Out on a Limb.

I'm in Love.

These are the most incredible, and inspirational group of kids I have ever had the chance to meet, in my entire 19 years of living.

This week I have been blessed with 13 beautiful kids. Each one of them missing one or more limbs. Either they were born without them, or certain instances have caused them to be amputated. It's absoultely mind boggling the things that these cuties are able to do, even with their disabilities.

To name a few: (more to come)

Jerroth- Handsome little fella, and so smart. He is completely blind, autistic, and missing both legs, one arm, and only has 2 fingers on his other hand. And yet, he plays the piano exceptionally well. He can name off every type of Bear in the world, and he has some pretty swell dance moves to YMCA.

Nadia- My new "best friend" is how she refers to me... she's a doll. She is 5 years old, and as cute as a button with her huge blue eyes. Her parents adopted her from Russia when she was 14 months old. She is missing both of her arms, and has one leg shorter than the other. I dunno if anyone has seen Charlie Wilson's War, but she was the little girl in that movie. Discovery Channel has been out here all week doing a documentary on her I think...

I had no idea that almost half of these kids have been adopted from other countries. And I was told that the reason is, in other countries, when children have such visible disabilities, they are completely shunned. They see them as useless and troublesome. Which is why Erika lived in a bed for the first 8 years of her life, never getting to go outside or even being able to interact with other people. Until her mother (now) adopted her and brought her to the US. She's gorgeous, I swear she'll be a model one day.

Because of this, I want to adopt a child now.

It's incredible just being in the presence of these kids. And because there are so few of them I am able to play and talk with each and every one of them... I spent the whole day letting them paper mache my face and arms, dancing with them until I was literally dripping in sweat, and swimming with them until I started growing fins and gills. And yet, I'm still motivated to play some more. I wake up in the morning excited to start my day. Not that I wasn't before, it's just I have a little more gumption now...

Well. Until tomorrow, I'm out. I'm late for dinner.

Putt Putt and Fishing tonight, followed by dessert in the Theatre. Woot Woot.

I am SO Blessed.

I have been blessed

And I feel like I've found my way

I thank God for all I've been given

At the end of every day

I have been blessed

With so much more than I deserve

To be here with the ones that love me

To love them so much it hurts

I have been blessed

-Martina McBride

These lyrics explain, dead on, how I feel right now.

I am so fortunate in this life that God has so lovingly given to me. I have a family who loves the death out of me, I have friends that would drop everything to come and see me when I'm hurting, and I am fortunate to be in good health. What more could I ask for?

Mom, Dad, Pani, Jeff, Gramma, Poppa, Nana, Papa, Brittany, Char and Nicole, Lindsay, and Jake.

I love you all with my entire heart.

And I'm so blessed to have each and every one of you in my life.

Camp Bluebonnet

This week is Camp Bluebonnet, a Day camp for children with Diabetes. 200 of the little crumb snatchers running around mad...

It's different from every other camp because the kids leave to go home at 4 everyday. Ahhhh.. (Sigh of Relaxation)

They are such cuties too.. I have been at High Ropes the last 3 days, working the "Big Swing"
And I swear. Kids say the darndest things...

Yesterday, one of the little girls I was putting a harness on, started talking to me. This is how the conversation went. (She's in 4th Grade)

Caleigh- "My little brother is in 2nd grade. He has a diabetes, and two girlfriends."

Me-"Two girlfriends? Isn't that illegal?"

Caleigh- "Not if you live in Utah, I hear that you can have two husbands AND two wives if you live there."

I about lost it. I was laughing so hard. How on earth do these little kids know these things. And then I started thinking back to when I was in 4th Grade. Yeah I was little, but I knew what was up. Haha. I had an "idea" about certain things... hahaa.. man. I miss those days.

4th Grade. HAH. Good ole igneous rock studying, caterpillar racing, days.

I want those days back.

It's a good thing I can live vicariously through these kids. It keeps me young. ;)

Anyways, We have a volunteer out here this week. His name is Daniel, he's amazing. And completely deaf, but his hearing aid allows him to hear a little bit. I'm learning lot's of Sign Language.

Camp Grey Dove Follow Up.

Okay, So this whole blogging thing truly is hard to keep up with.

But I have started a little journal on my laptop, so that I can write down certain things at night so that I don't forget by the time I get the chance to share them with y'all...

