thailand

Goodbyes and Hellos

2009-10-20T15:35:00.002+07:00

Hello everyone!

Just an update! I am leaving Thailand next week, October 27th at 6:40AM and arriving in cold Columbus, OH the evening of the 27th. It will be a long 24 hour flight!
I'm flying Bangkok > to Tokyo > to Washington D.C.> to Columbus!
Please pray for safe flights, all my things to arrive, and good connections.

This week I am saying my goodbyes and preparing to leave. Thailand, and my friends will be missed!
BUT I am very excited to say hello to many people!

Continue to pray for peace as I transition as well. Very exicted about what is ahead.

All my love,

Anita Joy

its july!

2009-07-06T22:46:00.004+07:00

Hello my faithful readers...i am not sure if there are any out there! it has been a while indeed. I am not the most faithful in updating my blog this year! check out my flickr photos for some updates on life here. I am currently going to school for hairdressing, and will sometime soon start learning some more thai massage.

If you remember to, please pray for our current Thai believers here. There is just a small group still, and it can be crazy for them as it is difficult to meet with thier scheldules. Pray that they would stay strong, and we would be an encouragement and support them as well. God is faithful!

I will be returning to the states on October 27 of this year. So crazy! Thank you for your continued prayers.

love and joy

anita

catch up

2009-03-18T13:34:00.004+07:00

Here is mixture of things and an update about what I have been doing in the last while AND what is ahead:

I have been meeting with my Thai friends, in all different places!

I traveled a bit, I went to Phuket with Candice for a retreat; so refreshing and encouraging.

I have been teaching English to the kids in Bang Phli, and tutoring a bit on the side.
those kids are so sweet.

The month of February I studied Thai massage. It was a great expirience, I was able to meet some really special people, while learning this Asian art. I will study in May some more, this as well as hairdressing. Studying these trades provide great natural ways to build relationships and love others. Currently everyone is on Summer holiday and so the schools are closed, therefore I will start in May when the schools open again. I am excited.

On March 30- April 9 I will be traveling to Northern India. I will be visiting some friends. I am really looking forward to this trip and returning once again to this place.( I lived there for a short period of time 3 years ago) Please pray for saftey and protection as I will be traveling alone.

Next week, I will be moving to a communitiy called Nam Deeng. I will be living with another member of our team, Colleen. I am very happy and I have peace about this move. This will be my last move during my time here. :) Pray for a smooth transition.

At the end of this month and the beginning of next month 5 of our Latin team members will be leaving and returning to thier home countries. Pray for the transition among our team, and for the relationships that have been built between thier Thai friends.

Continue to pray for the light and the peace of God to flood this place. May his light transform hearts, and bring truth where there is darkness.

It is the hot season here, and it is warm all the time. This morning I awoke to the loudest, heaviest rain I have seen or heard in a long time. It lastes for a few hours. It was beautiful, there was even thunder and lightening. I Loved it. The soi connecting to Liket Jet was completely flooded, cars, cycles, everyone splashed and slaushed through the wetness. It was fun. The rain provides coolness and freshness, even if only for a little while.

Keep checking my Flickr site, as I continue to post pictures.

Phuket

Friends, and some new friends at Thai massage school.

a lovely visit

2009-01-18T09:31:00.005+07:00

My parents came to visit me for two weeks at the beginning of January. I thought I would post a few pictures of our time together. We visited friends in my community, met with friends for meals, ate lots of Thai food, went to Koh Samet, a beautiful island for a few days, and did some tourist must-sees in the city. Overall it was a fabulous time, and I was so blessed! Enjoy the pictures! I also posted some more on flickr.

Happy Christmas

2008-12-25T10:10:00.003+07:00

Merry Christmas to you all! I most definitely miss you my family and friends this year, but I have such a peace and joy about being here in this place. Last night on Christmas Eve our team met and shared a dinner of tasty food that we all made late in the evening , followed by singing and some fun times. I am blessed to be surrounded by such wonderful people. I wish you all God's peace and joy this Christmas. Lots of love,

Anita

lovely kids

2008-12-17T10:12:00.004+07:00

On Sunday there are two groups of children meet with Aida and I in Bang Phli. We teach them English, give them sweets and snacks, and just love on them. It is a great way to build relationships with them and thier families, and it is exciting to see what new doors have recently opened. I will leave you with some pictures of thier lovley faces!

a computer, thanksgiving, and political chaos

2008-11-28T16:16:00.010+07:00

I have a new computer...or so it seems. I have had some problems with my little trusty laptop over the past year. Problems such a it crashing, viruses attacting it, sound, and hard drive issues...and some more issues on top of those! But no worries...yesturday after several trips to the shop, some very nice people were able to graciously help me...and everything is FIXED! And so for little money, I feel like I have a brand new computer, that runs so well. I like it, and I hope that it lasts for a while. It is a wonderful source to connect with all of you back home. Although I do not have the internet at my apartment, I am able to go to a coffee shop close by and connect there with my computer...which is so nice!

The past few days the political situation in Thailand has escalted to higher heights. Whether you have been following or not, I do not want to go into detail, but within the last 2 years there have been a number of Prime Ministers in power, and the political system here has been unrestful. There is a lot of unrest betweeen mainly two sides, and as of now both opperating airports in Bangkok are closed, as they are overtaken with protesters. The future is unknown as to what actions or force will take place to bring resolution or change. We would appreciate your prayers for peace and safety in this place.

My family and friends, I hope you had a lovely Thanksgiving yesturday! I sincerely missed you all, and wish I could have been there to eat and chat all day. Yesturday was a typical day here for me, but nevertheless, I am extremely THANKFUL for all of God's blessings in my life. This year has been a wonderful year, and I have so much to be thankful for. I love and miss you all!

check my flickr site for some pictures as of late...including a visa run to Laos.

Loy Krathong

2008-11-14T16:13:00.004+07:00

November 12 was Loy Krathong. The second largest festival in Thailand. It is a festival celebrating and giving honor to the water...rivers, canals...any place with water. I ventured into Bangkok with some friends and was able to expirience some of the festivities in the evening. Last year I went to Nam Deeng, a community in Samut Prakan to the local canal. It was very different and neat to see this celebrated in a different place in Bangkok this year.

At the beginning of the week our team took a few days and had a retreat at a lovely place in Bangkok. It was a refreshing time for all. I was really encouraged as we were able to learn from one another, and seek the heart of God for this nation. I am amazed at the goodness of our God. Thank you so much for your prayers and support. I do not say it enough, but EVERYONE of you are greatly appreciated. Lots of love.

Of Favorite Hymns

2008-10-21T11:00:00.002+07:00

I cannot believe that it has been almost one month since I have updated this. My appologies, I won't wait that long again! The following is the lyrics to one of my favorite hymns of all times. I love it, and I wanted to share it with you. This song speaks to me so greatly, and has been an encouragment to me recently.

The love of God is greater far
Than tongue or pen can ever tell;
It goes beyond the highest star,
And reaches to the lowest hell;
The guilty pair, bowed down with care,
God gave His Son to win;
His erring child He reconciled,
And pardoned from his sin.

Refrain

O love of God, how rich and pure!
How measureless and strong!
It shall forevermore endure
The saints’ and angels’ song.

When years of time shall pass away,
And earthly thrones and kingdoms fall,
When men, who here refuse to pray,
On rocks and hills and mountains call,
God’s love so sure, shall still endure,
All measureless and strong;
Redeeming grace to Adam’s race—
The saints’ and angels’ song.

