Christmas time is here

I love what I do, but it is always nice to have time away. Going into this weekend, I am not sure what all will happen. What I do know is that I am going to have time away from Arad. Time away from responsibilities and an apartment that has become all too familiar.

After experiencing an Eastern European Christmas last year, myself and the Balls are traveling more toward the center of Europe. Tomorrow we embark on a weekend trips spanning three countries, four cities and two fellow missionary families. Some of the highlights include Vienna, Budapest, and Bratislava.

If you have not been out to Romania it may be difficult to understand, but the farther you go west in Europe the more "civilized" it becomes. This is not by any stretch a slam on Romania, but a truth that other countries have had more time to thrive. It has been only 20 years since Ceausescu was kicked out of office and it takes awhile for a country to get back on its feet (also the fact that Romania has only been an EU nation for two years).

Being able to have some time to kick back and relax is, I have a feeling, just what the doctor ordered.

Once every three months

That's about the distance between instances which are completely overwhelm me and make me really miss the people I have left behind. Many things came together quickly today and hit me with "the feeling" today (and it is a nearly impossible thing to explain, many have felt it on some level, but unless you have spent a considerable amount of time living overseas you will not be able to fully understand the depth of disappointment of being away).

At various times I have had something similar, whether it was while away at college or summer camp when I was younger. The problem with both of those scenarios is that at any point you can pack up and go home. That hasn't been an option during my travels. While I am experiencing things that others aren't, that's part of the problem. I'm doing most of these things alone.

With Christmas right around the corner and a new nephew waiting for me at home, "the feeling" has hit extra hard this time. Before, I was missing graduations and birthdays (neither of which I wish to diminish the importance of), but now I am missing births and consecutive holidays. I know I have been called to do works which will help the kingdom, but some days are harder than others.

Missing you guys... so much.

For Grady...

On the day my family gets a little bigger, I have decided to do a blog in real-time. Throughout the day, I will be posting updates and my general thoughts, as my lovely sister Amanda gives birth to her first. This is also a way for me to cope, because of my inability to be there for the blessed event. Throughout the day various people will be Skyping me to give me updates. Even though I am in Romania, I will be posting the time as EST.

4:56 Amanda (Da) is scheduled to go into the hospital at 5. I am guessing they are well on their way (if they haven't arrived already). I talked to Da for well over an hour yesterday. She said she was in very good spirits and wouldn't mind going longer. She had not gotten to the point where she was begging for him to come out. After dinner with Mac and Roxi, I called to wish dad a "Happy Birthday" and he said that Da got called in to sub the second half of the day.

5:55 First contact with the family. Mom (ShaeShae) got on skype and we chatted. Everyone had a restless night in anticipation. ShaeShae said she didn't get to sleep until well after midnight and was up by 3:45. The comparison is very much true, being that we all know Grady is on the way, today is like being a kid Christmas again. There is excitement, mixed with anticipation. Something magical is going to happen and everything is going to be different. At Da's request dad and ShaeShae won't be going to the hospital until 7:30, when Dr. Ty Huggins breaks the water.

Graden "Grady" Jonathon Riggle. Graden is from Gaelic origins meaning "renowned". I am fairly certain the deciding factor is because Josh's professional baseball team he has adopted has a particularly exciting player named Grady. My brother-in-law is a very big sports fan (although not always for the "good guys") and he has been able to instill some fanaticism into my sister. Amanda has successfully become an "All Things Ohio" fan. This allows her to fit in well with dad and I. So, even though they had a bit of a rocky path getting to Grady, I believe they picked a winner. 

8:38 First Skype call. Called dad's cell phone, because he wasn't talking on Skype. The hospital gets horrible cell reception. Da has just received her epidural. Waiting for dad to install a new AVG update for the computer, and we will have our first legit computer to computer call. Looking forward to some kind of status report.

8:43 First Skype update. Mom says Da is having a lot of back labor, but the pain has subsided since having the epidural placed. Contractions are coming close together. Talking snacks with dad, cause there's not much else to discuss until the babe starts moving (dad and his sweets). Dad making me sick by walking the computer down the hall from the waiting room to Da's. Josh is looking at paint swatches while his wife is in labor. Josh apparently does not do well with needles as he began to get sick while the nurse had a difficult time getting the IV in. Da says the contractions are coming one on top of the other, but she can't feel them ("and that is WONDERFUL"). Da on the phone with Pap and Mare, said Mare is having a rough go of it. Da is getting really tired and fighting off sleep while she is talking to me.

Still on the phone. Da's not allowed to talk anymore because they have had her lie on her side. Grady is currently face up (which is not the preferred positioning), so she is now no longer laying on her back.