I do want to share a little something that I think might interest whoever reads my blogs... (More importantly, my Gramma.. who I know reads them daily. I love you Grams.)

First off. A little background info. Peaceable Kingdom was started in memory of a little boy named Charlie who passed away when he was about 11 months due to a heart ailment, in the early 80's. My boss Scott, and his family have been running the place ever since. And it's beautiful, and has already become one of my many "home away from home's."

So with every camp that we have out here we give out the "Baby Charlie Award" to one kiddo who shows courage, and stands out to us as a Staff. Granted, all the kids are worthy of the award each and every week. But we choose to acknowledge one.

So last week there was a beautiful little girl named Kallysta. She's 8 years old I believe.
Well at the beginning of the week she told one of my fellow staff members that she wanted to go home, she was sad, and scared, and didn't want to be here at camp. Well several days later we saw her happy and running around, and enjoying herself. So we asked her how she was doing. And she told us, "I don't want to go home anymore, I know I'm supposed to be here because today I found a quarter outside." We were like uhhh okay... and she said "Before my little sister died we used to collect quarters that we found laying around outside. Because it's really unusual to ever find quarters on the ground."

Well that girl did not hold back after that day, she tried everything. She did all of the high ropes activities, and did them with a big smile. She danced and played. And you could tell that she was just so happy and content. On the last day that we had the kids, we were doing closing ceremonies in the theatre... and Kallysta was randomly following me around.
So she just started talking to me and telling me about the things that her family has experienced. Her little sister passed away 4 years ago. Her name was Justice Faith, and she was 2 years old. She started developing tumors in her brain, and as soon as one was removed, another formed in it's place. The doctors finally told her mom that Justice only has 6 months to live. So together as a family they went to San Antonio for a "Make a Wish Foundation" trip. Which I believe is for children with cancer. And that's when they started collecting quarters.

So here I am with this beautiful little girl who is already filled with so much life, and she's teaching me a life lesson... during a 15 minute conversation at the back of a sloppy joe line. Amazing.
When she walked away, of course Kenny Chesney's- Who You'd Be Today, came on the radio. And made me an even bigger mess....

(Later that night) After all the kids had left, I was cleaning up one of the cabins. And underneath one of the beds I found a little painting, covered in glitter that said, "Justice."

So I cried. Again.
I Love My Job.

Only a life lived for others, is a life worthwhile. -Albert Einstein

Camp Grey Dove

Tuesday June 16

This week at Peaceable Kingdom we have Camp Grey Dove, which is a group of 49 kiddos, 12 counselors, and like 6 counselors in training (CIT’s)… The kids don’t have a physical diagnosis, because they are the brothers and sisters of kids who have or have had cancer. So although they show no physical complications, emotional problems are another thing. And can I just say that going from my first week working with the visually impaired, to working with physically normal kids is like a blow to the chest. It’s so hard for me to love on these kids… Let me give you an example.
The kids with visual impairments last week, although some of them had an attitude, they were for the most part, so kick back, and fun, and happy, and very grateful for everything. They constantly helped their peers, whether it was helping them by sight guiding them, getting their food for them, or even just helping each other play putt putt… and us as staff were constantly needed and wanted by them at all times. This week, the kids are fully capable on their own to get their food, and to do the activities, I feel so useless. I mean I know I still have to do my job, but I don’t feel like the kids “need me.” It’s so weird. It’s also weird to be around “normal” kids, if I can use that term… I’ve forgotten how to work with them almost. After a week, can you believe that?
But anywho, so after I cleaned the kids’ cabins out last week I came across a sadly left behind One Year Bible, so I went ahead and took it upon myself to adopt it... And it’s really cool, it’s basically described as putting your bible on an i-pod and pressing shuffle. . It’s sectioned off for like every day of the year, hence the title, but it’s random chapters of the bible every day. I like it.
Anyways. Long story, long. I found some really amazing verses that I’d like to share…

God blesses those who are poor and realize their need for him, for the Kingdom of heaven is theirs.
God blesses those who mourn, for they will be comforted.
God blessed those who are humble, for they will inherit the whole earth.
God blesses those who hunger and thirst for justice, for they will be satisfied.
God blesses those who are merciful, for they will be shown mercy.
God blesses those whose hearts are pure, for they will see God.
God blesses those who work for peace, for they will be called the children of God.
God blesses those who are persecuted for doing right, for the Kingdom of Heaven is theirs.
Matthew 5:3-10

Some Camp Pictures

Well, I know this is going to depress a lot of people, but because of liability reasons I cannot post any pictures of the kids. However, I will have a photo album made by the end of the summer so that everyone can get a chance to flip through it and see the beautful kids I work with.

