Sweet Blessedness

I refuse to write another post about work.

2012-01-26T15:43:00.001-05:00

I will say only three things about work, and then I will post-pone all work-related entires for a long time. :)

1) Since starting my new job at IWU last Monday, I quit Cracker Barrel. Whew! I painted my fingernails red for the Chinese New Year... and they are still red! [Something Cracker Barrel wouldn't allow.]
2) Simply put, I am 1 of 2 Administrative Assistants in the program of Graduate Studies in Leadership... and I am still learning what that means. So MUCH MUCH MUCH to learn! Wow!
3) As anticipated, I miss my babies at Lakeview very MUCH MUCH MUCH. I visited once this week during my lunch break, but this little face - one of my favorites - was home sick. :( Sad!

Not write about work?? Ugh. Why do I feel like this is all that is happening in my life right now? This is harder than I thought it would be...

Two weeks after the new year started, Titus and I started reading the One Year Bible together in bed at night. No devotional book... no commentary... no "spiritual self-help book"... just the written Word of God, as it was intended to be read. Laying beside my warm husband, hearing the strength in his voice as he reads to me... one of my favorite parts of the day.

"A Bible that's falling apart usually belongs to someone who isn't." ~ Charles Spurgeon

One of the benefits [I should say 'BLESSINGS'] of working full-time at IWU is free tuition for not only myself, but immediate family members. Wowie zowie! Seriously, what a huge blessing! In my "free time", I have been exploring the list of classes that I regrettably did not (/unfortunately could not) take during my 4 years of undergrad at IWU, and I'm praying about pursuing a 2nd degree in Biblical Literature. Titus is considering transfering his Bible College credits towards a degree in Christian Ministry or... something else. ☺ We'll see! It's been exciting just thinking about it! Right now our hearts are longing to be in ministry in Cambodia, and while we can't be YET... this will prepare and equip us to be better-used in helping to expand God's Kingdom in Cambodia.

...and I see God putting together the puzzle pieces of His will.

Love love love,
Jewel

2012's first Friday's Fave Five

2012-01-13T08:32:00.001-05:00

Log on at Living to Tell the Story and share your own Friday's Fave. Five!

1. Family Game Night ♥♥♥

Although the time was short, it was wonderful having twin sis home for the weekend. She just returned home - engaged! - from the Philippines and returned to New York 2.5 days later. On Saturday night, we went to sis & bro-in-law's house for dinner and games (after crazy fun and goodnight kisses with the baby girls.) We played Quelf - random & unpredictable! "As you move around the game board, as one of eight quirky characters, crazy things start to happen. Your friends start talking strangely. Your mom's face is wrapped in toilet paper. Your dad is acting like Dracula. And you are reciting a poem about your armpits."

2. Pirates of the Caribbean 4: On Stranger Tides ♥♥♥

The Pirates of the Caribbean movie series has been one of my favorites since the first movie in 2003, and I finally saw the last movie on Saturday and LOVED it - my favorite Pirates movie yet!

3. USCIS ♥♥♥

Tuesday morning, Dad, hubby, and I drove to Indianapolis to the US Immigration office for Titus to have his fingerprints taken. The first step towards Titus' Work Visa and Green Card (and eventual citizenship) was the initial application, and the second: finger printing! So I am very grateful for this morning's appointment and very grateful/proud of Dad's patience and willingness to drive us.

4. 1000 Gifts by Ann Voskamp ♥♥♥

My sweet husband bought me this book for Christmas and it is changing my life - at least my mentality. It's like a love song. I'm reading it slow and anticipating reading it again. Thanks to the wise and beautiful Suzanne Howell for recommending this book. I'm recommending it to others!

5. Journey to Adoption ♥♥♥

My friends Bridgette and Trey are in Uganda right now awaiting court (at 3am this morning.) They began their adoption journey 1 year ago, and it has accumulated to this: bringing home Baby Solomon. [Lord willing...] Please pray for Bridgette, Trey, big brother-to-be Trenner, Baby Solomon, and their judge, and lawyers.

Until next Friday...

Blessed and Grateful,
Jewel

Immeasurably More!

2012-01-05T23:38:00.002-05:00

I took this picture this morning from the parking lot at my work:

O Lord, our Lord,
how majestic is your name in all the earth!
You have set your glory
above the heavens.
Psalm 8:1

I am humbled. Humbled by His power. Humbled by His presence.

Humbled by His goodness.

Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us, to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, for ever and ever! Amen.

Ephesians 3:20-21

A week or two before Christmas, IWU (Indiana Wesleyan University) called me about a job interview. A what? A job interview? I already have 3 jobs! Since May, I have applied for almost every job at IWU that I have qualified for and I couldn't believe that I was finally chosen for an interview. This is a big deal... like a real, professional, GROWN-UP job. I traded in my jeans and t-shirt for dress clothes and told the daycare that I would be an hour late, and I interviewed in front of FOUR very intimidating professionals. A few days later, my would-be-boss called me saying that they were recommending ME to HR for hiring. After enduring Christmas (& New Years) break without any news, I finally got a phone call on Tuesday with a job offer... a real, professional, GROWN-UP job offer. I took it.

I knew after the first phone call that it was a blessing from God (seriously good benefits, including a salary that is twice what I make at 3 jobs right now, getting paid to work out and participate in the wellness program, and BONUS: free tuition for hubby) but I prayed about it everyday for three weeks, and God has finally given me peace.

I don't want to leave the daycare. I really don't. I don't want to leave my babies. :( I don't want to not see them grow and learn and become little boys and girls that walk, and talk, and pee on the potty. But... I don't want to be guilty of not embracing God's gift - His provision, His favor.

So, next Monday - January 16th, 2012 (I seriously just wrote 2010 and had to backspace!) - I start my new job as Program Support Specialist in Graduate Organizational Leadership. I really do not have a good idea yet of what I doing (and that FREAKS ME OUT) but I know that eventually, I will. Until then... this is what you get:

Love love love,
Jewel

Whoa 2011

2012-01-03T22:00:00.000-05:00

What can I say about the new year that hasn't already been said? December 31st ended a milestone year. I graduated from college in 2011. I planned my wedding and got married in 2011. I went on my honeymoon in 2011. I started my first (second and third) post-grad job in 2011. I moved out of my parents house in 2011 and started paying things like rent, groceries, gas and electricity for the first time. Also in 2011, my twin sister (who I have never been separated from for more than a few weeks only 2-3 times) moved to New York for a year. In 2011, my precious grandmom got very very sick, moved into a nursing home, and eventually got better, stronger, and moved home. In 2011, my Prince Charming (and how my husband) moved himself to literally the opposite side of the planet to be with me - to a new world, and into a new culture. 2011 was big. God was so good to me - so, so, so good - in 2011. I look back at this year with a grateful heart and an anxiousness about what God is going to do (and what He has already done in only 3 days) in 2012. Look forward to the next post...

Love love love,
Mrs. Titus Romdenh

Engagement Anniversary and Comments on Marriage

2011-12-26T19:17:00.001-05:00

On December 26 in 2010, Titus asked me to be his wife. It was one of the most beautiful and happiest days of my life.

I am a blessed woman.

I can't promise "happily ever after," but certainly "for better OR worse" and NOT FOR GRANTED.

My husband is a blessing and has made our marriage wonderful. I love waking up next to him in the mornings, watching him brush his teeth and examine himself in the mirror. I love seeing his waiting face in the window when I come home from work.

I have a hard time blogging or doing anything on my own that doesn't involve him sitting next to me.

And that's all I have for now. :)

Love love love,
Mrs. Titus Romdenh

Change

2011-12-21T21:42:00.001-05:00

Change is the title of this chapter of my life. Since April 30, I have had to learn what it's like to NOT being a student after being a student for 16 years. Soon-after, I transitioned into the workforce full-time. Since first entering the post-graduation work-force, I have held four different jobs. Almost two months ago, I became a wife. A few weeks after becoming a wife, Titus and I moved from my parents house to our own apartment on the other side of town. Finally, we just recently began attending a new small group on Wednesday nights. All of these have been GOOD changes... "for-the-better" changes... but none have been easy.

I'm looking at another change; a change that is going to change a lot of things; a for-the-better, but hard change.

On December 27th, 2011, I was hired by Indiana Wesleyan University as Schedule Specialist in Graduate Organizational Leadership. It means [much] higher pay, 13 days paid-vacation, health insurance, a wellness program that pays me to walk, and numerous other benefits, including... free tuition for my hubby!!! Praise the Lord! We (and others) have been praying for this! While I admit that I would rather be with those one, two, and three-year-olds that have stolen my heart, my attitude is changing [and it's taken lots of prayer and humility] because I really do trust that this opportunity is God's Best and God's Will for us right now.

I feel nervous... excited... humbled... and honored to be chosen for this position!

Love love love,
Jewel

Reflections on time spent not blogging:

2011-12-04T20:53:00.000-05:00

Gracious me, it has been a LOOONG TIME since I have blogged. Almost three weeks ago, I started my last entry with a similar line. Between working 3 jobs, being a new wife, moving into our new apartment (which doesn't have internet,) my sister's surprise visit for Thanksgiving, and etc., I have had LITTLE-TO-NO time to blog in the past few weeks and I am so disappointed about that. Much has happened.

After waiting more than a month for the previous renters to move out of the apartment that Titus and I signed a contract for, we signed another contract for a different apartment and told our previous landlord-to-be that we were no longer interested in his still-not-empty apartment. God has been so gracious my husband and I, and we have been B.L.E.S.S.E.D by the generosity of others as we have been given a couch, lamps, end tables, a microwave, a microwave cart, mirrors, knives, etc! We are still eating our meals either picnic-style on the floor or sitting on the couch beside an end-table. I'm anxious to have a dinner table where I can display my wedding bouquet

and have my morning devotions with a cup of strong, black coffee.

In other news:

I am still LOVING my job at the daycare and I think often about the kids on the weekends. (I still cherish my weekends and some time off, but I do miss my babies!) I had a conversation with two co-workers on Friday about *having favorites.* I will be the first to admit that I have favorites; I love 3 or 4 of my babies much more than the others. One co-worker was quick to say "we shouldn't have favorites" (blah blah blah,) but I really believe it's okay to have favorites IF the other babies aren't treated poorly because they aren't your favorite.

Cracker Barrel is still ROUGH and I have wanted to quit numerous times (especially when I was scheduled to work ON Thanksgiving Day!) but God keeps reminding me that right now Cracker Barrel (both in the prep area and in the dining room) is my mission field. In fact, I might be the only missionary there... and it's a very dark place to work. I am growing and learning and certainly being challenged -- all a part of preparation for Cambodia -- and I definitely COVET your prayers that God will be seen in me there. A few weeks ago, I started writing "God bless you!" on the back of my guests' receipts; but after a guest left a salvation pamphlet under my tip this week, I have been seriously evaluating how I can be a light to my guests, and especially my co-workers.

I could write so much more, but I just heard the dryer finish and I desperately want to finish ironing my clothes so Titus and I can return home and I can eat my leftover Oriental Chicken Salad from our hot date at Applebees last night. :) I hope I will have an opportunity to write again this week! Thank you to my loyal readers who remain after I have starved you of blogging for so long. :)

Love love love,
Jewel

5 years blogging!

2011-11-14T07:38:00.001-05:00

Between a wedding and honeymoon, working 3 jobs, being a new wife, and moving into our new apartment, I have had LITTLE-TO-NO time to blog in the past few weeks and I am so disappointed about that. I have been blogging regularly for just over FIVE years now and to think about all that I have written about on here.. all that has happened in these FIVE years... WOW! To be honest: I blog for myself, but it definitely makes me feel proud and loved to know that others enjoy reading my blog (even if it's only occasionally!)

So much has happened in only the last week of my life. God has been so real and faithful to me this week, reminding me that He is Sovereign (Isaiah 45:9) that He has complete authority - and I trust that He will continue to provide and to guide.

Last Sunday morning, I found my gas tank empty. I was so frustrated having to stop and get gas on the way home from church, and angry at myself for accidentally filling the tank (I got distracted *flirting with my husband.*) On Monday afternoon, gas went up 22 cents! I laughed at myself for being so frustrated and I thanked God for the blessing of an opportunity to fill my tank before the price jumped.

Last Friday, my favorite Uncle Tom passed away suddenly. A few days later I was working at Cracker Barrel -- having an almost-miserable time encountering difficulties that slowed down my ability to finish my side-work before I could clock out and go home -- and a co-worker told me that my Aunt Regina (Uncle Tom's wife) and Aunt Janie were there and asking for me. I was then grateful that I was STILL at work and able to spend some precious moments with them before the craziness of the viewing and funeral.

My twin sis Jessie also received a blessing in her own frustrations. On Friday, she was trying to buy airline tickets and kept getting error messages that her credit card was being denied. On Saturday, she was able to buy her tickets for $200 cheaper than Friday's price!

Today I am thankful for reminders of God's faithfulness and sovereignty, and I hope that I am blessed by reading this blog in five more years!

Love love love,
Jewel

Mrs. Romdenh

2011-11-13T16:37:00.001-05:00

After a crazy, stressful week of working, decorating, shopping, picking up groomsmen at the airport, etc., our wedding finally came and it was beautiful! Of course not everything went right and I had to let go of getting some things done, but overall... I wouldn't have changed a thing! There were a few special people missing... wishing our family and "family" in Cambodia could have attended or been more represented.. but we had it videotaped especially for them.

I'm still waiting on pictures from our photographer (who did a WONDERFUL job!!! Seriously the best...) but here are some "behind the scenes" pictures from before the wedding.

LOVE the broach bouquet that my sweet friend Michele made; I didn't see it until a few hours before the wedding.

Loved every moment of pre-wedding Wedding Day spent with my girls!

Packing for our honeymoon.. at the church.. right before the wedding. Procrastinate much??

After I finished packing for the honeymoon, I made our wedding slide show. This all took place only hours before the wedding!

Many many thanks to Andrea for numerous things, including doing my make-up.

How many people does it take to dress a bride?

How many people does it take to dress a baby?

Green Bridesmaids' dresses... Bronze MOB dress

MORE TO COME FROM THE BEST DAY OF MY LIFE!

Love love love,
Jewel

Life WITH a fiancé

2011-10-15T11:43:00.000-04:00

After getting engaged December 26th, Titus and I spent only two weeks together before being separated again for almost TEN long months. We exchanged many emails and facebook messages, spent hours on chat and Skype, and even texted some.... but nothing compares to experiencing life together, hand-in-hand, side-by-side... sweet togetherness. My bff Loren asked me, "How is it being with your man?" SO. MANY. EMOTIONS. It's beautiful. It's fun. It's weird. It's hard. It's dreamy. It's different. It's interesting. It's exciting.

The end of today will mark the end of his first week in America. He landed in Indianapolis at midnight on Saturday, we arrived home around 2am, and a few hours, went to church. Church -- the people, the music, the pews, the noise, the offering, the clothes, the building, the parking lot -- so different for him! He was a little overwhelmed [understandably!] after being greeted by family, friends, and pastors that have heard so much about him. We had lunch with Mom, Dad, and Grandmom, followed by him opening a cellphone for his belated birthday.

Since then, we have been to Wal-Mart twice. On our second trip, we met "Uncle" Jolly - one of my profs who is conducting our wedding. From an aisle or two away, Uncle Jolly recognized Titus (he didn't see me!) and called "Titus?!!" It was a really special SURPRISE, especially since we were just talking about him on our way to Wal-Mart.

It's been really hard to leave him at home while I go to work. On Monday night, my parents brought Titus to Cracker Barrel while I was waitressing. Tuesday night, Mom made spaghetti, while I was waitressing again at Cracker Barrel. Wednesday, we went to my aunt's house and met aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces, and siblings for the first time. That was a special memory, and I really can't wait for him to meet Mom's small side of the family!!

On Monday, my friend Renee took amazing engagement pictures of us in downtown Marion. That was so much fun, and I was surprised to see some previews already online when we got home that afternoon. Monday was a productive day - we bought Titus' suit for the wedding and his wedding ring. We ate at Sunrise Asian Grill, which was really good! On Thursday, we went on our first date to Steak 'N Shake, and then bought pumpkins to carve before meeting the sweet lady who is making our wedding cake.

Now we are in New York spending a day with my twin sister (and best friend.) Titus' best man also lives only a few minutes away, so we are going to meet them for dinner after visiting the Asian market for Cambodian groceries.

The first week has been so memorable already, and I can't wait for the next few days, weeks, months, and years with Romdenh Chamnol, my sweet husband-to-be!

Love love love,
Jewel

Pre- Fiancé Coming to America

2011-10-08T16:07:00.000-04:00

I can't remember when I wrote my last blog entry, but I know that it has been a long time. So much has happened and I wish that I would have had time to write about it.

Some of the very best friends a girl could have threw me a bridal shower at my church last Sunday and it was so special. I was so touched as each woman and girl around the circle shared how they know me - many for more than 16, 17, or 18 years! I have gone on trips with many of them, shared a bed with some, worked in the nursery or the kitchen with others... special memories. Life has changed a lot (I think 'change' is one of the first words that I would attribute to life both present and near future) and I hope and pray that I will be able to keep some of those memories forever.

