My 36th birthday was February 7, but the celebration lasted all week
as I had a piece of cake at least once every day of the week!
Monday I received a chocolate cupcake from my friend, Shan.
Tuesday, my students helped me celebrate with surprise cupcakes that my friend Chris made.
Students made some sweet birthday cards for me - most of which depict me in a dress wearing high heels, I find it interesting since the footwear of choice at school is slippers.
I introduced my students to Skype as we called my twin sister in the States to sing Happy Birthday to her. Since she visited us last spring my students were excited to see her again. (Although the fact that it was still Monday in the States and Tuesday in Japan was a bit confusing to them!)
Wednesday was the staff meeting where we celebrated with Japanese chestnut filled cakes.
Thursday we had shortcake and berries in class.
After school one of my students delivered this beautiful sponge cake with strawberries.
It was a good thing Friday was the school walk-a-thon! I needed to work off those calories!
I was also feeling spoiled with the fact that I received so many cards in the mail, letters through email, greetings on Facebook, and 4 boxes delivered for my birthday!
Not to mention Skype calls with family that brought laughter and joy.
It's been a year filled with unexpected adventures and a deepening of friendships.
The job I hold is different everyday and dull moments are few and far between.
I love the opportunity I have to influence so many young people for His Kingdom.
God has shown himself faithful and his love unfailing despite my own failings.
Next year will hold new adventures as I prepare to spend 6 months in the states for home assignment.
I'm looking forward to discovering the plans He has for me in the next 12 months.
Taking a question from another cross cultural worker's blog, I'd love to have you comment with your answer to the question . . .
Where were you and what were you doing
when you were 36 years old?
(If you're not 36 yet, tell me what you think you'll be doing then.)
4 comments:
Happy Belated Birthday Lori! I haven't been online too much lately, but wanted to let you know we think of you often! Recently we started "Missionary Mondays" - so you are prayed for at least every Monday! :) I should add too, that Seth and Haddie are fascinated with Asia (often when they go to bed they call out "Good Morning Asia!) Steve usually takes the computer to work, but the next time he leaves it at home I'll have to show them pictures from your blog - they will love it!
Hope you have a great week. God bless you!
~Natalie
What a great birthday week!!! So glad I could celebrate with you at KCS!
As for what I was doing when I turned 36. . . I am still only 29 so I can only imagine what it will be like at 36. =) Since I have a good imagination, I believe I will be pregnant and ready to have my first (and only) child. God will bless me with a baby that will be a blessing beyond my dreams (my doctor in the states told me I would not get pregnant).
Have a blessed day Lori!
Happy Birthday Lori!
When I was 36, I was taking my fourth and last (my daughter) to first grade and trying to cope with the thought that I would be home alone all day. Except I didn't stay home... for two years I volunteered several hours a day in the school. I think I had separation anxiety! :)
Lots of cake! Yum! Glad you could be celebrated all week.
I had just moved to Osaka when I was 36. I was starting on a new adventure-church planting! Although, it was several years before that actually started.
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