But. I can post other pictures. So here ya go. :)

The face-board thinggy ma-jig that I painted...

Ropes Course. :)

This picture is for you, Daddy-o. Remember the Barney days?

Day 2: Camp Teen Challenge (Tues)

Oh my gosh. Where to even begin. I think I say that in just about every opening of my blogs. Hah. Forgive me, but seriously… I don’t even know where to start. Today was the second day of Camp Teen Challenge, working with children with different visual impairments. Yesterday, I was able to feel everything out, and know where I stand as far as; what questions can I ask the kids, what can I say around them, etc… And today, I feel like, was more-so a day for me to get more personal with them. So I started with a simple and easy question, “So what exactly CAN you see?”
And it was absolutely incredible the various responses I got from the kids. Dominique was born premature and has always been blind. Although he cracks jokes about Jackie resembling a chimpmunk, he never actually has seen a chipmunk. So I asked him, “So if you have never been able to see a chipmunk, how do you know what it looks like?” And he simply told me, well- “When people describe it to me, or if I can feel it, I’m able to paint my own picture in my mind of what a chipmunk might look like.” Incredible, right?

Noah and Titus on the other hand, brothers, are slowly going blind, I think they are 8 and 13 or something. And it was absolutely heart wrenching to hear their answer when I asked them the same question. “The doctors say that I will eventually go blind.” Wow. Two very polar opposites, going from- never having seen in your life, to-being able to see the things God created, but having that ability taken away. Oh my goodness.

I also worked at different stations today with the kids, I was really pumped up when I signed myself to help at the woodworking station. Cause we all know me, right? Hah. Well yeah, I met Pete and his wife, a very sweet and wise older couple teaching the woodworking stuff. Anyways, he got to talking to the kids, and then all of a sudden he starts telling his testimony. And he starts it off by saying, “Hey guys, I’m Pete, and I’m blind just like you.” What the heck? This guy was just carrying a conversation with me 5 minutes ago, and he was also using power tools, and I had NO idea he was blind. He goes on to tell the kids, “Look guys, there’s one path you can take in life, but at one point that path will fork, and you will have to make a decision, either you can sit around and do nothing with your life, or get up and try your hardest. And I am not ashamed to talk about my faith; it’s because of my heavenly father that I am able to do the things I love in my life, even with a disability.” Welp, there’s when I lost it. I just started crying.

Seriously, I wish that I would just be able to stand up in the middle of a room, open wounded, and just talk about my God. But no, I’m terrified. Terrified of people judging me, calling me the goody two shoes church girl, treating me differently, or worrying that I might offend someone. I just really need to grow a set of balls, and lay my faith right on my sleeve. But man, it’s easier said than done…

All this to say: I had a friggin rough day. Haha. Emotionally I am a wreck, mentally I am not all there, and Physically- don’t even get me started. I work 14 hour days. Kitchen duty for me in the morning. It’s now 12 am, and I must be up at 6am. No need for sympathy, it’s not necessary. Because I LOVE my job. I love it. As hard as it is. I wouldn’t want to do anything else with my summer.

I thank my God for eyes to see, ears to hear, and a heart to receive all the beautiful things this life has to offer me.
Peace.

I Suck at Blogging Regularly.

Well, today is Saturday. My first day off since being at Peaceable Kingdom.

I slept in until 10am, it was incredible...

Woke up and started painting the little "face board thinggy-ma-bobbers" you know, with the little cartoon bodies that you stick your head through?

Anyways, since I'm the artist on staff it was up to me (and Tyler) to come up with a silly idea for the boards, and paint them this weekend. Well, since the theme is PKRC Strong (like Army Strong) I decided to paint some hardcore skydivers dressed in camo... it's pretty awesome. I'll post pics up later.

Then we went to the movies. And out to dinner with the boss-man.

Good day.

Tomorrow, we will prolly do the same.

PRAY FOR ME Y'ALL.

I get my first group of kiddo's on Monday. I'm filled with mixed emotions. Excited, thrilled, and ohhh soo nervous. Remember all that responsibility talk? Yep. Now I've gotta put it into action.

I will be working with Children with visual impairments.