10:20 Da is completely dilated and as soon as the doctor arrives, she will begin pushing. The nurse was incredibly surprised with how quickly Da became dilated. Last conversation dad ran to McDonald's to pick up food for the hungry bunch. Amanda was not privy to that information though.

10:25 Dad calls Sarah and we are all talking together. Filling her in. Dad texted both Sarah and Liz to tell them about Da being at 10 cm. Sarah admitted to not calling dad on his birthday. Sarah is thinking about getting in the car right now and leaving, even though she still has work to do today. ShaeShae came in and said the nurse had Da push through a few contractions, they are now waiting a little bit to call Dr. Ty. Still waiting for Grady to adjust himself.

Funny story time. During my chat with ShaeShae first thing in the morning she told me a story. ShaeShae has worked for several years with another kindergarten teacher, Sarah. Sarah has three children the oldest being Sammy. Sammy is now in ShaeShae's kindergarten classroom this year, but was very concerned when he found out that Da was going to be having the baby today. Yesterday, Sarah mentioned to Sammy that he would be having a sub instead of Mrs. Walter. When Sammy asked why she wasn't going to be at school Sarah explained that Mrs. Walter was going to become a grandma. This news upset Sammy. He then asked his mom, "Is Mrs. Walter still going to be my teacher?" The piece of information that threw Sammy off was about the grandma. He has two grandmas that don't have jobs. So, upon hearing that ShaeShae would be joining the grandma sorority, he was afraid he would be losing his teacher.

11:08 Coming live from the delivery room dad called me. Da is pushing. All I hear is a persistent beeping and the sound of Josh counting. As I look at dad's face he is doing an incredible job of staying composed. Dr. Ty is commenting on how well Da is doing. Da is staying very calm. I cannot hear her at all. Dr. is now asking my plans. I find it funny that with the job at hand he has time to small talk.

11:15 Her Da giggle about something Dr. Ty said. It is the first sound I have hear her make. Out of respect to Amanda we have gone silent. Dad is giving me the play by play. I was able to see images of her holding Josh's hand as ShaeShae hovered protectively over them. "Dr. Ty is moving everything into place as everyone starts putting on the necessary equipment (masks and hair nets). The time is getting much closer, Dr. Ty says she's getting close. She is pushing hard. It is really difficult. Lots of cheerleading from the doctors. The Baby's head is out and they are delivering the shoulders.

(12/3/2009) 11:21 Graden Jonathon Riggle has entered the world. Now the countdown to when I finally get to hold him begins. Even though I can only see what is happening, I can tell that ShaeShae is telling "mom" what a great job she did. I am so proud of my little sister. So happy that she made it through this and will soon be holding her son.

Mom has not been able to take her eyes off of son since he was put in her arms. Even while talking on the phone, eyes stay glued to the new edition.

11:49 Pap "Great-grandpa" is the first one to sing to Grady. He made the special request to be the first to have that privileged. The room is filled with people calling everyone they know. Mom says he cried a little when he came out, but calmed down quickly.

An emotional day to say the least. I still don't know the exact measurements yet, but Josh's sister Joyce is guessing 8 lb. 7 oz. from the picture she saw.

I have so much joy in my heart

I now reside in a family full of college graduates (at least for the next couple weeks until Amanda has the baby). This past weekend, Sarah Michelle Walter became the last to receive her bachelors degree. And in three weeks (after she finishes her classes) it will be official.

So, as it is, we have a Master of Divinity, Bachelors for education, music ministry, biology and political science. Three of us have work towards our Masters completed, and two of us are using our degrees (unfortunately, I'm only counting mom and dad for this one).

I am so proud of my family. Though it has never been easy (especially for the less ambitious ones), we have all come through with flying colors. Now my prayer with this little one that will be gracing us with his presence, is that he can continue down a similar path. To accomplish a task, such as this, it takes unity and a family devoted to an idea.

I am thankful everyday, for having parents that pushed me when I wasn't interested in finishing things (or starting, or working on). Sister that were able to push me, sometimes, guilt me into getting things done. It was seldom ever easy, but they were supportive the entire way.

So, to my baby sister I say, "Congratulations! I am very proud of you!"

Something sports related

I was thinking about doing something pertaining to sports, but was having a difficult time coming up with what I should talk about. I could of course talk about the LeBron James 2010 offseason or who would be coaching the Browns next year. Then I read an article from Joe Posnanski of SI.com and instead of blogging, I'm just going to post a link to that article. It says perfectly what so many people are feeling.

http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/2009/writers/joe_posnanski/11/05/yankees.payroll/index.html

Be back tomorrow to give an update of everything Arad. Enjoy.