Refrain

Could we with ink the ocean fill,
And were the skies of parchment made,
Were every stalk on earth a quill,
And every man a scribe by trade,
To write the love of God above,
Would drain the ocean dry.
Nor could the scroll contain the whole,
Though stretched from sky to sky.

Refrain

The Hospital

2008-09-25T13:02:00.004+07:00

Recently I started going to a local government hospital twice a week. I go and visit different patients that do not have any family or friends to come visit them. It has seeming to be a great open door and a good expirience as I am able to relate with the nurses and medical staff there as well. Every time I go, it always grips me, and I am reminded of the precious gift that life is. Just the simple act of sitting and talking with the people there brings me great joy. It is such a simple act, but I am excited as God has given me such love and grace for these people. Since there are many patients in one large room, many people are coming and leaving quite often, so everytime it may be someone new that I visit. If I can just brigthen thier day in a small way, and they are able to see a glimpse of just how much they are loved by our Father, it is worth it. Please pray with me that he would continue to show his ever present love, and the story of restoration to his people.

Hua Hin

2008-09-18T11:51:00.004+07:00

This past weekend, I took off to Hua Hin by myself for a few days of relaxation and refreshment. It was so good to see a new place, to rest, and be encouraged. It rained off and on during my time there, but that did not stop me from enjoying the beach. I explored a small mountain called the mountain of chopsticks, read and wrote some, and really just had a lovely time on my little vacation. Here are some pictures...

Goodbye Sharon

2008-09-04T11:45:00.004+07:00

Sharon left yesturday to return to America....this will be the last farewell for awhile, pretty soon will will be welcoming new team members!
Sharon, you have made my first year here so wonderful. You are an amazing women of God, with a pure love for the Thai people that shines so brightly. He has used you in marvelous ways these last two years. Thank you for your friendship, wisdom, and love that you have shown me. I know your many Thai friends, and our team will miss you greatly. May the Lord continue to bless you!

Likit Jet

2008-08-25T12:50:00.002+07:00

my neighborhood.

Friends Friends Friends

2008-08-25T12:32:00.003+07:00

A New Baby!

2008-08-25T12:24:00.008+07:00

Welcome Silas Rhodes Mast! He was born on August 23rd. Candice is doing well, and yesturday I went to the hospital to visit the little handsome boy and his mother. ...here are some pictures!

Claire and Eliza couldn't wait to hold thier new little brother!

In Pictures...

2008-08-25T12:06:00.006+07:00

Meeting a friend from High School who live in Japan, in Bangkok for Dinner one night...Me with her friends.
Celebrating a Mother's Day BBQ in Bang Phli with this generous family.

Throwing a birthday party for "NongTii" a little boy in the nieghborhood....he is the one in the spiderman suite!

Pii Wanna our friend who lives in Bang Boo..her and her husband sell Sushi at thier stand in Lotus.

2008-08-15T12:50:00.011+07:00

LIfe continues to move on.. I am reminded of the Lord's faithfulness and new mercies each day. I am in the process of beginning to teach English in to people in my community. I am not sure what it will look like, I would appreciate your prayers. It is not something that I would have expected to be involved in.....but I know God's ways are so grand and bigger than my ways. I truly believe it is an opportunity to build, and deepen relationships, and I pray that he would use me in whatever ways he would desire.
Also on Saturdays Aida, Reyna, and I have begun to go to Bang Boo, and have a class working with children...teaching them English..songs..Bible Stories...I am very much excited for this... I am finding myself really enjoy it. Below are some pictures of friends, and life recently. Thank you for reading, and for your faithful prayers.

Some friends from Bang Phli...leaving the airport, I love this picture!

Children in Bang Boo
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I hosted a little party in my apartment with our Thai friends on Sunday. Sooo much fun!
Sharon and I drinking some Starbucks.

My friend Miew and I met for dinner last week. She used to live in my last community with me.

Farewell REACHers

2008-08-08T21:36:00.009+07:00

On Thursday morning the REACH team,(6 women) left Thailand to go back to America. They have lived here the past 8 months, and have been a HUGE blessing to our team in so many ways. I have appreciated thier friendship, encouragement, and creative ideas...I cannot express it! They added so much energy and joy to our team! I am blessed to have known and worked with each person.
I pray God's blessing upon each of you as you return, and through all the transition, and begin new things. We will miss you so much! Thank you for all that you have done...you have made an impact here in Thailand.
Here are some pictures at their going away party!
We played a game of eating not so apealing Thai foods...such as rotton black eggs... Brittany Won!!!

Enjoying some delicious Thai food...and celebrating Colleen's Birthday was well.

Fresh Things

2008-08-08T21:16:00.011+07:00

I have moved to a community called Likit Jet in Bang Phli. I moved last week, and I am loving my new home..(my one room apartment!)and I am getting to know the people here. I am truly blessed for this new season and for the peace that I have in moving. I feel there are fresh and new things in store, and I am excited! Here are some pictures just to give you an idea of what my apartment looks like....

a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_udt7_7GPFIA/SJxaUzMyvqI/AAAAAAAAAXA/WeTZvCfI_HQ/s1600-h/Picture+225.jpg">

The view from my balcony

The Beginning of Goodbyes

2008-07-28T23:49:00.007+07:00

Raul, one of our team members left Thailand to return to Costa Rica today. He was the first Latin Intern to come to Thailand. God has used him in tremendous ways over the past year. Please pray for Raul as he returns to Costa Rica, and will have many opportunities to portray his vision and heart for Asia throughout Central and South America, and for future work here, as he plans on returning sometime next year.
On Friday our team threw a goodbye party for him, and on Saturday evening, a large group including some of our team, and many of Raul's Thai friends ate dinner together at a beautiful restaurant in a private room that we rented. It was such a fun evening of community!

A Beautiful Celebration

2008-07-27T23:14:00.008+07:00

Saturday was such a SPECIAL day! Our friend Pon was baptized. We all gathered together, brought food, and shared a meal together in Bang Bo at our friends Wanna and Uthai's home. It was a really neat time, worshiping and praying together in three different languages. Pon spoke of what God is doing in his life, and just how significant this is to him. It was such a reminder to me of God's faithfulness, goodness, beauty. The baptism took place in a canal at the nearby Wat....it was beautiful.

Things of Late

2008-07-27T22:48:00.008+07:00

On Thursday I meet Sharon, Tawan, Payao, and Tawan's sister Poom for dinner. We had a blast eating together and catching up. I simply love them! Then I went to Bang Phli where I met some of our team and our Thai friend, and we had a blast listening to music and having fun in a small one room apartment! You will probably see that I have changed my hair color recently and in all these pictures it probably looks different. I don't know what I was thinking....because I didn't like the results I went to a salon on Friday and spent 6 hours having the color stripped out, and then dyed close to my natural color again...absoulutly not good for your hair, but O well, what do you do? Use a very intense conditioner I guess!?!?!?.... Anyways...it is now close to my natural color again.