Other significant events in recent days could include finding our first apartment (after our plans to live in a friend's basement changed,) continuing to work 50-55 hours a week between 3 jobs, Grandmom finally moving home again after three months in the hospital and nursing home, etc.

Titus is on a plane RIGHT NOW somewhere between Seoul, South Korea and Atlanta, Georgia. We were able to talk a little bit last night during his 12-hour layover in Seoul (thanks to free computers with free wifi!) He seemed to be doing okay except for the language barrier. He couldn't believe a sandwich and coffee cost him $10. (At some restaurants in Cambodia, 3 or 4 people can eat for $10!) After a 13.5-hour flight, Titus will land in Atlanta, Georgia. I sent him a few dollars in quarters, so hopefully he will find a payphone and call me after he goes through customs.

I am so excited for all the special people in my life to finally get to meet him - parents, siblings, grandmom, nieces, aunts, uncles, cousins, friends who are like family, pastors... While I know that going to church tomorrow will be very OVERWHELMING for him, I hope that it will be a special memory for him too.

I'm off now to clean the church, to shower, and to spend my last few hours at home before Titus arrives! I have dreamed of this for months and it's all finally happening... the next chapter of My Fairy Tale Love Life starts in less than EIGHT hours!

Love love love,
Jewel

Hello, October!

2011-10-01T07:41:00.001-04:00

Pumpkin Fluff Dip

1 (16 ounce) container frozen whipped topping, thawed
1 (5 ounce) package instant vanilla pudding mix
1 (15 ounce) can solid pack pumpkin
1 1/4 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice (adjust this to how "pumpkiny" you want it)

In a large bowl, mix together instant vanilla pudding mix, pumpkin and pumpkin pie spice. Fold in the thawed frozen whipped topping. Chill in the refrigerator until serving. Serve with ginger snaps, Nilla wafers, cinnamon graham crackers, or apples.

[I apologize for not giving credit to where credit is due, but I can't remember where I found this tasty goodness!]

Love love love,
Jewel

Piles of Noteworthy Mentions (I would call it a 'list', but it isn't even organized enough to be called one.)

2011-09-26T14:19:00.002-04:00

Oh. My. Word. As evidenced by my lack of posts, life has been CRAZY. I have been working three jobs - about 50-55 hours a week - planning a wedding, and fighting a cold for almost three weeks. I am sick and tired of being sick and tired! Wow.

[I wrote that much and a week later finally returned to finish this post. WOW! haha]

Geneva Church of the Nazarene invited me to speak tonight and share about Cambodia. I fought a terrible terrible migraine all morning and afternoon, and then had to do one of my least favorite things ever (drive at night.. in the rain.. by myself.. for an hour.) I was not only feeling totally unprepared, but discouraged. I sent a quick "pray for me!!!" text to a handful of friends and let me tell you: A church of 12 people collected an offering of $160. I was completely blown away. That is a testimony to the "God can do immeasurably more than all we can ask or imagine" promise in Ephesians 3:20. I was sharing this with a friend and she said that this verse has really been HOLDING TRUE in my life recently, and she's totally right. The last few weeks and maybe even months have not been *easy,* but God has proven Faithful repeatedly and immensely and I really do feel so so so blessed to know, love, and serve Him.

Cracker Barrel has been ROUGH for reasons that I won't discuss on here, but I will say that it is definitely my mission field right now and I believe that God has placed me there for that reason. I am growing and learning and certainly being challenged -- all a part of preparation for Cambodia.

Although it is draining, I am still *enjoying* my ~~lovely~~ ~~beastly~~ lovely two-year-olds at the pre-school. Friday was picture day and that was a surprise for me. [I'm told that there were apparently signs on all the doors, but my head and my mind haven't been in the same place for weeks.]

Titus, MY SWEET HUSBAND-TO-BE, passed his interview at the US Embassy in Cambodia on Tuesday. PRAISE THE LORD, MY MAN IS COMING TO AMERICA!

"I WILL EXALT YOU, MY GOD THE KING;

I WILL PRAISE YOUR NAME FOR EVER AND EVER." (Psalm 145:1)

However, there is a little bit of a catch. He was missing a document and has to return to the embassy on Wednesday to submit it. I had already purchased his tickets for Tuesday, so I had to cancel his flight and I am not sure yet when he will be coming. After processing this document, it could still take 4-7 days to process his visa. Please keep praying that this document will be approved.

‎"I am the Lord, the God of all mankind. Is anything too hard for me?"

(Jeremiah 32:27)

Love love love, Jewel

Please pray for my husband-to-be

2011-09-19T13:30:00.001-04:00

Please pray for my husband-to-be today as his very important visa interview is tonight at 8 (IN time.) We are trusting Him!

September 2011's first "Friday's Fave Five"

2011-09-02T08:41:00.001-04:00

Log on at Living to Tell the Story and share your own Friday's Fave. Five!

1. A Great Job ♥♥♥
Last Thursday I started working at the daycare and I have absolutely LOVED it! It has been a joy to earn the trust and love of my two-year-old class and I'm looking forward to getting to know their little personalities more in the weeks and months ahead. On Thursday I earned M*m*'s trust by cuddling him until his mommy arrived to take him to the hospital to get stitches (he fell out of his chair during snack time :(.) It was a sad but sweet few minutes. I also enjoy the head-rubbing and back-patting as my little princes and princesses drift off during nap time.

2. A Precious Gift ♥♥♥

This beautiful elephant brooch is on its way to my house thanks to a sweet and generous ebay seller who calls herself "The Turtle Lady." Priced at $16.99+shipping, I knew I couldn't afford it for my broach bouquet, so I messaged the seller and she's sending it as a wedding gift! I'll be cherishing this one in honor of a stranger's kindness, and in memory of my granddad, who passed on a collection of elephants from around the world, and an admiration of the royal animal. Both these elephants have their trunks up, which is a symbol of "good luck" in many parts of the world. I just love it and can't wait to see it in person!

3. A Plane Ticket ♥♥♥

I finally bought my fiancé's one-way ticket from Cambodia to Indiana. He doesn't have his visa yet, but I bought it in FAITH - remembering how God has already been faithful to Titus and I throughout the visa process, believing that He won't stop being faithful, and praying that He will go before Titus to his interview and will provide a visa. I can't wait to see him in 26 days and marry him in 57!

4. A Farewell Party ♥♥♥
Today is my last day working at the cemetery and it's BITTERSWEET. I know there will be days at Cracker Barrel and the daycare where I will wish that I was simply behind a desk again. Yesterday the cemetery staff had a farewell party with a "Good Luck Jewel!" ice cream cake and cards and a gift. Everyone awkwardly surrounded my desk... and it was touching in a sweet way. I have grown to really enjoy the company of some of my co-workers, and I'm going to miss them.

5. A Cousin in Town ♥♥♥

My cousin from Ohio is transferring from a college in Nashville to IWU and she moves in today!! I'm excited about spending time with her and helping her in any way that I can. It will also mean that we will be seeing her parents more, and that will also be nice.

Love love love, Jewel

It's Coming.

2011-09-01T07:50:00.002-04:00

I love Summer. I really, really, really love Summer. But, I also enjoy Fall because there are so many things to love about it (despite the fact that it introduces Winter.)

♥The cool (not cold!) autumn breeze flowing through my open windows
♥The smell - cold air has its own smell; it's crisp and clean
♥Hot tea on a cold day
♥The delicacies: Pumpkin pie chai and pumpkin ice cream, apple pie, candy corn and peanuts...
♥The way God paints the yellow, orange, and red landscape in the trees, and the deep blue in the sky
♥Scarves and sweaters
♥The crunching sound of newly fallen leaves beneath my feet as I walk to class in the morning
♥Watching football
♥Cuddling by the fireplace
♥Maple and spiced candles
♥The Mississinewa 1812 (a weekend-long historical commemoration festival)
♥Thanksgiving
♥Looking forward to Christmas

Two more for Fall 2011:
♥My wedding on October 29th
♥My fiancé coming from Cambodia to America (for the first time!)

I haven't seen him since January!!

Can't wait!!

Love love love,
Jewel

immeasurably more

2011-08-30T09:28:00.000-04:00

There is no problem that God cannot solve. None. There is no sickness that God cannot heal. There is no miracle that you can dream of that God cannot perform. There is no prayer that God cannot answer. There is not one sinner that He cannot save. There is no backslider that God cannot bring back and restore. There is no mountain that God cannot move. There is no giant that He cannot slay. There is no need that God cannot meet. There is no marriage so broken that God cannot heal. There is no church so dead that God cannot raise up. You are amazing God, You can do immeasurably more than what we can ask or think.

I can testify.

We can choose to live our lives in the confines of our own natural understanding and perceived limitations, or we can choose to believe what God has promised for us - that He is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine according to His power that is at work within us! Our Father is the biggest, strongest and most powerfully wonderful Dad in the universe and He has promised that He is able to do exceedingly, abundantly, above all that we ask or imagine!

Credit to Pinterest

All powerful, untameable;

Awestruck I fall to my knees as I humbly proclaim

'You are amazing God.'

Indescribable, uncontainable;

You placed the stars in the sky and You know them by name.

You are amazing God!

Incomparable, unchangeable;

You see the depths of my heart and You love me the same.

You are amazing God!

[Indescribable by Chris Tomlin]

Love love love, Jewel

Another Week Passed!

2011-08-26T11:03:00.001-04:00

Log on at Living to Tell the Story and share your own Friday's Fave. Five!

1. Lakeview Christian School Daycare ♥♥♥
Last Friday, I told you that I was just hired by Cracker Barrel. I got another job this week! On Wednesday morning, I turned in my application at a local daycare and on Wednesday evening, they called me and asked me to start Thursday morning! WOW! It's been a little confusing/stressful trying to finish my two weeks notice at the cemetery, and start at the daycare, and arrange training at Cracker Barrel, while meanwhile being a church janitor. HA. BUT, I feel blessed to have three GOOD jobs. I really really really loved the daycare yesterday. 19 2-year-olds on my first day was a little overwhelming, but I enjoyed the cuddling, the head-rubbing and back-patting during naptime, and the one-last-hug goodbyes.

2. Untitled Hymn (Come To Jesus) by Chris Rice ♥♥♥

Weak and wounded sinner, lost and left to die, o raise your head, for love is passing by. Come to Jesus! Come to Jesus and live!
Now your burden's lifted and carried far away; and precious blood has washed away the stain, so... sing to Jesus! Sing to Jesus and live!
And like a newborn baby, don't be afraid to crawl; and remember when you walk, sometimes we fall... so fall on Jesus! Fall on Jesus and live!
Sometimes the way is lonely and steep and filled with pain; so if your sky is dark and pours the rain, then... cry to Jesus. Cry to Jesus and live!
O, and when the love spills over and music fills the night; and when you can't contain your joy inside, then... dance for Jesus. Dance for Jesus and live!
And with your final heartbeat, kiss the world goodbye. Then go in peace, and laugh on Glory's side... and fly to Jesus! Fly to Jesus and live!

3. I Shot a Gun ♥♥♥

On Wednesday night, my college/young adult destination unknown group had a time of "personal and gun safety" and a local police officer came to advice the new college freshman on personal safety. Marion isn't quite like Noblesville or Gary or Indianapolis, Indiana; but it isn't quite like Mayberry either. So it was a good idea! After the talk, we went into outside to shoot real guns. I was nervous... pretty nervous, but I thought, "Go big or go home!" So I shot the shotgun! TWICE! *Crossing "shoot a gun" off my bucketlist! :)

4. Bangs... ♥♥♥

I got these yesterday. I haven't had a drastic hair change (if you can consider going from 'no bangs' to 'bangs') since I was probably 17, but I decided it was TIME. I also really needed a trim - hoping it will speed up some hair growth (which is almost a foreign idea to me, despite how quickly my twin sister's hair grows!) before my wedding in only 64 (SIXTY-FOUR!) days.

5. Girls' Night ♥♥♥

I'm really looking forward to a much-needed, very fun girls' night tonight. More tissue paper pomanders, more scones, more laughs, more memories, and who knows what else! My fiancé could be arriving in America one month from today and I'm wanting to spend much time with my girls AND get most of the wedding things pulled together before he comes!

Love love love, Jewel

How to Make the Bed Unto the Lord:

2011-08-25T07:56:00.000-04:00

I heard a convo on the radio a few weeks ago about making the bed unto the Lord and I have not forgotten it. I have thought about it a lot in the last two weeks as I have been cleaning our church building. If God has given me the assignment to clean His house, I'm going to let no streak remain on the windows, no stickiness cling to the trash cans, no scuff mark lie on the floor, no ink or dye stain the chairs, etc. The perspective of working unto the Lord has almost blown away my mind. I forget about ME. I remember Something bigger.

"Whatever may be your task, work at it heartily (from the soul), as [something done] for the Lord and not for men, knowing [with all certainty] that it is from the Lord [and not from men] that you will receive the inheritance which is your [real] reward. [The One Whom] you are actually serving [is] the Lord Christ (the Messiah)."

Colossians 3:23,24 (AMF)

It's not about perfection, it's about excellence. There's no bondage in it, there is freedom in it - it's about fulfilling the excellence He called you to.

Do Everything by Steven Curtis Chapman:

The way we do our work day by day provides the best exterior reflection of our commitment to serve the Lord in a real, physical way. It doesn't matter whether that work is in the home, in a corporate office, on the mission field, or in the janitor's closet. May my clean carpets, vents, stairs, shelves, whiteboards, tables, podiums, chairs, toilets, urinals, sinks, mirrors, doorknobs, and windows be a testimony of my love for the Lord.

Love love love,
Jewel

Education

2011-08-23T15:10:00.018-04:00

Contemplating and meditating on these two verses today:

"If you want to think one year ahead, plant rice.

If you want to think 10 years ahead, plant trees.

But if you want to think 100 years ahead, give education to people."

[Ancient Chinese Proverb]

"How, then, can they call on the one they have not believed in?

And how can they believe in the one of whom they have not heard?

And how can they hear without someone preaching to them?"

[Romans 10:14 NIV]

Love love love, Jewel

A Bible That’s Falling Apart

2011-08-22T10:26:00.001-04:00

Struck by the truth of this quote by Charles Spurgeon...

“A Bible that’s falling apartusually belongs to someone who isn’t.”

...and thinking of my Grandmom, who is a timeless example of a God-fearing, Bible-reading, praying woman.

Love love love,
Jewel

All Good Things!

2011-08-19T08:32:00.009-04:00

Log on at Living to Tell the Story and share your own Friday's Fave. Five!

1. Cracker Barrel ♥♥♥

Yesterday morning, I was hired to be a server at Cracker Barrel - one of my favorite restaurants in the whole world! I have never worked in food, so I am ~~a little~~ nervous about training, but so EXCITED to start something new and make a little more money! [And seriously, I have had enough job interviews for awhile! 5 in 7 days!]
My supervisor at current job in the cemetery has been so so so good to me as I have been on the job search - totally understanding and allowing me to take extra long lunch breaks for interviews; I am very GRATEFUL for that!

2. Honeymoon ♥♥♥

I finally planned my honeymoon - booking a condo ON Daytona Beach. So excited to relax on the beach with my groom! We are only about 1 ½ hours from Orlando, so we are planning on visiting Disney World one day. For those who have an opinion, should we go to Magic Kingdom or Epcot? The "cultural village" idea would be very interesting for us both (since I'm American and he's Cambodian!) but I would also love the enchantment and fireworks at Magic Kingdom. Hmm...

3. Half.com ♥♥♥
Two years ago, I discovered the goodness of half.com and I have saved lots of money buying my textbooks online, and also made lots of money selling my textbooks online. With the start of universities quickly approaching, our (Mom's, Jessie's, and mine) used textbooks have really been selling. In August alone, we have made $911.70!! And that's after ebay took 10% sales commission. SERIOUSLY INCREDIBLE. Let me know if you want me to teach you how; I would be glad to share the secret! It's super easy; the hardest part is getting to the post office!

4. Good Deals at Goodwill
Dear Goodwill,
Thank you for three pairs of Docker pants for $11! I can't wait to wear them to my new job.

From,

Someone Satisfied

5. Wedding Planning Progress

Mom and I went to the craft store on Wednesday and bought ribbon, string, and tulle for 20% OFF. I also collected lots of sticks in the yard from a recent storm. One of my ushers has agreed to be an usher, my pianist has agreed to be my pianist, and another friend has agreed to help me make something like this 'S' [<---] as an alternative guest book (which I am super excited about!!) I got an antique family heirloom from my grandmom to collect our cards in, and I have been looking at pictures of dessert receptions on pinterest and getting lots of yummy and gorgeous ideas!