The Wonderful World of Pixar

I LOVE the Pixar Animation Studios. In my book, they are a perfect ten for ten. Every single movie they have made has been pure poetry in my opinion. From their lowly (but utterly world changing) beginnings with "Toy Story", to my runaway favorite movie of this past year "Up", each story is packed with more power than can be appreciated with just a single viewing.

So, I began to think, how long can Pixar keep it up?

When a company goes on a run, similar to what Pixar has, you have to wonder if they are running out of juice. Since "Toy Story" debuted in 1995, they have had an amazing run of pictures that hasn't been equaled (in box office or popularity). While in the early years, the movies were a little more spaced out, we have seen summer releases consistently for each of the last four years. Amazingly each time the most recently released movie seems better than those that came before.

The last time I remember this happening was a similar company, which also had a string of very successful and crowd pleasing movies, was Disney. It is amazing to look back at the successful animated movies strewn together from 1989 to 1994. Those movies were (in chronological order) "The Little Mermaid", "Beauty and the Beast", "Aladdin" and "The Lion King". These four movies are monsters, and what some people consider masterpieces of animated story telling. Those that came next, were unfortunately more forgettable. The movies that followed weren't bad, but there was a bit of a drop off (and how could there not be) from the incredible stories that just came before. And this is my fear. Pixar having the occasional bomb at the box office would be okay, there is something to learn from that. The unforgivable would be for the standard of film making which we have all become accustomed to is sacrificed for profits. This also gets into another area which has me a little concerned.

There is no denying that Disney was able to acquire an absolute juggernaut when they purchased Pixar in 2006. What has happened since then is what worries me. Pixar has been given control of all Disney animated movies. One of the first things that happened because of this merger was Pixar axing all sequals (so everyone hoping for "Lion King 8: Simba's Great-Great Grandchild Retakes Pride Rock" or "Oliver and Company 4: the Rule of Fagin" will be left wanting), saying that it waters down the product. I would love to be the optimist and say that everything is going to be fine, and this will actually improve the quality of Disney films, along with Pixar's because they hold themselves to such a high standard. I would, but that's not me. I'm more inclined to fall in the Pixar is another cog in the Disney machine, and at the end of the day, Disney cares about profits and not quality.

So, as I wait on baited breath for next year's release of "Toy Story 3", I am beginning to hope that Pixar does not turn into Dreamworks (famously known for it's one trick pony show also known as "Shrek"). I am completely fine with them taking as much time as they need to make good movies. Quality will forever be better than quantity in my book.

By the way, 50 pts. for anyone who figured out that I am geeking out about the idea of a possible Pixar/Marvel movie, since Disney recently picked up that piece as well.

The North Korea Solution

I have thought of a sure fire way to completely solve the North Korea situation. It wouldn't cost the United States anything, there would be few casualties and we could get rid of some access (albeit once beloved) baggage.

I was not able to watch the NBA Hall of Fame induction speeches when they were happening (because of the time difference), but thanks to youtube I was able to see them after the fact. If you didn't hear, three of the all time greats we inducted into the Hall at their respective positions. David Robinson, John Stockton and Michael Jordan. Now obviously one name stands above the other two, however I believe his is the solution we have been looking for.

If you haven't seen the speeches, I highly encourage you to check them out. David Robinson was the first of the night and it was beautiful. He was sincere, honest and truthful. He directed all of his success up. He made an acknowledgement that the things he accomplished on the court were not actions he was able to do by himself. He was just an instrument of a greater power. During his speech he spoke openly about his devotion to San Antonio and more importantly God.

John Stockton was funny, self-deprecating and humble. He made sure to mention the most important people that allowed him to achieve success. At various times he spoke of his brothers and the competitive nature which was brought about by playing with them as he grew up. He told tales of each of his coaches, and how they enabled him to become a better basketball player and a better person. He brought it home by thanking his wife and children for keeping him grounded and focused.

Then Michael Jordan stepped to the microphone. It has been apparent for a long time that Michael was the best. No player has ever come into the league with the intensity, willpower and work ethic of this one man. He took time to rub that fact into everyone's collective face. No one was off limits during Jordan's speech. He attacked his high school coach, the player that was put in the final varsity spot, Dean Smith, Jeff Van Gundy, even the guy he pushed down so that he could make his final shot as a Chicago Bull (Byron Russell). So my question is, do we worship someone that expects us to honor his every selfish desire? Or, should we give him to North Korea and kill two birds with one stone.

During some reading awhile back I remember reading that on a peace trip to the United States Kim Jong-Il asked for a recess in the meeting. He was granted this time, and used it to watch a basketball game that was happening. Turns out, outside being a fantastic golfer, Kim Jong-Il is a huge basketball fan. The game he was watching, Michael Jordan's Chicago Bulls.

