always intriguing, and make me want to sit listening to him for hours!

Friday nights with Farf and Farmor have always been a joy to me. Farf would sit at the piano and play the Danish hymns flawlessly by memory. The rest of us would sing along, wanting to sing our best for the Lord. His music always makes me think of what it will be like in heaven.

Farf is so loving towards his wife, children and grandchildren. I love watching my Farf gently tease my grandmother, and her blush, like they are in the young stages of romance. He always refers to her as "my sweetheart". You can tell that they are still very in love after 60 years of being married.

I could write so much about Farfar, but the one thing that immediately comes to my mind that underlies everything that Farf does, is his love toward God. He always has something to say about what God did for him that week, or what he studied in the Bible. You can tell that Farf has chosen Who he will follow, and as a result, he has become more like Jesus every day.

Thank you Farf, for being such an awesome role model for us, and showing us how to be more like Jesus.

Hilsen fra Norge!

2008-09-03T05:27:00.000-04:00

Hilsen fra Norge! (Greetings from Norway) Recently I came to Norway to work as a student missionary at Fredheim Health Center. I have been working mostly in the doctor's office, and helping out in the kitchen, but I must say that my favorite part is being with the guests.

The guests come for a 10 day period and learn how to live a healthy life: eating right, exercising, and getting out into the fresh Norwegian air. Most of them are in their late 60's and 70's, but we get all ages (including two 90 year olds last guest period, and a few people in their 40's and 50's). They all enjoy listening to health lectures and worships, and teaching Norwegian to me. :)

I've been having a great time here, and I will try to keep my blog updated more often with pictures of the doings and sayings around here.

In Daddy's arms

2008-07-27T12:21:00.000-04:00

She tugged at my shirt, "I've got to go..." she said. I looked down at my little five-year-old charge.

I have been taking care of three little girls at Vacation Bible School at our church this past week. They are incredibly adorable, and love doing crafts, games, and hearing stories about Jesus. Tonight I had my little girls gathered about me as we listened to the pastor's wife tell about how to stay heathy.

I took hold of the little hand in mine and we went to the door. As we got to the hall I asked her if she had to go to the bathroom. Slowly she shook her head. Her lip quivered and her big eyes filled with tears as she said "I have to go find my daddy". Looking around her, she spied her desire; her father was waiting in the hallway. With a joyful leap, she ran down to her father and was gathered up into his arms. I quietly slipped back into the Bible room, letting father give the child the reassurance that he was there for her.

Sometimes we get caught up with the excitement of life and forget that we have a Father that is patiently waiting for us, never too far out of reach. He is there when we get lonely, or just need reassurance. He is always willing to take us into His arms when we are frightened. We never have to worry whether He will accept us, for He always will.

"For I am the Lord, your God, who takes hold of your right hand and says to you, Do not fear; I will help you." Isaiah 41:13

Relax!

2008-07-16T16:37:00.000-04:00

Ahhh, sweet rest! The summer has finally begun! Most of my summer has already been spent pouring over books, but now I can take a few weeks rest before heading out to Norway for the year. I'm really looking forward to the rest of the summer: visits from my best friends Christen and Kelsey, reading, working on projects with mom, exercising, working with dad, and goofing around with Tinka!

Welcome summer! Goodbye books!

Separation

2008-06-26T20:24:00.000-04:00

I'm tired of separation. Growing up as a missionary I became used to separation. Family was far away, and we were only able to see them every few years. Often friends would leave us to go back to America or England on Permanent Return. Those were always hard separations. When I got back to America, there were still many sad separations, granted, not as often.

There have been two separations that have been extremely difficult for me recently: first, my boyfriend has been living in Norway for the past year, and second, my sister (aka, my best friend) and brother-in-law left for a two year mission to Ethiopia in May.

Sometimes I feel that I can never be with everyone that I love, at the same time. I wonder why it has to be this way. As I was pondering over this, I realized that Jesus knows what it is like to be separated. He has been through the same situation as I have. He was separated from the people he loved, almost immediately after creation. When He came down to be with His people, He was separated from His loving Father. When He went back to heaven, He had to endure separation from His people again. He has always maintained contact with us (and His Father) by prayer, just like I email or talk to Robby and Petra often, but it isn't the same as being with someone.

The good thing is that the story doesn't end there. Jesus promises to come back for us and to take us to heaven (John 14:1-3), that we can live all together as one happy family. Then no one will be separated any longer. We will all be together with Jesus, the Father, and our friends. There will be no more goodbyes, no more lonely hearts, no more tears. No separation ever again! Ever!

New blog!