Mae Sot

2008-07-27T09:46:00.010+07:00

I think that the best way to describe my trip and experience to Mae Sot is to use nothing else but pictures. I am sorry that this update has been delayed! ...it has been a busy month!
Mae Sot is located in Northwest Thailand close to the Myanmar border. Our group spent time teaching children in the local villages, and refugee camps teaching Bible stories and songs. Our Thai friend Blue, who is working with a organization/ministry who is working among the the refugees, was our contact there, and was a tremendous blessing. Being able to see his heart for these people and desire to bring the truth of Jesus to unreached people groups was amazing. Along the border of Myanmar and Thailand, an enormous settlement of around 60,000 refugees from Myanmar are living. Many camps are illegal, and it is difficult for the Burmese to find work. Many plant corn for around 80 Baht a day ($2.50) Our team had a beautiful serving and living together for a short few days, and I loved getting to know each person better. It was my favorite place in Thailand that I have been to so far. I loved it, and would like to return soon. Here are the pictures!

Here are some videos of some of the songs we taught in Thai and Spanish...and the last one is the children singing in Thai!

Good Morning

2008-07-22T09:26:00.005+07:00

Please be checking back for an update on our trip to Mae Sot. I absolutely loved that place. It was my favorite place, and experience yet in Thailand. I have some pictures I am waiting to get that I want to post on here... SO an update and pictures are coming! I did however post pictures on flickr.

This week I am apartment searching. I am planning on moving in the beginning of August to a community in Bang Phli. I originally was going to move in July, but this month was quite busy. This is something that I have felt for some time to do, and I am excited as to what the Lord has in store in the future. Please pray as I search for a home in the next week.

On Saturday, our friend Pon will be baptized. He recently came to faith in Jesus, and desires to be baptized. He is someone that has been studying the bible this past year, and I am amazed and encouraged by his pure heart and the passion that he has for Jesus. It is so exciting and beautiful to see the Holy Spirit work! Please remember to pray for Pon.

...well I am off to go search for an apartment.

Weekend

2008-07-14T10:20:00.007+07:00

Here are some latest pictures of life here over the weekend...On Saturday we got together and played soccer in a parking lot sort of area...quite fun, we ate lunch together, and in the evening I went to Bang Phli for an AMAZING Ecuadorian meal cooked by Aida, which include chicken, rice, and a delicious pasta salad. Here are some pictures of a FUN night with my Latin and Thai friends.

Tuesday Evening July 15, I will be going with the Latin interns, and our Thai friend Pon, to Mae Sot, a province in the Northwest of Thailand, close to the Myanmar border. We will be be there until the 20th of July. Please pray for a good trip as we love and serve the people there. Thank you for your prayers, they are so appreciated!

I have returned

2008-07-03T16:28:00.010+07:00

I am currently back home in Bangkok. They past 2 weeks have been good and a little surprising. My time in Det Udom was really challenging and good. I learned to drive a motorcycle...which was incredibly fun. I lived with a family of some friends here in Bangkok in a village called Baan Seen Suk. It was such a joy living, and sharing life with this really incredible family, and learning about the Issan culture. I spent my days visiting neighbors, visiting the local village school, spending time with the grandchildren that I lived with, and going on little outings with my "Thai" mother. I had all intentions of planting rice, but in the second week of my time in the village, I became very ill with Dengue Fever, and left the village early and was taken to the hospital where I received care, and spent the rest of my time recovering. My whole trip totally changed and turned out differently that I had expected. I was released from the hospital yesterday, and took the overnight train back to Bangkok, and arrived this morning. It feels so good to be back, but my heart really misses the slow life of the village, and the people that I got to know. My leaving quickly was difficult as well, but God is faithful, and I am so thankful for his healing, and for everything that I learned. Thank you so much to those who prayed for me. I am feeling much better, and I am continuing to regain my strength.....
SO, above are some pictures of life in the village....Check out my flickr site as well...there are many more posted there.

Det Udom

2008-06-13T21:35:00.003+07:00

I will be leaving soon to travel to Det Udom, which is located in the Northeast province of Issan. I am extremely excited and grateful for this opportunity to visit this part of Thailand. I will be connecting with some EMM workers in the area, and be able to experience and be apart of the growing church that is present there. I will be living in a village with a family, which I am sure will provide many opportunities to use my Thai and become more fluent! yay! There are amazing things happening there, and I am excited to see how God is moving among the Issan people. Many members of our team has already visited there, and have spoke what a encouraging and refreshing time it is.

I will leaving Monday evening June 16, on the overnight train, and arrive Tuesday morning. I will be returning the evening of July 1st, and arrive in Bangkok on the 2nd. Please pray for safety and protection as I travel, and for a good good trip overall.
Thank you so much for your prayers and support! I will take many pictures, and definitely share them with you when I return.

A Head of Curls

2008-06-11T22:42:00.009+07:00

One day as I was walking to the bus stop in the morning, I was boldly approached(which is quite uncommon in the Thai culture) by a Thai Lady Boy. He simply asked me if I was Thai. I began talking with him, and we continued to walk down the street together. He was quite flamboyant and vibrant as he asked me many questions, and told me all about his life of 47 years, while throwing in comments about beauty. We were walking briskly, and had long past the bus stop. I was in no hurry and had the time to walk. The sun was blazing, and he thoughtfully gives me a book to cover my head from the sun.

He is on his way to his sister's beauty salon close by. He insists that I come along, and makes several comments to me about my hair. We turn left down a Soi and end up in a maze of apartment buildings, he leads the way, and we enter into the salon. Pii Daaw introduces me to his sister, who warmly greets me. I am ushered into the simple colorful salon, where I take a seat on the gray couch. I am served coffee, and the three of us chat in the brightly lit room. Almost immediately he is suggesting we do something with my hair. When they found out the I cut it myself, they praised my skill, which isn't that good! Along with the praise, Pii Daaw pointed out the white hairs that I have sprouting from my head, and charmingly made known with a smile that he is has none.

They sat me in the chair, and his sister began to curl my hair. Curls all over, when I first heard the word curls, I thought it would be worse than it turned out to be. I love meeting new people, and it seemed that our encounter was meant to be. I have a heart for the LadyBoys, there are so many living here in the city, each one with a story. The ones that I have met have such tender genuine hearts, contrary to the hard put-together glam that is seen on the outside.

Upon my leaving he insisted on giving me his earrings and took them out of his ears, along with some pictures, a sample of laundry detergent, coffee, and his "fluffy" phone bag. I felt so blessed meeting him and his sister, and hope to meet with them again. I had the best unexpected morning ever.

Finished

2008-06-09T22:19:00.010+07:00

My colorful stack of language books and notebooks.

Today I completed the 6 modules of language school! I was blessed to study in such a great school. I had the opportunity to meet so many people from all over the world, my time learning Thai was enriched by the teachers and friends that was able to meet, and share life with. From my entry into Thailand until now has been a good season.
.....it feel so good to be done.

PARTY!!!

Practicing

2008-06-07T11:08:00.002+07:00

The Following is a simple short "story", or conversation between a Taxi driver and a passenger...This will give you a little taste of what the Thai script looks like.

ช่วยบอกด้วย

"รถคันนี้หยุดที่ลำพูนไหมค่ะ" สตรีชราผู้หนึ่งถามคนขับ
"ไม่หยุดครับ คุณนาย" คนขับรถตอบ
"อ้อ ช่วยบอกฉันหน่อยเมื่อเราถึงที่นั่น" เธอขอร้อง
"ได้ครับ" คนขับรถรับปาก

ต่อมา คนขับไม่ทันระวังจึงขับเลยลำพูนไป นึกขึ้นมาได้เขากล่าวขอโทษผู้โดยสารคนอื่น ๆ กลับรถแล้วขับกลับ เมื่อถึงลำพูนจึงพูดกับหญิงชราว่า "นี่เป็นเมื่องที่คุณนายต้องการลง"

"ใครต้องการลง" เธอถาม
คนขับรถพูดว่า "ก็คุณนายยังไงล่ะครับ"
"ไม่ใช่จะลง" เธอพูด "ลูกสาวบอกว่าเมื่อผ่านเมืองนี้ฉันควรจะกินยาของฉันได้"

DEVOTION

2008-06-06T09:09:00.010+07:00

KING BHUMIBOL ADULYADEJ (King Rama IX of the Chakri Dynasty)

Here is something I found that explains nicely the reign of the current King here in Thailand....