This is what I'm thinking. Jordan was joking about playing professionally again after he turned 50. How about we make his dream come true. Convince North Korea to setup a professional basketball league, and we will give them Michael Jordan (with the condition that they halt any and all nuclear testing). Kim Jong-Il will be thrilled cause he can watch his favorite basketball player, Jordan is happy cause he's playing basketball and the US is happy because we can halt the arms race a little and get an egomaniac to go away.

How does this not benefit all parties involved?

Clean is clean

Some of you know that a few weeks back, I had a difficult situation which may or may not have been predicated on my desire to help someone out. I offered my apartment to be used as a hostel to a couple visitors to Arad. I was however, unaware of the extent my services would be needed. What I initially thought was going to be my putting a couple travelers up for a couple days, turned into two weeks. Suffice to say, that is a long time.

Upon their departure, I went into knee jerk cleaning mode. It was everything. I washed clothes, sheets, duvets, rugs and the like. I also swept, mopped, did the dishes and sanitized everything. This cleaning job took well over six hours and a level of peace began to wash over me.

It is a difficult task to keep something clean when something new is added to the mix. For the most part, I do a very good job of keeping my apartment clean. When the lodgers were added to the equation, I wasn't just cleaning up after myself, but them as well. Things became more difficult.

I understand the cathartic nature of cleaning. How it represents newness and a fresh start. I have seen this represented time and again through cinema and literature. The time that sticks most clearly in my mind is the Last Supper. I have never thought of Jesus washing the disciples feet as a sort of baptism, but that is precisely what it was. Jesus was accomplishing many things with this unselfish gesture (lowering himself, humbling himself, putting the needs of others before his own), doing a little house keeping of his own.

State of things

I have to admit that this has taken me longer than I anticipated, and unfortunately this post is not going to be as long as I would have wanted. But the waiting has been long enough.

It is difficult to get news, even in the country for which I am living. I doubt that many have heard the recent news that last month, there were massive resignations by the controlling political party in Romania. The part lost it's support of another somewhat minor party, and felt the need to step out. This has to do partly with what one member was saying about the upcoming elections (that there was inevitably would be corruption, who would have thought).

In addition to this, the Minister of Health just stepped down. Coming shortly after his making statements that he is expecting 20,000 Romanians to die of H1N1. I am asking everyone to pray for the turmoil that is taking place in Romania right now, in addition to that which so many of you pray for regularly.

Catching up

I feel like it has been forever since I've posted anything. Part of that is because the last two days as I was attempting to throw something up, I was given warnings in Romanian that I was doing something wrong and was thus locked out of my account.

I finally have thing figured out and plan on having a banner posting day tomorrow.

These past few weeks have been very difficult, through the housing of some impolite house guests, getting sick and struggling with missing things going on at home. One at a time these tend to be a lot to deal with, however when they all come together at the same time, made it exceptionally difficult.

I love traveling. I love seeing new places. But the first baby shower of my family was this past weekend. It's a bit of a seminal event in the family. It's bad enough that I don't get to see Grady until June (when he's six months old), I'm also missing out on all the fun stuff. Getting Josh into trouble, by monopolizing his time watching sports than taking care of his pregnant wife. All the fun stuff.

I do love and miss everyone, and I know that I don't say that enough. Anyway, 3 posts coming tomorrow. I'm stoked.

New Directions

As much as I would love to do another write up on "Glee", that's going to have to wait for the time being.

I am actually excited about what began last week. For the first time in my life I have begun to work out with some earnest ambition. Last week, Spencer and I signed up for memberships at "Gold's Gym". The pain began almost immediately, but I am committed to see this through. I am pumped (figuratively) about this.

In addition to the lifestyle change, my Romania life changed. Last week was the first week of having Trinity come for school. Things are going to take awhile to settle down, because she still sees me as "Drew the playmate" instead of "Drew the teacher". We are going to be working on getting her reading as soon as possible (her desire).

On a lighter note, the devastatingly abysmal year of the Cleveland Indians has finally ended, and the Browns have finally gotten rid of Braylon Edwards. Bring on basketball season. (Over/under of LeBron having 17 triple-doubles this season?) 

Sloppy OCD

I am officially coining this as a new term. Even though there are aspects of my life which I am fairly laissez faire, however when it comes to my computer (or most specifically my external hard drives), I am totally and completely OCD. A once over my apartment would reveal that I am not the most clean person. Dishes occasionally go undone for several days, clothes may or may not be washed in a timely fashion and sweeping is done only out of necessity.

Giving a once over of my hard drive would show something completely different. Television shows are very carefully labeled, episodes being divided by season and clearly labeled in the season by episode number and name. It is a wonderful system that allows me to cleanliness I desire. My dvds and books at home are done similarly.