2008-06-24T08:40:00.000-04:00

Petra and Paul were able to start a new blog, so I won't be continuing the other blog. They would still love your prayers and comments! The link is: http://gimbieadventisthospital.blog.co.uk/
Enjoy!

A new blog for my sibs

2008-06-23T07:50:00.000-04:00

I recently started a new blog with stories that Petra and Paul are sending me (there is no blogging in Gimbi right now). If you are interested in learning about how they are doing, go to WithGodinGimbi.blogspot.com (there's a link on my blog) to read their new doings and sayings. I'm sure they will love your comments and I will promptly forward it to them.

Please keep them in your prayers, and if you know of anyone who is interested (including yourself) for a trip to Ethiopia to volunteer at a hospital, they would love company! :)

Tajitu

2008-05-12T09:54:00.000-04:00

I'm back at home and it's great! My family and I went to my favorite Ethiopian restaurant a few nights ago, called Tajitu The soon to be Ethiopians

The traditional setting is to eat out of a basket

It is considered a great gesture of friendship when an Ethiopian feeds his/her friend

All of the food is shared among the friends and family on one plate.
It was delicious!

Wonderful Sabbath!

2008-04-18T19:59:00.000-04:00

Ahh, it is almost Sabbath again. After a busy stressful week, I have gotten a very bad cold. This has forced me to stay in my room and try to get over it as much as possible. All I can say is that God is so good! The weather has been perfect these past few days giving me chance to study outside and try to bake the bugs out of my system.

Not only that, it is almost Sabbath now. I think that God really knew what He was doing when He gave us the Sabbath. We can recuperate mentally, emotionally, and spiritually all while we are spending time with Him. I really don't know what I'd do without the Sabbath! Again, God is good!

Lost and Found

2008-04-15T08:44:00.000-04:00

It had been a long Friday of flower identification. We were on a biology camping trip last weekend and had a great time studying God's nature, but now we were itching to go for a hike. It was Sabbath, the perfect time to go on a relaxing hike in nature. As our professor loaded everyone into the bus, I started wondering how fast paced this hike would be. I counted 13 guys and only two other girls (including my friend Kelsey). Well, no matter, we would just try and keep up with the guys. We took off when we got to Mt. LeConte, and had a great time hiking up to the top. As we were hiking up, I noticed that it was far past my lunch time. I could tell because I start slowing down and not noticing my surroundings, I just wanted to get to the top and enjoy my tomato sandwich. Finally, after about five miles, we got to a lodge at the top where we enjoyed our well earned lunch. We had a nice look around, then after okaying it with our professor, Kelsey and I started to head down to the trail head. Since I was properly nurished, I had a much more enjoyable time heading down than up. In fact, there were a lot of things I must have missed on the way up because of my hunger. Then we got to a fork in the road. Kelsey confidently said that it was the left fork, but I wasn't so sure. Knowing that I am extremely bad with directions, especially when I wasn't paying attention on the way up, I decided to follow Kelsey's lead. About a mile down the path Kelsey wasn't so sure anymore. "Maybe we should do the other path" she suggested. Figuring that we were well behind everyone else now we hurried back to the other path and started hurriedly down that path. Hmmmm, I didn't really recognize this either. Wow, I must have been really out of it when I was coming up. After about two miles we stopped. No, this wasn't the trail either. I wasn't too jazzed about camping at a deserted trail head, especially since there was a lot of vandalism from where we came up. Two girls lost in the middle of the woods wasn't the best idea.
We stopped to have a prayer, then began the long weary path back up the hill. It was a lot harder going up than down to say the least, especially when you had already been hiking for ten miles. I started to feel a little faint, but I had to continue hiking. I didn't want to get stuck on the trail at night! We figured that by this time the guys would be searching for us, and they might be about to call the ranger's station, so we went back to the lodge (the one that we had lunch by at the top), and had them call the ranger's station to let them know we are alright. They showed us the right trail, and we made our weary decent. This time, determined not to get stuck too late out on the trail I tried to hike as fast as I could muster.
Then we realized that it was close to sundown. Even though we had been praying a lot, we wanted to have a little sundown prayer and song. We were going to go around a little bend in the path before stopping for a break, when we heard voices. Four forms were in front of us. Low and behold! It was our rescue party! My cousin Austin and my two semi-brothers (Barry and John) and another friend Matt all came around the corner with headlamps in hand to find us. So Kelsey and I didn't have to walk alone in a dark scary path after all!
We all had a thankful sun-down prayer and made it back to the bus without difficulty (although I think that Austin was hoping that one of us would be too weak to hike so he could carry us). Our professors were so happy to see us back safely (and frankly I was too).
God was so good. Even though we had a very eventful Sabbath, He was watching the whole time, and got us safely to our destination. I'm glad to be back.

