Back In America...

Dear Family & Friends,

I wanted to write a blog to let everyone know that I have made it safely home to North Carolina. When you live in one place for your entire life you do not realize how much you will miss the little things that surround you at home. From the crickets outside chirping in the middle of the night, your bed and the way it feels when you lay your head down at night or seeing things that you see everyday like your family members, friends and pets.

For the past two months I was able to experience something that many people will never even have a chance to see in their lifetime. I was able to go to Hungary and live on my own. I have learned so many things about myself through this experience. I will be eternally grateful that I was able to follow the footsteps of God to this location and be touched by the rich heritage of the children and people of Hungary.

First, I have become more independent. More independent in ways that some of you might would think that I should have already conquered. Unfortunately, I have to admit that there were things that I never thought that I would get through. But through those experiences I became a stronger and more reliable person. Nobody can take those things away from you.

Secondly, I had to start relying on God when I felt fearful. Fear is something that takes over my brain and holds on tight. Thankfully, I found comfort in looking to the Lord about the things that I would become the most fearful about. Through this, God and I have become a stronger team and for that I will always be thankful. Without God, nothing is possible. Right?

Thirdly, I learned that sometimes things do not happen the way that you expect them too. There were many cases of this in Hungary. Living in a different culture is already hard enough. Then you add the isolation, the loneliness, the language barrier and the extra time that you have (which I had quite a bit!) These things were things that brought pros and cons into the situation. Sometimes I did not know how to handle these situations and unfortunately, maybe did not handle them correctly. At the same time, I believe that I mentally got myself through the time that I was there. Anyone that is gone for this amount of period is going to start longing for what was once normal.

Lastly, I learned about friendships. I have always known that “Friendships Come and Go,” but I hated to see them ‘GO’ when I left Budapest. I was torn. Here I was 6,000 miles away from everything that I knew and loved. But, now I was in a place that had become something that I loved and cherished as well. It was a bittersweet experience.

So, I told my kids that I was leaving yesterday. I never expected any of them to really be unhappy about this. I mean, yes of course, they had become special to me, but to me I thought it would be hard for them to be attached to me because I spoke a different language. Why I thought this I still do not know. I mean, me, myself had become attached to some people in Hungary that didn’t speak a word of English… actually, they ended up being my best friends in the end! When I was getting my coat on to leave on my last day of classes, a little girl approached me… sobbing… crying… and then she looked at me and she simply said, “Virag (her name) is sad Ms. Jessie…. Virag is very sad.” Tears started streaming from my face. How innocent these children are. They do not understand why I have to leave them after they have become so close to me. They do not realize how far America is from them. So, once the tears started flowing from Virag’s face, I looked around and my whole first grade class was in tears. Indeed, I made a difference. God made a difference.

For the past few days I have been really struggling with understanding why God sent me to Hungary. Some things had brought me to frustration and made me feel that I was not needed or did not fulfill a task. Yesterday, before I left for Hungary, I was praying to God. I was asking him, “why did I come here?! What has happened? Why did some of the things that were supposed to work not work the right way?”

A few weeks ago, I had been traveling into Budapest from Velence by train. I was standing at the train station talking to myself (thinking nobody knew what I was saying—or they would never see me again! Ha!) about why the ticket lady was not at her stand. Suddenly, I heard a voice from behind me… “hey, do you need some help?” He ended up helping me to my train, getting my ticket and from then on, we bumped into each other quite a bit. I called him last night to let him know that I would be leaving Hungary. He said he would like to come over and talk to me. So I invited him over with my friends and I for one last night of hanging out. We had stayed up later than everyone else just talking about life: goals and aspirations. Suddenly, he asked me why I had come to Hungary. I told him that God had sent me. He said that he did not believe in God and that he never felt God. We then began talking about spirituality. I had never been able to witness like this. It was different. He wanted to know. He asked me, “why do you believe?” What a great question. Why do you believe? I answered him with the best answer I knew, I then read scripture to him. I can say to you that I did not walk away knowing that he accepted Jesus as his Savior but I can walk away saying that he is thinking about it and that he has a bible. Pray for him to feel God’s spirit. That is my prayer request. I want him to feel the same way that I feel and so many of us feel. Isn’t it a great feeling to know that you have God in your life? Therefore, when I left Hungary, I may not have been able to witness to a ton of people like I was expecting to, but I witnessed to one person. If I can touch one person’s life while I was there, that would be enough. God did send me there for a reason and I did NOT FAIL. God has shown me in so many ways that this trip was well worth my time and energy.

Like I said before, I will be eternally grateful for this experience. On the first flight home from Budapest, I ran into a couple from Colorado. They had been at an orphanage in Romania. They have been witnessing in this Romanian organization for 19 years now. This man was so wise. I was able to tell him about my story and what was going on in my life. He gave me such a great lesson. It was the basics but it was something that each and every one of us should be reminded of… Grace, Mercy, Forgiveness, and Hope.