This is how I have decided to start looking at my relationships. Some of them are going to be nicely packaged (where there are no surprises), others are going to be messy. In my life, I am finding for my sanity that I need both. There are unfortunate relationships that exist just to be conversation fodder.

Many people I have known I have brought unnecessary drama to my life (both directly and indirectly). This definitely prevents life from getting boring. However, it is the more stable relationships that prevent the inconsistent relationships from getting the best of us. People have changed me. Each person I have come in contact with, has changed me a little. It's interesting seeing the direction our lives progress, and the relationships we have along the way. Both the "Sloppy" and the "OCD".

Empathy (Part II)

This is my second post of the day, so it would probably be advantageous for you to scroll down and read the first post...first. It will be on the same subject, so it shouldn't be hard to find.

The only complaint I have with being an empathetic person comes on the competitive field. I am much more likely to give someone the benefit of the doubt. Calling ticky-tack fouls on myself on the basketball court, playing a ball that clearly missed the line or not questioning someone that has clearly cheated me. Unfortunately, this also extends to the teams that I root for. Perennial losers, Cleveland sports teams get my support year after year. This happens not because I enjoy disappointment, but because I can forgive them, because to a certain extent I know what it's like to be a loser.

For this one downfall of empathy, it has major benefits in my life. People tell me things. I don't look to be an ear for people to throw private information to, it just somehow happens that way. The only thing I can think is because I have shown an ability to listen with emotion and care about what the other person is saying. This helps when being friends with people. It also happens with people I don't know too. As a counselor at kids camp one year, I came across a girl that I hadn't seen up to that point in the week. She was off by herself, sobbing hysterically. I had an obligation as a leader of the camp to go and talk to her, but that is not what made me do so. I felt compelled to comfort her. After a couple minutes of crying because she missed home, she was ready to rejoin the group. I was comforted by the fact that she was put to ease.

The area with which I view empathy as a gift within my own life is in the classroom. When I graduated college and got my first job, I was pretty rubbish in the classroom. I will fully admit that. However, because I had such love for the kids, I wanted to become better. I love that there are still many of my student-teaching students that remember me fondly (even though I believe I may have done irreparable harm to them as learners) and still many of my students from SCS remember me.

I praise the Lord for blessing me with a gift that has two sides to it. There are disappointments that come from empathy, but there is also joy.

Empathy

I was reminded a couple days ago why I dislike my empathetic nature. Normally, being empathetic is a good thing. You are able to relate to others on a very personal level. You clearly are able to see from someone else's point of view. When you work with kids (especially in a school setting), it is easy to see how many need to learn this trait. There are others that naturally, intuitively feel empathy towards others. I consider myself in the latter of these two. For as long as I can remember I have been sensitive to the needs of those around me. I would kill me to see people hurting when I was a kid. This along has brought me my fair share of discomfort over my life. I am going to touch on a different aspect of empathy which I was only reminded of a coupld days ago.

I received a phone call from a friend a couple days ago, inquiring whether or not I would be interested in playing tennis. I have not played tennis for nearly two years, so I jumped at the opportunity to get out and hit the fuzzy ball around. I have learned over the years that I am better than most people who would like to play me in tennis. Please do not misunderstand, this is not hubris, it is just fact. This does not matter one iota. Mac has been a very casual tennis player, and only picks up a racket on rare occasions, but he is still able to get games off me. I know there are times to compete and times to have fun, the problem is differentiating between the two.

My senior year of high school was my banner year as far as tennis is concerned. I played my best and my record reflected such. I finished my senior year with an 18-9 record. There are a lot of small teams in mid-Ohio, farm communities where kids do more working than focusing on sports. I was very fortunate to have parents that wanted me to get better and helped me realize it. But there were several teams that, to be honest, were not very good. This did not matter. I played my entire senior year without "bageling" (6-0, 6-0) anyone. I was so concerned with the other person's feelings, that I would inevitably ease up and allow them to steal a game. It was even worse if I thought the other person was hurt.

The story which I remember most vividly involves a rival I had from a neighboring school. Kris Ross went to Ontario, and through a mutual acquaintance, Kris and I became "friends". Kris believed himself to be the better tennis player which was fine (in retrospect, he may have been), but I was able to best him. I was fine with the competition against him, but he had significantly better scores against mutual opponents. Kris and I both played first singles for our respective teams, and we played against each other's competition. So, Kris began to tell me a story of how he was able to beat the number one player from Crestline (another high school in the area) in 13 minutes. He was able to play the entire match in 13 minutes. In his mind, he was astounded with how completely he destroyed his opponent. I, on the other hand, was wondering what it would be like to be on the other end of a shellacking that bad. True to form, when I played said Crestline player, I won 6-1, 6-1.