"Be still and know that I am God"

2008-02-28T11:12:00.000-05:00

Midterms done, bags packed, and now I am heading off on an orchestra tour during Spring break. Sometimes days seemed so packed that there is no time for everything else that is important too. This is when we really need to "Be still and know that I am God." (Ps. 46:10) In the peace of morning devotions, or the sound of a bird cheerfully proclaiming God's goodness I am reminded of how loving He really is.

Happy break everyone!

Blessed Blood

2008-02-01T17:48:00.000-05:00

This Tuesday I had the privilege to donate blood to Blood Assurance. I had never given blood before, so I couldn't help wondering whether it would hurt when they began to take it. To my surprise it hardly hurt at all. I could joke with my friends who were also giving blood, ask questions to the nurse, and watch with fascination my blood filling up in the bag. I thought of people that my blood might go to... it might possibly help save a life!

Because much of my blood was taken out, I was advised to sit for a few minutes and get my bearings before I left. About five minutes after they took the needle out, a familiar feeling came across me. I felt like I was in a small tunnel that was rapidly disappearing. People were trying to say something to me, but they looked extremely fuzzy and far away. Yes, I was about to pass out. Previously I had thought that it was only people who were afraid of needles who would faint after giving blood, but I guess not. Thankfully I had good medical attention, and after resting and having a cooling pack on my neck everything was alright again.

Even though I was about to pass out the thought crossed my mind that I would like to donate again. I might feel lightheaded for a few minutes, even a few hours, but wasn't I saving someone by donating? Then I thought about Jesus. He didn't just donate a few pints of blood for someone, He was willing to die that someone may be saved. That someone is you and me. Friend, don't take Jesus' blood for granted. He loves you so deeply that He was willing to give His all for you. That is Blessed Assurance!

In His protective hands

2008-01-26T13:59:00.001-05:00

On my way back from church today I saw a little bird that was repeatedly flying into the windows of the gym. Seeing the blue sky and trees in the window, he would fly full force towards it, crash against the glass, flutter to the ground, and then try again. He couldn't get himself past the thought that flying into the window panes did not get him to his desired haven of rest. Finally in a daze he fell on the sidewalk at my feet, exhausted.

Stooping down to the poor little frightened fellow I said a few comforting words him, swept him up into my hands, and carried him away from the deleterious windows to a big tree by the sidewalk. As I walked, he looked devotedly into my face, almost as if he recognized a friend. He glanced up at me one last time as if to say "thank you" then flew off into the shelter of the towering tree.

Often we are headstrong just like the little bird, flying into a fake "sky" thinking that once we are in those blue "clouds" we would be safe. All too often that "sky" is just something that makes the world swim before us and dashes us to the ground, helpless and hopeless. If we were left on our own, we would always be flying to the fake and never see the whole real world around us.

Thankfully there is Someone who is nearby who wants to help us. He longs to pick us up into His protective hands and shelter us from the fantasies of this world and set us free to the realities of His world. All we have to do is submit to Him. We need to quit resisting, and be willing to be carried in His hands to safety. I want to nestle in God's hands, do you?

The good life

2008-01-08T20:58:00.000-05:00

Back to the books again, but I am still jubilant! My computer has finally started working again and the press of deadlines are not upon me yet. The fresh Norwegian air is lingering in my lungs after an enjoyable Yuletide jaunt to the most beautiful country in the world. Yes, life is good, but the best thing is that Jesus loves us and that He is coming soon! Now that's something to be happy about!

2007-11-30T17:08:00.001-05:00

DNA Polymerase

DNA polymerase you are my friend,

I never want your work to end,
small but busy,
you never get dizzy,
base pair mutations you actively mend

Bed time stories with Caitlin

2007-11-26T20:50:00.001-05:00

Caitlin is an amazing story teller. Two weeks ago I was getting ready for bed and she came over to Christen's and my room to tell us a bed time story. It is always a joy when our suite mates bless us with their presence. This particular evening, Caitlin read us a bed time story about how to describe colors to blind children. It was a great story with vivid imagery, but I certainly think that Caitlin's sweet, soothing, expressive voice lent a lot to the wonderful story. Next time any of you have a chance to hear Caitlin tell a story, jump at it! You won't regret it!

Caitlin

Martina drifting off to sweet sleep

Robby's surprise visit in October!

2007-10-27T21:42:00.001-04:00

When I came home for fall break I was planning on doing studying all weekend, stopping only to take the occasional morsel of food. But when I arrived at the airport...