As I walk away from Budapest, I pray for that city and its surrounding cities. I pray for the guy that I got to talk to about God last night. I pray for the Hungarian Baptist Aid and all of the ways they help their people. I pray for the leaders of this organization, for they have a lot on their plates. I pray that I become more wise and that God will allow me to see things more clearly in the future.

I do not know if I ever will return to this city. However, I do know that it will forever be in my heart and soul. The people of Hungary will be my second family. They will always have my prayers and best wishes. Even now, when I shut my eyes… I see glimpses of the city and all of its beauty.

A quote was written in my book from the school when i left that I would like to share...

"Traveling is not just seeing the new; it is also leaving behind. Not just opening doors; also closing them behind you, never to return. But the place you have left forever is always there for you to see whenever you shut your eyes."

Thanks for keeping up with me on my journey. More to come, hopefully.

Love,

Jessie

I wrote this on the way home from Hungary... I hope that you will continue to follow me... & pray for me... THERE IS MORE TO COME.

Clarification on my last blog

When I said that 50 deaths had been recorded from the flu... that was for the entire Country of Ukraine. I was not saying in that one particular village. I am just referring to the sickness that is going around in the Ukraine and the prayer that needs to go out for these people who are sick. I am sorry for any confusion that I could have caused.

Thank You.

Darkness.

This weekend was filled with excitement, joy, happiness, bliss and heartache. I was able to go to Munkacs, Ukraine this weekend with Speedy, Mariann and Lilia.

Ever since I was young, I have never wanted to enter my house when it was dark outside. There are times that I would sit in my car for an hour, until my parents got home so that I would not enter the house alone. As I have grown older, I have appreciated the dark more and more. I like it to be really dark when I sleep. I like movie theater's to be dark. Darkness is something that God created also.

The reason that I am speaking about darkness is because this weekend... I understood a new perspective on darkness. One that I do not know if I was ready to learn or not. When it's dark... you don't see everything in plain sight. You can't see very far in front of you while you are walking and you are searching for a light with every step that you take... so that you can see, so that you don't stumble, so that you don't fall down.

In Munkacs, it gets dark around 5 pm. The wedding was set to begin at 5 and we were running a little late. I was wearing my new pair of New Balances. As we were walking, all I could think about was how I was going to ruin my shoes. Slowly placing my feet in different places so that I would not get them muddy. It had been raining a lot in Munkacs at that time. The streets were filled with mud and big puddles.

The wedding celebration was absolutely awesome. Gypsies and their celebrations are anything but unique. They have their own culture and way of doing it. I got to see my little boys from the Summer for the 3rd time. Every time they see me, it's like amazement. They can not believe that I have come back again. This time I had to talk in front of the camera and all I could hear were screams from behind me "JESSIE, JESSIE!!" This my friends is the reason I come back to Munkacs. There is a feeling inside that I get when I am around these children. I want to make a difference in their lives so bad that it hurts.

So to explain where I was going with the darkness part of this story. The next morning I woke up... went outside to get some fresh air. It was still rainy, wet and muddy. We had to leave quickly after we woke up... we had to get on the road for we had a long journey ahead of us to get back to Budapest.

I knew that it might be the last time that I got to visit Munkacs before I traveled back to North Carolina. I also knew that it may be the last time that I get to see some of these friends until next Summer.

When we pulled out onto the street, something hit me. I started looking around. This place didn't look the same as it did this Summer. This place had trash everywhere, rainy wet roads and mud puddles, and desperation was in each of the faces that we passed. As we rounded the bend, I saw 3 boys that were apart of the summer camps this summer. They were searching through the trash that was laying on the ground. (Do you get it-- I'm weeping.)

The first thoughts thing came to my mind was that I was mad? Tears ran down my face. How can I come 6,000 miles away from my home and fall in love with these children...? Why am I an American? Why do they have to dig through the trash? Lord, why do they have no shoes and it's cold outside? Lord, why are they sick with no money? Lord, why THEM?

The night before I had been worried about my New Balance shoes getting dirty. That next day, I no longer cared about my New Balance shoes getting dirty... I cared about my 'children' getting dirty.

People, I do not think you understand. My heart is breaking. My eyes are filled with tears. Could you think of your brother or sister in the trash searching for their desires? In the dead of darkness, we don't see what people are living in. In the dead of darkness, we don't see what their faces are saying. In the dead of darkness, we don't see what's really going on in someone's life. But God does. Are you living in the darkness?

Wake up. Step into the light. God is waiting.

These next few months are going to be hard. They are cold, wet and dreary. I want to ask each and everyone of you to pray for these children. Sickness is already spreading in the Ukraine. 50 deaths have already been recorded. When these kids are sick they can not afford to go to the doctor. Pray for me to be strong as well.

This image will forever be in my mind. It has touched me deeper than I have been touched in a long time.