I am very thankful I am an empathetic person, it does take a bit of the killer instinct out of sports though.

The Mighty Indians

Let it be known, every line from this came from an episode of “The Mighty Boosh”. There is essentially no original content. For those of you that have never seen the show, let's just say, it's random.

The Mighty Indians

Come with us now on a journey through time and space, to the world of the Cleveland Indians.

Marte: Hi, I'm Andy Marte, and this crazy character is Eric Wedge.
Wedge: Don't touch me.
Marte: He's such a joker.
Wedge: I'm not joking. Don't ever touch me. Not now, not during the game.
Both: Ah...
Wedge: Don't touch me. Andy, I thought you were dead.
Laporta: I rescued him from the edge of death.
Wedge: Well, what do you want a chocolate fruitcake with beans on it? Get to work.

(Mark Shaprio walks into the room. Rifle in hand, he fires into the air, the players scatter)

Shapiro: Nothing to worry about. I'm sorting things out here.
Hafner: Where are all the players from the team going Mark? Something's wrong here, I'm going to get to the bottom of this.
Shapiro: Shut up Travis, you're out of your depth.

(to Wedge) The old men that sponsor the team are coming by today, and if they see the team knocking on death's door, they aren't going to pay me bo-diddly.
Wedge: So, what do you want me to do about it?
Shapiro: I want you to dress as a gorilla. You know, eat a banana, dance around, kick some hay.
Wedge: I'm not doin' that. I'm a man. I've got dignity and poise, I'm not dressing up as a gorilla.
Shapiro: Well, if you don't all the players will go poor and they won't be able to afford toboggans and sausages. Walk and talk with me. I'm your boss man, but I'm also your friend. I'm not your wife, but we have made massively violent love. Did I say that out loud?
Wedge (to Andy): Are you still here?

(Andy drops his head, feeling dejected once again. Suddenly music fills the clubhouse)

Andy: All the things I'll never see.
All the things I'll never be.
All there is that's left for me,
Is here in this eternity
Of Isolation...Isolation.

The cavalcade, the jamboree
Of life I thought was meant for me.
I never dreamed that it would be
Replaced by this eternity
Of Isolation...Isolation

Wedge: Okay, you made your point in song format.

(Andy sullenly shuffles back to the end of the bench. As he nears his designated seat, Andy overhears several conversations)


Wood: What do you think of me?
Marson: I don't rightly know, Sir.
Wood: Make an assessment.
Marson: I suspect you're a right Southern gentleman.
Wood: You got that right mother licker.
You failed to take into account my mirror balls.


Gimenez: Think of it. Chris Gimenez Colon Player.
Brantley: Colon player?
Gimenez: It has ring to it.
Brantley: I think it has the wrong ring to it.


Choo: Noooooo...who are you? How can I understand you?
Sizemore: I'm Grady Sizemore. The man, the myth, the maverick.

(Grady's arm in a sling, all look concerned as to whether or not he will be able to return to 2006 form)

Skinner: There's only one way to get this boy ready for the game.
Willis: Training montage...
Shelton: with music.

Sizemore: This is a dangerous mission. All I ask is you remember me.
(leaves room)
Wedge:Who was that?

Hafner: I've got a bad feeling about this.

(Having successfully convinced Grady to have season ending surgery and brokered three trades which will be completed at season's end, Shaprio and Dolan sit together in the owner's box. There conversation turns to the team...and money)

Dolan: This is sheer liquid wonderment.
Shapiro: We're going to make a fortune. We could split the profits 50-50.
Dolan: 60-40.
Shapiro: What?
Dolan: Nothing, my pretty.
Shapiro: Flirtini's for everyone.

And so, the moral of the story is, “Never loo...”

The World Race

It was only recently that I was alerted to the fact that there is an organization which runs mission teams in an "Amazing Race"-esque fashion. Upon hearing this, there was both confusion and fascination on my end. So they travel to different places around the world (cool!), they partake in interesting challenges that make sense only to the natives (okay), they fight and bicker with other teams that are also out on the road (that doesn't seem very Christian); but I was pleasantly surprised to find that the last two of these were not part of the plan.

This current team, made up of five ladies and two guys, made its way to Arad because there happens to be a family connection. Kendra is related to the Dunns. The World Race group needed to fill a gap after completing the Irish portion of the trip, before continuing on to Egypt. So, Kendra got in touch with Scott and the plans became more concrete. I have to admit, even though I do not know much about the World Race, if all of the members are like this current team, I am very impressed.

A wonderful group of people have come to this city of Arad. Seeing their hearts by talking with them, worshiping with them and having fellowship with one another has been very beneficial to everyone here. Inevitably when working with people you can't truly get to know, there frequently be times of doubt and depression. The, "what have I gotten myself into" moments creep into the heads of everyone from time to time. Unfortunately, when living in a foreign country the problems are exponentially more discouraging. It was nice having a breath of fresh air come in the form of this team. It was a real pick-me-up, that was needed.