Robby popped up from no where! It was a wonderful surprise visit, just for the weekend! We had a glorious time visiting Petra and Paul, hiking, canoing, playing music, and generally throwing studies to the wind! It was very much worth it though!

An awesome surprise!

Two great explorers

Starting to feel like fall!

Robby, Martina, and Dad

All study and no play makes the Howe/Houmanns no fun.

Shearing time!

Robby's visit to America

2007-08-28T09:08:00.000-04:00

Robby came over from Norway for a visit!
We started off his visit with a 45 mile bike ride on the C &O canal & a trip to the beach, then we had to represent EBS for the ASI meetings in Kentucky.
We flew up to Maine after that for a quick visit to Petra and Paul, met up with my parents and then went down to Cape Cod for the week where we went on a whale watch, played frizbee on the beach, played mini golf and got our toes pinched by crabs in the ocean.
Came back to Maryland and went white water rafting on the Yough, then toured around DC, and Pennsylvania. It was very busy, but we had fun hiking, biking, cooking, talking and reading the Bible together. We had an awesome time, and it was a very good end to the busy summer.

Robby and I at Black Rock

Gettysburg National Battlefield
(Napolionic cannon)

Dad was the pro at mini golf

On the boat for whale watching

Cool and clean before our 45 mile bike ride

I am still alive

2007-07-01T13:31:00.000-04:00

Greetings and Salutations,
Life has been particularly busy in the past few weeks, so apologies on my lack of communication. I am back to the USA, after an exciting vacation to Western Norway to see the fjords after school (pictures will follow). Recently I have been working and studying biology and oboe on my spare time (between 7-9 pm). Yes, the normal life is quite busy, but life is still good, and God has taken care of me thus far, He will continue to provide. God is good!

My new brother

2007-05-25T01:50:00.000-04:00

Petra and Paul at their wedding

My new brother and I

Pet and Paul

My siblings!

I have always wanted a brother. Ever since I was about three or four I wanted to adopt a Chinese baby boy, or at least have my parents adopt him so I could have a little brother. Pet and I would sometimes sit and think what we would do if we had a little brother. I think we would have spoiled him totally with all that we planned to do. When our good friends Annie and Gigi got a little brother we spent so much time with them, that he was like a little brother to us. Sadly, they moved away, so we had to give up our "little brother".

Last weekend all that changed. My sister got married on Sunday to Paul. I think if I had to find my own brother, I would have chosen him. Good choice Pet, and thanks for finally giving me the brother that we've always wished for! :-) Welcome to the family Paul!

Klausie boy

2007-05-14T05:22:00.000-04:00

I found out yesterday that our budgie died on Friday. He was the best bird one could ever want. Whenever you were sad he would fly over and give you a kiss and whistle to you. We got him when he was a chick and therefore he really didn't know how to "speak parakeet" but only spoke in our language and whistled the way we did. He could speak in 3 different languages: English, Chinese, and Russian and he was working on Spanish and Danish. His favorite phrase was "I love you! God loves you too!" Often when we would be cooking in the kitchen Klaus would be sitting up in the window, whistling and saying "God loves you!", he also might say a cheery "Ni hao me!" or "Martina!" Sometimes he would get phrases mixed up and say "Merry ChrisKlaus" (instead of Christmas). When Petra or I would practice our instraments Klaus would love to sit on the ground and talk to our tapping toes, sometimes jumping on our feet and riding up and down as we tapped to keep in time. He loved to fly over and see what you were doing and maybe get a snack of fruits or veggies (red pepper was his favorite). He always had just the right things to say to cheer you up, and always knew how to make people happy.
I think that even if I have other pets, I will always remember my dear Klaus and think of him. I hope that soon all of us will meet together in Heaven where we will never part again. That is a day to look forward to!

"How lovely are Your dwelling places O Lord of hosts! My soul longed and even yearned for the courts of the Lord; My heart and my flesh sing for joy to the living God. The bird also has found a house, and the swallow a nest for herslef, where she may lay her young, even Your altars, O Lord of hosts, my King and my God. How blessed are those who dwell in Your house! They are ever praising You." ~ Psalms 84:1-4

Night Visitors

2007-05-03T04:29:00.000-04:00

Last weekend I went to the Heiberg's house with some of my friends from the Witness For Life group that arrived in April. Allie, Shannon and Ricky are all students from America who are here for the leadership course that we are having now. We headed out on Friday evening, and we had an awesome weekend hiking, and spending good quality "chum" time.
On Saturday night Ragnhild (a little homeschool friend from Fredheim) came over for her birthday and wanted to spend the night in the Heibergs Stabbur with me. A stabbur is a storage house that many Norwegians have on their property that is standing on poles so that mice and rats cannot get into it. Many Norwegians use the stabburs into guest houses, and the Heiberg's stabbur has some very old beds in them that are only about a metre in length.
I have always wanted to stay out in the stabbur, so when Ragnhild asked me to join her out there I jumped at the chance. We chatted for a while before going to sleep. I didn't see a lock on the door, but I didn't think that there would be any problem because the Heiberg's house was just across the lawn. I drifted off to sleep very comfortably situated in my bed hoping that nothing would go wrong.