Love love love, Jewel

Because you only have 4 years,

2011-08-17T16:03:00.001-04:00

Reposting this:

I have finally graduated and my college career is over for good. When I was told, "Enjoy it; it will go by fast," I thought, "Yeah right, four years is a long time." I admit - it went by fast. I really cannot even believe it. I vividly remember moving in as a freshman, meeting my roommate, going to my first class, and starting my job on campus. Now it's four years later and I have learned so so so much. There are certainly things that I wish I had done or known earlier, and I would regret it if I didn't pass on a few words of advice to my friends who are still in college or are preparing to start this Fall. So, here's to YOU!

Campus Activities and Involvement:
- Try everything at least once - Crema, Exalt, FNL, prayer walks, the homecoming parade, basketball games, soccer games, etc.
- Look into student organizations that interest you - Business as Mission, WCF, etc.
- If you loved NSO, apply to be an NSO leader.
- Participate in the Finals Midnight Scream (hopefully that tradition carries on!)
- Mentor a child through the Marion Boys and Girls Club.
- When the weather is nice, don't stay inside.

Interaction and Relationships:
- Interact with your professors outside of the classroom. Your professors are an incredible resource and will completely change your entire college experience [for the better] if you let them.
- Don't spend hours chatting on facebook when you can be chatting at McConn or by the fountain.
- You will find community on IWU's campus when you look for it.
- Don't be too busy, bored, or conceited to listen when people are imparting words of wisdom. Listen when people are talking!!

Classes, Books and Studying:
- NEVER buy brand new textbooks and never buy without comparing prices. I have saved $100's by purchasing my books on Ebay and Amazon.
- Sometimes you can get by simply skimming or not reading a book... sometimes you cannot! Figure it out.
- The Bible is the most important book you can read. It offers incredible amounts of wisdom and insight.
- World Civ with Mark Smith is the way to go!
- If you can, take the following classes:
* Basic Christian Doctrine (Chris Bounds)
* Christian Spirituality and Experiencing God (Jim Lo)
* CS Lewis (Charles Bressler)
* Inductive Bible Study (Steve Lennox)
- For INT majors, take more Biblical literature classes than what is required. If you plan to be a missionary, you must know Scripture and know it well.
- Don't be stupid and save all your research and projects until the end of the semester or just before it's due.

Other: (These may be what I would emphasize the most!)
- Realize that your education is a huge investment into your future, but realize also that your grades and performance do not define who you are. Who you are becoming is worth more than your diploma.
- Make a college bucket list and re-evaluate it at the beginning of every semester. Four years will pass quickly, and you will never get to experience anything like college ever again.
- Take pictures of everything.
- If you have an idea or a dream, share it with someone and pursue it!
- Your legacy is more in who you are than in what you do.
- Above all, God is faithful. Seek His will and trust Him.

Love love love,
Jewel

A Magical Place

2011-08-16T08:52:00.001-04:00

Last night, my mom and I sat down to plan my honeymoon. It was an EXPERIENCE! My parents have a timeshare (that we have been trying to sell for months and months and months!) and Mom and I spent hours on the RCI website last night looking at the few still available resorts in Florida - North, East, South, West, and the Panhandle. Many had pictures that left much to be desired, others had beautiful pictures of gorgeous rooms, views, and property, but reviews included statements such as:

"I couldn't turn on the kitchen light because the switch was behind the refrigerator."
"If I were you, I wouldn't walk barefoot on the carpet..."
"When we arrived, we found cigarettes in the ashtray, dirty glasses, and dirty linens."
"We couldn't sit around the pigeons on the balcony or through the pigeon poop on the already dirty window."
"When you're sitting on the toilet, the sink stabs you in the side."
"If you are looking for something nice, run in the other direction!"

YUCK! My living standards are not extremely high, but I am not wanting to spend the first few days of my happily-ever-after in anything like what is reviewed above. So it took some searching. My only expectations were:

Finding a honeymoon spot where we can visit:

Disney World

and spend our days here:

The Beach

We finally found one that I expect won't be too cramped or gross. I'm looking forward to having coffee and conversations on our own personal ocean-view balcony (hopefully not on the 1st floor,) taking early morning and late night walks on the beach, playing Scrabble on our little table, and exploring Daytona as husband and wife.

When my sister and I were maybe four-years-old, our parents took us to Magic Kingdom and it rained some before the day ended with a horrible storm. I haven't been back since, and I have never been to (or heard much about) Epcot. For those who have been to either or both, which would you recommend for two twenty-something newlyweds?? I'm leaning towards one, but I really want to know what others say, so thanks for advising!!

Magic Kingdom

Magic Kingdom: Enchanting entertainment, classic attractions, beloved Disney Characters and spectacular parades and fireworks in a place where fairytale dreams can come true.

Epcot

Epcot: Attractions and entertainment dedicated to technological innovation and the culture and cuisine of 11 nations.

Love love love,
Jewel

Lots of Excitement This Week

2011-08-12T08:19:00.015-04:00

Log on at Living to Tell the Story and share your own Friday's Fave. Five! You will notice that I had a very exciting and eventful week and I couldn't limit myself to only five points; I limited myself to six....

1. Church Janitor

I was recently hired onto the janitorial staff at my church and I started on Sunday. I can't brag about working in a cemetery or being a church janitor, but I am content. I don't enjoy scrubbing toilets (or especially urinals! Seriously guys?? How can you accidentally pee on the wall??) but I do enjoy praying for my church family during the still and quiet hours in the basement. [And by the way, I couldn't ask for a better church family!] ♥♥♥

2. Phillip James Stuller III

On Monday, my funny and beautiful friend (and bridesmaid) Stephanie had her precious baby boy. Welcome to the world PJ! I can't wait to cuddle you!!! ♥♥♥

3. Visa Interview

After 8 months of filling out documents, and waiting and praying, and filling out documents, and waiting and praying, and filling out documents, and waiting and praying, Titus has finally received his interview date and time for his interview at the US Embassy in Phnom Penh. On September 20th at 7am (that's September 19th at 7pm, for all you Indiana and EST people,) my fiancé will stand before an authority and be interviewed in regards to gaining legal status to enter the United States and marry the love of his life. September 20th is farther away than we had hoped, but we are trusting in God's PERFECT TIMING, and we are grateful for a few more days to humble ourselves before the LORD, and ask Him to prepare the way and go before Titus to his interview. ♥♥♥

4. Bridesmaids Shoes

Five pairs of these shoes landed on my porch Tuesday! After spending about 30 hours browsing 30 websites and looking at about 30,000 different pairs of shoes, I finally settled on the above pair of Old Navy sandals for my bridesmaids. One of my wedding colors is bronze, and since pewter is NOT BRONZE, I am going to dig into my *Barney Bag* of creativity, and embellish them. Look forward to before and after pictures! ♥♥♥

5. DIY Tissue Paper Pomanders

On Thursday, 80 sheets of green and bronze tissue paper landed in my mailbox. Once all my sweet ad wonderful crafty friends return from vacay, we are going to have a party and make tissue paper pomanders to decorate the pews and aisle at my wedding. Look forward to before and after pictures! Pretty pretty pretty... ♥♥♥

6. Jillian Michael's 30 Day Shred

Also on Thursday, I received a MUCH-ANTICIPATED and MUCH-FEARED package in the mail from a kind member of ebay. I cannot [and won't] tell you how many days it has been since I last exercised. I have been dieting, but not exercising, and my dress-fitting is quickly approaching (in 33 days, to be exact.) Since becoming a full-time 8-5 employee at the cemetery, I have found it to be quite inconvenient to go to the gym or to Zumba class after work. SO, I'm hoping this at-home DVD routine will prove successful and motivational. Let me tell you: day 1 and day 2 were ROUGH! ♥♥♥

Love love love, Jewel

Alive & Active

2011-08-10T14:00:00.000-04:00

As I was reading Psalms this morning, this reference reminded me of a very special moment that I spent with Him - Creator of the Heavens and the Earth, Creator of Me - on top of a mountain in Siem Reap, Cambodia two years ago. I am thankful for that moment - a moment I hope that I never forget - and I am thankful that God's Word is truly alive and active TODAY.

Eternally Grateful,
and in Love,
Jewel

We have been waiting for today's news...

2011-08-08T16:00:00.000-04:00

I am almost without words; without words, but not without emotion.

JOY. Anticipation. Excitement. LOVE. Fear. Submission. Anticipation. Fear. Anticipation. Fear. Anticipation.

So much emotion.

Any idea what this is?

It's one small section of the visa interview schedule at the US Embassy in Phnom Penh. The 7:00:00 hour on September 20th, 2011 is an hour of much JOY. Anticipation. Excitement. LOVE. Fear. Submission. Anticipation. Fear. Anticipation. Fear. Anticipation. ETC.

On September 20th at 7am (that's September 19th at 7pm, for all you Indiana and EST people,) my fiancé, Romdenh Chamnol (aka Titus) will stand before an authority at the US Embassy in Phnom Penh, Cambodia and be interviewed in regards to gaining legal status to enter the United States and marry the love of his life.

Who would DARE say no to that, right??

Trusting in His promises:

Love love love, Jewel

Getting a little crafty...

2011-08-06T07:09:00.019-04:00

I'm hoping to find a pretty gorgeous frame at Goodwill's 50%-off sale today!

So I can make something pretty like this:

Love love love,
Jewel

August's 1st Friday's Fave Five

2011-08-05T09:32:00.004-04:00

Log on at Living to Tell the Story and share your own Friday's Fave. Five!

1. Storms ♥♥♥

According to the Weather Channel online, there's a possibility that it will start raining at 4pm today and storm through 9pm tomorrow. Although that would put a damper on my plans for this evening and tomorrow evening, I'm pretty excited about the possibility of cuddling on the couch tonight and watching a movie while it thunders, lightenings, and rains allll nighttt longgg.

2. DIY Tissue Paper Pomanders

I can't wait to get together with some of my sweet and wonderful friends to make these tissue paper pomanders in green and bronze for my WEDDING. Wedding plans are s.l.o.w.l.y. p.r.o.g.r.e.s.s.i.n.g. Pretty pretty pretty... ♥♥♥

3. A Niece

Munnith ♥♥♥
My dear dear dear friends Poleak and Malout, who are like my family in Cambodia, had a little princess last weekend. Munnith was welcomed by my favorite nephews in the world - six-year-old twins, Peter and Paul.

4. A Package

Yesterday I received a MUCH-ANTICIPATED package in the mail from my kind friends in New York who recently returned from a trip to Cambodia. Their daughter is one of the two flower girls in my wedding, and I asked them to pick out flower girl dresses, and a shirt for the ring-bearer. The dresses are especially gorgeous, and the barong is "the bomb-diggity" too! I also got a few other unexpected goodies from my fiancé. ♥♥♥

5. Healing

Since Grandmom had her eye removed at the end of June, she has been sick. Really sick. She had an infection, and went into renal failure TWICE. On Tuesday, she finally came home after weeks in the hospital. Thank you, thank you Jesus for being present with her, for calling the Church to lift her in their prayers, and for touching her body with your healing hand. She is still recovering and her body is weak, but she has come home with THE PROMISE that He is still working on her. We are eternally grateful.

Love love love, Jewel

August 2011: An Update on What God is Doing Here and There

2011-08-03T12:05:00.000-04:00

Friends, Family, and Supporters,

Greetings from a freshly-rained-upon Central Indiana. Praise the Lord for rain!! This past week I attended the Indiana North District of the Wesleyan Church’s Family Camp for at least my 15th summer-in-a-row. “What did you do at Family Camp?” I settled down two- and three-year-olds

in the nursery during the evenings, made special memories with friends around a campfire until
midnight, worshipped the Lord under a tent in the morning, heard the Word preached by powerful evangelists, helped organize a carnival, and joined 300+ others for meals in the dinning hall. Oh, and I dressed like Batman and rode a tandem bicycle with Superwoman in the children’s bike parade! At Family Camp, I have been reminded of all the ways that God has been faithful since this week last year. God has been overwhelmingly good to me in NUMEROUS ways. In the past few weeks my twin sister and best friend (Jessie) has moved to New York for grad school, Grandmom has been so sick and hospitalized since late June, and my fiancé remains 10,000+ miles away… but God has been faithfully present and real to me, especially during my loneliest times.

In July, Titus hosted a short-term missions team from a Wesleyan church in Rochester, New York. He translated for them, traveled with them, and assisted them in their ministry in various

churches, villages, and at an orphanage. He also enjoyed spending time with old friends, and meeting new friends. Thank you to Phalkun and Janell and their team for their willingness to deliver some packages to Cambodia for me, and for their willingness to shop for Cambodian attire for our ring bearer and flower girls. ☺ Their kindness has been a blessing to me! Last week, Titus had a medical exam at an international clinic to meet the visa requirements before his interview. He received the results from the exam yesterday and we are praising the Lord that Titus is healthy, strong, and able to travel. Please join us in praising the Lord for a good health report. There are three remaining documents needing to be processed by the Commune Chief, and we are presently waiting [and checking the website every hour] on the embassy to post Titus’ interview date and time online. PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE join us in praying that he will be given an early date!

Despite not knowing when Titus will be granted his visa, I have p.r.o.g.r.e.s.s.e.d in planning our wedding, confident that God will bring him here soon enough. It has been very stressful, but I have enjoyed preparing for our special day because – while we have been separated by MANY miles for MANY days – the wedding brings the promise that we will spend the rest of our days together, as husband and wife, as partners in the ministry He has called us to. Throughout this time of waiting and preparation for Titus’ MUCH-ANTICIPATED arrival, I have been reminded of the privilege and mandate to prepare myself to be the Bride of Christ. In the New Testament, Christ, the Bridegroom, has sacrificially and lovingly chosen the Church - those who have trusted in Jesus Christ as their personal savior and have received eternal life - to be His bride (Eph 5:25-27). Just as there was a betrothal period in biblical times during which the bride and groom were separated, so is the Bride of Christ separate from her Bridegroom during the Church Age. Her responsibility during the betrothal period is to be faithful to Him (2 Cor 11:2; Eph 5:24). At the Second Coming of Christ, the Church will be united with the Bridegroom, the official "wedding ceremony" will take place and, with it, the eternal union of Christ and His bride will be actualized (Rev 19:7-9; 21:1-2). Oh how I greatly anticipate BOTH of my weddings!

Again, until our YWAM application is complete, processed, and approved, giving to our future ministry is limited to personal donations at this time. If interested, there is a PayPal giving button on this blog. If your church or any church you know would be interested in allowing us to come and share, please share their contact information with us. As always, thank you. Thank you for reading, for supporting, for praying, for loving, and for giving. The knowledge that you are simply behind us gives me confidence to pursue God’s will and the visions that He has given us.

Praying and Believing,
Jewel (and Romdenh Chamnol)

Oh My Stars and Garters

2011-08-01T09:53:00.000-04:00

Zounds, zoinks, and zippity doo, today is August 1st! AUGUST FIRST! No puedo creerlo (I cannot believe it!) My wedding is in 88 days. EIGHTY-EIGHT DAYS! I am in disbelief that the time has flown by so quickly. Disbelief. I am overwhelmed that I have few days to finish everything. Overwhelmed.

I need shoes...
and jewelry.
My bridesmaids need shoes...

and jewelry.
I have no gifts for the bridal party.
I haven't registered.
I have no idea what to register for.
I need to make the invitations.
I need to plan the honeymoon.
We both need rings.
I don't have a menu.
I have no idea where everyone will stay, OR how they will get from and to the airport.
What is a rehearsal dinner?
I need flowers.
I need decorations.
I need to confirm my cake design.
I need to find someone to videotape the wedding.
I need to ask my pianist to be my pianist.
The groomsmen need ties.
Who knows what else I am forgetting??!

Oh, and as of September 5th, I will unemployed! :) While that means more time to pull everything together, it also means no money to pay for it! Woo hoo!!

Love love love,
the future Mrs. Romdenh Chamnol

Big & Little Blessings

2011-07-26T09:59:00.000-04:00

Love love love,
Jewel

Happy Wedding Planning

2011-07-21T08:35:00.001-04:00

Up until now, wedding planning has just been *stressful*and *overwhelming* [read Confessions of Wedding Planning HERE;] however, just recently, weeks and weeks into the process, I'm starting to actually ENJOY this once-in-a-lifetime experience called 'wedding planning.' A number of factors could have flipped the switch from fearful to fanciful.

#1) I've made PROGRESS! [Progress is a beautiful thing!] I have met with my photographer and contacted my cake person. I officially reserved the ceremony and reception site, and chose the officiant. My gown and a number of bridesmaids dresses are hanging in my closet. The 'save-the-dates' arrived on Saturday and a guest list has been drafted. ETC!

#2) I'm feeling very optimistic about Titus' visa being approved SOON. All our documents have been approved stateside and Titus has a very short to-do list before he can officially schedule the big event - his interview at the US Embassy in Phnom Penh. I cannot cannot cannot wait to see my future-groom!

#3) Thanks to my sweet friend Andrea, I have a new addiction to a website called Pinterest and I am flooded with wedding inspiration. I have even created my own board of inspiration for wedding ideas - everything from flowers to centerpieces to cakes to photography to food to guestbooks and more!

Brooch Boquet - I'm in love with this idea!*Wish me luck* finding cheap and gorgeous bronze brooches!