The current Thai monarch, the much-beloved King Bhumibol Adulyadej (King Rama IX of the Chakri Dynasty) has reigned in Thailand for over 60 years, the longest of any Thai ruler. In fact, he is now the longest reigning monarch in the world. King Bhumibol was born in 1927 in Cambridge Massachusetts, where his father studied medicine at Harvard University. The Thai people have a deep and abiding reverence for their royal family. This immense popularity is a reflection of His Majesty's keen interest in his people's welfare. The King and his Queen, Queen Sirikit, have devoted a great deal of time and effort implementing public work projects, with particular focus on the under priviliged. As a constitutional monarch, the king holds powers similar to those of the Queen of England. Though he maintains neutrality in times of crisis, the king of Thailand has proved time and again to be a reliable stabilising force for the Thai people.

...All over Thailand life displays the devotion and love the Thais have for thier King.

Life

2008-06-03T09:15:00.012+07:00

I thought I would try something different now that I can post pictures on here, I will be updating with pictures portraying more of my everyday life here in Thailand. I will continue to post pictures on Flickr...I always have fun being artistic... but I want to engage you all in some of the real aspects of my life here.
I hope you enjoy...!

I will be finished with language school on June 9th, continue to pray for strength and passion to finish strong in this season of learning. There is SO much more to learn, it could continue for a lifetime. I am anticipating completing language school, and moving forward to learn more in a different setting.
Thank you for your prayers and encouragement!

Our team in Chiang Mai during our retreat
Tasting some Durian in Rayong
At the beach in Chonburi
Some of team went to watch a Thai Soccer game last night...they lost 3-2!
Thailand Pride!

Anticipation

2008-05-16T21:45:00.005+07:00

I am looking forward to this next week. On Monday, I don't have school (I know that it seems like I am always having a holiday) But not really. :) Our team is going to Auyutthaya, the former capitol of Thailand, to celebrate Dan (our leader's) birthday.

On Wednesday evening our team will also board an overnight train, and go to Chiang Mai for a retreat until Sunday night. I am greatly looking forward to a relaxing and refreshing time with our team. I am also thrilled that we are going to Chiang Mai, I hear that it is beautiful, and it will be wonderful to leave Bangkok for a while, and see another part of Thailand.

This last week has been a good week of connections with friends. I have been able to talk with the women at the bars several times, and I have been able to talk with Boy(I had not seen her for quite some time) but she has returned to working at the bar full time. I met a new friend Not, who is interested in learning English, as well as my friend Lukket.

It seems like an overwhelming amount of people have been asking me to teach them recently. I will be done with school in a few weeks, and I am looking forward to spending time in my neighborhood. It is exciting and kind of crazy to think of what will take place in the future. Pray for wisdom as I look into teaching English, and continue to build relationships.... Yes God is good.

Myanmar

2008-05-06T21:23:00.013+07:00

Please pray for the people of Myanmar. A recent cyclone hit Yangon, Myanmar over the weekend. The death toll has risen to over 22,000, and over 41,000 people are still missing. To be honest, I really did not know the intensity of what happened until I read the news tonight, and was really shaken. Click on the link below if you want to read an article relating to this.

link to article

more pictures

2008-05-04T16:32:00.011+07:00

One late morning last week, I walked to the daily market in Samrong, near my apartment. I tried to capture all the life, colors, sights, and sounds that I saw. If you are interested check out my flickr site,(the link is on the left of the page) I posted the pictures there! This country is crazy beautiful! I also posted some pictures of people in my neighborhood.

I am in the middle of a five day holiday from school. I will return on Tuesday, and will complete the 5th module on Friday. A few days ago my friend Som sent me a text message in Thai, and I was able to read it, understand it....and I replied back! It is the smallest thing, but I was so excited that I am able to use my Thai in different ways to communicate. I also find it fun to read the signs on the streets, and buses. In class we are reading paragraphs on Thai culture, and short stories, and even though I read slow, it makes sense...and I am starting to pick up speed!

u p d a t e

2008-04-27T19:09:00.007+07:00

Hello to you all...I apologize I have been quite terrible at updating. I am still studying Thai in school, and will be in school until the middle of June... it is such a great blessing being able to live here in Bangkok, and if anything just being the presence of Jesus where ever I am. I am so grateful for what God has done so far, and am so excited to see what glorious things he will do in the future! We really do have an incredible team here, and I appreciate each one so much! It has been a good month, of interacting with my Thai friends, meeting new people, and being blessed by my team.
Sharon is so much better now, and after 3 weeks in the hospital, she is home and regaining her strength! Thank you for your prayers.

I do believe that the rainy season has arrived...although it normally doesn't arrive until next month. The rain has been such a relief to the heat. I find it lovely, especially in the evenings, I think there is nothing better than a lovely rain and good coffee. A perfect combination. Just as I am finishing writing this, I hear the sound of rain... yes!

I just posted more pictures!

Songkran

2008-04-12T14:11:00.005+07:00

Songkran, a FUN Thai holiday marking the Thai New Year, has arrived! Schools and Businesses will be closed for about a week, and many people have gone back to their home provinces outside of Bangkok to celebrate. Everywhere on the streets, people throw water on each other! The timing is perfect, because we are in the midst of the hot season. I have only heard stories, so it will be fun experience all the water fights first hand. If it is anything like "Holi" a festival in India, that includes colored water and powder throwing, it will be fun. I have a feeling that Songkran will be not as dangerous, and a little more laid back!

I have already heard the shrieks, screams, and laughter from the streets......!

ทานกาแฝ

2008-04-01T09:49:00.004+07:00

Translated the title of the blog reads "drink coffee"! OK, I thought I would try writing Thai on the computer, it is not as fun as writing it by hand.

Let's see what there is to say...last week was crazy busy, it looks like this week will be slower. I feel as if my blogs often times are so random...so I guess I will continue with the flow...

Sharon is doing much better, and will be in the hospital for one more week. This past Sunday some of our team went to visit her and had church in her hospital room. Sunday evening I went to the annual International Dance Festival held in a park in the city. One of my Indonesian classmates performed a dance, it was very fun and beautiful to watch. I posted new pictures on my flickr site.

I recently met some new women in my neighborhood, if you think about it you can pray for Aam, Diamond, and Boy. I recently met Aam, and I am excited to get to know her, she has shown an interest in talking to me and being my friend.

I must go and leave for school, I have a test today to complete the 4th module!!!

Wild, Crazy, Busy, Spontanious

2008-03-25T20:57:00.005+07:00

This describes my week thus far, yet good good things are happening!

This past sunday was Easter. Our team met together for a brunch and a worship time. We are currently having RMM leaders visiting us this week. They were with us on Sunday for Easter, and we had a wonderful time. I know our team is really encouraged having them be here. They will be meeting with our team throughout the week. So good... They have been a tremendous blessing!