The link to my new youtube video where you can see the gypsy wedding is: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=glUXRC1ZTVI

NOVEMBER 2, 2009 VLOG ON YOUTUBE!!! :)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=A9DNSdteZK4

CHECK OUT MY NEW VIDEO :) HAD A GREAT DAY TODAY

Isn't that how we should meet our friends?

So it's 12:30 AM here now... and I have been laying in bed... thinking about sleep for the past hour. Unfortunately, getting to sleep has not yet occurred. I have a lot of things on my mind.

I was thinking about a few things that have happened recently that have really made me think. Things that each and every one of us have probably done in our lifetimes or are still doing at this moment. Recently, I found myself thinking about past events that have taken place in my life... Cases, which I have hurt someone. It could have been mentally, physically, or emotionally. I know that everyone does things in High School that they regret, but for me.. it seems to really be taking a toll on me. I did not commit murder or anything so serious that everyone is going to gasp for air and say to themselves, "No Way Jessie Garner Did That!!"

I have recently found out that a girl that I went to school with is dying. The only thing that I could stop and recall about her was the fact that I was insanely rude to her. I was always that person that laughed along with the crowd or pointed someone out for reasons that were obviously not what I would like to see. When I began to think about the things and people that I have gawked in my lifetime.... It became evident to me --that there was no reason for this. Some say, popularity is something that you have to work up too. What is your definition of popularity? Believe me high school students, popularity will be here today and out the window in 4 years. What are you trying to gain? The power to everything that you will one day regret. Furthermore, are you just masking yourself so that those that are around you will not see your faults, because you are going to make sure you show someone else's.

Looking back on the things I have done, I have regrets. Who doesn't? Sure, I'll have tons of regrets in my future... who wouldn't?

Remember that there is forgiveness about the regrets in your lifetime. Don't use this pass that God gives us freely. Don't apologize and get forgiveness for something that you know that you will end up doing tomorrow. Try to learn to make yourself more positive. Try to learn to not do the same sins over and over.

Jesus died on that cross to forgive us of our sins. Are you ready to be forgiven? Don't let the devil lead you into temptation... and evil... by insulting the person that is equal to you in God's eyes. You are insulting the precious gift that God created... Everything is equal to God. So, if the girl beside you in school doesn't dress the same as you, has less money, doesn't talk like you or smells really bad... don't tease her... instead, tell her about Jesus.

Why don't we end with everyone of our circumstances like that? Wouldn't that be more powerful? Let me tell you friends, since I have been here in Hungary... I have seen, held and been in contact with so many things that you could only imagine... but what I have come to realize... is that they were made just like I was. They are here for a purpose.

What I would give to go back and take that person's hand and show that school... it did not matter what she wore, what she looked like, or even, how she smelt... it didn't matter that she was not popular.. it mattered that she was a a believer in Jesus too... Isn't that how we should meet our friends?

2 weeks without a blog--- AM I IN TROUBLE?

So many things have been going on since my last blog. I first need to apologize for not being more consistent on my blogs.

*49 days until I land in Raleigh, North Carolina.

HAPPY HALLOWEEN!!!

Lately, there have been a lot of things happening here in Velence, Hungary. I went through a period where my car broke down, I grew another wisdom tooth in a rare place and was indeed in a struggling mood. With all three things taking a tole over my life, I began to believe I had no room for anything else... except for my bed.

However, God has been good to me. I have recently gotten another car, my tooth does not hurt (even though I can still feel its existence.)

So that pretty much sums up the first week of no postings!

This past week, I have had off from work. October 23rd is a really big holiday in Hungary. It was when a Revolutionary War took place. Mariann's birthday is also on October 23rd. Therefore, I got to spend last Saturday at Mariann's house. There I got to see most of the translators that were on my trip to the Ukraine and also some new lovely faces. AND GUESS WHAT! An American face popped in also. Derek came to visit Mariann on her 25th Birthday too! Which gave me happiness... first off, because my mom sent me some awesome stuff and secondly, well I could talk normal (even if it was only for 24 hours!)

On Sunday, we were able to go to church (Derek & I) with Mariann's family! It was exciting! After church Derek and I got to actually visit with our home church: Piney Grove. Not actually go there, no. The church set up a screen so that we could talk to our church family! What an amazing experience for everyone! It was a highlight of my life! (Thanks Glen, Preacher and a special thanks to Mike Cole!)

Monday & Wednesday I was able to travel into the city with two of my dear friends: Speedy & Victor. Neither of them are fluent in English... which makes my trip even more special! Getting to learn the language is much more easier when ... nobody knows your language. It makes you really want to learn it. On these two days I was able to ride with them to do their routine activities. It was an amazing experience because... I was able to visit more places that Hungarian Baptist Aid have set up to help their community. I attended a homeless shelter. I was able to meet the guy that is in charge of the homeless shelter (he could speak fluently in English). He told me about the story of how the homeless shelter started. It began by taking blankets and food to those who were on the streets... realizing that this would not be enough, they began finding places where they could sleep. They now own a house where 100 people sleep every night. These people can sometimes be drug addicted... therefore, they help them get off the drugs. Once they realized that this was too not enough, they then built houses out in the Country where they could live 8 years after they have been taken off the streets. They find a job, learn how to earn and save money and begin their families. All through this process they learn about our Jesus, who washes the dirt, the grind, the streets odor and their drug addictions away...and learn about what he has done for each and every one of them. I believe that I am so fortunate to be one of the first people to come to Hungary to live from America with Hungarian Baptist Aid because I am soo excited about the programs (that I did not even know about) that are in place. We can assure ourselves that Hungarian Baptist Aid is making their Country a better place. Thankfully, I get to be in the midst of these people daily.