In the midst of discussion with my cake baker/designer now...

20 stores later and still looking for THE perfect bridesmaid shoe...

My small branch collection is growing, but is FAR from sufficient!

So anxious to see the flowergirl dresses and ringbearer barong that my friends are bringing home from Cambodia!

Love love love,
the future Mrs. Romdenh Chamnol

My Best Twin Sister

2011-07-18T12:08:00.001-04:00

On Sunday afternoon, I left my TWIN SISTER and BESTESSST FRIEND in Churchville, New York and I drove 8 hours home to GC, IN [read more about NY trip HERE.] One of THE HARDEST things I have ever done. She makes me brave. She encourages and supports me. When I'm crying, she stops the tears. She keeps me organized and focused. She pushes me when she knows I am capable, and she steps in to assist when she knows I'm not. I would have never "gotten back on the horse" if it weren't for her, and without her, I would have probably failed pre-calculus. She practically got me 2 of my 3 present jobs and she picked out my wedding dress (that's how much I love her!) She's not quite as touchy-feely as I am, but I know she loves me dearly.

How am I going to live without her?

Yes, I suppose there's Skype... and texting... and even snail mail (I LOVE SNAIL MAIL!), but we know that doesn't ~~replace~~ even compare to experiencing life together. And really, I know she doesn't want to receive a text every time something "text-worthy" happens in my life.

I'm already planning to visit her in the next few weeks, once Titus has arrived from Cambodia. [I'm thinking my sister would like to meet my fiancé before he becomes my husband.] She will be home for my wedding in October. She will finish grad school next May, and then she will move home for a few months.

But things will never be the same.

I'll be married. My husband won't replace my best twin sister, but things will be different - an exciting different, but a hard to accept different... because I know she's next. In the next one to two years, she will be the new wife.

Without the example of my little sister, I would not be the woman I am today and I know THAT won't change. She makes me want to be a better sister, daughter, granddaughter, aunt, friend, girlfriend, student, worker, etc., and she shows me how to be. I'm proud of her - proud of what she has accomplished, proud of what she is striving for, and proud of who she is becoming. She will be an awesome social worker, wife, mother, and neighbor.

I know it.

As I write this, I'm hiding my tears behind my computer. "You're crying and smiling." - that's what my gravedigger friends would say [again.]

That's the kind of best twin sister I have.

I love you Jessie!

Love love love, Jewel

Blogging from New York...

2011-07-16T00:15:00.000-04:00

Thursday morning Jessie, Mom, Dad, and I left home and drove to Rochester, New York. It should have only taken 8.5 hours but it took almost 10 after road construction and passing a bad accident. Praise the Lord we had a safe and uneventful trip! I rode with Dad the entire way and stayed awake every mile. Mom, Jessie, and I came to Rochester for Spring Break and I slept every mile. Every time I closed my eyes to sleep, Dad opened his mouth (or the GPS fell off the dash!) but I suppose that was okay.

My sister has chosen to attend grad school here in Rochester (actually, that's why we are here, and why we came during Spring Break.) We spent all of today moving her things into and arranging her apartment. She's living in a house with 4 other girls from her grad school, so I'm excited for her about that. Although I'm not pleased with her for leaving me...

Titus and I have friends that live in Rochester, and I was looking forward to seeing them while we are here; however, they left for Cambodia only a few hours before we left for Rochester. Sad. :( I'm looking forward to seeing them (Phalkun & Janell) in a few weeks when we come again to visit Jessie. I think she would like to officially meet Titus before the wedding. ;)

We went to dinner tonight with one of Jessie's new housemates and her parents. Margie seems really nice; if I were Jessie, I would really be excited to live with/get to know her! After dinner, we went to the mall and I got a 50%-off bathing suit for my honeymoon (I guess that means I finally made the decision to go to the beach for our honeymoon!)

Tomorrow our plans are to stock Jessie's kitchen, finish arranging Jessie's room, maybe visit Lake Ontario, return to the mall, look for bridesmaids' shoes, and have our last family game night. I really am very excited for Jessie to start a new journey, but I will be very very sad to leave her in New York. :( Next time Jessie is home, it will be for my wedding and things will be different (a good different, but a hard different.)

On a side note, THANK YOU to those who have been praying for my grandmom. She had her eye removed last Thursday, and was admitted to the hospital a few days later with complications. She had acute renal failure, but has miraculously recovered (she's done that three times now!) It was so so so hard to leave her in the hospital and come to New York, and my heart has been blessed by messages from church friends/family that have visited her while we have been away. When Mom, Dad, and I return to Indiana on Sunday evening, we are hoping to bring Grandmom home with us!

Love love love, Jewel

Baby Fever

2011-07-08T09:19:00.019-04:00

After watching these two little ones [sweet Jacky and little Levi] last night and this morning, I'm feeling a little Baby Fever [NOT TO BE CONFUSED WITH BEIBER FEVER]

Maybe ~~this time next year~~ in two years. ;)

So, after dropping the boys off with Mrs. Momma and arriving at my office, I connected to the MGH nursery and browsed the sweet little newborns of Marion.

Handsome LITTLE MAN!

Princess

Sleeping Beauty

Angel

Sweet Little Boy

You may or may not find me browsing through the baby clothes during my lunch break today...

Love love love, Jewel

My Decision to Trust

2011-07-06T13:04:00.022-04:00

I have been worried for some time about how Titus and I are not only going to raise enough support to live in Cambodia, but how we are even going to earn enough to live on our own in the States.

After five weeks of searching and submitting thirty-five (35!) applications, I finally found a job that pays only minimum wage, but offers 40 hours a week. For the most part, I have been content where I am.

That is... until I got a call two weeks ago regarding my application to be a waitress at Bob Evans. What a perfect opportunity! I had no intentions of quitting work at the cemetery, but working an evening and weekend shift at Bob Evans and adding $$$ to our savings. I had two great interviews, and I was asked to schedule a third interview. After the second interview, I was confident that I would get the job; I even memorized the menu!

Then on the morning of interview #3, I woke up feeling incredibly stressed and overwhelmed. Something wasn't right. I opened my Bible to have my devotions and my reading of the day from Proverbs was Proverbs 3:5,6.

Trust in the Lord with all your heart
and lean not on your own understanding;
in all your ways submit to him,
and he will make your paths straight.

The job I have now at the cemetery is only temporary, and I have been so worried/stressed/anxious about finding another job when this job ends in September. On the morning of interview #3, I realized that I don’t trust God to provide another job [even though He was faithful to provide this job, just when I needed it!]

So I prayed and [somehow] worked up the guts to call and cancel my third interview.

Maybe God provided this restaurant job opportunity now to test me – to see if I still have faith in His provision; to see if I will still be faithful to be involved in the ministry now, or if I am too concerned about the future.

I have been selfish to think that NOW is only a time to prepare for a future of ministry and being used. God is requiring so much more of me NOW. I have been too blind to see that, because I have been looking at me and my own needs. While my intentions have been good – to prepare myself for a strong future ministry – the result has been what I believe is not the direction that God wants me to be walking in.

I believe He will provide (both now and later,) but I can’t honestly say that my belief has completely transformed the way that I am thinking and making decisions. If I trust that God will provide a job later, why am I worrying about finding one now? So I still have some fear and hesitations.

I am not going to get a second job; instead, I am going to look for places where I can be used by God. Please pray that my belief in God’s provision will help me to make better decisions and worry less.

Love love love, Jewel

Freedom & Independence Day

2011-07-05T16:14:00.000-04:00

I had so so so much fun this weekend celebrating Independence Day with family and friends, and enjoying three days away from the office. Do I have any pictures to prove it? No. How L.A.M.E.!

I came home to Jessie cooking dinner on Friday after work. We watched almost two hours of TV before going to the campgrounds and spending the evening with friends, walking around the campgrounds and sitting around a campfire. Some friends were so kind to let Jessie and I sleep in their camper.

In the morning, we joined the same friends around the campfire for biscuits and gravy. I bought a few things at Goodwill at the 50%-off sale, and the afternoon was committed to yard work and getting a pretty awful sunburn. I started reading Slumdog Millionaire (the book!) and floated in the pool until dinner. Our family from Ohio arrived just before dinner, and we enjoyed a [delicous!] traditional Independence Day meal - burgers on the grill, pasta salad, fruit salad, corn casserole, sweet tea, etc. (No corn on the cob = SAD FACE.) Mom spoiled us with homemade ice cream and I fell asleep on the couch shortly after that.

Sunday morning, we talked about the consequences in Genesis 3 during Sunday School, and I cuddled sleepy babies in the nursing. After church, I took my cousin (who is transferring to IWU this Fall) on a tour of a campus. We had chicken noodles and mashed potatoes for lunch, and spent the afternoon in the pool. Everyone gathered around the table to play Nirtz until dinner, and we had another good meal. Jessie and I joined our campfire and biscuit and gravy friends for a large private display of fireworks on Sunday night, where memories continued to be made.

I slept until the beautiful hour of 9:45 on Monday morning (3 extra hours!) and talked with my handsome fiancé on Skype for an hour. Jessie and I rode our bikes and joined our campfire and biscuit and gravy friends at the Gas City parade and afterwards went to the Gas City Park for elephant ears. I spent the afternoon looking through old pictures that I'm clearing off my computer, and rode my bike to Grandmom's for leftovers. When it was approaching dusk, Jessie, Mom and I joined our campfire and biscuit and gravy friends (whom I love dearly!) and a crowd of other church people for more fireworks. At the fireworks show, I cuddled Craig and Anna's sleepy baby bean.

"It is for freedom that Christ has set us free. Stand firm, then, and do not let yourselves be burdened again by a yoke of slavery." [Galatians 5:1 NIV]

"For the Lord is the Spirit, and wherever the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom." [2 Corinthians 3:17 NLT]

Love love love, Jewel

Friday's Fave Five: July 1st!

2011-07-01T10:19:00.000-04:00

Log on at Living to Tell the Story and share your own Friday's Fave. Five!

1. Do Everything by Steven Curtis Chapman
Since hearing this song for the first time on Monday, I have had to repeatedly remind myself of it's message, especially while I am in the office.

You're picking up toys on the living room floor for the 15th time today.
Matching up socks, sweeping up lost Cheerios that got away.
You put a baby on your hip and color on your lips, head out the door.
While I may not know you I bet I know you wonder sometimes "Does it matter at all?"
Well let me remind you it all matters just as long as you.

(Chorus)
Do everything you do to the glory of the One who made you
Cause He made you to do
Every little thing that you do to bring a smile to His face
And tell the story of grace
With every move that you make
And every little thing you do

Well maybe you're sitting in math class; maybe you're on a mission in the Congo
Maybe you're working at the office, singing along with the radio
Maybe you're dining at a five star restaurant or feeding orphans in Myanmar
Anywhere and everywhere you are, whatever you do it all matters
So do what you do and don't ever forget to do...

Read the rest of the lyrics HERE. ♥ ♥ ♥

2. Proverbs 3:5,6

"Trust God with your whole heart; do not be a rebel and try to determine what is right or best according to your own insight and understanding. Whenever you make a decision, listen for God's voice, and He will show you which path to take." [Jewel's edit]

This verse both encouraged and challenged me this week in unbelievable ways. ‎Thank you Lord, for leading. Give me the strength to be obedient. ♥ ♥ ♥

3. Spanish

Spanish. There's something about it that makes me feel warm and capable. Maybe it's the pride I feel when I am able to understand and speak a language that I have worked so endlessly hard to learn. My determination has allowed me to build relationships with a nation of people, to whom I would otherwise be mute. I studied Spanish in the classroom for almost six years, but my real teachers were friends like Pablo, Miguel, Carlos, Abuelo, Geovanni, and others that I have met as I have traveled to Mexico, Honduras, the DR, Ecuador, and Puerto Rico. On Monday, the fam. and I celebrated Aunt Holly's *0th birthday at La Casa Grande; I had a good conversation with our waiter and got free birthday ice cream. It's funny how much people appreciate you speaking their language! ♥ ♥ ♥

4. Swimming - For the first time in 2011, I dipped myself in our pool last night. It was a beautiful beautiful beautiful day and all morning and afternoon, all I could think about was getting in the pool after work. Although the sun was nearly set before I got in, the water was still warm and refreshing. It was just what I needed after a stressful day in the office. THANK YOU JESUS! I'm looking forward to a pool party and grilling out with family on Saturday evening. [Picture of Carson; credit to Holly Hoffman, family friend] ♥ ♥ ♥

5. Sweet memories of a happy place
Earlier this week I got a comment on my blog from Beth at three20 - a hot young Christian girl in Puerto Rico who lives at the camp where I visited last summer with our youth group. I have been reminded of so many good memories there...

This view was only 30 feet from my back door! I found that umbrella bench to be a beautiful and holy place as I met with God there during my morning devotions. I remembered His Word as I heard the waves crashing onto the shore as I slept at night. Happy happy memories. *Dreaming of going to Puerto Rico for my honeymoon.* ♥ ♥ ♥

Love love love, Jewel

Wants and Haves

2011-06-29T10:58:00.001-04:00

Yesterday, I had a painful realization that I have been wanting too much and I have not been giving enough consideration or reflection to what I already have. None of the things that I want are bad, but I am guilty of being ungrateful for what I do have.

Praise the Lord, I woke up with a thankful spirit, and I believe that is due to going to bed with a thankful heart, and praying a prayer of thankfulness. So, since yesterday evening, I have been desperately trying to erase the wants in my mind and engraving a list of haves on my heart. Here are just a few:

- I want more sleep ……………. I have a soft bed, air-conditioning, and warm blankets that allow me to sleep well each night. I also have a dad who gets worried when I don’t wake up with my 1st, 2nd, or even 3rd alarm; the same dad makes me coffee every morning before work. ♥♥♥
- I want a better job ……………. I have a good job that offers me 40 hrs/wk, with people who ask about my life and make me laugh – people I have really enjoyed getting to know. ♥♥♥

- I want more time with Jessie before she moves to New York for one year ……………. I have two more weeks, and I am going to take advantage of every day with her. ♥♥♥

- I want Grandmom to be cancer-free and healthy ……………. I have a God who is Father and Healer, and has faithfully brought Grandmom through much sickness, hospitalization, and therapy in the last two years. ♥♥♥

- I want my fiancé beside me ……………. I have confidence that God will open the way for Titus to come to America in a few weeks. ♥♥♥

- I want a vacation ……………. I have a 3-day-weekend with a list of fun, stress-free activities planned, including: camping with friends, sitting by the fire, time with family from Ohio, a 50%-off sale at Goodwill, reading a book, watching fireworks, grilling out and swimming, and sleeping in. ♥♥♥

As I post this, I am on my way to lunch. I have leftover chicken salad and a bowl of fruit; a blanket for a sunny picnic in the soft, green grass; my Bible, journal, highlighter, and pen. My sister is on her way to Kokomo Beach, where she will relax in the lazy river, and get her tan on. However, tomorrow, she will be at home, writing a paper for grad. school, and I will be receiving a big paycheck (and saving it for a luxurious honeymoon. ♥♥♥)

Love love love, Jewel

Friday's Fave Five: Pretty Things

2011-06-24T07:56:00.000-04:00

Log on at Living to Tell the Story and share your own Friday's Fave. Five!