Sharon has been very sick with a bacterial infection, and was hospitalized last week. She is doing so much better, and there are improvements. She will be in the hospital for at least two more weeks. We have been visiting her in the hospital everyday, the doctor requires a person to constantly be with her for one week. We all take turns, and have a smooth rotation going on! :) Last night I spent the night in the hospital with her, and in the evening our friends Tawan and Payao came to visit her. It was perfect timing. It was so good to see them, as I haven't seen them in a while! We had a great time together. Thank you so much for your prayers for Sharon. I know she appreciates them.

School continues to happen everyday. I am almost done with the 4th module, and will start the 5th module on April 3rd. I feel as if my understanding of the Thai language is progressing...some days! Ha! I think that my teacher is the best that I have had so far, I really enjoy going to class.

I have yet to teach English...there have been plans to teach, but so far no one has shown up, or they have cancelled! No worries, I think it will eventually happen.

The hot season has arrived, and every day is a sweaty, sticky day. I guess I will end on that unpleasant note...!

Anita

2008-03-17T08:53:00.004+07:00

I am posting pictures of recent things here in Bangkok, so if you are interested please take a look here!...http://www.flickr.com/photos/sonyamai
School is continuing to go well. I am really enjoying learning to read and write the Thai script. I have been studying alot, and I have found that it is taking alot of my time.

Yesturday, we had a celebration/gathering with our Thai friends, and our team. We ate an enormous spread of food, and then worshiped, prayed, and studyed a passage from the Bible together, I found it really encouraging, and so beautiful. Please continue to pray for the believers here, and for the open doors in my community to love and serve.

I looks like the next two weeks will be quite busy...

Many Blessings,

Anita

Highlights

2008-03-06T23:56:00.005+07:00

A different blog than normal...the following are some random and good things that have happened recently...

I have completed module 3 of the conversational Thai... I feel as if my understanding this language is steadily growing...

I bought a fish two weeks ago, put him in a pot with a water lily, and he died...it was a slight mess, so I had to get rid of the water lily as well. : [

Getting to know the people that God has put in my life here, has been a great blessing.

Our team had a one day retreat yesturday. I was so very encouraged in learning more about Thailand, how to genuinely love the Thai people, and to understand more about the vision of our team. We had a good time together.

Doors are opening across the street outside the bars. Several evenings this week, I have been able to sit and talk with the women there. They are so special... last night, they surprised me with a big fat grasshopper, and we enjoyed a late night crunchy snack together! Quite fun.

Today, I started the reading and writing course of my school...O my goodness, It will be good, but difficult. I do believe that I will be studying much more. Please continue to keep school in your prayers!

Tomorrow I am going to make salsa. I haven't been able to"cook" in a long time, and I am soooo excited...of course I will share it. ; )

I randomly ran into my friend Tawan today, at a bookstore near my school, it was so good to see and talk to her.

Next monday, I will start teaching English to a teenage girl...

I posted some new pictures.

Please be free to leave comments...you have no idea how encouraging they are, and I always enjoy reading them! Thank you for your prayers.

ANITA

Phuket

2008-02-26T20:35:00.004+07:00

My time in Phuket was wonderful. Sharon and I stayed with her Korean friends, Gye Hwa and Bong Woo, and thier three children. We were welcomed warmly into thier home, and into the Korean community that lives in Phuket. I relaxed at the beach, went to a beautiful Island, ate delicious Korean and Vietnamese food, and I got entirely too much sun!

I am AMAZED once again at the hospitality, and warmness of the Asian culture. The love for family and community is very strong. I am finding myself blessed in so many ways. I desire somehow to be a blessing in return. We were able to worship together at a Korean church on Sunday, the music was beautiful...let me tell you, Koreans can SING! It was heavenly.

I posted some pictures, and I am hoping to take more soon. Thank you once again for your prayers, you all are amazing!

Anita

MaKhA bUcHa DaY

2008-02-21T10:47:00.004+07:00

It is makha bucha day! I don't even know what that means, but I do know that I do NOT have school today or tomorrow, so I am pretty excited!

Tomorrow Morning at 7:50AM, Sharon and I am boarding a plane to go to Phuket. Sharon has some Korean friends living there, they are so gracious and will be hosting us. Three fabulous days at the beach, seeing new things, meeting new people, and relaxing! Yay! What excitment! I am going to be honest in saying that part of the excitment is that we will be flying, and not taking the bus. I just love airports and flying for some reason, and it doesn't matter how boring a flight it is, I love it. I will update after we return, and tell of all the adventures. ; ]

Love

2008-02-14T22:24:00.015+07:00

They were created for more than this.

She was created to shine, and be free, and run, and be as a child.

To know Jesus, and the true love of a Heavenly Father.

Her innocence was stripped away. She is now masked

in shame, fear, deception, and callousness.

She is yearning to be free, yet this darkness,

this O so cruel darkness, holds her captive.

How long has it been? How long will it be?

How many questions have there been? How many tears have silently fallen?

When will the truth be made known?

Slowly time moves forward. It all becomes a loud, brightly colored stage.

As one of an actress, she numbly plays the role that has been assigned.

Coldness creeps in, and the questions cease.

Life becomes a bleak normality.

Her story is one of thousands, each story needing to be told.

They were created for, and are worth more than this.

Yes, each one was created in your image.

You know her name. You are acquainted with all of her ways.

How precious are your thoughts towards her O God!

How great is the sum of them.

Your love is genuine. You are pursuing her, and will not cease.

Your love is extravagant and without condition.

You have brought her to your banqueting house,

and your banner over her is love.

You have called her to arise from the ashes, and be redeemed.

She will declare the praises of you, and sing out a new song.

2008-02-12T10:02:00.000+07:00

I have had some free time the past two days, because I am sick. On Sunday I came down with a fever and the flu.... Ahhh! I am feeling better than I was 2 days ago, but I am still not sabay sabay. Language school continues to move on, I am now in module 3, and I am enjoying it. Although I have now missed 2 days of school because of sickness, and I hope it won't be too difficult to jump back in. Thank you so much for your prayers.

much love.

Chinese New Year, A Story, and Some Rain

2008-02-03T19:09:00.000+07:00

Almost wherever you go, you can see the festivities of the chinese New Year. Malls and shopping complexes are offering special discounts, and many open spaces are now packed full with food venders selling delicious food inside.
This evening, after spending a refreshing day with Sharon, I walked around Big C, a large shopping center, and the first floor was filled with these food vendors. So much noise, sounds and sights, it was very entertaining to watch.

I must tell a funny story. One day last week, I wore a long skirt. If any of you know me well, you probably know which skirt, it has seen better days! Well, I hop on a motorcycle to go home, as I am riding along, I feel something tug underneath me, and yes, my skirt is caught and tangled up in the motor! HA! I tell the driver to stop, and he looks at me with a questioned expression, and I point to what has happened. I don't know really what he thought, probably that I was just crazy! I get off the bike, and can barely move because I am still attached to the bike. By now many neighbors are watching and laughing, and I along with them. So, I tell him that we can cut it, there is no way it is coming out any other way. As if prepared, he opens a compartment in his bike, and pulls out a pair of scissors,and begins to hack away. I can barely controll my laugher by now, I mean this is quite a sight! So there I stand with the front of my skirt in place, and the back hacked off about six inches and smeared with grease. I thanked him very graciously, and got back on the bike and went home, and that is the end of that skirt, and the story.