Tuesday night was so much fun this week! Victor, Speedy & Mariann came over. I wanted everyone to try an American meal. I made homemade veggie soup (only my 2nd time ever). I do not know if they had pity on me, or if they really like it... but they said the loved it... !! We ended up playing UNO! And it was so much fun.. It's so awesome that I have friends here now... it's so important.

Now--for a blessing!!! There is a lady that North Carolina Baptist Men have been talking about coming and joining me! I got to speak to her yesterday! OH, how excited I am to know that there is someone on the way to become apart of my team... She will be able to laugh at my jokes, ride with me in the car, and help me teach! It's a blessing, I promise! We will even, HOPEFULLY be riding home on the same plane! Keep her in your prayers... for it is a long journey for her as well. It will be just as challenging coming to a foreign Country and learning new routines... but I am so excited that I will be here to help guide her through the things that I have already learned.

Thank You all for keeping up with my blog. Please keep praying for me! I promise you, it will not be this long before I post again...

PLEASE CHECK OUT MY BLOGS ON YOUTUBE!!!!!!

Love you all,

Jessie

new blog posts.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LEaiyawsq_Y so here is my new blog from today

Please check out yesterdays too!!! http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ff_ZRerIht0

Will be writing tomorrow.. very tired!!!

Have a great night from Hungary!!!

Love

Jessie

A VIDEO FOR EVERYDAY I AM HERE.....

So.. I have decided to do a video blog..for everyday that I am here.. It will show you something that I am doing.. or going... or seeing.. or etc. I think it is a good way to show what I am doing here... It will be fun for me...and hopefully, fun for you! Please check out my postings. I have already done yesterday and today.

& honestly, if you do not have a YouTube account.. you may want to just sign up for one.. very quick and easy..and then you can subscribe..and it will be much easier to find them each day! Anyway, hope all is well.. keep praying for me!

Thank You,
Jessie

Website: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YOv67D5oBV0 This is the second video!!!!

"Remember whose you are..."

Hello All-
Has there ever been a time in your life that you gave up on something? Threw something to the side because, you just did not feel like finishing it? Or how about something that is a little more serious, cancelling an appointment that would leave the doctors in a bind or quit a team that really needed you?

Well, I have always felt like I am a pretty dependable person. As may of you know, growing up I had many responsibilities. I was a manager of a pool by the time I was 18 years old and was working two jobs. (not for a particular reason--) One of the main reasons for this though is that I feel like when you commit to something then you should really stick with it--and try your best.

Let me be the first to tell you, I have wanted to get those suitcases out, pack them & hit the airport as quickly as possible a lot this week. Not because of something happening to me or because I was mad or upset. Mainly because I miss home. I knew coming into this trip that I was going to be in a very isolated situation. I knew that beforehand, but sometimes you can't grasp that coming from a go go go lifestyle.

Right now, i lack a lot of things that normally do not intimidate me. Probably because I am in a foreign country and there things around me that I do not understand. Situations that cause me to feel stressed.

I feel like above all--I'm here for a reason. The kids are really adjusting to me. (Side Note- Got a little off the subject here: I've been trying to learn to speak some Hungarian--and a little girl, Fanni asked me why and I replied, "Don't you want to be able to talk to me before I leave..?" and she responded, "i don't care." Oh, how truthful children can be!) During the day I am fine. I enjoy my time at the schools and even stay late for extra study groups and gymnastics, etc.

Sometimes in our lives there are things that become hard to do. You feel like you are sacrificing your happiness to achieve the goals that you have set upon yourself. Honestly, look back and think about everything that you have ever done that you have not done fully. Were you satisfied? And the bigger question is: Was God satisfied with your work? If I take each day as a count down to my final day here in Hungary, did I really accomplish the things that I came here to do? Or, did I just wait for time to pass me by and go home the same person?

So today, it's not only my choice--it's your choice too. Even though I am struggling in Hungary about different types of things happening in my life... there are things in your life in NC that are a struggle as well. Do you want to live your life and look back and regret the moments that you sat and pondered about your life for the future.. or do you want to live like everyday is truly your last. God gives us each day. Each day is for a reason... did you use your strength and abilities today to make yourself and others happy? Did you tell anyone about Jesus today?

My dad is a pretty amazing guy. Something he has said to me over and over is... "Remember whose you are?" You are God's people. You are here for a reason.

