Merry Christmas to all of you! Bonne Noel as they say in Khmer (yes, It's stolen from the French who brought it over!)
It's Christmas Eve morning here as I write, and we're going to be preparing some food for a traditional dinner tomorrow. I'm sure that's what most of you are doing too! Receiving visitors and company? Sounds great. We will have 5, single female staff members over for dinner tomorow, so that will leave Dean with 9 women around his table! Lucky guy!
Christmas in Asia is a stretch at best, but you have to hear this funny story that puts it all in perspective. This past tuesday, I phoned our orthodontist, as Julia's retainer had broken and was in need of repair. The Malaysian doctor that attends to us (and trains the Khmer dentists at this office) was already gone for Christmas, so I asked if there was anyone else on staff who could repair the retainer. Yes, another dentist could look at it. "You can come in on Saturday at 2:30."
While I was desperate to get this fixed before we left for holidays, I had to step back a minute. Saturday?? Wasn't I busy that day???....
Ha ha. "No, sorry, We can't come saturday." Can you imagine? Openning presents christmas morning, going to the orthodontist in the afternoon, having turkey dinner in the evening! Now that's some dedicated doctors, willing to sacrifice their Christmas day to help us fix a retainer! haha. (They obliged to see us on Thursday!)
So, aside from all the Christians here having a great old time preparing to celebrate christmas, life still goes on as normal. We see more kids on motos, dressed in red santa suits and dresses, and the christmas tree decorations are in the stores, but otherwise, same, same, as they say here.
Finally, the girls and I had to head to the "mall" yesterday to finish up some "last minute shopping." Wouldn't you know, by a display of Boston Books (a north american bookstore company here in town) there was a Santa! He was a Khmer Santa, sitting there on a makeshift throne, just sitting there, not doing a whole heck of a lot, expect waiting for the odd person to come by with a child and he's give them a candy! Did I mention he was just sitting there? No long line-ups through the mall, no other decorations, just a brown skinned Santa, looking bored out of his skull, probably mortifiably embarassed at his profession for the day! It was hilarious.
Maya saw him first, but of course, refused to go and visit with him. She did want to look from a cautious distance, though. "Is that the real santa??" What a question! No honey, sorry!~ That's a Khmer Santa. It was too cute. It was kind of like seeing the "black" Jesus picture on the walls of churches in the deep south, in America!
Well, Blessings to you all. Enjoy your family times and celebrations. We will miss you but enjoy our "family" out here and our break from school. I leave you with some devotional words that I read that really resounded with me. In fact, my personal Christmas wish and new years resolution are all pretty much wrapped and summed up below... All I want for Christmas is an entire filling!
"Even as believers, we often make it our first aim to find out who we are, what we desire, what pleases us and makes us happy. Then we bring in God in the second place to secure this happiness. We do not discern that God must have us at His disposal even in the most trivial details of our life to manifest His divine glory in us. We are not aware that this entire filling with the will and operation of God would also prove to be our highest happiness."
-Andrew Murray
Thursday, December 23, 2010
Sunday, December 19, 2010
It's over, baby!
Congratulations to the High School Choir and Middle School band, who wrapped up the Logos Christmas Concert Season in high style, with a great concert this past Saturday night.
Now Mrs. Weiss can breath....
I (Lesley) am officially now in the Christmas spirit here at the Weiss house in Cambodia, now that all the concerts are over. It's not like I was wishing them just to be done (at all!) but now that they are finished, it's just such a huge sigh of relief that all went well and we made it! The band played great, and as last year, impressed the audience with their ability to sound like a real band, after just such a short few months on their instruments! It's always great for me to hear as well. I accompanied some solos and the high school choir, so it was a very involved night. Not to mention singing in the staff choir--Mr. Weiss made his debut choir performance as well last night, to the jousts and cheers of the ecstatic audience. (For some reason, the staff choir incited this mayhem!) Our auditorium was full, the new stage was all decked out with the new curtainry, and the power didn't go off! Yay!
