Saturday, November 24, 2007

coughing/churro

I apologize, because there are no pictures to show you right now. I have failed but will do better in the future!

So, I've been a little sick. It's kind of a bummer, because I feel like when you get sick in Tokyo, it really just takes it out of you. Good thing colds don't last forever! Today I felt much better even though I'm still coughing.

Japanese students are so cool. I got to go to another festival today at Todai, also known as Tokyo University. It was my privilege to enjoy the many talents of this fine university's students including, but certainly not limited to, various a cappella groups, pseudo-gangsta dancing performances, stunning floral arrangements, and traditional Japanese calligraphy and weaponry. Above all, I was thoroughly impressed with the circle that sold churros. These kids are so smart! Having a churro in Japan really enhanced my festival experience.

Saturday, November 17, 2007

An Absolutely Beautiful Week


This week was great because:


1) I could see that the Bible really is God speaking to me.

2) When I shared with one student about Jesus and how God sent Him to die for us so that we can be forgiven for our sins and become part of God's family, she told me she was really glad she got to talk with me about this.

3) I hung out with a student that lived in San Diego for five years before.

4) Her and I have a scary amount of things in common and she's helping me with Japanese.

5) It was sunny and not incredibly cold for the majority of the days.

6) I sort of got to talk on Skype with a whole bunch of really cool USC people.

7) I had a fake tattoo that my family sent to me of a pink and black gecko for three days.

8) We celebrated the birthdays of two beyond cool people I work with.

9) I watched Fresh Prince and had quality time with Lisa. She speaks English, isn't a co-worker, and loves Jesus.
10) Two Japanese staff ordered Pizza Hut for Laura and me since we miss America.
11) God healed me even though doctors this summer had no idea what was wrong. Praise Him!
Some things were less fortunate, such as when two co-workers had to go home for funerals. But they'll be back next week. It also seemed unfortunate when the temperature dropped about 20 degrees yesterday. There's still way too much to be thankful for though. Hallelujah!


Saturday, November 10, 2007



Well, my camara was out of service for a little while. Praise Jesus it's working again, but I haven't taken any pictures. My roommate got this one in my Halloween costume advertising at Todai though and this one at our party.


I'm a little busy, because we're getting ready for our Thanksgiving outreach now. My co-worker Jared and I are working on making the flyer this weekend, and we're definitely not Photoshop experts. Our other friend and co-worker Victor is a huge help, however. He's a blessing for sure, but we could still use your prayers!


So, quickly I'll mention a few eventful moments in the past week. We took a retreat to Hakone, which was a little touristy but beautiful. I really started to bond with some women from both the Japanese and American staff. I'm starting to feel closer to a lot of people and feel so blessed to love all my co-workers so much! Also, I got my first view of Mt. Fugi, which is quite a site.


Time on campus was pretty encouraging this week. Friday I met some girls that I really want to hang out with soon. On the train I was talking about how there don't seem to be any students interested in running, but at lunch I found one! We're planning on going early in the morning or late at night, because she doesn't want to get any sun. She's super cool.


I also had the grand privilege of watching the USC vs. Oregon St. game last week. I really love watching my trojans play! It was great to see Booty back, and I've always been a Chauncey fan. This week I had to go to church during the game, but that was great too. Fight on!

Saturday, November 3, 2007

Halloween





Well, Halloween in Japan was definitely different. It was amazing though. I apologize, because I don't have any pictures, but once my friends send them to me, I'll post em. We had a big party and tons of students came, including some that I've gotten to know a little bit. Halloween's growing in Japan, so they were all excited, and for many it was their first Halloween party. There were tons of carnival games, with bobbing for apples and facepainting and stuff. Then we had a costume game and a slideshow of everyone. Also a big hit, was when my team leader Jonathan shared about his life and "the Masks we Wear." I think students related to his experience trying to mask his true self and pretending to be someone he's not. I was really touched by what he shared too. Many students expressed interest in learning more about Jesus Christ, the God Jonathan shared who accepts us and doesn't require us to wear any masks.


I also went to a festival at Sophia University yesterday. It was incredible to see how much talent and hard work went into it. I saw many dances, a show choir, beautiful flower arrangements, and tons of different foods. Being the baby I am, I had some chicken and later on a waffle. My friend Ayumi, who's on the Japanese Campus Crusade for Christ staff, was more adventerous. We had a good time though and met some super cool students. I was planning to go back today, but it's cooling off so quickly outside and I'm a little sick. I'm thankful for yesterday's experience though. The first picture is with Ayumi and Mai, a student we met last week in Masquerade, the show choir. She was very excited that we came to watch her perform.
I also thought it was cool when I saw these guys at Toyo putting little flower raft things in the river.

Please post your comments if you want to, or if you have any questions let me know or email me! Peace.