So please pray for me to stop being such a bum.. to get out of the house--learn more about Hungary.

I will be going to a youth conference this Weekend with some friends of mine that were translators in Munkacs. Next weekend is my friend Mariann's birthday weekend. Then the following weekend I will be going to Munkacs! *which I am very excited about.

Love you all-
jessie

71 days to go. But who is counting?

First, I am going to post a few pictures and then add my paragraph! ENJOY!!!! Check out my facebook page for complete pictures. Check out my blog for complete journalism. THANKS.

Anna & Mariann singing in the Praise Band at a worship service in Veroce, Hungary.
This is just part of my class. They are changing their shoes for recess.. and by the way.. you see the little boy directly in the center.. that's cheesing at the camera...well he's the little trouble maker i fell in love with the first day... and I'm still in love with him.. & i think he loves me too!! :)

GYORGY- he is one of the smartest little boys. He sits at the front of the room and always pays attention and works hard.

FONNI- She took first place in a horseback riding competition and since they know I love horses..she had to bring in her trophy and show it off!!!!

& THIS... this is my first pot of homemade veggie soup! I am very proud..!!!


Journal Time:

"If Life Throws you Lemons, Make Lemonade," was our quote from our Valedictorian of my high school when I graduated in 2005. It's funny how sayings can really stick and this one always has. Lemons have been tossed my way almost everyday. Fortunately, this far I have been able to squeeze them, add sugar and taste the lemonade.

One of the biggest concerns I have at this moment is the bilingual program and the teachers that already teach at the schools. Since I began here, there are only a couple of teachers that I am truly able to talk too. Sometimes it is a uncomfortable situation to me because the language switches all the way back to Hungarian and I feel like the odd ball! Now, don't get me wrong... I was expecting this to happen! Recently, I had a lemon thrown at me when one of the teachers told me to not speak English in the staff room and that it made them uncomfortable. Well at first, I wanted to shout, "You feel uncomfortable, HELLO! I am in a place of confusion.. road signs, buildings, railroad stations, TVs everything is written in a different language." I refrained from doing so. When Monika (the lady that heads the program-and a really sweet lady) sat down and talked to me about the issue... it seemed to be more hidden under that "no English in the staff room issue."

This bilingual program is saving this school. If they did not have it with a native speaking person then this school would no longer exist. It is an agreement between the government and the school system. The teachers feel that they will be let go or taken out of the school system because they are bringing people from outside into their classrooms. Now don't get me wrong, the Hungarian teacher has nothing to worry about, hence we wouldn't have this problem. So last night I came home and I really thought about the issue. At first I was upset and mad at the situation. As I began to think about things, I came to the realization that I would have made the same comments. I, too, would be upset. Therefore, I took it upon myself to try my best to find a solution. So this is what I came up with. I went to the Headmaster (we know him as the principle) and asked him today if I could start a language course for teachers on Monday nights. This way, the teachers can learn the normal basic English skills. They would at least be able to communicate with me and any other American that showed up to do this job after me. I feel that it could be a really good gesture and it could also, help them realize that I am not here to take their job... I'm here to keep their jobs (so the school can stay up and running!)

So my week has been good. I should really post more because I am sure people are tired of reading this by now. I had my first full week of teaching the kids (all by myself) and it went really well. The first day, I was a basket of nerves but in the second day... the children started really understanding me. It was a blessing.

I live on a school ground where orphans live. The other night I had to get out and do something. I decided to go walking. I walked to the garbage can and on the way back... I saw these kids that were trying to play soccer with a ball that had already been destroyed. So this is my idea... I buy a ball.. I go out there and talk to the kids and play ball with them and bring the ball back with me at night.. just so i know i have it in the future. I think that.. I have felt like I am not ministering as much as I thought I would and I have all of a sudden realized... HELLO! You can still minister... it just may realllly be outside your comfort box.

One last thing. I took my computer with me to work the other day and wanted to show my co-workers what I had been doing in Ukraine. Showing them the pictures really touched some of their hearts. I am praying that they realize these people are at their back doors. I hope they realize that these kids don't have an education, no money to buy groceries, etc. These people are Hungarian just like they are. Maybe that is apart of my ministry too... to allow them to remember the gypsy people that are not out of the poverty like they are.

Well that's it for tonight folks. Please keep me in your prayers. Some days are really hard... and some are just a joy in itself. Love you!

Web Page Welcoming me to "The Green School" and "The White House" in Velence, Hungary

http://www.zoldligetsuli.hu/ This web page is where I am located being Welcomed into The Green School.

To go directly to the web page so that you can see what I have written CLICK THIS: http://www.zoldligetsuli.hu/index.php?printevent=20091001_jessie.htm;20091001

Hope to write another post later today! Just wanted everyone to see my introduction and welcome page that the school presented me with!

Thanks
Jessie

Szia Mindenki! ÉN szerelem és elvét ön minden!