For the past year at EBS I've been getting up whenever God wakes me up to read my Bible and pray and Saturday night was no exception. I woke up at 2 o'clock to see what new things were in God's word for that night. As I was peacefully reading I thought I heard footsteps. I brushed it away thinking that it was just the wind and it was all my imagination about the footsteps. I did however turn from Ezekiel to something a little more calming in the Bible. But for some reason I thought I could still hear footsteps. Then I heard scratching on the wall. My room at EBS has mice in the walls, so that was nothing new, but I thought it was odd because the whole point of stabburs is to keep mice out. I rolled over and tried desperately to quiet my imagination, but somehow it was getting a little more difficult for me to concentrate. Then I heard Mimi barking, and more footsteps, now I was sure that someone was in the stabbur. Visions of crazy rednecks in the backwoods of Norway drinking in "empty" stabburs rushed through my mind. I tried to see if Ranghild was awake but she was still sleeping peacefully. I was trying to figure out what to do. Since I was acting "big sister" to Ranghild I could frighten her about the situation, but now I was sure that people were in the stabbur. Then the door creaked open, and a form paused at the door. I am sure that if I was not trying to be brave for Ranghild's sake I would have either screamed or fainted... or both. Then three people came running in with sheets over their heads and yelling

and to my utter relief, I recognized... Robby, Shannon, and Ricky!

God cares

2007-03-30T04:08:00.000-04:00

I was just reading on the news about wage abuse in China. For some reason the fast food chains think it is perfectly reasonable to pay their employees way below the minimum wage to work part time in their companies. McDonald's for example pays the student workers 4 yuan ($0.52) per hour. The minimum wage for Guangdong province is 7.5 yuan per hour ($0.95). Even though this is still extremely low, McDonald's pays 40% less than that minimum wage. I couldn't help thinking of some over sized executive sitting in a plush chair in his office deciding what kind of wage to give to the poor starving workers in China. As I read the article my pulse started beating fast with indignation.

I started thinking about all of the students and workers in China who are suffering from injustice, and I realized that this problem is not only in China but around the world. What about those people who have never had warm clothes or the feeling of a full stomach? Will they ever understand what it is like to be comfortable? Does anyone care that these people are suffering? As soon as I thought that, I knew the answer: God cares. He sees when injustuce happens, He hears the cry of His children that are hungry, that are suffering, that are needy. He cares. He has a special reward for those who have suffered so much in this world. Thankfully this world's long history of unfairness will very soon be over, and Jesus will soon come in the clouds to take His suffering children home to a beautiful kingdom prepared for them!

My birthday weekend

2007-03-30T03:27:00.000-04:00

A few weeks ago my family came over to Norway for my birthday. We had a really awesome time going to Beitostolen, skiing, building a snow cave, jumping off the roof into the deep snow, going to the Heiberg's house, snow "swimming", lip syncing Christmas songs late at night, touring around some Oslo museums, and generally spending a great time with my favorite people!