Rain. I love almost everything about it. I enjoy the musty smell that lingers around, the sound, especially of a light downpour, and even the grayness that seems to cover everything. In my opinion morning rain is the best. I have to say it is not pleasent when you feet uncomfortably wet, yet I do enjoy walking in the rain. After almost three months no rain, it has showed it's face a few times this past week. It has been the kind of rain that comes in the morning, for just a short time, enough to create an overcast and soak the earth, and then almost instantly, the sun begins to shine brightly again and give it's warmth. I have really enjoyed these little rains. I have been told the normally this happens while the seasons are tranisitioning from winter to summer. It will be very hot soon, and then the beautiful rainy season will follow.

New Photos

2008-01-27T18:03:00.000+07:00

that is all...

much love.

2008-01-21T18:17:00.000+07:00

O my goodness...I know that it has been awhile, but I finally am posting something new!
I have been keeping busy these past few weeks. I have moved, and I am enjoying my new apartment very nicely, I will post pictures when I can. I am having trouble with the internet at my apartment [I am slightly frustrated by it] I know that it will work out soon, so I have been finding my way to the many internet cafe's for now. That is part of the reason for my absence. :]

I celebrated my birthday, which was fun. Some friends at school threw a little surprise party for me with some yummy French cake. Later that night, I met some friends from home that are working in India. They were travelling through Thailand, so I met up with them and we had a lovely dinner.

I am two weeks into the second module of language school, and am finding it to be more and more challenging, yet good. This language seems so difficult, and it is, but then it seems so simple. It is strange. I haved changed to the morning class which starts at 9:00 AM. Since I have moved further away from central Bangkok, I am now waking up at 5:00AM to catch the bus before 6:00AM, in order to beat the crazy morning traffic. I arrive way early, but I love it, and with the extra time I am able to read and study.

It has been interesting and good to meet new people in my nieghborhood, and I am look forward everyday to talk with them and build relationships. Thank you for reading this, and I hope you all are well.

love.

A New Year

2008-01-04T14:18:00.000+07:00

This past week was so good and beautiful. I had a relaxing and refreshing time in Korat. Living with a Thai family and seeing the Thai way of life was so good and insighful. We celebrated the New Year surrounded by a wonderful generous family in the village. The weather was cooler than Bangkok, and even COLD at night! I loved it, and I think that Sharon and I had a hard time leaving and coming back to Bangkok! I do believe that if I would have stayed there longer my Thai would very quickley improve.

I am really amazed at the hospitalily and warmness of the Thai culture. I do feel more modivated now to learn Thai, and was blessed at the opportunities I had to speak and laugh!

I move to my new apartment tomorrow, so today is filled with cleaning, packing, and all that fun stuff.

I just posted new pictures on my flickr site. :]

Change...

2007-12-28T20:41:00.000+07:00

Change is just around the corner, and I very excited about it. Tomorrow I will be traveling up north to vist my roomate's family over the highly celebrated New Year's. I am looking forward to this opportunity to see another part of Thailand, to meet new people, and just to enjoy the New Year's celebration outside of Bangkok with friends.

I will also be moving into a new apartment on January 5th, just after I return from my trip!!! I am very excited about this, and I am looking forward to the change and opportunities that my new home will bring. Change is good, and I may be odd, but I LOVE change... I need it in my life. God continues to remind me of his faithfulness and his goodness in my life through everything that has taken place these past few weeks. He remains the same. He is constant. He never changes...He is an everlasting God.

To let you know, I stumbled upon a music studio, and was able to play the piano and sing in a private "practice" room yesturday. O my...it was glorious! I think this ends my talking about the piano. I will update sometime next week.

THE END.

So this is Christmas...

2007-12-25T16:54:00.000+07:00

A very Merry Christmas to you all!...I know this is short, but I want to let you know I am still alive and doing well, and I am enjoying Christmas here in Bangkok. I greatly miss you, my family and friends this Christmas, and I hope that you are enjoying this wonderful day wherever you are. I am so thankful and blessed to have you in my life.... know that you are greatly loved.

LOVE.

Politics

2007-12-24T09:34:00.000+07:00

Here are two recent articles reporting on the very popular elections that took place yesturday...

http://www.iht.com/articles/2007/12/23/asia/thai.php

http://sg.news.yahoo.com/ap/20071224/tap-as-pol-thailand-election-2nd-ld-writ-7934085.html

O Come, O Come Emmanuel

2007-12-22T19:51:00.000+07:00

O come, O come, Emmanuel And ransom captive Israel That mourns in lonely exile here Until the Son of God appear

Rejoice! Rejoice! Emmanuel Shall come to thee, O Israel.

O come, Thou Rod of Jesse, free Thine own from Satan's tyranny From depths of Hell Thy people save And give them victory o'er the grave

Rejoice! Rejoice! Emmanuel Shall come to thee, O Israel.

O come, Thou Day-Spring, come and cheer Our spirits by Thine advent here Disperse the gloomy clouds of night And death's dark shadows put to flight.

Rejoice! Rejoice! Emmanuel Shall come to thee, O Israel.

O come, Thou Key of David, come,And open wide our heavenly home; Make safe the way that leads on high, And close the path to misery.

Rejoice! Rejoice! Emmanuel Shall come to thee, O Israel.

O come, O come, Thou Lord of might,Who to Thy tribes, on Sinai's height, In ancient times did'st give the Law, In cloud, and majesty and awe.

Rejoice! Rejoice! Emmanuel Shall come to thee, O Israel.

A Story That Must Be Told

2007-12-21T18:06:00.000+07:00

It began this morning. I got ready for the day, and took my time walking the distance from my apartment to the bus stop to catch bus number 38, 46, 48...which ever one came first, it ended up being 38. My destination was Central Bang Na, I am having slight issues with my computer still, and I was going to see if things could get solved. I climb the steps into the bus, and walk towards the back and take a seat on the back bench. I pay the 8 baht for the ride, and quietly sit and observe those around me. I love riding the bus. I find it enjoyable and crazy at times... especially at the peak hours of the day when the buses are packed full with people.

There is an elderly lady sitting next to me, I smile and I greet her. She timidly smiles back begins to speak in Thai so so softly I could barely hear her. I continue to talk to her, and finally understood that she was asking for money. To the right of me is another lady who glances back smiling, I think amused at my attempt of speaking Thai, she begins to talk to the elderly lady, but also did not understand what she is asking for, or what she is saying. We make eye contact and begin to talk to one another. She gracefully gets up and moves to sit next to me, and continues to talk to me. Her name is Pim. She speaks English very well, and proceeded to tell me about her travels to America where she recently visited her sister who lives in Maryland. I ask her what kind of work she does here in Bangkok. She replys"I am a Music teacher."
"O, wow!" I reply with a big smile! "What kind of music do you teach?"
"I teach Piano." She replys. " I told I play the piano, and that it is something that I enjoy very much. She then invited me over to her home sometime to play the piano she owns, and also invited me teach her english! We begin laughing, at I don't know what, and exchanged phone numbers. By this time we had arrived at Central Bang Na. She stayed on the bus, and I got off the bus after saying goodbye.

I can honestly say that I am amazed at the goodness of God. He is so faithful even in the small small things. I had the biggest smile on my face! It is those random encounters where I know that he has orchestrated everything. Who knows if anything will happen, if anything it is an open door. Yes, he is beautiful. And to inform you all, my computer did get fixed for the time being.

It's beginning to look a lot like Christmas...