Szia Mindenki! ÉN szerelem és elvét ön minden! (No, I really have not gotten that good! Just thought it would be fun to pull some legs!)

It says, "Hello Everyone! I miss and love you very much!

Well, it's crazy. I feel like I am up to date on my blog and then 5 days go by and I have not done a thing! I feel like my life in Hungary is going by so quickly!

I have been very sickly this week and I am thankful for all the prayers. I went and got pizza with a friend last night and I asked them to order me a Pepperoni Pizza. When I got home.. my pizza was a "PEPPER PIZZA!" I thought it was hilarious.

The kids in my classroom seem to be a little afraid of me. I mean who wouldn't be afraid of the new woman...that doesn't speak their language and all she knows how to say is "NEM" which means "no!" When the kids of recess, all of the teachers gather around a table and sit and talk. Let me just say that schools in Hungary are not exactly the same as the schools in America. Rules and regulations are not quite the same. Yesterday, they were playing 'futbol' (America's soccer!) and I decided to join in. After that, the kids were coming up and talking to me and giving me hugs! I think that is really what these kids need. Some outside time and they will warm right up to me. Tomorrow I will be going to the other school and playing volleyball with some of the older students! I am really excited and can't wait!

Tomorrow will be my first day teaching alone. In fact, both teachers that are normally there to help me... well they took the day off! So, ready or not here I come.

Let me just say..this time that I am spending alone... it is really helping me. My prayer life has become better. It is amazing what God is doing in all of our lives.

I'm sorry I do not have a lot to write..but I have been sick this week and just kinda of sticking around the house! Next week, i hope to have pictures and lots more fun stuff!!!

International Baptist Church of Budapest

Today I worshipped at the International Baptist Church of Budapest! It was in complete English and I loved it! I have gotten a lot of errands done today! I also got homework completed, laundry done and dish washing done! Now I am going to sit back and watch the Grey's Anatomy that I missed.

Just wanted to share the Bible Verse that we looked at today:
Zephaniah 3:14-15
"Sing, O daughter of Zion!
SHOUT, O Israel!
Be glad and REJOICE with all your heart,
O daughter of Jerusalem!
15 The LORD has taken away your judgments (punishments!)
He has cast out your enemy (your fears!)
The King of Israel , the LORD, is in your midst!
You shall see disaster no more."

SING, SHOUT & REJOICE! For God has conquered everything!

Also wanted to mention that when I got home from church today...I found out that I will be teaching tomorrow instead of the next week. Please pray for me as I am stressed out about teaching! :) Thanks

Love,
Jessie

First Week in Velence, Hungary!

Hello! I am so sorry for not writing in the past few days. Time is flying, but I am sure having fun (and lots to do!)

Well, my first week of observing is over and I only have one more day to prepare standing in front of my classroom full of eager and ready to learn students! Since I have been here I have learned of soooo many opportunities. There are so many people that want to learn the language and be able to use it in the future. Most of you know that when I set out on this journey that I would only be teaching to 1st Graders! When I was bored to death (only had 1 class a day) I volunteered to go the middle school to see the students! They too, would be excited to meet me and ask questions about America (I was told!) Who would have known that my volunteer exercise would put something else on my heart to do while i am here. As I went to each grade and watched each one of their classes, I realized that the 8th graders only knew simple things. The 1st graders had even passed them on their English skills. There can be many reasons to why this has happened. The biggest reason is that they have not had an English teacher in this school. Unfortunately, from what I was told...for these students, this would be their last year attending school if they did not improve. Well being the person that I am, I did not even think it through before I stood in front of the class and told them that if they wanted me too, if they would REALLY try, then I would come and teach them in the afternoons. Oh my gosh, you should see the faces on these children when you tell them that you will give them time to teach them and make them more successful. Bliss.

On Tuesday night I was able to chaperon an Ice Hockey Game. It was wonderful! I had so much fun! I got home and late and exhausted but it was Ice Hockey! They sure were not as good as the Canes, but it was a lot of fun!

On Wednesday night I got to travel into Budapest to meet up with some of the translators that I met in Munkacs, Ukraine. Despite the 2 hour ride on the train because of construction, when I arrived in Budapest it was well worth the wait. I met up with Mariann, Lilly and Lila. We ended up going to a church service and seeing Andras. It was a great worship service because it was held in an international church and the preacher was from California. Complete English was used there and for a few moments i felt like I was home. We took a walk around the Danube river before I got on the train and headed home! It was SO much fun! I will be able to attend the International church on every Wednesday night!!!!

So this is the really exciting part of my week! I was able to attend the final celebration of a dance off competition that has been happening at the church where our team went this Summer! Although it was a 26 hour day for me (driving there and coming back!) it was the best part of my trip thus far. I really don't know how many of you know this, but the week that I was in Munkacs was one of the best weeks of my life. I got to meet some really incredible people. So on our long journey there I learned that we were traveling with a famous Hungarian singer who won something like the "American Idol" in our Country, here in Hungary! We also had with us one of Hungary's most famous Reporters who would do a piece on Munkacs, Ukraine. When we arrived the gypsy people were excited and eager to start the show. The show consisted of all dancers. They are so talented!! People came from all over the villages to participate and watch the show. Oh my, what God has done in that church just in the past 2 months of us being there. The people have multiplied and isn't that amazing.