Three tramps revisited

Mom, Petra, Tee, and Dad and the lovely snow

Berit and Mom

Dad and the ice

Yes, Robby really is in mid air

Deep in thought

Adventures in Norge pictures

2007-03-02T09:28:00.000-05:00

Adventures in Norge

2007-02-20T10:28:00.000-05:00

Driving over to the Heibergs house last Friday I wasn't sure how the weekend would go, but judging from my previous experiences of spending time with Robby, I knew that it would be an adventure.
We arrived on Friday afternoon to spend an great hour studying about the Crucifixion for Sabbath evening worship. After supper we just relaxed by the fire. There is nothing like a warm fire, a dog sleeping at your feet, and good company when snow is flurrying outside.
Sabbath morning, after a good personal worship, Robby and I decided to start making breakfast. Robby's dad is an awesome cook, and we had the professional chef of EBS Robert visiting too. Therefore, Robby and I thought it would be a good challenge to cook the whole weekend for them! We started off by making potatoes and scrambled tofu for breakfast. It turned out quite well, but we started cooking when we felt hungry which is a big mistake, because it was not finished until much later when we were well nigh famished! After breakfast we had a home church with much singing and reading from the Pilgrim's Progress. That is one of my favorite books and we had a great time each reading different voices for Christian, Pliable, Help, Evangelist...
After worship we bundled up and went on a hike up a logging rout. It was a little icy down and I ended up sitting down and sliding most of the time. Most enjoyable.
When we got back, Robby and I started making Indian food for lunch/supper. It turned out very well; even the great chefs went for seconds :-).
Saturday night Robby and I decided to make smoothies for Werner and Robert. We made three different types of smoothies and they had to guess what the ingredients were. Some of the things that were in the smoothies were: lettuce, strawberries, almonds, raisins, rice, fennel, tomatoes, blueberries, garlic... and GINGER! Robby and I liked them all, but I think that the apple juice, rice, tomato and garlic one was a little hard for Robert and Werner to take :-). Needless to say was that all of the smoothies were vitamin rich and very healthy.
After all of the smoothies I decided that our teeth needed to be cleaned quite thoroughly. I have been in a bit of dental with drawl since I haven't been working at my dad's office, so Robby generously agreed to be my patient as I flossed his teeth! He then decided to floss my teeth. I felt quite well flossed afterward, and I enjoyed my time doing dental hygiene again.
Sunday morning was absolutely beautiful, so not wanting to waist the gorgeous day we threw our boots in the car and drove to a mountain that you can see 1/6th of Norway! It was quite windy and the snow was blown from depths of about five centimeters to a meter. We hiked for about two and a half hours to get to the top, but halfway up we realized that we tragically forgot any kind of power food. It was quite a vigorous hike, and both Robby and I run out of energy very quickly, but sheer stubbornness got us up to the top. It was well worth it once we got there. There were some clouds, so we couldn't see the whole view, but it was amazingly beautiful with the white topped peaks and the dark green fir trees dotting the landscape. Those who have never been to Norge I would advise to quit reading this blog, buy a plane ticket and come over here and experience it yourself! It's simply awesome!
As expected the weekend was delightful, enjoyable, pleasing, fun, satisfactory and... and an adventure!

2007-02-06T12:47:00.000-05:00

Learning about the amazing features that exits with Blogspot!!

Robby is giving me a lesson on how to put pictures on my blog. I am learning all sorts of amazing things that I had no idea existed on the computer. Technology is fascinating!

Mimi and Martine

Farmor, Besta, and Martine

Mimi and Robby

Winter weekend pics

2007-01-28T14:52:00.000-05:00

Weekend of winter

2007-01-28T14:04:00.000-05:00

This weekend has been quite adventurous.
After playing a postlude for church (Robby on violin, and me attempting to play viola), Robby and I headed out to Fredheim (an Adventist sanitarium in Kongsberg). We met up with Werner and Berit there and partook of our midday meal, then Werner, Frederick, Robby, Mimi (Berit's collie) and I went for a hike in the mountains. We hiked up to a look out on the top of the mountain. The wind was so strong I had to lean far into it to stay on balance, but the scenery was superb! Hiking through the snow was a bit of a challenge; the snow's depth was a little unpredictable, so sometimes I would be buried in snow thigh deep! Fantastic!
In the evening we participated in a music night for the staff and patients at Fredheim. Robby, Berit and I played a piece with violin, oboe and piano, and also a piece with violin, viola and piano. Berit, Werner, Robby and I sang a quartet as well. Berit is an excellent poet and composer, and we all enjoyed hearing her compositions in the concert.
After the concert, Robby and I went sledding with some of the kids from Fredheim. This time we didn't go 75 km/hr, but we did get up quite a pace. Usually the kids would drive, but after pressing to find if I had a drivers licence, they wanted to see if I could drive a sled. That was a wild ride. I haven't had that much practice with driving sleds before, so we had tumbled quite a bit by the time my turn was done! With much screaming of us girls and battered knees and rosy cheeks we had a glorious time!
This morning I went cross country skiing for the first time. I must say that it is now one of my favorite winter sports. What can be better than being on the crisp snow, hearing the birds in the trees, and breathing the fresh cold air, not to mention getting a full work out while you are at it. Those who have never tried cross country skiing are really missing out on an awesome experience!
Tonight we got two more inches of snow! This is the life!