So, just a quick update on that. Julia performed last Thursday morning and evening, as Winnie the Pooh in the middle school drama and she was a riot! I hope to get a picture forwarded soon. She's a chip off the old block, that one! Quite entertaining to watch.
Lucky Steph is still in the middle of exams, but for a first timer, she's doing great. The first 3 went pretty well, but the poor kid is facing Biology and Algebra 2 tomorrow (I think it's bothering me more than her!) Anways, she doesn't like the lonliness of so much studying, but hopefully her hard work over the year will pay off now.
We certainly hope these last few days leading up to Christmas will be excellent for you and your families. WE will really miss not being with loved ones again this Christmas, but are greatful for all the friends we have here. Even just tonight, we went out for Indian food with a large group of staff and it was so much fun. We also attended a city wide combined church service held in a large hall at one of the high end hotels here in the city. It was many of the international churches here in Phnom Penh. What a blessed time--seriously, you looked around that room and just saw the world represented in almost every size, shape and color. It was so very cool. Makes me continually think, "to what do I owe this awesome experience???" Simply grace. God is Good.
Well, we sure hope to connect over the phone with immediate family this season, and once we're in Thailand, that should be much easier, so please expect more contact from us on or around the 28th. And just incase you're interested, there's been a cold spell these last few days. Some rain bringing with it a cool system, blew in about 3 or so days ago, and since then, it's been as "winter" as it gets here! Plus 22 in the mornings, then it warms up. Almost don't need air con at school AND, seriously, we're all chilly sleeping at night, our toes are cold, and the kids are wrapped up in fleece blankets. (Well, Dean isn't cold, but he never is, so he doesn't count!) So, we're thinking of you all in your snowy seasons, as we have to actually wear long sleeves on the motos, while we drive to school ! haha.
Love yous and God Bless!!! Merry Christmas!
L
Now Mrs. Weiss can breath....
I (Lesley) am officially now in the Christmas spirit here at the Weiss house in Cambodia, now that all the concerts are over. It's not like I was wishing them just to be done (at all!) but now that they are finished, it's just such a huge sigh of relief that all went well and we made it! The band played great, and as last year, impressed the audience with their ability to sound like a real band, after just such a short few months on their instruments! It's always great for me to hear as well. I accompanied some solos and the high school choir, so it was a very involved night. Not to mention singing in the staff choir--Mr. Weiss made his debut choir performance as well last night, to the jousts and cheers of the ecstatic audience. (For some reason, the staff choir incited this mayhem!) Our auditorium was full, the new stage was all decked out with the new curtainry, and the power didn't go off! Yay!
So, just a quick update on that. Julia performed last Thursday morning and evening, as Winnie the Pooh in the middle school drama and she was a riot! I hope to get a picture forwarded soon. She's a chip off the old block, that one! Quite entertaining to watch.
Lucky Steph is still in the middle of exams, but for a first timer, she's doing great. The first 3 went pretty well, but the poor kid is facing Biology and Algebra 2 tomorrow (I think it's bothering me more than her!) Anways, she doesn't like the lonliness of so much studying, but hopefully her hard work over the year will pay off now.
We certainly hope these last few days leading up to Christmas will be excellent for you and your families. WE will really miss not being with loved ones again this Christmas, but are greatful for all the friends we have here. Even just tonight, we went out for Indian food with a large group of staff and it was so much fun. We also attended a city wide combined church service held in a large hall at one of the high end hotels here in the city. It was many of the international churches here in Phnom Penh. What a blessed time--seriously, you looked around that room and just saw the world represented in almost every size, shape and color. It was so very cool. Makes me continually think, "to what do I owe this awesome experience???" Simply grace. God is Good.
Well, we sure hope to connect over the phone with immediate family this season, and once we're in Thailand, that should be much easier, so please expect more contact from us on or around the 28th. And just incase you're interested, there's been a cold spell these last few days. Some rain bringing with it a cool system, blew in about 3 or so days ago, and since then, it's been as "winter" as it gets here! Plus 22 in the mornings, then it warms up. Almost don't need air con at school AND, seriously, we're all chilly sleeping at night, our toes are cold, and the kids are wrapped up in fleece blankets. (Well, Dean isn't cold, but he never is, so he doesn't count!) So, we're thinking of you all in your snowy seasons, as we have to actually wear long sleeves on the motos, while we drive to school ! haha.
