bloom

The last couple days have been interesting...


We didn't have power the last couple days.  I started to talk about it, but it's too confusing and useless to explain.  The cool part was spending some quality time with the guys: a fire, pre-packaged popcorn, and a glass of wine.  We talked about our families, "impactful" past experiences, and our futures.  Silliness and seriousness... It is always a good discussion.

I got a membership to the public library and have been there a few times to study.  I am so tempted by all the books staring at me as I try to concentrate on school work.  I did purchase a book for a buck off the "book sale"  cart called Between a Rock and a Hard Place.  I believe it's the story that was made into the movie 127 Hours with James Franco.  Quite an inspiring true story.  I'm telling myself to hold off just a couple more weeks until I am done with finals...

Sean and I planted the garden last Saturday and had to use two plots.  We didn't even sow all the types of veggies we had on our list!  So far, we have: lettuce, spinach, beets, carrots, peppers, tomatoes, and radishes. I noticed on our calendar that this was the UN International Day of Peace.  I always seem to find peace outdoors.  I'm so thankful for a beautiful yard to "play around" in :)

The guys completed their pallet beds and they look amazing... Sturdy too!  Sean demonstrated by jumping on his.  I can't wait to make mine... of course, with a little help.  I must say, however, my bed is extremely comfy and I look forward to crawling into it every night...

I don't know if I have mentioned the stars, but they are quite brilliant here.  On my bus ride home the other day, we took the extended route (via flagstaff hill) getting a beautiful view of the river and coastline.  I noticed many of the houses were 80-90% windows.  One of them had a telescope perched in the upstairs level, which lead to a huge patio/veranda.  I thought how fun it would be to star gaze out that window.

The people at Trinity Lutheran Church are some of the friendliest I have met.  An older lady took me by the hand upon arrival and introduced me to everyone in sight... "This is Jenny. She's from the United States!..."  I usually am most comfortable observing situations than being the center of them, but I accepted the warm attention with ease.  I felt home.  I was home.

The congregation was in the process of finding a new pastor, as their's had recently retired.  The pastor that preached that Sunday talked of the parable of the lost sheep.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tyWZeOlaRo4 --> hehe ;)

 Luke 15:7

I tell you that in the same way there will be more rejoicing in heaven over one sinner who repents than over ninety-nine righteous persons who do not need to repent.

I enjoyed some tea and good conversation afterwords; meeting people of all ages.  One lady I was talking to wanted to introduce me to Ben, who was "interested in marine biology".  After finishing remarks with another individual, I turned toward his familiar face.  Of course!  This man gave us a tour at Wannon Water for my aquaculture class.  It is awesome the situations God puts me in.  I am excited to return.

My new running route brings me past glorious smells of opening cafes and fragrant blooms.  I adore all the flowers here... There are just so many!  Even in our backyard we have

New day..

We picked up some groceries today so I could have fun baking scones... and the guys could have fun eating them :)  There's a bakery they've had scones from and now this pastry is one of their favorites.  It's pretty neat that I love to bake...  I found a gluten-free one that uses maple syrup and almond flour.  I am keen to try!

Sean and I made a new soup recipe the other night.  Without a measuring cup, I think I overloaded on quinoa, but it's getting eaten up fast!  I forgot the tumeric at the store, and I haven't found black beans here (until today at IGA!  Yay!) and knew it was missing something in the end.  After microwaving myself a bowl, I thought I would try adding a teaspoon of honey.  With a bit of stirring, the sweet gold vanished in the soup, which was more like oatmeal actually.  I took a bite and the choir sang.  I had found the missing piece.  A sweet, spicy combo that warms the tummy...

Lemon berry scones --> http://www.asplashofvanilla.com/2013/09/08/lemon-berry-scones/

Black bean, sweet potato, and quinoa chili w/smoked chipotle:
 http://www.ambitiouskitchen.com/2012/10/black-bean-sweet-potato-and-quinoa-chili-with-smoked-chipotle/