1. Earrings from the Philippines - My sister brought me back these super cute purple pearl earrings from the Philippines this week. ♥ ♥ ♥

2. Bracelet from the Philippines - Another filipino souvenir from my sister. I love love love this. It's brass and has these awesome little teal gems on it to create beautiful flower designs. ♥ ♥ ♥

3. Noodle Bowl from Goodwill - I bought this ceramic "ying yang" bowl and matching spoon at Goodwill for super cheap. Love it! It will be perfect for rice and noodles. ♥ ♥ ♥

4. Hand-powered Mixer from Grandmom - Thank you to my Grandmom for supporting the baking needs of my future husband and I. ♥ ♥ ♥

5. Sacred Influence - This book by Gary Thomas is so so so good. Seriously. It's about how God uses wives to shape the souls of their husbands. Quote: "A woman who commits herself to God and who learns to act with his wisdom is a fully empowered woman who is embarking on an exciting and life-changing journey." And that's only in the introduction! ♥ ♥ ♥

Love love love, Jewel

TODAY's Blessings

2011-06-21T14:48:00.002-04:00

Yesterday afternoon I found myself overwhelmed by "His new blessings every morning." It was such a good day! I went to bed feeling blessed, loved, grateful, etc. I am reminded of xonghan song that I learned in Mozambique last summer. The lyrics are translated,
Even if my mother leaves me, Jesus is still treating me well.
Even if my health leaves me, Jesus is still treating me well.
Even if my goats leave me, Jesus is still treating me well.
Etc. Etc. Etc.And I think of my own life. Grandmom may have cancer, but my Sovereign God is Father and Healer. Finances may not always be sufficient, but God always provides. My fiance may be on the other side of this big planet, but by God's grace, we will soon be reunited. Etc. Etc. Etc. ♥♥♥

♥ Jessie is home! Yesterday afternoon my twin sister flew into Indianapolis after seven long weeks in the Philippines [long for me, short for her.] It was so so so good to see her. I could have hugged her all afternoon in the food court at the airport, but I think she ~~had enough~~ was anxious to see if her luggage had followed her. HA! I am definitely looking forward to the next three weeks with her before she moves to New York for one year, and everything changes. ♥

♥ Yesterday morning in Central Indiana, the clouds were dark and heavy, and rain poured upon the land. Often times we refer to the "storms of life" has difficult, dark, and depressing circumstances [and I can understand the metaphor,] but I love storms [the "weather kind!"] We have certainly had a fair number of storms this season, and I am so glad to have a picture perfect storm-watching window in my office. Storms make me feel little. They give me energy. They remind me of God's power. Thank you Jesus for your protecting hand on Mom and Grandmom as they traveled through heavy rain and flooded streets. ♥

♥ I received two very special pieces of mail yesterday: A note from the National Visa Center regarding the stateside approval of Titus' fiance visa petition, and a letter from my bff and penpal, Loren. The note from the visa center informed us that our information has been forwarded to the US Embassy in Phnom Penh Cambodia, and Titus will be contacted within a week with instructions to schedule his interview. Loren wrote to me about her new job in Houston, and although Texas is much much farther than Cincinnati, I am super excited for her. Loren and I graduated together, went to Cambodia together, walked to Wal-Mart in a blizzard together, etc. etc. etc. and I know she will be awesome as a live-in foster mom for babies and young children down in Texas. ♥

♥ I have begun the search for an apartment, which is really exciting!! I looked at two last Saturday; both were itty bitty [affordable] one room apartments, each with a list of pros and cons. I have one super ideal prospect, and I am praying that the current tenant finds a job elsewhere, making the cottage available. I am grateful for friends who have given leads on spaces for rent, and offered old knives, tvs, etc., and even bedrooms! ♥

♥ My job in the cemetery might usually be boring, always too quiet, and pay only minimum wage, but as I get to know my co-workers, I like it more and more. I attended my first staff meeting this morning with all the area NSW staff. There were presentations on finances, conduct, performance, vacations, etc... weird "grown-up job" sorts of things. We were even taught how to use a fire extinguisher. My position is only temporary, but my intentions are to "wow" them into keeping me until I have to voluntarily leave for Discipleship Training School and eventually Cambodia! ♥

Ok, that's all for now! I encourage you to sit and think of all the ways God is blessing you today. It truly is a life-changing [perspective-changing at least!] habit.

Love Love Love,
Jewel

Friday's Fave Five: Today has been weird

2011-06-17T14:10:00.014-04:00

Log on at Living to Tell the Story and share your own Friday's Fave. Five!

1. Payday - Yesterday was my first payday at my new job. That was a good feeling!! When my supervisor, Jeannie, gave me the check, she said, "Save this for your honeymoon." I think I will. ♥ ♥ ♥

2. The guy in the basement who is fixing our water - As I write this, I am in quite a predicament. I stayed up late to talk to my sweet fiance, and I woke up early for a new extensive morning routine before work. It's also day five of a long work week. I am tired. I need coffee. I just discovered that our plumbing - taking no one else into consideration but its tired self - decided to quit working... today of all days. I have been known to hold it for three days (in Mexico, I was convinced our outhouse was producing tarantulas by the dozen;) however, coffee runs through my system quicker than a nose in Spring. I'm finishing my second cup, so let's hope the plumber in the basement finishes in the next five or I'll be visiting the neighbor's barn. ♥ ♥ ♥

3. Scripture - I will admit that I am still selfish and sometimes have a negative attitude, but I believe that it is by the daily reading of Scripture that Christ is conforming me into His image. Earlier this summer, I made the committment to read through the Bible (starting at the beginning of both the Old and New Testament.) I admit that I have made this commitment before [numerous times] and quit before I ever a significant amount. I am muy glad to say that I am farther in my commitment than I have ever been!! I do not say that with pride in myself, but to testify that God has revealed Himself to me in awesome awesome ways and He is doing a new work in me! ♥ ♥ ♥

4. Lunch Breaks - I love my lunch breaks. I love packing my lunch, having a picnic at the park, and reading on the swings after I have eaten. Sometimes just getting away from the office for an hour feels like a vacation! Yesterday, a co-worker invited me to lunch and she paid! What a treat. We had a lovely time getting to know each other. ♥ ♥ ♥

5. Rummages - In preparing for Titus' arrival to America, I have begun collecting goodies for our apartment. We won't be living in America long and we want to live simply, but we have a few needs and I am hoping that I can collect a few things at a good price this weekend. Anyone want to join me? ♥ ♥ ♥

Love love love, Jewel

A Dying Business

2011-06-15T11:36:00.000-04:00

Arlington National Cemetery - Credit: National Geographic

I thought I worked at Grant Memorial Park, but apparently I work at Grant Memorial Lake; it's been raining and raining and raining all day. I was hoping for stronger storms because I have the perfect storm-watching window in my office. The clouds were very eerie earlier today, but it has only produced wind, rain, and a few quiet thunder claps.

Working in a cemetery seems to be a dying business. It's only 11:00 on Wednesday and I have already finished my Wednesday and Thursday responsibilities. So... now what? I brought my ipod today, but it's so so so close to dying.

This morning, I read the obituary of a woman who lived to be 104-years-old. Her first husband died only five years after marriage; more than twenty years later, her second husband died after only six years of marriage. Yet somehow this woman managed to have five children, 45 grandchildren, 84 great-grandchildren, and twelve great-great-grandchildren. I imagine she has some unbelievable stories! She was also one of eleven children. I wonder how many nieces and nephews she has!

I splurged and packed a peanut butter and jelly sandwich in my lunch today. I haven't had much time for exercise, but I have been pretty faithful to my strict diet [except for Sunday; we won't talk about what I had at the church picnic.]

Sorry I don't have anything more exciting to share -- such is life in a cemetery -- though every day is one day closer to seeing my fiance!

Love Love Love,
Jewel

Friday's Fave Five: My Weaknesses

2011-06-10T09:35:00.001-04:00

Log on at Living to Tell the Story and share your own Friday's Fave. Five!

1. Babies – Whether it is my friends’ baby or a stranger in Wal-Mart, my heart pitter-patters when I see a baby, especially a dark-headed baby [although I am partial to my blonde-haired neices.] When am shopping, I love looking through the baby clothes [and Jessie says, "Ugh... no!!!"] I love love love babies.

2. Peanut Butter Pie – Even with my wedding dress alteration appointment quickly approaching, I could not say no to peanut butter pie. I’m craving it right now!!! I haven’t had a piece in weeks. I have a little more control when it comes to peanut butter ice cream, peanut butter cookies, and peanut butter fudge… but not much. I love peanut butter.

3. Jack Johnson - I can never be in a bad mood when I'm listening to Jacky J. He's great.

4. Books - I cannot pass by a book sale without stopping. I never go on a trip without a book. I have almost two full shelves of books that I have never read, but have good intentions to read. I’m currently reading three books: Follow Me to Freedom: Leading and Following as an Ordinary Radical by Shane Claiborne and John Perkins, Radical by David Platt, and The Road of Lost Innocence: The True Story of a Cambodian Heroine by Somaly Mam. I love books.

5. Romdenh Chamnol - Few things can keep me up past a certain hour of the night; Romdenh Chamnol is one of them. He's my best friend, and I can't wait to marry with him, live with him, and share my life with him.

Love love love, Jewel

A Life of Little Adventure

2011-06-08T14:03:00.005-04:00

I wish I had something more exciting or meaningful to write about.

If I were my sister, I could write about my exciting adventures on the mission field in the Philippines. I could tell you about visiting a church in the dump, sleeping on the beach, speaking at a Compassion International Youth Camp, trying fried crickets, and living in a house with three generations of Filippino Christians.

If I were my mother, I could write about my new car, and how after 22 long years, I am no longer a "mini van mama." I could also tell you about my recent trip to Boston with a friend from work.

If I were my sister Joni, I could write about my new purchase and becoming a "mini van mama." I could also write about how 13-month-old Mallory Jo is entering a new stage of mobility: walking!

I also have friends right now doing missions work and internships in Jamaica, Albania, the Middle East, Guatemala, and soon, Uganda. Others are working at fun summer camps across the country. I am sure they have exciting stories.

Me? Today is my third day at my new job in a little office at the cemetery. The majority of my day passes while I wait for the computer to refresh and load a new page. During today's lunch break, I went to a local Christian bookstore to read a few chapters of David Platt's Radical for Sunday School. [FYI: If you do not damage or remove from the store, they will not make you pay for the book! How great!! :)]

Despite a present lack of adventure in my life, I am grateful - grateful for the sun and for airconditioning, for good books, for an incredible church family, for a Skype date with my fiance last night, for Joni's great assistance in planning my wedding, for challenging and encouraging Scripture, and much etc. etc. etc.

Love love love, Jewel

Waiting on my prince

2011-05-26T07:14:00.036-04:00

Five months ago today, I was in Siem Reap, Cambodia, sitting on a rock below this waterfall, talking about life, love, and the future. I was there with my best friend, Romdenh Chamnol. That day, December 26, 2010, my best friend became my fiance.

I couldn't have dreamed of anything more beautiful.

We're getting married!!!

Despite the miles, the oceans, and the continents that stand between us, our story continues as we talk on Skype and Facebook, making plans for our future together. I cannot wait!!

BIG ANNOUNCEMENT: Tuesday night I got an email from US immigration and Titus' fiance visa has finally been approved! I went to bed on cloud 9 and woke up feeling like the morning after my proposal. So so so excited. Yesterday, I had a worship party in my heart ALL DAY. The visa approval means we are progress to stage two - Titus going to the US Embassy in Phnom Penh for an interview. That's a big prayer request.

Psalm 37:4 - Delight yourself in the LORD and he will give you the desires of your heart.

Please please please begin praying for the visa interview, which will allow my prince to travel to my homeland - where the next chapter of our story will begin.

Waiting on my prince,
the soon-to-be Mrs. Romdenh Chamnol

I miss her

2011-05-24T10:21:00.001-04:00

My sister is in the Philippines.

Building relationships

Going to the beach

Teaching and preaching

Living like Jesus

Serving

Loving

and apparently eating Taco Bell!

Meanwhile, I'm at home with my parents... looking for a job... reading books... waiting for my prince charming to arrive from Cambodia and marry me... and missing her! Do you want to read her blog? It's HERE.

Love love love, Jewel

"Life is full of beauty..."

2011-05-22T17:13:00.002-04:00

I had such an awesome weekend! Friday was the most beautiful day that I have seen since 2011 started in Indiana. After cleaning my Grandmom's house Friday morning and having a platter of veggies for lunch, I went outside with my sunglasses, a bottle of lemonade, and a good book. I sat there for two hours and it was the most beautiful thing. I heard the birds singing. I saw the biggest furriest black and yellow bumblebee EVER. I felt the wind blow across my face. I watched the clouds swim through the bluest-blue sky and I watched the grass dance in the breeze. I walked to the postoffice with mi mama, and along the way, I smelled blooming flowers, freshly-cut grass, burning trash, and burgers cooking in a grill. I was reminded:

“Life is full of beauty. Notice it. Notice the bumble bee, the small child, and the smiling faces. Smell the rain, and feel the wind. Live your life to the fullest potential, and fight for your dreams.” ~Ashley Smith

Saturday morning, I joined some teens and sponsors from our youth group and we rode our bikes along the Cardinal Greenway. From Gas City Park down the Sweetser Switch Trail and back, I rode 26 miles. The Greenway was beautiful! The sun was shining, there was a cool breeze, and the wildflowers were in full bloom. When I wasn't singing silly songs with the 7th and 8th graders, I was praising the Lord in my heart - praising Him for a beautiful day and a life of many blessings. I must admit: I seriously cannot believe I made it back. [In the picture above, I am in the bright yellow T on the far left. Thank you Rebecky for letting me borrow such an awesome purple bike - I loved the basket and the "#1 MOM" lisence plate!]

After a quick shower and a short-lived moment of exhaustion, I got in the car with mi mama and drove an hour to attend the wedding of my dear friend Jenny Campbell and her prince, Juan Ernesto. The wedding was outside, and with every turn, seeing the darkening of the clouds, I prayed, "Lord, withhold the rain!" (Amos 4:7). It was my first outside wedding, and my first wedding in the rain. Despite the rain, it was a beautiful ceremony. Jenny looked so so so happy, and I was happy for her.

In 159 days, I'll be walking down the aisle in my ivory dress, and I'll be so so so happy. Rain or sunshine, it will be a beautiful day. ♥♥♥

Love love love, Jewel

Tired Feet and a Blessed Heart

2011-05-18T15:42:00.000-04:00

Last Saturday, I spent my day volunteering with Stamp Out Hunger - an annual food drive in our city sponsored by the National Assocation of Letter Carriers. For an hour, I followed a mailtruck and picked up donations of food that people had left by their mailboxes. However the real fun was from 10:00 to 5:00, when I was at St. Martin's Community Center organizing the donated food into boxes. A few of the volunteers came from my church, Brookhaven Wesleyan, and others came from two or three other churches in our community. There was also a group of volunteers from the Salvation Army.

A man named Shawn came with the Salvation Army and is temporarily staying in their homeless shelter. I really enjoyed working beside Shawn and I was blessed by his company and encouragement. He is from Los Angeles and since May of 2010, he has been walking across the country "meeting people, hearing their stories, and serving America." The more we talked, the more I realized how both intelligent and wise he was.

I hope I never forget Saturday's experience.

Now, after that encouraging post, I must get something off my chest. An angry mother called our office this morning and said she wanted to speak to a "live human being." I wanted to ask her, "And what do you think I am??" Apparently a computer-generated response system. She then asked if there were any real people in. I wanted to say, "No, I am sorry, it's the middle of May and it's lunchtime; we are fresh out of human beings." Instead, I called her 'honey' and transferred her to someone who loves dealing with angry parents. ♥

Laura Story: Blessings

2011-05-15T10:14:00.000-04:00

Since I heard this song a few weeks ago, it has been a blessing to me. Listen or read the lyrics below.

We pray for blessings
We pray for peace
Comfort for family, protection while we sleep
We pray for healing, for prosperity
We pray for Your mighty hand to ease our suffering
All the while, You hear each spoken need
Yet love us way too much to give us lesser things

Cause what if Your blessings come through raindrops
What if Your healing comes through tears
What if a thousand sleepless nights
Are what it takes to know You’re near
What if trials of this life are Your mercies in disguise

We pray for wisdom
Your voice to hear
And we cry in anger when we cannot feel You near
We doubt Your goodness, we doubt Your love
As if every promise from Your Word is not enough
All the while, You hear each desperate plea
And long that we'd have faith to believe

Cause what if Your blessings come through raindrops
What if Your healing comes through tears
What if a thousand sleepless nights
Are what it takes to know You’re near
And what if trials of this life are Your mercies in disguise

When friends betray us
When darkness seems to win
We know the pain reminds this heart
That this is not, this is not our home
It's not our home

Cause what if Your blessings come through raindrops
What if Your healing comes through tears
And what if a thousand sleepless nights
Are what it takes to know You’re near
What if my greatest disappointments
Or the aching of this life
Is the revealing of a greater thirst this world can’t satisfy
And what if trials of this life
The rain, the storms, the hardest nights
Are Your mercies in disguise

Love love love, Jewel

Bloom Where You are Planted!

2011-05-11T08:31:00.000-04:00

I have been thinking a lot about this whole job search thing and I can't stop remembering the phrase,

"Bloom where you are planted."

I am so so so anxious to return to Cambodia and to continue our ministry there, but God has directed otherwise and I trust that He has a marvelous plan for the time that Titus and I will spend learning, laughing, and loving together in the States. As I wrote this note, there is conflict in Cambodia - it's not a physical battle, but certainly a mental, emotional, and spiritual battle - and I am wondering if God is trying to protect me, to protect us (Titus and I).

If I am hired as a server at Cracker Barrel, that is my mission field. If I am hired by a local day care, that is my mission field. If I am hired as a Starbucks barista, that is my mission field. Wherever I go, I pray that by God's grace, I will bloom there. So I continue looking for job opportunities and I continue applying. I believe that my God is Sovereign (Isaiah 45:9) - that He has complete authority - and I trust that He is directing my job search.

Love love love, Jewel

Thoughts on Monday morning

2011-05-09T20:43:00.001-04:00

I have a hard time complaining about so much rain rain rain when I remember the Japan tsunami, tornados in the South, the flooding Mississippi River, and other recent natural devastations. I might not enjoy soggy pant legs, but by God's grace, I know my home and my family has been fortunate. I am grateful.

Today's goal: Buy toothpaste. Since Jessie took my toothpaste to the Philippines, I have gone through my stash of travel-sized toothpaste tubes and I am currently sharing a tube with my parents, although not sharing a bathroom. An annoying inconvenience that I can easily take care of if I can get to the store.