Love yous and God Bless!!! Merry Christmas!
L
Friday, December 10, 2010
The good, the bad, the...trusting.
"On a good day, enjoy yourself;
On a bad day, examine your conscience.
God arranges for both kinds of days
So that we won't take anything for granted."Ecclesiastes 7:14, The Message
Well, that about sums things up! The good out here is so very, very good. The bad days, well, we all have them I know. Here it just seems multiplied and for very good reason.
The good...
The Elementary Christmas Concert went very well this past Wed. evening. Kids were very excited and once again, we packed the gym. With our larger facility this year, things were not so squishy and the breeze that flowed through the more open space of our new gym, was a blessing. Kids did great, the Christmas message was clear, and the candy canes at the end of the show were a hit! Some picts to follow soon.
The most exciting part of this Christmas Production Season for me so far, is Logos' acquisition of a new and multi functioning stage! Up until now, we have used some small wooden risers for a lift, or rented stages for a fairly expensive price. Well, the time had come, with plans to run a large musical at the end of this year, to invest in a decent stage for Logos, which was large, could be disassembled, stored, set up in various styles, could hang lights, etc. The admin looked seriously into all this, and did all the grunt work, finding out what our arts department wanted and needed, then got quotes from various builders around town. The final product is unbelievably gorgeous (you will see in pictures) and is so multi funtioning--even each stage flooring can double as a large table if needed! ) So, having our Christmas concert on this brand new, really nice stage was half the enjoyment for me! Logos now has this forever, and it is money well spent! Thanks for all the donations to the jog-a-thon, cuz that's what did this for us!
COming up still, is the middle school concert (next weekend) for Lesley, and Julia has a drama production next thursday. She's Winnie the Pooh (much to her chagrin) in a middle school play, so this should be fun to watch! Steph, poor kid, has 7 exams coming up at the end of next week, and the week after, to end this first term. This is her first foray into exams, being her first hear in high school, so although it is stressful for all kids, she is doing ok, and is a very independent studyier and enjoys academics. So, at least she has that going for her. She will do well, but still has to endure the studying.
You can all pray for Dean over the next few months, as he will be "flying solo" so to speak, running the ship at Logos. Dan Hein and his pregnant wife Jess leave this sunday to go have thier second baby in America, with a Christmas stop in Canada first. That means Dean will be the only administrator around until March. Now while Dan is always available through skype and e-mail and will be there for communication, he still really needs this break, and Dean does not need to run to him with every little thing. So, it's going to be an interesting (and busy)few months. A job that regularily takes 2, is now going to be handled by one. All the best on that one, Dean!
Christmas parties--the staff party was just held last night, we hung out with friends and decorated cookies the weekend before. Our tree is up and lights are on every morning and evening. We sure have to make our own Christmas excitement to feel in the spirit out here, but it really has been fun to gather as family over these alst few occasions. A bit of Christmas shopping as best we can out here, and everyone gets excited!
And there is more good. We finally were able to book some rooms for Christmas in Thailand, with friends of ours, so we now know for sure that we will be able to get away for the break. This is a huge sigh of releif and thanksgiving as we get to travel with friends for about 6 days, and we know we will have a bit of a holiday as well afterwards, taking the bus from the ocean in to Bangkok. We are so looking forward to it. THe kids still say their first choice for a Christmas destination spot is Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada! But, we say that this will probably be their last tropical Christmas in a very long time, so it is best they enjoy it. So funny--how many of you in those cold climates wouldn't give a right leg to be on a Thai beach in December?? And our kids want snow! haha.