So, I got to sit in the VIP section! So, from all the noise and excitement going on in the room. I heard a small voice say, "Jessie!" When I turned around it was my precious 4 boys that I had fallen in love with in June! They remembered me. When I walked up to them...they all greeted me with big fat sloppy kisses and hugs! These are not your normal day to day hugs, these are the most compassionate and meaningful hugs you could ever get from a 6 year old boy. Out of their mouths they said, "I love you!!." They said it over and over. I remember thinking of the day that I would be able to see them again! They then had to show me that they remembered all the English words that I had taught them 2 months ago.

What I really want you to catch in this whole blog is: the fact that these children REMEMBERED what I had told them 2 months before. I had spent time with them, gave them hugs and made them special and I also told them about God and how he loved them as well. These little boys remembered EVERYTHING that I told them. When I get confused and down on why I am here... all i have to remember are those 4 little boys! Even though I do not get to see them as much as I would like to while I am here... that is what I have to think about!

Right now my PRAYER REQUESTS ARE:

1)There are some people who want me to teach language on a weekly basis (maybe at night!) for young adults and Adults. I think that this would be great, but we really need to get started. I also need help in preparing and seeing what the best way to do this is.

2) I am starting teaching on Tuesday! Pray for me. (ALSO, if you have suggestions of what I could do.. I have to do a CULTURAL day for all grades! What is something I could do to show what America is really like...music, etc. no food!)

3) Munkacs, Ukraine: They really wanted me to come there and help teach. Pray for my decision if I would want to stay longer and go help them! They are really where my heart is. I felt like home the 10 hours I was there! They also want to start an orphanage. Right now, they could accept more than 30 kids (that are in NEED RIGHT NOW!)

4) For my guidance. There is so much to be done.

I'm going to post a few pictures! I hope that you are having a great day! Let me know if any of you would like to join a Ukraine trip next Summer or if you would like to donate or help my mission. These people have a heart for Jesus. I'm telling you..they want to learn more!

Love,

Jessie

1st picture is of my boys. They are praying for their favorite team to win! I thought it was very sweet. THe second picture is of all the teams that were in the finals. There is a picture of me and the girls in Budapest. There is one more picture of the boys! THe other picture is of the reporters filming while Jonas was speaking!

Language Barriers & First Day of School

It always seems that language barriers are the most horrifying thing when you are traveling out of your country. Questions that arose when I began my journey were: 'how would I get to the bus stop? How will I know how to buy my groceries? How will i know which direction to go in the car, bus, budapest....etc.' The list can go on for miles... but never did I ask myself "How would I be able to worship at church?"

Yesterday, I was picked up at 6:30 AM (North Carolina time 12:30 AM) and we headed out towards Veroce. Veroce is where a church is located that we were going to attend. It took a whopping 1 hr and 30 min to arrive. When we arrived, Anna (Sandor's daughter and a very good friend to me here in Velence) and Mariann (a friend that was a translator when I was in Muncaks) had band rehearsal. Church finally started and everything was in Hungarian. At first, I was a little disappointed. I sat there and felt discouraged. I felt like I could not sing the words, I could not hear the words and therefore, felt that I could not get anything out of Worship. About 10 minutes into their singing... I closed my eyes and began to pray to God... asking again, "Why am I here?" All of a sudden, God picked me up and I realized what the words that they were singing where not the entire picture. It is not what you sing or what you hear but it is what you feel. I stood there and let the spirit take over and because I did that I was able to worship in my own way. I was able to see that through their voices and their songs they were praising God and I too was able to overcome my difficulty with the language barrier and praise God with them. Therefore, it was so much better now that I could overcome that and worship with the others.

After worship, I went and ate at Mariann's house (below you can see pictures) Her mother fixed us a very good meal and I felt right at home with her family!

Later that afternoon- I was finally feeling the jitters from being in the house so much... I was tired of sitting around, tired of sleeping, and felt like it was time for me to venture out. First thing, I went to the school that I would be teaching (check-i found it first try! & pics are below) Then I decided to go where the Vice Principle had shown me -- A beautiful mountain that overlooks all of Velence! It's beautiful --pictures to come! (check two---found it in one try) ...then I went to the gas station, pumped my gas and paid for it!! (check three- very excited!) and then I went and picked up Anna from her house (Another check just for making it there driving!) It's like Velence is becoming a second home to me. I know the roads and I am loving the sights.