I have been slowly and gradually unpacking from college and cleaning my room - organizing, trashing, and donating - for over a week now. Last night after church and an ice cream sundae with friends Janna and Jessa, I made huge progress in my room. While putting things away, I found our old N64 Nintendo and I set it up later in the evening and played a races in Mario Kart. So many childhood memories still packed away in drawers and closets. ♥♥♥

That's all I have for now.

Love love love, Jewel

So... now what?

2011-05-06T12:41:00.001-04:00

I may not know all the details of my future, I may not even know what I am doing as of September 1st, but I know that my God has a plan and He has always been faithful to guide me and to reveal His plan to me in His timing. I currently have a part-time job on campus - the same job that I have had since I graduated from high school - but I can only remain there until the students return for the Fall semester.

So I am looking for another job - part-time or full-time. Titus and I are applying to work with YWAM for long-term ministry in Cambodia. The first step is attending a Discipleship Training School. So if we are accepted and all our funds come in, we will start classes in Louisville, Kentucky in September 2012. [AND I AM REALLY EXCITED ABOUT IT.] There is also the option to start in March 2012, but we have decided to enjoy the summer as a newly married and adjusting couple before we make that commitment.

I want a job where I can love people and I can spend time in prayer. If that means cleaning a church, that would be awesome. If it means holding babies, that would be even greater. I have applied to be a server, a secretary, a barista, and a daycare worker and I am still looking. Right now as I am waiting and preparing for the mission field, I have no idea what God's intentions are for me but I am praying and trusting that He will open and close the right doors, leading me to His will. This summer is both a time of much excitement and much questioning, and that's all I have to say about it now. :)

Love love love, Jewel

A Word for the Underclassmen: What I Wish I had Known/Done Earlier...

2011-05-04T16:03:00.001-04:00

Campus Activities and Involvement:

- Try everything at least once - Crema, Exalt, FNL, prayer walks, the homecoming parade, basketball games, soccer games, etc.
- Look into student organizations that interest you - Business as Mission, WCF, etc.
- If you loved NSO, apply to be an NSO leader.

- Participate in the Finals Midnight Scream.

- Mentor a child through the Marion Boys and Girls Club.

- When the weather is nice, don't stay inside.

Interaction and Relationships:
- Interact with your professors outside of the classroom. Your professors are an incredible resource and will completely change your entire college experience [for the better] if you let them.
- Don't spend hours chatting on facebook when you can be chatting at McConn or by the fountain.
- You will find community on IWU's campus when you look for it.
- Don't be too busy, bored, or conceited to listen when people are imparting words of wisdom. Listen when people are talking!!

Classes and Books:
- Never buy brand new textbooks and never buy without comparing prices. I have saved $100's by purchasing my books on Ebay and Amazon.
- Sometimes you can get by simply skimming or not reading a book... sometimes you cannot! Figure it out.
- The Bible is the most important book you can read. It offers incredible amounts of wisdom and insight.
- World Civ with Mark Smith is the way to go!
- If you can, take the following classes:
   * Basic Christian Doctrine (Chris Bounds)
   * Christian Spirituality and Experiencing God (Jim Lo)
   * CS Lewis (Charles Bressler)
   * Inductive Bible Study (Steve Lennox!!)
- For INT majors, take more Biblical literature classes than what is required. If you plan to be a missionary, you must know Scripture and know it well.
- Don't be stupid and save all your research and projects until the end of the semester or just before it's due.

Other: (These may be what I would emphasize the most!)
- Realize that your education is a huge investment into your future, but realize also that your grades and performance do not define who you are. Who you are becoming is worth more than your diploma.
- Make a college bucket list and re-evaluate it at the beginning of every semester. Four years will pass quickly, and you will never get to experience anything like college ever again.
- Take pictures of everything.
- If you have an idea or a dream, share it with someone and pursue it!
- Your legacy is more in who you are than in what you do.
- Above all, God is faithful. Seek His will and trust Him.

Love love love, Jewel

Cuteness

2011-04-27T23:11:00.002-04:00

I have the cutest nieces ever.

Mallory (1-year-old next week!) and Leah (3-years-old in July)

and I'm excited to have another cutie in a few weeks. Poleak and Malout are having a baby girl!

Love love love, Jewel

Blessed on Easter Weekend

2011-04-25T18:48:00.003-04:00

On the afternoon of Good Friday, twin sis Jessie and I went over to our friend Kellie's house to play hang out, play games, and evidently eat carrots. Kellie is one of Jessie's classmates in the social work program. We are graduating on Saturday, and Kellie already has a house and a job already. Way to go Kellie! I already know my post-grad plans, but I'm still trying to figure the 'how' and the 'where' parts of the immediate future.

Friday night was wonderful for three reasons. 1) I have been craving an Arby's regular roast beef, and I finally got one. 2) I saw the new Tyler Perry movie, Madea's Big Happy Family, in theaters and it was really funny. 3) I went with Jessie, Janna, and Jessa - three people I adore. Madea is a popular pick whenever us four J's have girls night.

Since Grandmom's critical health problems this summer, Jessie has been cleaning her house every weekend and because Jessie is soon leaving for the Philippines then to grad school in New York, I am inheriting the job. I value this opportunity for two reason: 1) It is paid, and 2) I will be spending an extra two hours with Grandmom every week. On Saturday, Jessie trained me. Grandmom isn't a hard lady, but she wants everything done in a certain way - every object has it's place, and her homemade cleaner has a strict recipe. I'll be shadowing Jessie for one more week, and then I'm on my own!

In the last two or three years, my family has developed a new tradition. [By the way, my family is big on tradition, which will become interesting once one or two daughters begin celebrating the holidays in far away countries.] Older sis Joni and bro-in-law Jeff attend a church that has Saturday evening services. So, on the Saturday evening before Easter, we attend Geist Christian Church together. Afterwards, we returned home, we watched the babies open their Easter baskets, we ate dinner, we took naps on the floor, we played Rage, and we ate ice cream.

Sunday was a really awesome day. Our morning Easter service was very powerful and the Spirit was really moving. I enjoyed good fellowship with dear dear friends after the service [see below] and a quiet afternoon of reflection after a wonderful meal with my family.

I am back at school now and preparing for my last four days on campus before graduation. Sad. Sad. Sad.

Love love love, Jewel

Happy Easter

2011-04-24T12:52:00.000-04:00

Thankful today that He is risen!

Man hung Him on the cross and laid Him in the tomb, but the grave could not overcome Him and He walked out alive! I serve a risen Savior!! My God is alive.

Thankful and blessed, Jewel

The Beginning of the End

2011-04-19T16:48:00.000-04:00

The end has finally begun. I have both anxiously anticipated and dreaded what will happen in the next two weeks. Sometime after 10am on Saturday, April 30, I will be walking across a platform in a ghastly black robe to receive a simple piece of a paper - a diploma. That piece paper represents many things. It represents things learned, papers written, research presented, and hours and hours of work. It represents tears of frustration and stress, and the joy of finally realizing what I want to do with my life and what God is calling me to do/be. That paper means that four years of disciplined study has come to an end and I am graduating. Yesterday, I attended my last chapel. I attended my last class. Looking at the weather, I may have spent my last afternoon reading in the hammock outside.

Graduating - it's both a happy and a sad circumstance. [That's normal right?] I am excited to be finally finished with school and classes and coursework, and excited about the prepared and empowered feeling that I have to [with God's grace] fulfill my purpose and follow His will. However, I am so so so sad to say goodbyes to friends and professors, and to the place that has become home for four years.

All-nighters

Shopping

Hanging out

Christmas parties

Rebash parties

Ice skating

Energy drinks

Meals

Conferences

Weddings

Ugly Dress Parties

Missions trips

Girls' weekends

Spring break

Going to the park

Haunted corn mazes and hayrides

Celebrating birthdays

Game nights

Pranking

How do I cope?

Love love love, Jewel

Sweet Blessedness

2011-04-16T00:02:00.066-04:00

I am blessed... so so so blessed. In my senior capstone class this semester, one of the assignments was to craft a personal mission statement. One of the lines in my personal mission statement reads, "...to direct attention to God's love and powerful activity in the world..." and part of that is accomplished by helping others (and myself) to recognize how blessed we are. I am blessed... so so so blessed.

Part One of a list that is to be continued::
1. In so many perspectives I am "poor", but on a world-wide scale, I am so indescribably wealthy. When and where that benefits His Kingdom, I am grateful. Did you know only 8% [EIGHT PERCENT!] of people in the world eat 3 meals a day?!

2. I was born into a Christian family. As a child, I heard about Jesus and I had Christian role models. My heart breaks for those who have chosen another way, but especially for those who know no other way. We believe so deeply what we were taught as truth from birth and it is a difficult decision to believe something otherwise, especially a way of life that is contrary to culture. What a gift of love that God placed me right where I am. He is good... so so so good. Please pray with me for the Buddhists in Cambodia and for others who were born into families of other faiths.

3. I can read. I feel so blessed that I can read the Living Word and meet God in Scripture. So many cannot read, and so many do not have a copy of God's Word in their language.

4. Technology. There are a few people many many many miles away that are very special to me, and various forms of technology have allowed us to stay connected and involved in each other’s lives. No, it isn't the most wonderful circumstance, but praise Jesus for Skype, email, Facebook, and telephones.

5. People who pray. God's awesome power is released when His people pray. As you are faithful in prayer, Jesus moves mountains and raises valleys, He heals and He provides. THANK YOU!

6. I am thankful that Yahweh, our God, is a personal and relational God. I recently had a great conversation with an old friend who asked me how I can feel so excited and at-peace about living in "a country like Cambodia." I had the opportunity to share with him the story of how the God, who had spoken to Abram (Genesis 12:1) and to Joshua (Joshua 1:9) came and spoke to me and asked me to go. Then I got to share with my friend the incredible miracle that God is still talking and by His grace, I am still listening. It is not a stagnant, commanding dictatorship, but a love relationship.

I am blessed... so so so blessed .The more I open my eyes and my heart, the more I realized how blessed I am. In the last few months, I have been beginning each morning with the prayer, "Lord, reveal Yourself to me today and help me to be always conscious of you." He is faithful. I am blessed... so so so blessed.

Love love love, Jewel

Summer Bucket List

2011-04-13T16:45:00.002-04:00

For a number of reasons, this summer will be new and different. As of April 30th, I will be a college graduate. For the first summer in eight years, I will not be traveling overseas and thus far I have no plans of traveling farther than about sixty miles. I am engaged and in addition to a wedding, future planning now includes balancing [hopefully] two work schedules, making a budget, and saving money for food, water, and electricity.

For maybe eight or ten days of my life, I have lived at home as an only child. I have a twin sister so I am not accustomed to ever being alone; HOWEVER, this summer Jessie will be spending seven weeks in the Philippines, and only only three weeks after returning home, she will move to New York to start grad school. Being the only child [by "child" I mean "person other than Mom and Dad"] at home will be an interesting experience... I don't know if that will aid in successfully completing the following points on my bucket list, or if it will become more difficult.

SUMMER BUCKET LIST:

Spend much time with family and friends - especially my nieces and the women at church who offer so much wisdom and encouragement - before I make the big move to Cambodia.
Exercise at least twice a week - I was really disciplined in this area last summer - even going to the gym at 6:30am before work at 9 - and I intend on continuing the discipline.
Run a 5k race for a good cause
Volunteer regularly - Where? I don't know yet.
Grow a vegetable garden - I envision equipping Cambodian pastors and others to use gardens as a sustainable means of income generation and I must start by training myself, and I'm so excited! Any advice or instruction??
Learn something new every week - How to grow a garden, how to emboss my wedding invitations, how to cook khmer food...
Start a walking/exercising club - If my work schedule would permit it, I would love to join other women from my church to walk together in the morning(s).
Join a Bible study - This semester, I have been leading two Bibles studies, but school will soon be over and I am really going to miss studying the Word with my sisters in Christ.
Read at least one book each week - In the last four years I have accumulated 1-2 shelves of books that I have never read! Pleasure reading is like food for the soul. Laying out by the pool with a good book? Yes, please!!
Lose weight - I bought the perfect wedding dress three days ago and I won't mind paying for alterations IF it means the dress is too big in a few months.
Spend a significant amount of time writing - "Writing a book" is on my bucket list, not pleasure in being published, just have the pride and satisfaction of leaving a legacy in written form
To be continued...

Since I won't be returning to school in the Fall, I'm not sure how to define "summer." I have an on-campus office job through August, and I am applying at a daycare that I hope will employ through the summer and keep me during the next school year. TENTATIVE plans are to return to Cambodia with my husband in June 2012 and attend a six-month discipleship training school to prepare us for long-term ministry with YWAM. Trusting God... we'll see!

Love love love, Jewel

I said "Yes!" to the dress!!

2011-04-12T13:12:00.006-04:00

At 1:00 on Saturday, twin sis Jessie and I met Loren at McConn coffee shop, then we got in a borrowed mini van (THANK YOU Henrys!! It was so wonderful to be able to ride together and only buy gas for 1 van instead of 2 cars!!!) We picked up Janna and Jessa, then my mom, then drove an hour to sister Joni's house in the Indy-area.

Unfortunately, my fifth bridesmaid, Stephanie, was unable to join us this weekend, and I missed her very much. Loren is graduating with me in 3 weeks and moving to LA. Jessie is going to the Philippines for 7 weeks, and will only be home a short time before moving to NY - so I was lucky to get 4/5 together before those girls go separate ways.

We looked around at two dress stores before my appointment at David's Bridal. I had fully prepared myself to allow Jessie, Joni, Janna, Loren, and Stephanie to choose any dress they like in the same color and material; HOWEVER, and I am blessed with wonderful bridesmaids that all liked the same dress! Actually, the dress we chose was everyone's second favorite, but they knew it was my favorite and insisted that it's my wedding and my choice. I'm totally not used to this!!

Jessie, Joni, myself, and JessaLoren, Mom, and Janna The girls convinced me to look at bridal gowns since we were already there and the store would be open a while longer. We made an appointment for 40 minutes later, and walked across the parking lot to Panera Bread, where we ate dinner outside (beautiful day!) and chatted.

After dinner, we walked back and I picked out 4 or 5 dresses. The first dress that I tried on was my dream dress from the David's magazine; however, I didn't feel so dreamy wearing it. It was one size too large and it looked better on the model than on me. I wanted to give up. I was sure that it would take hours and I was already a little tired, but I agreed to try on another. I liked the second dress better, but didn't love it. I liked the third dress better, but it still wasn't right. We agreed that it was too big, so Jessie went to find it in a smaller size. She brought back a similar dress in a smaller size and it was aboslutely, wonderfully perfect (and she takes pride in picking it out.)

I knew it was the dress that I simply must wear to walk down the aisle and meet my groom. I can't wait for him to see me wearing it (but not a day before the wedding!) When I decided that it was the perfect dress, I had not yet looked at the price tag. When the attendant was putting my information into the computer and writing the bill, I still had neglected to look at the price tag. Realizing this, I started holding my breath. After plane tickets and visa expenses, my wedding budget is small. Praise the Lord, the dress was more than 50% reduced AND well below my budget!!! I feel like I bride now... I'm just missing the groom!

Afterwards, we walked across the parking lot again to Coldstone Creamery and celebrated with ice cream. It was an incredible day. I am grateful for the time spent with Mom, my sisters, my bridesmaids, and my friends. Love them! Thank you Jesus for overwhelming me with blessings and your loving-goodness!

Love love love,

Mrs. Romdenh Chamnol to be

Japan is hit again

2011-04-07T12:01:00.001-04:00

Please continue to pray for Japan as they were hit only 30 minutes ago (local time: 11:30pm) by a 7.4 magnitude earthquake, triggering powerful tsunami warnings. So sad. Read Psalm 46 below.

1 God is our refuge and strength,
an ever-present help in trouble.
2 Therefore we will not fear, though the earth give way
and the mountains fall into the heart of the sea,
3 though its waters roar and foam
and the mountains quake with their surging.

4 There is a river whose streams make glad the city of God,
the holy place where the Most High dwells.
5 God is within her, she will not fall;
God will help her at break of day.
6 Nations are in uproar, kingdoms fall;
he lifts his voice, the earth melts.

7 The Lord Almighty is with us;
the God of Jacob is our fortress.

8 Come and see what the Lord has done,
the desolations he has brought on the earth.
9 He makes wars cease
to the ends of the earth.
He breaks the bow and shatters the spear;
he burns the shields with fire.
10 He says, “Be still, and know that I am God;
I will be exalted among the nations,
I will be exalted in the earth.”

The Lord Almighty is with us;
the God of Jacob is our fortress.

Praying for Japan, Jewel

Joshua 24

2011-04-04T12:11:00.000-04:00

Since hearing a sermon on Joshua 24 last week, my thoughts have been nearly consumed with messages and reminders of God's faithfulness. Our God is good - so so so good. In Joshua 24, Joshua said to all the people, “This is what the Lord, the God of Israel, says..." and Joshua continues to share a message with the Israelites, reminding them what God had done. Joshua reminds God's people of His covenant with their ancestor, Abraham; how God split the Red Sea and brought the Israelites from captivity in Egypt; how He provided for them in the Wilderness; how He gave them victory over their enemies, saying, "You did not do it with your own sword and bow;" how He gave them possession of their enemies land, etc.