P.s. Pictures will come later, I am still trying to figure out this "techno" stuff :)

Back in snowy Skotselv

2007-01-24T10:53:00.000-05:00

I'm back in Skotselv for a new year of studying. Right now we are doing a health course at EBS. This semester I am trying to stretch my mental capacity with different memorizations. When I arrived in Norway to my shock and utter horror I found that my oboe music was not in my music folder. It somehow was left at home with all of the bustle of packing. Thankfully my dad found the music and it was sent post haste to Skotselv. Meanwhile I tried my best to play as much music as I could by memory (yes my music arrived safe and sound to my relief). I have also been memorizing a lot of anatomy for school, botany for my own knowledge, Norwegian to get around, and the book of First John for the fun of it. It is so nice to get back into studying again, even though holidays are never unappreciated.
Coming back to Norway hasn't been only studying though. Last Sabbath we got 15 inches of snow. Not wanting to waste the great opportunity of fun in the snow, a bunch of us went sledding with our sleds tied to the back of Robby's car. It was incredibly fun, and Robby and I got up to 75 km/hr! What an amazing feeling with the snow stinging your face and trying to hang on for dear life as you go whizzing past surprised pedestrians! After we had sledded for quite some time we were ready for a nice hour or two by the fire with smoothies and listening to the Desire of Ages read aloud. To those who haven't tried spending Saturday night this way, I would highly recommend it!
Next weekend I am planing on learning how to cross country ski! It's great to be in cold weather and snow again!
Happy sledding!

Heaven is cheap enough

2007-01-02T12:17:00.000-05:00

I'm dreaming of a white New Year...
I went for a roller blade this morning in a short sleeved shirt. In fact, I wished that I had worn some shorts instead of my jeans it was so warm. Just to let those out-of-stater's know, this is incredibly warm weather for Maryland for this time of year. Tomorrow's high in the forecast is an amazing 59 degrees Fahrenheit! Being a winter sports lover it is hard to believe that my whole "winter" break will be above freezing! Does anyone know how to sled in mud? Will it ever snow?
When I look around at the weather forecasts for other "cold climate" countries I find that they are in the same predicament. The ski resorts are suffering because tourists aren't very interested in spending their winter vacation looking at brown mountains. Will we soon see palm trees growing on Svalbard?

This would be a very depressing subject to write about except that I believe that all of these new developments in weather patterns show all the more how close it is to Jesus second coming. So many things have gone haywire in the past five years. People can't explain why there have been so many hurricanes, earth quakes, floods, famines, wars... the list goes on and on.
The Bible says in Matt. 24:7 "Nation will rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom. There will be famines and earthquakes in various places."

The good thing is that it doesn't end there. The Bible tells us not to be alarmed about all of this because once we see these signs Jesus will be following in their wake. We can read in Matt. 24:30 "they will see the Son of Man coming on the clouds of the sky with power and great glory. And He will send His angels with a loud trumpet call, and they will gather His elect from the four winds, from one end of the heavens to the other."
That is great news.

So even though I am deeply disappointed that we have no snow this year, it is all worth it for that kind of an ending. "Heaven is cheap enough"

Merry Christmas!

2006-12-25T16:22:00.000-05:00

Merry Christmas from Maryland!
Our long anticipated flight home was delayed in Rekjavik because of a howling blizzard. I love snow, but when it interferes with my travel plans home, it is not appreciated. We were afraid that we would have to camp out in the airport all night instead of enjoying our nice cozy beds at home, but after six hours of waiting they boarded the plane and sent us on our way. Petra and I were met at the airport by three overjoyed people: Mom, Dad, and Paul. We have spent some wonderful days here at home enjoying family, friends, and mom's wonderful food. We were planning on going to Maine to spend Christmas with Paul's family, so we had our own family "Christmas" on Friday. Unfortunately my dad had a bad cold, and by Sunday he was still quite sick so we had to cancel our trip to Maine and just Pet and Paul went up.

Today, Christmas day, we have just been relaxing and goofing around with my mom and dad. I gave my dog Tinka a bath for her Christmas present (I don't think she enjoyed her Christmas gift as much as the rest of us; she was starting to aquire quite the scent!). I showed my mom and dad some of the pictures of my trip to Africa. I think they were a little homesick for the good old Malawi days, and they enjoyed seeing the African floura and fauna. My mom and I have been doing some cooking today too. I made bread and my mom made our traditional Danish Christmas meal of nut roast, potatoes, rodkal and of coarse risalamande. It is great to be back in a first-world kitchen, after cooking over the open fires in Tanzania. Nothing beats cleanliness and an electric oven.

I have missed my family so much these past months. Often I would sit and make up long lists of what I could do during Christmas, but now I don't really care what I do, all that matters is that I am with my family. It is so great to be back home. Have a great Christmas!