It is always surprising when your life is blessed by people you don't know. This has certainly been one of those times, which I will not forget.

Side-bar - making these types of connections is why I enjoy traveling so much. Even though I may never speak to these people ever again, they have shared in a part of my life. If I was ever to run into them again we could carry on like old chums. There is always the chance that somewhere down the road I might be able to help them in a more substantial way. Old friendships are what has allowed me to travel so freely these last several years.

A new ministry

I have very exciting news. I am a self-proclaimed sports fanatic to a ridiculous degree, and for the first time since I arrived in Romania last year I am able to use this fanaticism. Shortly after I arrived, Stephen saw that I was able to bring my baseball glove back with me this year and he went on to mention a new ministry that has begun in Bujac (an area of Arad on the west side). I was excited to hear that a missionary has begun teaching baseball to the kids of Arad. This thrills me to no end. I am by no means a great player, however through the countless hours of my childhood and adulthood watching baseball, I feel I have something to add.

All this on top of my being able to watch an American football game (the Browns no less) with actual Americans in my Romanian apartment was pretty wicked awesome. Unfortunately, it was a loss to the Minnesota Favres, but it will be the only game I get to watch this year with real people until the Super Bowl. On other sad news, it was another disappointing week for the Buckeyes of The Ohio State University. This will be something I will blog about at a later date, because my family has a history of supporting teams with no chance of winning (i.e. Cleveland Indians, Cleveland Browns, Cleveland Cavaliers with the latter having the best shot of winning within the next 10 years). The Walters' are by nature gluttons for punishment, but as I said that is a blog for another time and another place.

Cast of Characters

I began to realize that anyone reading this blog may find it difficult to understand without having a clear grasp of the people I'm talking about. Ergo, I present to you, the players of my life in Romania (with description).

The Dunns

Scott - the patriarch of the Dunn house. Scott's work consists of working with the Andres family in assisting the Emmanuel Church, promoting Romanian growth and cultivating leaders to take over the church.

Paula - the matriarch (married to Scott), is personable, the networker and is on the Oaza board. Paula works with the Oaza foundation to help provide for the children that are in the house, and those that have transitioned on.

Stephen - the older of the two Dunn children. Stephen is very gifted with numbers, and an overall bright kid. Entering his senior year, the job becomes finding the right situation as the family transitions home for a year of homestay.

Lydia - the baby, is equally intelligent. Lydia is the intrinsically motivated student that stays on top of her studies. She is also the one most likely to leave class early to go hang out downtown with friends.

The Balls

Spencer - hailing from Flint (we still get along with each other), this 29 year old family man came last year and has been working with the Oaza house. A general handyman and man with a car, Spencer does the little things that help the Oaza children get to the things they want to do.

Lynsey - is heavily involved in her own ministry with the children of Bujac. Lynsey teaches two English classes to anyone that wants to attend. With increasing numbers and interest from the community, this is a ministry that is taking off.

Trinity - the wisest member of the Ball family is an incredibly intelligent (and outspoken) four year old with a mind of her own. Trinity has already begun preparation for kindergarten when the family returns from their two year sojourn, and already has most of the skills mastered.

Jonathan - the wildcard of the Ball family. This rambunctious two year old is never short on energy, or mischievousness. Jonathan is hilarious and this occasionally gets him into trouble.

Principle Andres family

Nelu - the patriarch of the family and the Emmanuel church, Nelu has very graciously served the church since it was started.

Neli - the watchful mom, takes care of some of the day to day Oaza operations, including the distributing of goods to the children.

Laura - the eldest of the Andres children, it is Laura's vision that allows Oaza to be a reality. Incredibly kind and compassionate, Laura has helped the lives of many of Arad's children and served countless more.

Casius - number two in the family, is mostly involved with the Emmanuel church as part-time pastor and full time worship leader. Casi plays guitar and sings, and brings insight into the congregation. Casi is married to Daniela and they have a son, Timi

Patricia - more commonly known as Patri, works very closely with her sister in making sure Oaza runs smoothly. Parti has many duties including being with the kids throughout the day. Patri is married to Cesar (pronounced Che-zar) and they have a daughter, Nicol.

Although they are not with me in Romania, I would be remiss if I didn't include my own family, because they are a part of my story no matter where I find myself.

The Walter Family *snap* *snap*

Rev. Paul Walter - part-time pastor, part-time superintendent, but full time dad. Also, occasionally referred to as Pablo, by yours truly.

Cheryl (Shae-Shae) Walter - kindergarten teacher by day, family glue by night. Currently taking care of her school children and her own children.