The bad these last few weeks, more for me, (Lesley) has been the culture stress. Not even the stress of school or concerts, but since the accidents, many things have still been difficult. By accidents, I refer to our traffic incidents and also the greater tragedy of the stampede on the bridge. All these things together cause what is referred to as "culture stress" and you would think after having been here for 2 1/2 years, I would be used to things already. Although for people out here this is considered a normal struggle to deal with at one time or another, but the stresses come in waves.
After our evening car accident, I simply struggle to even try and drive at night in our vehicle. It is hard to see, lighting is bad on the streets in general, it is just too much for me right now. So either I don't go out, or I take a moto a short distance. The result of this is feeling very much trapped at home, feeling like you are not safe to journey out after 6 pm when it gets dark. These feelings get very old and tiring when they last for so long. It's frustrating.
Plus, now with the post traumatic stress I am dealing with, I feel like many Cambodian's look at me with distrust or wish I would leave their country. This is not true, but it is definitely some of my thoughts as I am driving around. I don't see their outward friendly smiles, I see them as someone not to trust. OR I find I am more frustrated and angry that things are done a certain Cambodian way. For example, things in traffic that used to make us laugh, or we could take lightly seem to excite more negative emotion rather than laughter. (I speak for myself- Dean seems fine.)
This is all post traumatic stress. I know this. Many of these thoughts are not true, either, and I have to take them captive. I know this. Doing all this and putting emotional and mental health into action is harder. Especially when you're particularily busy at work, or at least can make excuses of that.
This is why the words at Eccelsiastes are so important. God allows us all these kinds of times and situations, so that we won't take anything for granted and trust him. And, be thankful.
I hope this Christmas Season is not finding you so ridiculously busy or stressed out, that you can't enjoy things. More Ecclesiastes on that:
18-20" After looking at the way things are on this earth, here's what I've decided is the best way to live: Take care of yourself, have a good time, and make the most of whatever job you have for as long as God gives you life. And that's about it. That's the human lot. Yes, we should make the most of what God gives, both the bounty and the capacity to enjoy it, accepting what's given and delighting in the work. It's God's gift! God deals out joy in the present, the now. It's useless to brood over how long we might live. "-the Message
On a bad day, examine your conscience.
God arranges for both kinds of days
So that we won't take anything for granted."Ecclesiastes 7:14, The Message
 |
| From Maya's grade 1 class at the afternoon elementary christmas concert |
Well, that about sums things up! The good out here is so very, very good. The bad days, well, we all have them I know. Here it just seems multiplied and for very good reason.
The good...
 |
| From Lesley in here element. Running the elementary christmas concert |
The Elementary Christmas Concert went very well this past Wed. evening. Kids were very excited and once again, we packed the gym. With our larger facility this year, things were not so squishy and the breeze that flowed through the more open space of our new gym, was a blessing. Kids did great, the Christmas message was clear, and the candy canes at the end of the show were a hit! Some picts to follow soon.
 |
| Principal Dean giving introductory talk at the elementary christmas concert and showcasing the new stage |
The most exciting part of this Christmas Production Season for me so far, is Logos' acquisition of a new and multi functioning stage! Up until now, we have used some small wooden risers for a lift, or rented stages for a fairly expensive price. Well, the time had come, with plans to run a large musical at the end of this year, to invest in a decent stage for Logos, which was large, could be disassembled, stored, set up in various styles, could hang lights, etc. The admin looked seriously into all this, and did all the grunt work, finding out what our arts department wanted and needed, then got quotes from various builders around town. The final product is unbelievably gorgeous (you will see in pictures) and is so multi funtioning--even each stage flooring can double as a large table if needed! ) So, having our Christmas concert on this brand new, really nice stage was half the enjoyment for me! Logos now has this forever, and it is money well spent! Thanks for all the donations to the jog-a-thon, cuz that's what did this for us!
 |
| From Maya singing her heart out at the evening christmas concert in the gym |
COming up still, is the middle school concert (next weekend) for Lesley, and Julia has a drama production next thursday. She's Winnie the Pooh (much to her chagrin) in a middle school play, so this should be fun to watch! Steph, poor kid, has 7 exams coming up at the end of next week, and the week after, to end this first term. This is her first foray into exams, being her first hear in high school, so although it is stressful for all kids, she is doing ok, and is a very independent studyier and enjoys academics. So, at least she has that going for her. She will do well, but still has to endure the studying.