2007-12-19T10:25:00.000+07:00

well not really!...but I am truely excited to be here in Thailand to celebrate Christmas this year. Christmas is less than one week away, and instead of cold cold weather with mounds of snow and ice, it is very breezy, pleasant, and warm. Everytime I hear a christmas song such as Joy to the World, or O Holy night playing in a department or grocery store, it brings a smile to my face, and sometimes tears! There is something about hearing the truth being declared in a country that has no understanding of the true meaning of Christmas that is beautiful...He will reveal himself, and bring glory to his name.

I have been enjoying a little slower pace of life these past few weeks now that school is on break until January. I have been able to meet new people in my neighborhood, and spend time with some friends from school. I am trying to practice my Thai as much as I can on the streets, and I am excited to return to school to continue learning.

Thank you all for your support and prayers...keep checking my flickr site as I am continuing to add more pictures.

Those Ivory Keys

2007-12-11T09:51:00.000+07:00

This is a simple post...a tribute to the beauty and joy of the piano. It is something that I absolutley love, and something I am missing right now. I miss the feel of those ivory keys under my fingertips...all 88 of them.

Life in Bangkok

2007-12-06T19:13:00.000+07:00

What a busy week, I can't believe that my last post was a week ago! The REACH team has arrived and are expiriencing all that Thailand offers! They are a true blessing, and I am excited to get to know each one. I know that they will bless many lives.

I am officially completed with the first module of language school. On Tuesday my school celebrated with a small christmas party with an enormous amount of food...it was delicious! Have I mentioned that I like my school?!:) Also on Tuesday my laptop crashed!!! Yes, I don't know how, but it completley died. No worries, within 12 hours it was reparied. I lugged it to school, and then afterwards, I found my way to Pandit Plaza, a large computer center, where I tried to explain in Thai what happened...and within 2 hours it was fixed costing me around $8.00.

Yesturday was the King's 80th Birthday...I grand holiday here. Everyone had holiday from work, and you could definitly feel the festivities in the air! Along with being the King's birthday, it was also Father's day, so families everywhere spent the day together. Tawan, Sharon, and I travelled north about 3 hours to a town called Saraburi. It was a lovely trip...it makes me want to see more places in Thailand. There are so many beautiful places I long to visit. Being in the country surrounded by sunflowers was glorious!

Today I cleaned like a mad women. Our apartment was getting a little filthy and it needed a deep cleaning! Now that school is done for this month, I am trying to find things to stay busy with, and continue to meet new people, and grow the friendships I have already established.
I believe that I am coming down with a cold, my throat has been sore today. I think I will go drink some green tea.... Yes that is what I will do.

much love.

glorious chilly mornings

2007-11-29T18:29:00.000+07:00

I am enjoying the pleasant weather that we have been having. It is so refreshing to me. It is still warm and enjoyable during the day, and very cool in the mornings and during the night. It will last for a few months, and then get very hot! I am soaking this up right now.

I have 3 more days of classes before my first module is complete. I will not be going to school in December as there is no school, and I will start again in January. It is hard to believe that I have been here for one month. O my goodness, time has gone by so fast. Yet at times it really seems as if I have been here for so much longer.

My days have been filled with learning Thai, studing Thai, and speaking Thai, and sometimes at the end of the day I feel as if I have no understanding of this language! It is an unique language and I love learning it. I am grateful for the enormous amount of grace and favor that I have been given.

I was walking home down my soi today, and was able to talk to some of the ladies that were out watching their children on the street. I don't know, I just love those random appointed moments when I am able to talk to people, and listen, and just be love. I am excited to see what will come from me being here, and what will happen in the months ahead. Beautiful things I do believe.

happy thanksgiving, and things I have discovered

2007-11-23T10:17:00.000+07:00

Happy Thanksgiving! I had a fabulous day yesturday, I am so thankful for this time and for the people here, and for everyone back home! I miss and love you! God has been so GOOD. I hope you all are well! Here are some random little things that I have discovered so far...

I am enjoying eating the different delicious food found here...some what of a surprise is the enormous amount of pork that is consumed. There is pork everywhere!

Motorcycle taxis are usually the quickest way to get somewhere close, and are fun and sometimes crazy scary! You must make sure your legs are close to the bike because you weave in an out of traffic quite swiftly.

Most drinks and are served in bags with a straw...it is rather useful.

I love riding the Skytrain and watching the different people the emerge and exit. There are so many people here from all over the world, it is captivating!

A Thai massage is wonderful.

I love the fresh fruit that is always available...with a stick to consume it with.

Monday is the day to honor the King, by wearing a yellow shirt. The King was born on a monday, and so on that day there is a sea of yellow covering the city...although I think that it may change to pink in the future.

We have a team member from Costa Rica named Raul, and it has been fun mixing the three languages of English, Spanish and Thai to communicate!

I am sure there is more, but this is all I can think of right now. I must go now and study for my first Thai language speaking test that I have today. ;)

I will be posting more pictures soon...!

It is Well

2007-11-21T09:58:00.000+07:00

When peace, like a river, attendeth my way, when sorrows like sea billows roll; whatever my lot, thou hast taught me to say, It is well, it is well with my soul.

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

Though Satan should buffet, though trials should come, let this blest assurance control, that Christ has regarded my helpless estate, and hath shed his own blood for my soul. (Refrain)

My sin, oh, the bliss of this glorious thought! My sin, not in part but the whole, is nailed to the cross, and I bear it no more, praise the Lord, praise the Lord, O my soul! (Refrain)

And, Lord, haste the day when my faith shall be sight, the clouds be rolled back as a scroll; the trump shall resound, and the Lord shall descend, even so, it is well with my soul. (Refrain)

This is a hymn that I love...I love the truth it speaks.

Church...

2007-11-19T09:58:00.001+07:00

What is the church? Who is the church? What did Jesus intend his church to look like? These are questions that could seem to have obvious answers, but truely think about it. Jesus spoke in Matthew 18:20 " For where two or three are gathered together in my name, I am there in the midst of them." His presence and spirit is indwelling within us, he is present. He is present wherever we worship him, wherever we love, wherever we serve, and in every place that we represent Jesus to the lost. I have been incredibley challanged and moved in thinking about these thoughts. What is it that Jesus has called us to? In Matthew 25:35-36 he speaks again"For I was hungry and you gave me food; I was thirsty and you gave me drink; I was a stranger and you took me in; I was naked and you clothed me; I was sick and you came visited me; I was in prision and you came to me."

Living here in Thailand, in a place of so much desperation and need so present all around, I am moved. I desire so much so to have a heart for the lost, for the broken and hurting. I feel as if recently I have become hardened and complacent toward the poor and to those in need. I desire a tender heart, and a spirit quick to hear the gentle voice of he who calls. I desire wisdom in the giving of my money and time, yet above all I desire to have the heart of Jesus. I desire to be the hands and feet of him. If Jesus were to be walking down the street here in Bangkok.... where would he go? What would he do? Who would he spend his time with? To whom would give?

My roommate last night asked me this question, "Ani, what is the church?" I spent time with her friends a few nights ago, and I could see that they were curious as to why I am here, and why I am so different from other Americans...They said I am looking and acting Asian...haha! I am encouraged by these open doors that the Lord is providing. I only desire to be sensitive and listen to his voice and allow him to move in his timming. I praise him.