Me - narrator extraordinaire

Liz Dusseau - Spring Arbor admissions representative, Liz is my introduction to much of what I am missing in the states, especially music. Married to Mark Dusseau, worship leader for the Jackson Free Methodist church and member of the band "Like Jonathan" (check them out on iTunes)

Amanda "Da" Riggle - certified elementary teacher (currently looking for full-time employment, if you hear of any openings). For the next two and a half months, a mother-to-be. Married to Josh Riggle, also a teacher that works hard to provide for the family.

Sarah "Zama" Walter - the youngest of the fam. Sarah will be graduating from Spring Arbor University a semester early. This is the one I have to look out for, she may be the only one that stands a chance of seeing more of the world than myself.

This concludes the brief overview of those with which I am mostly likely to talk about. At various times, I am sure I will introduce more players, however this list will suffice for now.

TV time

Continuing with what was started yesterday gets me to, what is sure to be my favorite new show of the fall. This again was something my sister, Liz, alerted me to. Last May while I was still in Romania, before heading home for the summer, I received a facebook message from said sister say that I needed to check out a new show. The Pilot was available for free download on iTunes, and she was sure that I was going to enjoy it. Much to my chagrin she was correct. That new show is "Glee", and I am geeking out over it.

Ever since I downloaded that first episode, I had been impatiently waiting for the rest of the show to start. Finally, after nearly four months of waiting (this past Wednesday), "Glee" was back. For those unfamiliar with the premise of the show, allow me to fill you in quickly. Glee takes place at the fictional William McKinley High School somewhere in Ohio, a school known for having a highly ranked cheerleading squad (the "Cheerios") and at one time an award winning showchoir group. Many years have passed since anyone at the school cared about the glee club, until a former member of the group (now a teach, Will), feels compelled to get the group competitive again. The task then becomes convincing the students that the glee club can actually be a fun activity. And hilarity ensues.

There are two things I am looking forward to from this show. The first, being a former showchoir participant, is the music. In the first two episodes, we have heard music from Journey, Kanye West and Rhianna. These were not just playing in the background, but incorporated into the actual show, sung by the cast members. This promises to be a very interesting way of telling a story through song. It also turns the entire show into a drawn out musical, which I love. The second thing I look forward to are the cameos and on air talent the show can bring. One of the leads already made a name for herself on Broadway as a member of the original cast of "Spring Awakening" (Lea Michelle). The other name I have heard will be making a guest appearance is Kristin Chenoweth.

I will be following this show very closely this year, and it is easily the newest guilty pleasure on the television.

New music

I first have to tip my hat to Liz and Mark for cuing me into this band. Thank you both.

I have now decided to make it my mission to get as many people addicted to the same things I am addicted to, so that I have others that can take part in the self-loathing that eventually takes place with guilty pleasures. The surprising thing, however, is that Owl City (despite how ridiculous the name looks) is an absolutely amazing band. The best part about it, is how multilayered the songs are. Everything is deeper when you take a step back. Complex tracks that boggle the mind, clever lyrics which many times mean more than what you originally think they do ("Then we'll take a long walk through the cornfield, and I'll kiss you between the ears") and a certain level of happiness to the music that makes me enjoy it more the more I listen to it.

I have mostly listened to the CD "Ocean Eyes", and confess to begin completely sucked in to it. With only a few tracks that I choose to skip, not because they are bad, but because I can't wait to get to the next song. As mentioned by my sister when we listened to the CD for the first time, she admitted to not having listened to the whole CD by herself, because she just listens to the first three songs repeatedly. I totally understand how this is possible.

For those who have not heard of Owl City allow me to make a comparison. At any given time, I believe they sound like a combination of Postal Service, Death Cab for Cutie with a piece of Relient K thrown in for good measure on occasion. It is peppy electronic music at its best. I personally gravitate toward "Cave In", "The Saltwater Room", "On the Wing" and "Fireflies".

I look forward to more music coming from this band, and strongly suggest that everyone check this band out at least once.

Adjustments

I love to travel. I know that many will not believe that, but it’s true. The crowded airports, the delays and the lost baggage. Oh, I love it. But I don’t like arriving at my destination, because inevitably it means that I need to start adjusting to the new time and place.

I am finding it a much more daunting task getting readjusted to Eastern European Standard Time than what I remember. Insomnia is confusing, especially when one knows they should be tired. It’s given me plenty of time to work on my musical (picture werewolves on the moon...with, you know, singing) and movie (just a small town girl, living in a lonely world). I may have gotten those mixed up, but I’m not sure.

But I can say that I have significantly more time than what I’m used to. I guess that’s what happens when you’re only getting two or three hours of sleep a night.