Content

2006-12-23T21:10:00.000-05:00

I'm back in the land of gross consumerism from the poor, yet happy continent of Africa.
Believe me, it was total culture shock to walk down a crowded Danish walking street and see all of the stores with an endless variety of non-essentials. People bustled about the shops trying to figure out what to buy for Christmas for the friend who has everything. You could see them puzzling over whether to buy a silver plated toothpick holder or an electric knee warmer for their loved ones. There was no end to the foolishness.
The Tanzanians were so content and happy all of the time, even when they had no running water or electricity. It didn't matter that they ate ugali and beans three times a day (if they could even afford more than one meal), they still always had a smile on their faces and a song on their lips.
It makes you ponder sometimes what you really need to be happy. It doesn't matter how many possessions or money you have, you can still be discontented. The only source of true contentment can come from God. Have you found the Source of true contentment?

Last weekend with Petra and Paul

2006-10-25T13:23:00.000-04:00

This weekend we accepted an offer to go to stay with Robby's relitives near Oslo. Robby's Bestemor made it her mission in life for us to eat as much wonderful Norsk food as possible, not barring the delishious Norsk brown cheese. When she found out that I like to eat with chopsticks, she searched around until she produced enough chopsticks for all four of us to eat haystacks on Sabbath "Chinese style". It took quite a bit longer than normal to eat, but the crowning glory was when we consumed our icecream and fruit salad with our sticks! Needless to say the grandparents were quite amused!
Sabbath afternoon we went for a nice walk, then after sundown worship we went swimming and participated in a vigorous water soccer game, then we discovered some floating excercise mats that were perfect for balancing acts!
On Sunday we drove into Oslo where we stopped by the famous Norwegian ski jump. Sadly we were unable to see the great view, or for that matter the ski jump because of the fog. We snapped a few photos into the grey mist, then headed back into the center of town. Robby droped Petra, Paul and I off in Oslo for further sight seeing. We went to three museums: A Norsk folk housing museum, a viking ship museum, and the Kon Tiki museum. They were all very awesome, but we agreed that the best was the Kon Tiki museum. We are convinced that we will have to make ourselves a reed raft and sail around the world (who needs a house anyway?).
At the Norsk folk museum we were able to see one of the famous Stave churches of Norge. It is hard to believe that it was built hundereds of years ago, and yet is still so beautiful.
After some great sightseeing, Paul took us to an awesome Indian restaurant. The food was superb, and the company splended.
Monday morning we saw Paul off at the train station, then Pet and I went into Oslo again. This time we went to the Fram museum, all about arctic exploration. It was very cool. It was also cool literally, they had the temperature like that of the arctic, so that when you walked in you were met with a gust of cold air. Then Pet and I meandered our way back to the center of town. We got lost only once (we wouldn't be Pet and Martina if we didn't have a least one directional difficulty), but that lead to a beautiful view of some sail boats in the harbor, so it wasn't a bad thing. We enjoyed some fresh bread from a local bakery, then said our last goodbyes before I had to come back to Skotselv.
It was very sad to part from Petra again, but it was made sweet knowing that soon we will be together at Christmas.

Vacation with Petra and Paul in Norway!

2006-10-20T05:46:00.000-04:00

Life is good. Norway's great. Eat with chopsticks. I'm enjoying my position of dictatorship as Petra and Paul's chaparone on all of our adventures. It was a great surprise that they came to Norway to visit. Above all, God is awesome

Chopsticks on Oboe

Complete happiness

Love bade me welcome

Just breathe

Busy

Forever student

John

Maine...

The Great General Conference

Sharpening knives

What many do not know about Maryland

Jeremiah and car doors

Almost done...

Definitions

Peace on earth, good will to men

Life-lessons in 13.1 miles

Humorous God

Only two years

The Savior and the Rock

I agree

"Only a tiny sparrow"

Appearances

A prayer answered

They're coming! He's coming!

My friend Jesus

God's promises

Norwegian class and the Bible

Dare to be a Daniel

Sabastian

***** Let it snow, let it snow, let it snow! *****

well dressed

Seventh-day Adventist's message

"Fredheim bonding weekend"

Farf

Hilsen fra Norge!

In Daddy's arms

Relax!

Separation

New blog!

A new blog for my sibs

Tajitu

Wonderful Sabbath!

Lost and Found

"Be still and know that I am God"

Blessed Blood

In His protective hands

The good life

Bed time stories with Caitlin

Robby's surprise visit in October!

Robby's visit to America

I am still alive

My new brother

Klausie boy

Night Visitors

God cares

My birthday weekend

Adventures in Norge pictures

Adventures in Norge

Winter weekend pics

Weekend of winter

Back in snowy Skotselv

Heaven is cheap enough

Merry Christmas!

Content

Last weekend with Petra and Paul

Vacation with Petra and Paul in Norway!

* Let it snow, let it snow, let it snow! *