2007-11-13T09:43:00.000+07:00

What can I say? I am learning Thai and expiriencing all the fun things that come with learning a new language! I am still enjoying my class...we are now at the point where we are learning some conversational Thai such in how to ask questions....colors....numbers....learning to describle things(What is this?...that is a pen...what color is the pen?....the pen is pink...is the pen pink?!) It is fun getting to know the other students in my class and hearing their stories....what brings them to Thailand to learn Thai? I find it very captivating.

Tawan is concerned about my hair...she thinks that it is becoming too dry!(It already is dry to begin with, and my using a clothing iron to straighten it I am sure is not helping!) She laughs, and says that tonight we will go buy something to help my poor hair!

I desire to be a blessing, I am reminded of this. I am so incredibly blessed and I want to give so selflessly of what I have received. Father God remind me of this truth, it is not about me. I live soley to bring glory to your name. Use me to bring your sweet presence in this place. I desire to be the fragrance and aroma of you.

Anita

School...

2007-11-08T19:33:00.000+07:00

I started language school yesturday, and my head is swimming with vowels, consonants, and tones! It is difficult I must say, and I thought I might go a little crazy today! I am in a class of around 7-9 students( 2 new students came today, and I don't know if they will come back or not!) I truely believe that I will enjoy learning this new language. I have a fun class so that helps! There is a blend of cultures from Japan, Hong Kong, Australia, Holland, and America in my class. I am already blessed by getting to know the people I am learning with. My teacher's name is Kruu Ladawan. She is young, energetic and understanding, yet she will not let you speak anything less then correct Thai. I started in the first module which will consist of 20 lessons, and after I complete module one, I will progress unto the next modules. I have class Monday-Friday from 1:00-3:50 PM. I like my teacher, I like my class, I am blessed.
I really must go and study, although there is nothing I can really study at this point, I just need practice what I know so far and speak it out.

much love.

Anita

The Latest Happenings...

2007-11-06T09:24:00.000+07:00

would include feeling very content in being here. I am blessed. The last few days have been refreshing. It feels good to have the goal of knowing that the next few months will be devoted to learning Thai, and building relationships and connections. I know that I will have to rest in him and allow him to lead me.

On a small beautiful note, yesturday I purchased an electric water pitcher, I now can make coffee in the mornings using my french press and some great Costa Rican coffee that I have. The smell this morning was absolutely divine!

Sunday I went to church in the morning with Sharon, and we then had a delightful lunch at a little coffee shop, I enjoyed our conversation very much. I later met up with some friends of my roomate, and we had a good time speakng English and Thai. I am trying to learn, and it is quite humerous at times! I really know that my relationship with Tawan and now her friends is ordained. I know that the Holy Spirit is moving. I am excited to see what will come.

Tonight we are going out for dinner with the same friends. I am living in a one room apartment (which is very common in Thailand, many singles and families will live in only one room) We have no kitchen, this is no problem since there is an abundance of street vendors and roadside stalls to eat at costing very little, and always fresh fruit is a tastey treat anytime of the day! The smell of so many different flavors and spices saturate the air everwhere. Thailand is known for their food, and I am having a blast tasting the different dishes. One of my favorite dishes so far is called Som Tum( a spicy papaya salad) mmmm....so good!

Yesturday out team traveled southeast and visited Bang Bo and Bang Plee. Some of our team members live out in these areas, so we visited them and saw their homes. I enjoyed being able to see the different communities and neighborhoods. The area of Sumut Prakan is primaraly an industrial community with the population primarily from Northern Thailand. Many of people who dwell in Samut Prakan are working long hours in the many factories. This is the community in which our vision is for.

Well... I know that is a random post, but I hope you enjoyed reading it. Today I am going to go visit Phahurat(an Indian community) and Chinatown, and perhaps rest. I start school tomorrow, what a glorious day. Thank you for your prayers. what a blessing they are,

I am continually adding more photos...

love.

Anita

buses, streets, beauty, and humility

2007-11-03T19:08:00.000+07:00

One thing that I know for sure is that the Lord is faithful and so good. All I can do is worship him. He has been my rock and true sustainer these past few days. I am humbled living in a totally new culture and knowing so little of the language and wanting so desperetly to communicate, and not being able to beside the universal smile and some small Thai phrases. I have found that this has been lonely and hard. Yet he is beautiful and I trust in his truth and peace. I will learn Thai, I just need to wait and abide soley in him. I have observed that there is so much beauty and deception covering this city. It grips my heart. Many are seeking and desire truth and peace. I pray the the giver of both will continue to stir in hearts and draw many into his glorious presence.
I have taken many buses, and other forms of transportation, and today my first motorcycle taxi ride in the city! I find them all enjoyable. I also have walked probably the most that I have in awhile, even more than I did in India I believe. I like it, although I now have some sore blisters on my feet. I find that it gives me time to pray, greet people, observe, and soak in the sights and sounds of Bangkok. There is so much I have not yet discovered.
I begin language school on November 7th. Please pray for wisdom and understanding. May my lips be quick to speak Thai, and that my mind and ears would be able to retain and listen. Also pray that I would seek patience and grace as I learn this language and the culture.
May I also have wisdom so rich as I build relationships in my classes and in my neighborhood. Today I really felt that there was a breakthrough. I am the only farang ( white person) in my neighborhood, and I have been told that my presence has created quite an interesting stir... yet today I really felt love as I greeted the store vendors, the fruit vendors, and my neighbors. I have felt that the last few days many were reserved and quiet towards me, yet today many responded in warmth. May these relationships delvelop and deepen, and I know that it will take time. May you be filled with awe and wonder of this beautiful creator we serve, he alone is glorious.

Aneeeeee ( my new thai nickname)

Photos

2007-11-02T09:45:00.000+07:00

To view my photos go to http://www.flickr.com/photos/sonyamai/ I recently added some pictures and I will add more soon. Since I cannot upload pictures on here, I will only be writing. So make sure you check out this link!

much love.

The last few days...

2007-11-01T12:01:00.000+07:00

I have arrived in Bangkok indeed. I am still adjusting to the time and the transitions, but honestly I am feeling really good and refreshed. I spent some time with the Mast family yesturday and purchased a necessary item... a mobile phone! Today my next purchase is a map of Samut Prakan and the surrounding areas of Bangkok, and very importantly the bus and skytrain map.
Last night Candice, Sharon and I went to meet Tawan, the girl that I will be living with. I moved in last night, and enjoyed my first real Thai dinner at a nice restuarant called Little Big. ( a fun name!) Our Thai friends ordered for us which was so good because I got to taste a wide variety, food was quite taste and very different from the Thai food in the States. Today I had a nice quiet morning here at the apartment, I took a walk to the nearest seven eleven and purchased some things, next I bought some delicious fresh pinneaple on the street...my favorite! I am going to go explore the city this afternoon.
Tonight, Tawan and I are going to go out to Central Bang Na. I will tell you about her sometime, she is special and I feel totally blessed to be living with her. I am excited to get to know her better. I wanted to post some pictures, but my computer is not letting me...sad day. Photos will come I promise!

Seoul

2007-10-30T15:21:00.000+07:00

Right now I have some time while I am in Seoul waiting for my connecting flight to Bangkok, so I thought I would write a little something. I have had good flights so far, and I am simply loving Asia! I am rather exhausted, but I am well...let's see it is 5:28 PM on Tuesday, I must go...blessings

Anita

2007-10-07T00:11:00.000+07:00

Please watch for updates on this lovely site. I will be leaving for Bangkok, Thailand on October 29. I will try to faithfully update this site with stories, thoughts, insights and photos. A big thank you to everyone for your love and genuine support. I call you blessed!