 |
| From Les giving directions during the evening elementary christmas concert |
You can all pray for Dean over the next few months, as he will be "flying solo" so to speak, running the ship at Logos. Dan Hein and his pregnant wife Jess leave this sunday to go have thier second baby in America, with a Christmas stop in Canada first. That means Dean will be the only administrator around until March. Now while Dan is always available through skype and e-mail and will be there for communication, he still really needs this break, and Dean does not need to run to him with every little thing. So, it's going to be an interesting (and busy)few months. A job that regularily takes 2, is now going to be handled by one. All the best on that one, Dean!
Christmas parties--the staff party was just held last night, we hung out with friends and decorated cookies the weekend before. Our tree is up and lights are on every morning and evening. We sure have to make our own Christmas excitement to feel in the spirit out here, but it really has been fun to gather as family over these alst few occasions. A bit of Christmas shopping as best we can out here, and everyone gets excited!
And there is more good. We finally were able to book some rooms for Christmas in Thailand, with friends of ours, so we now know for sure that we will be able to get away for the break. This is a huge sigh of releif and thanksgiving as we get to travel with friends for about 6 days, and we know we will have a bit of a holiday as well afterwards, taking the bus from the ocean in to Bangkok. We are so looking forward to it. THe kids still say their first choice for a Christmas destination spot is Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada! But, we say that this will probably be their last tropical Christmas in a very long time, so it is best they enjoy it. So funny--how many of you in those cold climates wouldn't give a right leg to be on a Thai beach in December?? And our kids want snow! haha.
The bad these last few weeks, more for me, (Lesley) has been the culture stress. Not even the stress of school or concerts, but since the accidents, many things have still been difficult. By accidents, I refer to our traffic incidents and also the greater tragedy of the stampede on the bridge. All these things together cause what is referred to as "culture stress" and you would think after having been here for 2 1/2 years, I would be used to things already. Although for people out here this is considered a normal struggle to deal with at one time or another, but the stresses come in waves.
After our evening car accident, I simply struggle to even try and drive at night in our vehicle. It is hard to see, lighting is bad on the streets in general, it is just too much for me right now. So either I don't go out, or I take a moto a short distance. The result of this is feeling very much trapped at home, feeling like you are not safe to journey out after 6 pm when it gets dark. These feelings get very old and tiring when they last for so long. It's frustrating.
Plus, now with the post traumatic stress I am dealing with, I feel like many Cambodian's look at me with distrust or wish I would leave their country. This is not true, but it is definitely some of my thoughts as I am driving around. I don't see their outward friendly smiles, I see them as someone not to trust. OR I find I am more frustrated and angry that things are done a certain Cambodian way. For example, things in traffic that used to make us laugh, or we could take lightly seem to excite more negative emotion rather than laughter. (I speak for myself- Dean seems fine.)
This is all post traumatic stress. I know this. Many of these thoughts are not true, either, and I have to take them captive. I know this. Doing all this and putting emotional and mental health into action is harder. Especially when you're particularily busy at work, or at least can make excuses of that.
This is why the words at Eccelsiastes are so important. God allows us all these kinds of times and situations, so that we won't take anything for granted and trust him. And, be thankful.
I hope this Christmas Season is not finding you so ridiculously busy or stressed out, that you can't enjoy things. More Ecclesiastes on that:
18-20" After looking at the way things are on this earth, here's what I've decided is the best way to live: Take care of yourself, have a good time, and make the most of whatever job you have for as long as God gives you life. And that's about it. That's the human lot. Yes, we should make the most of what God gives, both the bounty and the capacity to enjoy it, accepting what's given and delighting in the work. It's God's gift! God deals out joy in the present, the now. It's useless to brood over how long we might live. "-the Message
 |
| elementary christmas concert see all 113 pics here |
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