Verse 13 reads: "So I gave you a land on which you did not toil and cities you did not build; and you live in them and eat from vineyards and olive groves that you did not plant."

Everyday, the sun rises and I take it for granted. Everyday, I have the strength to get out of bed and walk and I never think differently. Everyday, I have the opportunity to read the Bible - a book that men gave their lives to make accessible to common people - and I have not been grateful enough for their work.

If I wrote a chapter on how God has proven faithful in my life, Psalm 103:1-5 would be a suitable introduction:

1 Praise the Lord, my soul;
all my inmost being, praise his holy name.
2 Praise the Lord, my soul,
and forget not all his benefits—
3 who forgives all your sins
and heals all your diseases,
4 who redeems your life from the pit
and crowns you with love and compassion,
5 who satisfies your desires with good things
so that your youth is renewed like the eagle’s.

I would write about how God opened the door to Honduras when the door to Mexico was closed. I would write about how God always places the right people in my life at the right time. I would write about how He healed Grandmom. I would write about how God provided the opportunity for me to go to Africa. I would write about how He has provided financially so that I could attend a private Christian school k-12, and a wonderful Christian university. I could write pages and pages...

In conclusion, Joshua calls the Israelites to "fear the Lord and serve him with all faithfulness." How could I do any less?

Love love love, Jewel

April Fools: Friday's Fave Five

2011-04-01T09:05:00.000-04:00

1. Osaka Sunrise

2. Summer
It's coming. The weather might not be getting warmer, and it may have snowed two days ago, but summer is coming! Only 30 more days. I don't have exciting plans to go places; I have exciting plans to stay, to spend time with people, to exercise, to earn and save money for my impending future, to read, and to run.

3. Joshua 24
In the twenty-fourth chapter of the Book of Joshua, Joshua recounts God’s great works on Israel’s behalf. God has a history of being faithful. God is as faithful as the sunrise and sunset. In this twenty-third chapter of my life, I have spent much time this week recounting God's faithful, provision, guidance, and protection in my life.

4. Truett Cathy

In 2003, Indiana Wesleyan University established the World Changers Society to recognize role models who have exemplified the concept of world changers and whose lives can serve as an inspiration to future generations. Each year a World Changers Convocation is held at IWU to induct a new member into the Society and celebrate his or her accomplishments. A life-size bronze bust of each inductee is placed on permanent display in the Society of World Changers Hall of Honor located in the rotunda of our library.
This S. Truett Cathy, founder of Chick-fil-A, was inducted and the service was both inspiring and memorable. Cathy turned 90 only 2 weeks ago, and his life and business exemplify hard work, humility and biblical principles. He is a member of First Baptist Church and has taught the same Sunday School class (7th grade boys) for more than fifty years. Cathy and his wife have also lived in the same humble home for more than fifty years. Among other comments worthy of mention, Cathy said during his speech that he was "privilege to live during the Great Depression." An incredible man and a true inspiration. Thank you IWU for recognizing Truett Cathy and inviting him to share with us.

5. "Twin baby boys have a conversation"

I hope everyone had a great week and has a blessed weekend! Log on at Living to Tell the Story and share your own Friday's Fave. Five!

Love love love, Jewel

To God be the Glory

2011-03-31T14:34:00.000-04:00

In my last entry I asked for your prayers regarding my first speaking engagement as a future long-term missionary. I am now writing to thank you for your prayers, and to testify to God's goodness and faithfulness.

On Saturday afternoon I drove 2.5 hours to Kingsford Heights, IN. Typically I sleep through road trips, - the entire road trip - whether it is thirty minutes or nine hours; however, being that I traveled alone, I stayed awake the entire trip and prayed every mile. I thought it would be a good idea to start the trip with a prayer of safety. An hour later, I realized that I was still praying, and I kept praying. I prayed for my friends in Cambodia - poor friends, lost friends, discouraged friends, hurt and sick friends. I am thankful to God for laying these needs upon my heart at that time, and I am thankful for a God who is Father, Healer, and Provider, and who hears our prayers.

My old friends, Mike and Krista Brown, moved to Kingsford Heights, IN in 2009 to pastor Kingsford Heights Wesleyan Church - a small church with a long history and a lot of love.

Saturday evening we had a time of fellowship and eating with a group from the church. I prepared cha knai (ginger chicken) and grilled bananas. Another missionary couple prepared Bosnian stew (called "pot",) baklava, and salad. I really enjoyed this time that I was able to spend with the people. One service on Sunday morning simply doesn't allow those kind of relationships to be built, and I want to know (to really know!) the people that are praying for me. Afterwards, I returned home with Mike, Krista, and the kids - where I spent the night - and I enjoyed catching up on life and playing Cities and Knights of Catan.

Sunday morning was even more wonderful than Saturday night. Despite hours of preparation, I woke up Sunday morning still feeling nervous about speaking in front of a sanctuary of strangers, but I also felt God's peace. I went to the church early with Pastor Mike for pastor's prep things, so I was able to spend about half an hour with Fred, who does many things at KHWC and has been a faithful member for something like 50 years. What an incredible testimony! I spent a few minutes in each Sunday School class, answering questions about Cambodia, about Cambodians, about myself, and about the ministry there. During the beginning of the service, I still had no idea what I would say once I was on the platform. Once I was called to the front, I cannot tell you what happened next except that God invaded my mouth and blocked all the simple words that I had prepared, and He gave me a message - a message of HOPE for CAMBODIA - and I give Him all the glory.

Thank you for your prayers, your support, and your interest in my life and the ministry in Cambodia...

Love love love, Jewel

Feeling Blessed on Monday Morning

2011-03-28T09:07:00.008-04:00

Happy Monday morning!

I have had the best Monday morning so far. I started this morning sitting on the couch by the fire, drinking a skinny spice chai, eating a blueberry bagel and baby banana, and reading my Bible.

Tomorrow I will write about Passport to Culture on Friday night and being a guest missionary speaker Saturday night and Sunday morning, but I want to share with you this verse that one man shared with me this weekend:

Joshua 1:9 - "Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be terrified; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go."

A Speaking Engagement

2011-03-24T06:26:00.000-04:00

Satan knows that God has been doing awesome things in the hearts of the people of Cambodia, and he has been fighting against it; however, GOD IS STILL VICTORIOUS, and He continues to send encouragement and reveal His goodness.

This Sunday morning I have my first official speaking engagement as a future long-term missionary in Cambodia, and I am feeling pretty nervous. I have never been to the church, nor the town. I know only the pastor, his wife, and their three children. Saturday evening I am also preparing a Cambodian meal for the congregation, and I am feeling equally nervous about that.

Please join me in praying that God will communicate through me His love for the people of Cambodia, and engage the church community to feel a sense of urgency to reach the lost. I have a lot to say, but I pray that my words would be put aside so that God's message can be shared.
Thank you for your prayers and support!

Serving Him,
Jewel

Words of Advice

2011-03-22T18:07:00.000-04:00

In response to my "Confessions of wedding planning" post, my dear second cousin Maria shared these awesome words of advice. [I translated this in my own words, but it's Maria's message.]

The wedding is only a few hours; the marriage last significantly longer. Take a break from colors and little wedding details, and spend time reading genuinely good books about healthy relationships and marriage. Spend time planning the marriage, not just the wedding. Also, enjoy your remaining time of being single and having no responsibility of being wife or mother.

When we get engaged we think of nothing but the wedding, when we get pregnant we think of nothing but the birth, when we're in school we think of nothing but the graduation. In truth, life isn't all about the significant points, the majority of our LIFE is the process of getting to those points. If life consists mostly of the process, I need to not forget to enjoy the inbetween times.

"Life is not measured by the breaths you take, but by the moments that take your breath away."

We're getting married!!!

Does anyone have any suggestions for genuinely good books about healthy relationships and marriage?

Thank you, Maria.

Love love love, Jewel
the future Mrs. Romdenh Chamnol

Friday's Fave Five: It's Spring!

2011-03-18T12:03:00.003-04:00

Today is a beautiful, wonderful Friday and I am so so happy about that!

1. Spring!

Yesterday in NE Central Indiana, we reached 71 degrees! Although I couldn't stay outside long, I enjoyed walking across campus and seeing professor's children riding their bikes, and students playing football in the lawn, flying kites, studying on blankets in the grass, and skateboarding everywhere. I am reminded of my childhood. Life is good!!!

2. Community.

As my mind is drifting more and more towards my future and life long-term in Cambodia, I am more and more grateful for the opportunities to worship God in my heart language with other believers, for the opportunities to talk and spend time with friends who have known me for years, for the opportunities to sit and play games with my parents and siblings. I will miss this things...

3. Jack Johnson

-- one of my all-time favorite musicians. Yesterday afternoon, after my ~~lunch break~~ dentist appointment, I was driving back to work and I rolled down the windows, put on my shades, and turned my radio loud. Jack Johnson makes me happy; he makes all my problems seems to fade away, as I am reminded of times spent by the pool, mid-summer, Jack Johnson singing in my ipod.

4. Raspberry Chai Frappe

A little bit of fruit, a little bit of spice, and a little bit of chill. So good!

5. The Weekend

I have been so tired all week, even sleeping through my alarms. It's like whether I go to bed at 12 or 8, I cannot get out of bed in the morning. While I won't sleep in much past 8 or 9 tomorrow morning, it will be nice to have a more relaxed schedule. Tonight, Jessie, the parents and I are going to visit older sis, bro-in-law, and baby girls. We're going to have burgers on the grill, laugh at Leah's antics, and play cards. Tomorrow, I'm going to exercise, do much homework, and watch a movie. Can't wait!

Love love love, Jewel

The Power of Prayer

2011-03-16T07:22:00.000-04:00

Let me know if you would like one of our prayer cards to keep in a place that you will see frequently and be reminded to pray for us during this long and grueling wait.

Use it as a marker in your Bible.

Frame in next to your computer.

Hang it on your fridge for all your company to ~~admire~~ see.

Tape it to your bathroom mirror.

How can you pray? Thanks for asking! LET ME TELL YOU:
*Sunday: For Titus, as he anticipates transitioning out of his current ministry position (pastoring in Kampong Spue) and training another to take his place.

*Monday: That I will remain focused as I try to finish out the school year and look towards graduation in April. That Titus will be encouraged and energized in/by His ministry.

*Tuesday: That the government will be accountable to approve Titus' visa within a timely manner, allowing us to get married at my home church on October 22, 2011.

*Wednesday: That Titus and I will continue to be faithful in praying, fasting, and seeking the Lord's will.

*Thursday: Especially: For a peace that transcends all understanding, as we trust that the Lord's will WILL BE DONE.

*Friday: That God will continue to prepare us - in every aspect - for future long-term ministry as husband and wife in Cambodia.

*Saturday: That our relationship will continue to be strengthened during this time of separation.

*AND EVERY DAY: Praise the Lord for the awesome things that He has already done in our lives and relationship - opening the door for me to visit Cambodia last Dec. and Jan.; providing the finances necessary for us to apply for the visa; blessing us with an incredible support system of friends and family; giving us the same dream, passion, and vision for ministry; and strengthening us with His sustaining power.

I know you love getting mail, and I love certainly appreciate your prayers. Leave a comment or mail your address to jewel.reed at student.indwes.edu . Seriously, I will mail it the next day! Thank you for your prayers

Love love love, Jewel
[and Titus]

Swept away...

2011-03-14T16:16:00.003-04:00

I cannot get the recent catastrophe in Japan off my mind.

For more than two terrifying, seemingly endless minutes Friday, the most powerful earthquake ever recorded in Japan shook apart homes and buildings, cracked open highways and unnerved even those who have learned to live with swaying skyscrapers. Then came a devastating tsunami that slammed into coastal Japan, killing hundreds of people. The violent wall of water swept away houses, cars and ships. Fires burned out of control. Power to a cooling system at a nuclear power plant was knocked out, forcing thousands to flee in fear of deadly radiation. A boat carrying 100 persons was caught in the vortex of a whirlpool at sea.

According to Yahoo News, it was the fifth-largest earthquake in the world since the 1800s and was nearly 8,000 times stronger than one that devastated Christchurch, New Zealand, last month.

While the official death toll rose to nearly 1,900, the discovery of the washed-up bodies and other reports of deaths suggest the true number is much much much higher. In Miyagi, the police chief has estimated 10,000 deaths in his province alone.

This afternoon, from the Washington Post:

"Hundreds of dead have washed ashore on Japan’s devastated northeast coast since last week’s earthquake and tsunami. Others were dug out of the debris Monday by firefighters using pickaxes and chain saws."

Can you even imagine?

How can we respond to this? I was struck when I read Psalm 46 this morning,

1 God is our refuge and strength,
an ever-present help in trouble.
2 Therefore we will not fear, though the earth give way
and the mountains fall into the heart of the sea,
3 though its waters roar and foam
and the mountains quake with their surging.

4 There is a river whose streams make glad the city of God,
the holy place where the Most High dwells.
5 God is within her, she will not fall;
God will help her at break of day.
6 Nations are in uproar, kingdoms fall;
he lifts his voice, the earth melts.

7 The Lord Almighty is with us;
the God of Jacob is our fortress.

8 Come and see what the Lord has done,
the desolations he has brought on the earth.
9 He makes wars cease
to the ends of the earth.
He breaks the bow and shatters the spear;
he burns the shields with fire.
10 He says, “Be still, and know that I am God;
I will be exalted among the nations,
I will be exalted in the earth.”

The Lord Almighty is with us;
the God of Jacob is our fortress.

Praying for Japan, Jewel

Spring Break: Family Style

2011-03-12T14:30:00.006-05:00

So maybe my Spring Break wasn't as exciting as others - I didn't see the beach, or go to an amusement park, I wore my coat all week, I experienced major stress, and I did homework almost everyday (but not enough) - but it was a good week.

I ate out a lot - something my dad considers "a special occasion," but something I consider a drudgery mundane, as I believe my family eats out too often to be considered special. HOWEVER, this afternoon I did enjoy a wonderfully pleasant meal out with with Jessie (twin sis) and two special girl friends. Lunch at Aunt Sue's Tea Room with Andrea & Suzanne was a special occasion for a few reasons, because it is a rare occasion, because it is a celebration of our friendship, and because within a few weeks, Jessie will be gone for a number of months, and a few months after that, I will be moved-away indefinitely.

Every night since returning from New York on Wednesday, Mom, Dad, Jessie and I have gathered at the table for "family game night." After two or three games of Jessie and I winning Nertz, Mom and Dad beat us at Euchre. However, last night we did something as a family that we haven't done since Jessie and I were probably in elementary school: we went bowling! It was so much fun! Before bowling, we went to Grandmom's and had pizza, and after bowling we rented Inception from Redbox, and watched it in the comfort of our own home. What a crazy movie! I don't watch the Emmys, the Grammys, or anything of that nature, but I'm certain Inception has won lots of awards. If it wasn't 11pm when the movie ended, I could have watched it again! (And I think I will later today!)

I also made huge progress in the wedding-planning process. I chose one more bridesmaid, designed our homemade invitations, and spent a few hours editing our website (which I will launch upon confirmation of the entire wedding party.) Below is a small taste-test of our invitations:

Think "copper embellishment." I was so excited when I found a rubber stamp of dragon flies; can you imagine why? Because there were so many gorgeous blue dragonflies flying around Titus and I when he proposed on the rock beneath the waterfall!

I am looking forward to tomorrow because I love Sundays and sharing the day with my church family [and this Sunday celebrating Grandmom's 82nd birthday;] however, I wish Spring Break didn't have to leave. It's my last Spring Break EVER!

Love love love, Jewel

Confessions of wedding planning...

2011-03-10T23:14:00.005-05:00

I thought planning a wedding would be fun; however, thus far it has only turned out to be stressful and overwhelming.

Any advice for someone who is 12 time zones from their fiancé? Seriously. I could use it.

I have even threatened to elope, but truth be told, I would never consider it. Sharing the special day with family and friends is very important to me. I have even threatened to let my sister and wonderful friends plan everything, but of course, I cannot do that either... it's my wedding and I'm only getting married once.

Thank you to my wonderful mom and sister, who patiently waited while I contemplated every single color of paper at Hobby Lobby this afternoon. I finally chose a green, a purple, and an ivory, and I plan on starting to design my homemade invitations while I am still on Spring Break. :) Hopefully, my to-do list will be one point shorter before Monday morning.

Waking up in NY

2011-03-08T11:32:00.003-05:00

In the words of my sister, "Jewel slept herself all the way to New York." Admittedly, I did. I fell asleep less than ten minutes from our home, and I woke up four hours later for lunch in Ohio. I slept through Pennsylvania, and the cities of Lima, Macedonia, Chile, Athens, and others. I have the gift of sleep, and what a treasure it is!