Pray for my ability to just love on these kids, and to be able to minister to them.

Pray for energy, because coffee ain't cutting it.

And also pray for God to humble my soul...

and the ability to give myself up for the needs of these kids, and to serve my God.

Until later,

I love you.

Nature.

In the words of a wise natureman. Mr. Grant Critchfield,
"If you just pay attention to Nature, it will speak to you, and tell you stories."

I know you're thinking... PAH.. that's only tree-hugging nonsense.

No it's not. Seriously, think about it... Nature is beautiful, God made it that way for a reason.

Let the fields and their crops burst forth with joy!

Let the trees of the forest rustle with praise!

Psalm 96:12

Instead of walking right past an anthill to avoid stepping on a bunch of ants, Grant (the nature Guru here at PKRC) stopped in his tracks, leaned down and said, "come look at these Harvester Ants guys, they travel around in a certain order just looking for seeds to bring back to the nest, after they peel away the shells, they pile them up outside of the hole. Look at em."

Oh you little harvester ants, you.. they are so smart... they are organized, they follow the plans given to them, and at the end of the day, their "Queen" is pleased with them.

Kind of like us. Hah... bet you weren't expecting this analogy at all, were you? ;)
We are "intended" to follow the plans that God himself gives to us. Whether we like the idea or not. I mean, duh... it's gunna be hard. But in the end, if it pleases my King, hey.. count me in!

Human plans, no matter how wise or well advised,

cannot stand against the LORD.

Proverbs 21:30

So anyways, this morning was over-all pretty exciting. I learned about the different types of birds in Central Texas, different plants, and little creatures, and I even got a little bit of fishing time in, today. I forgot how much I really enjoyed just walking through the woods...

Corey, our new "on staff" chef... made us 3 incredible meals today. Holy moley, I am so spoiled... I totally thought for the longest time that I would be cooking all of the meals, for the staff... and campers. But oh no... then walks in the New Orleans native, Mister Corey. Whew. I'm gunna be fat by the end of this summer, if he keeps cooking those stinkin' good meals everyday.

CPR Training tomorrow. We shall see how well I can give the hind-lick.

I mean... the heimlich..

(Dad, that cheesy joke was for you.)

Some pics from today:

I even made a cute little wooden cross. :)

And caught a few little Blue Gill...

Responsibility? What?

Well-

Ropes Training was quite an event...
Can I just start off by saying that Central Texas, is freaking beautiful... and no I don't mean UMHB or Temple, or even Belton...
Out here, in the woods... in the middle of nowhere. It's beautiful.
Wildflowers everywhere, trees, cactus, birds, armadillo, wild deer, everywhere. I love it.

Actually, funny story- last night.. or was it two nights ago? Look I'm already forgetting the days, guess I need to keep up on this a little better. Hah. Well anyways, a doe chased me all the way back to my cabin, I guess she was afraid that I was coming after her little fawn. But anyways. It was freaky. haha..

I am now officially a certified High Ropes facilitator. :)
I can set up, take town, belay, zip line, catwalk, rockwall... go me.

Today was a little more in depth training, per say... We learned, basically more responsibility... It kind of freaked me out a little, not gunna lie. I mean, I'm no longer the little kid who just cimbs up a ladder and hops onto a zip line, and that's all there is to it.

NO. I am the one IN CHARGE, those little lives are depending on me to keep them safe... I don't have anyone out there walking me through any of the processes nor do I have someone double checking my caribeaners for me... nope. IT'S ALL ME. Freaky.

But anyways. I thought it might be kind of cool for you guys to know the kinds of little cuties I will be working with this summer... So... I'm gunna put up the handy little list.

• Camp Teen Challenge- Vision impaired students
• Cam Grey Dove- Siblings of Cancer patients
• Patriot Kids Ministries- Kids of Military Families
• Camp Bluebonnet- Diabetes Children of all ages
• Out on a Limb- Multiple Limb amputees
• Soaring Eagle- Neurological Disorders
• Project Heartbeat- Displaced Students
• Camp Care A Lot- Mixed Diagnosis
• Hands Down 2- Hand differences
• Camp Just Like Me- Arthrogryposis
• YMCA Armed Services- Childeren of Deployed Soldiers

So, there's my emotional rollercoaster for the summer. :)

I'm excited, and nervous as well... But I know that God is going to do incredible things this summer.

Love you all, and I'll check back in when I can. :)