Mom estimates that I slept 18 hours between the evening, morning, and afternoon. I didn't calculate the hours, but I do know that it equaled a difficult time falling asleep last night. Fortunately, our hotel room was equipped with a widescreen television and the TLC network. I am a Cake Boss junkie! I also watched Josie Dugger's 1st birthday party - Josie is the youngest child on 19 Kids and Counting. I don't have [or watch] TV while I'm at school and I don't miss it when I don't have, but I definitely enjoyed it last night!

“Behold, I make all things new.”

2011-03-07T07:23:00.000-05:00

Revelations 21:5 says, "Then He who sat on the throne said, 'Behold, I make all things new.' And He said to me, 'Write, for these words are true and faithful.'"

As Spring approaches, the grass turns to green, flowers bud, and birds sing outside my window, I am reminded of God's promise, “Behold, I make all things new.”

Spring is coming, it always does.

I can see and feel the evidence of Spring approaching, and I am reminded that we have hope. For although the leaves wither and fall, we can have confidence that after Autumn and Winter pass, Spring will come, and with it, new life. God is faithful; He has always been and He always will be. Spring has never failed us; the leaves always return to life -- beautiful life.

This is my Father's world,
and to my listening ears
all nature sings, and round me rings
the music of the spheres.
This is my Father's world:
I rest me in the thought
of rocks and trees, of skies and seas;
his hand the wonders wrought.

Love love love, Jewel

The Bridal March

2011-03-06T08:21:00.000-05:00

I am usually pretty traditional when it comes to things, but I have chosen to replace a few wedding traditions - such as: The Bridal March - with more faith-oriented ones. Great is Thy Faithfulness has always been one of my favorite hymns, and I am thinking about using it for the processional, recessional, or both.

My friends have told me that I should stop asking other people for opinions regarding my wedding because it is MY WEDDING and what they think/like shouldn't affect my decisions; however, I am so inclined to do this! On that note, feel free to comment if you like this idea, but please don't comment and tell me that you don't like it. :) Thank you!

Love love love, Jewel
the future Mrs. Romdenh Chamnol

2011's First Friday's Fave. Five

2011-03-04T08:11:00.005-05:00

Happy Friday! I had a difficult time limiting myself to even six things this week, because: 1) It has been so many weeks since I have posted my "Friday's Fave. Five" list, and 2) I had such an awesome week! [Even though anxiously waiting for Spring Break made the week draaaag on foreverrr!] Anyways, here are my six:

1. Naked Juice

Naked Juices are made from the best bare-naked fruits and vegetables, and boosted with fiber, proteins, and vitamins. No sugars. No preservatives. No artificial colors. No artificial flavors. It's pure, it's fresh, and a it's good! I love Naked Juice!! I haven't tried them all, but my two favorites are Blue Machine and Mighty Mango. Blue Machine -- "Got the blues? Take a swig of this sweet-happy, fiber-full blueberry-blackberry goodness and enjoy your ride on the happy train." Inside: 27 blueberries, 3 blackberries, 3 1/4 apple, 1 banana. Mighty Mango -- "An amazingly exotic, incredibly yummy multitude of mango." Ingredients: 1 1/4 mangos, 1/2 orange, 1 3/4 apples, 1/3 banana, and a mint of lemon.

Do I really believe that is all inside? Yes.

Do I really believe that is all that's inside? Yes.

And once you try one, you will believe these things too!

2. John 1:14

"The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us. We have seen his glory, the glory of the one and only Son, who came from the Father, full of grace and truth."The implications of this verse are immense! No longer was God's Word simple written on a stone or paper, but Jesus was a living message! He was the perfect example, the perfect teacher, and the perfect sacrifice. He was the living image of God's holiness. I have been reading the Gospel of John for a college girls' Bible study, and it has been BLOWING MY MIND in the amazement of God's power and love.

3. Spring Break

My Spring Break starts at 2:15 this afternoon. Woo hoo! I am ready... I am really ready! I have been so exhausted the past two weeks! I have been getting 8-10 hours of sleep most nights, and I still have to fight myself to get out of bed, and I still struggle staying awake in some settings. Academically, I haven't been too busy or stressed, but I have so many other things going on and a one-week vacation will be really nice!

On Monday morning, Mom, Jessie, and I are driving 9 hours to Rochester, New York, where Jessie will be starting grad. school for her MSW this summer. My friends Phalkun and Janell live only three minutes from Jessie's school, so it will be nice to visit them while we are there! Janell and I have a common story -- Janell went to Cambodia on a missions team from IWU, realized her calling there, returned as a short-term missionary, met a Cambodian man, and now they are married and living in New York. So while Jessie and Mom are touring campus, looking for housing, etc., Janell will be teaching me how to cook Khmer! I'm so excited!

Other Spring Break activities include, but are not limited to, the following: Sleeping in, reading for pleasure, getting ahead in homework, working out, spending time with my family, and planning my wedding!

4. Work

I'm grateful for a job - a job that I enjoy - a job that has given me as many hours as I am available to work. Thank you, Jesus!

5. Come to Jesus (by Chris Rice)

6. Sumbleupon.com

Stumbleupon.com is a discovery engine that searches the internet for websites that meet your selected interests. I have chosen: Humor, Christianity, Relationships, Babies, Fitness, Photography, Movies, Travel, Asia, Bizarre/Oddities, Culture/Ethnicity, International Development, Married Life, Scrapbooking, and etc. I have found the coolest websites! Here is my warning: It's addicting!! Check it out.

Log on at Living to Tell the Story and share your own Friday's Fave. Five!

Not complaining my way through the morning

2011-03-03T15:07:00.003-05:00

I ordered two coffees and a muffin at our campus coffee shop this morning. They forgot to put a shot in my London Fog, and my Strawberry Kiss was made wrong. I didn't say anything, then I went to grab a fork for my muffin, and found only spoons.

However....

...I'm not complaining because next week, when I give up coffee for lent, I am going to wish I had a London Fog - shot or no shot - or a Strawberry Kiss, whether it is made wrong or right!

Catching up on life...

2011-03-02T19:46:00.004-05:00

7 ½ weeks. In seven-and-a-half weeks, my four-year college experience will be over forever. Not just for the summer, but forever. After I graduate April 30, 2011, never again will I live on this campus with my 3,200 IWU classmates. [A profound realization; I know.] Some of these friends I will never ever see again and eventually I will lose contact with professors who have invested so much in me over the four-year experience.
After I graduate, I’m going to return home and live with my parents for awhile. Then I’m going to get married, live with my husband, and create my own home. Then I’m going to move to Cambodia, far away from so many people that I love and care about very much, and...

So what does that mean? That means I'm making a BUCKET LIST - a list of all the things that I dream of doing before I graduate. Do I dare write "Sleep on the lawn" on my list? I haven't decided, but whatever I do decide, it will be exciting. Making a bucket list is one of my "to-do's" for Spring Break!

In honor of Spring approaching, I have taken up a new habit - running.

RUNNING!

Miracle of miracles, today I ran two miles.

TWO MILES!

I couldn't believe it; I certainly surprised myself! I have been faithfully doing Zumba three times a week since August or September, and occasionally going to the gym, but I don't think I have actually run in two or three years. I may be a little premature to commit to running a 5k this summer, but the best means of accountability to making a public profession. So here it is: I'm going to run a 5k in May 2011.

In regards to "Wedding Wednesday," I drafted a QUIZ this evening. If you attend my wedding reception, you will have the rare and exciting opportunity to be TESTED on how well you know Titus and I. Of course I won't be giving away any answers today. [Because I am sure you are all the type to copy the answers and keep the paper in your "important papers drawer," then bring the answers to the wedding and CHEAT your way to winning a Cambodian souvenir.] However, you might want to know the following:

1) Titus' real name (here)

2) How Titus and I met (here)

3) How Titus proposed (here)

4) Everything else.

Countdown:

Our tentative wedding date is officially 233 days away - that is thirty-three weeks and two days!! Still plenty of time to choose my cake, dress, colors, bridesmaids, menu, and everything else. Right?! If the wedding were tomorrow, I wouldn't care about any of those things!

Anyways.. look forward to Friday! I'm going to re-join the network of "Friday's Fave Five!"

Big sister feeding little sister: Take 1

2011-02-26T09:35:00.000-05:00

Leah: 2.5 years
Mallory: 9 months

Wedding Wednesdays: Cakes

2011-02-24T15:24:00.001-05:00

It's offical. I am now dedicating Wednesday as "Wedding Day." If I do not dedicate one day to weddings, then everyday will become "wedding Day" and I will quickly fall behind in classes, work, sleep, and relationships as I spend hours and hours on Google and flipping through magazines. Now before you starting leaving rude comments like, "Girl, don't you know it's Thursday?!" Yes, I realize that today is Thursday and not Wednesday, but I didn't quite finish my blog yesterday because.. well.. I was busy looking at cakes. :)))

Planning the wedding has been a lot of fun, but it's been overwhelming. I'm assuming that's a normal feeling, RIGHT?!

I am planning an American wedding with an Asian feel, but I'm having difficulty sorting through all the Chinese ideas to find anything remotely Cambodian in America. I cannot [and would not] tell you which cake I have chosen because I have not chosen [and I do not know how I ever will,] but these are a few that I have saved for consideration:

My idea for the 1st cake is to replace the dragon on the bottom layer with lotus flowers. [I do not know the meaning, but Christians in Cambodia disapprove of the dragon.] On the second layer, to replace the chinese characters with Khmer characters spelling "Romdenh" [new-last-name-to-be] or something else. On the top layer, to paint Angkor Wat or a typical stilt house, rather than a Buddhist temple [for obvious reasons.]
I think the second cake would be really awesome with Cambodian fruits [instead of peaches and pears,] such as: purple mangosteens, green and red rambutans, and slices of pineapple.

The Chinese cake, the ivory and burgendy cake with gold embellishments, the yellow cake with sunflowers, and the white cake with multicolored flowers are my favorites. So, I suppose I have at least narrowed it down, but I can't say I'm close to making a decision. The PRICE will certainly aid in making my decision because my budget is pretty small; however, I'm still looking for a cake-maker.

Does anyone have an affordable cake-maker recommendation?
Does anyone have an awesome mango cake recipe?

How it all began...

2011-02-19T07:33:00.001-05:00

I posted this on my Cambodia blog on Wednesday and decided to share it here today. :)

This story of how Titus and I met and fell in love really deserves much more attention and detail than I have given it, and for the sake of future generations, I will edit and improve it; however, for now, this is sufficient.

Titus and I met in May 2008, the summer between my freshman and sophomore year of college. I went on a team with five other girls from Indiana Wesleyan University, and we traveled throughout Cambodia, teaching English and doing children's ministry. At the time, Titus was co-pastoring The Way to Life Wesleyan Church in the province of Kratie, and teaching English at the School of Hope, a small English and computer school that shared the same property as the church. It was there in Kratie that Titus and I met, and Kratie has felt like a "home away from home" ever since.
First, he was my translator, but he quickly became my friend. Meeting Titus, I immediately determined that he was the funniest guy I knew and I am still sure that he is the funniest guy I know. We had an instant connection because Titus and I owned very similar cameras - his was pink, mine was blue; he wanted to trade, but I refused.
I spent only a few days in Kratie, but Titus later joined our team in Siem Reap, where we made many lasting memories. We played Uno. We stayed up all night and watched the sunrise at Angkor Wat (one of the 7 ancient wonders of the world.) We ate noodles and Mentos at 3am. We watched a scary movie (The Messengers.) We shared a banana pancake. We laughed, and laughed, and laughed.

We shared our testimonies and talked about our dreams for the future. It was then that I realized what an incredible man He is. It seems we have the same passion and dreams for ministry, but in the areas where I am weak, he is strong.

Without admitting my feelings to anyone, especially Titus, I left Cambodia, wondering if I would ever return. The opportunity arose for me to return to Cambodia the following summer, and I went. On my second day in Cambodia, my best friend Vandy visited the place where I was staying. He asked me if I wanted to call Titus. Call Titus?? Of course I wanted to call Titus, but I wondered why he thought I would have wanted to call Titus.

A few days later, Titus and Vandy joined my team and we returned to Siem Reap, to Freedom Hotel, to Angkor Wat, to Pastor Banyen's church -- to places where we had made so many lasting memories only 12 months before. I cannot say that I avoided Titus, but I kept my distance. I didn't want to attach myself. I was ~~hesitant~~ afraid - afraid that I would do or say the wrong thing and the Cambodian Church (which is very different than Western culture) would down upon me and my testimony would no longer have validity. By the end of day one of my second trip to Cambodia, I was confident that God was calling me to Cambodia and to Cambodians. The more I watched Titus interact with the people, the more I was attached. I spent hours talking to Pastor Vandy -- who loved seeing us together -- and asking for advice.

After three weeks, my team left and I remained in Cambodia for another month. I saw Titus on a variety of occasions, and we texted almost every evening. One week before I left, we had a DTR (a "Define the Relationship" conversation) and decided to wait for each other until I could return to Cambodia again - that meant no dating anyone else. A few days later, we went on our first date. We had pizza, then went on a romantic tuk tuk ride through the city at night, observing all the lights, taking in all the traffic, and asking each other dozens of questions about everything past, present, and future.

What else can I say? He is incredibly strong. He is beautifully handsome. He is funny - so funny! He is a pastor, a teacher, a leader, a visionary, an example, and above all, a God-fearing man. His love overwhelms me and I cannot believe I found such an amazing guy that loves me. God is everything to me and He fills my heart; however, I also believe that God created humankind with a need for the love of others. Titus fills that need in my life, and I cannot imagine myself happy with anyone else.

We met in May 2008, I took my second trip May and June 2009, and finally returned December 23, 2010. We got engaged December 26, 2010 and we plan on getting married in America on October 22, 2011.

That's our love story - part of it anyways!

"My Auntie is Awesome"

2011-02-17T09:49:00.003-05:00

Here's a picture of my precious niece to brighten everyone's day:

Good morning sunshine!
Auntie Jewel loves you, Mallory Jo!

"Man does not live on bread alone..."

2011-02-15T15:03:00.000-05:00

It's been weeks since I have blogged. So much has happened - not so much that I have been too busy to blog, but I simply haven't made it a priority. So, in the newest news:

I had such such such an incredible time of Bible study and meditation yesterday during my lunch hour. Last week, one of my professors (Dr. Keith Drury) told our class that he almost failed out of college because he spent more time studying the Bible than he did reading his textbooks, in fact, he had to repeat two classes.
I was so inspired by this and I been digging deep into God's Word and covering the margins of Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John in notes. I believe that God is laying it on my heart to start a women's Bible study group during the lunch and dinner hours. Seriously, God? I am a Senior, almost halfway through my last semester. I'm nervous, but I trust that God is going to show up in incredible ways, even if there are only two or three or four of us!
So far, I have sent invitations to 106 girls and 12 have responded with interest. In fact, one said: "I'm kind of in awe right now. I have been praying to find a Bible Study for a while..." Woo hoo God!!! It's not realistic to expect that everyone will be available in the same hour, so I am looking at two or three meal times each week. This weekend, I am going to try to make dozens of homemade invitations, and ask all those who are interested to invite 2 or 3 or 4 more friends.

Jesus answered, "It is written:
'Man does not live on bread alone,but on every word that comes from the mouth of God.'"
Matthew 4:4

Our Engagement Ceremony

2011-01-29T12:21:00.002-05:00

One month ago yesterday -- December 28, 2010 -- Titus and I were officially engaged the traditional Cambodian way. It was an incredibly beautifully ceremony. I was told the ceremony would be "simple," and I was amazed (almost speechless) when I walked down the stairs to see 49 of our closest friends, and a room that was beautifully transformed to host a very special ceremony.

The front of the room during the ceremony -- The back of the room after the ceremony, while we were eating
There were pink and yellow fabrics draped on the walls, royal red carpets laying across the tile floors, colorful fruits on gold and silver platters lining the front, and a beautiful backdrop with a large glittering heart, rings, and our names printed in gold. We sang khmer hymns and Pastor Kimsua played the guitar, Rev. Kimsan played the Cambodian drum, and a sound system ensured that even the neighbors gathered outside could hear clearly. Pastor Sopheak did a great job leading the ceremony. Pastor Greg gave a sort of pre-marital message and he and his five-year-old daughter, Aleeyah, sang a beautiful song called "From Here to Eternity." Only Pastor Greg's message and special song were in English.

My handsome fiancé and beautiful future mother-in-law -- Giving the ring

"Parents" exchanging fruit - I do not know what the significance is, but it is a Cambodian custom - and Titus and I presenting fruit to Mom

Pastor Sopheak and Rev. Kimsan leading the ceremony - Pastor Greg and Aleeyah singing

Friends and American missionaries, Tim and Tiffany Gallant, sat beside me as my parents. Titus' beautiful mom and two of his five brothers were able to attend. I was so incredibly overwhelmed in love - in love with this incredible man who will soon be my husband, and overwhelmed by the love of those who did so much to make it a beautiful day, and of those who came to celebrate with us.

A few pictures with dear friends:

A truly unforgettable day...

Love love love, Jewel
the future Mrs. Romdenh Chamnol