Today!-
I arrived at school at 10:45 this morning. Class began at 10:55. Today would be my first day of observing. I was going to be observing Melinda, the Hungarian English teacher! She is so sweet! I went into the classroom and she told me that the children had been asking about me for days now and that they would be really excited to see me! So, I prepared myself for the children and really had no clue what to expect! The bell rang and the children started coming in. It was so cute, kids were coming in and they would see me. They would awkwardly stare at me and then smile but rush on by. It was quite funny... their expressions are something I could not even explain, other than excitement. This too made me excited! The children sat down in their seats (I was at the back of the room!) and while Melinda was talking, everyone of those kids were looking at me! Melinda started class and they were very responsive, which is great!

They finally got to meet me and when she said 'turn around and say hello', they all turned around said (in English) "Good Morning Miss. Jessie!" They are so cute. I will try to take a picture soon! I went with them to lunch. There was one little boy, that kept turning around winking at me.. He sat at the front of the room and was very cute. I asked Melinda later about him and you could tell by her face expressions that he got on her last nerve...she said that he was a trouble maker. His name is Donnie and he already melted my heart. Haha.

I did want to mention one thing to pray for. There are 26 children in this classroom. As I watched their assignments being done, I realized that quite a few of them did not get it. They were merely looking over at their neighbors paper and taking their answers. I worry that some of the kids have no clue whats going on. A lot of the papers were not done correctly at the end of the class and they are not checked by a teacher. This worries me. Hopefully, I can get the courage to talk to the school about a grading policy that will help the children really want to participate and learn English!

Well that's it for today. I'm sorry, I really could not get into my normal writing pattern...so hopefully, my blog today was not too long or too boring !

Thanks for the prayers! Love,
Jessie

*The Green School*

This is the school that I will be teaching at, "The Green School"

This is also the car that I'm using while I'm here... Mom wanted to see it :)

Sunday Lunch with Mariann's family!

Me with Mariann's family! After we ate lunch today :) and it was yummy!

The beautiful Mariann at her house!!

Rough Spots in the Road...

If there is one thing I know about myself, I can say that I am either completely OK with my surroundings or I am terrified. Now, personally I feel like when there are situations that you are not use to and it starts eating away with you... then it's probably the Devil just trying to get at you. Well last night, he was def trying to get me to run away from this mission trip. I mean I was buried deeply into his hole and sand was covering me quickly. Thankfully, I did not give in (...completely).



Last night I all of a sudden became afraid of everything that was around me. The back door, the sound of the heater humming, doors creaking, the sound of cars and the lights that were flashing outside my window. I posted something on my facebook wall and I got quite a few responses. Some of them scripture that made me stop and think.. why was I acting this way? I wanted to put them on my blog, for future reference (for myself) or for anyone else that may be dealing with the same things that I am right now. We never know where people are in their lives. I could be dealing with fear while I am in Hungary and my neighbor could be dealing with the fear of bills piling up on their table. Either way, I thought I would like to share these!



-"You will be secure, because there is hope; you will look about you and take your rest in safety" Job 11:18



-'Be strong and courageous. Do not be terrified; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go'. (Including Hungary). Josh 1:9



Tonight, it is 10:15 here and I have not been scared one wink! Thank you for the prayers that went out to relieve my fears, they worked!



So, for today... I was picked up at the apartment and taken to a Hungarian style Restaurant in a town called Székesfehérvár. It was wonderful! I had fried cheese and a salad with Italian dressing! Not a lot of you know the plans for me here because neither do i honestly. I have come and am taking it day by day. Today, I found out that the school that I will be teaching at his building a brand new school. I was able to visit today...and ohh, what fabulous work they have done. The school is huge and will be able to fit so many more students in it. It has 4 English classrooms now opposed to their one small classroom now. Later, I was able to meet my colleagues and 3 of them spoke English so well. I felt so much more at ease after speaking to them and allowing myself to get to know these people and share pictures, stories, memories with them. They allowed me to step into their life today, but at the same time, they stepped into mine. Every single one of them asked me, "What is it like in America?" At one time I was asked, "If New York City does not describe America, then what does?" Honestly, I had to sit there and think about this question. What really does describe America? Is it our TVs, Internet, the rush to work and rush back home atmosphere, our homework, our plans. Seriously, these people are inspired by us? But why? I sat back today and I thought... look at these people wishing to see and be like America...and all I could think of was.. I wish I could be a little more like these Hungarians.

Well I'm gonna go to bed now. It's 10:50 at night and I'm tired.... and I am able to sleep tonight!

God Bless and see you soon!
love,
Jessie

"It's suppose to be Raining here..."

Did you know that in September , it normally rains all month long in Hungary? Well, today my guide David told me that in September it normally rains all month long and that it is also cold outside. Today, the temp. was perfect.... just like a perfect summer day! So maybe, I do not need those rain boots that I could not pack (because of weight limits) anyway! I'm sure the summer days will soon drift away, but it is nice to dream!

Well.. I got off the airplane this morning around 11:00 AM. I went to retrieve my baggage and it took almost an hour to get my bags. I still had not got nervous on the whole trip. On the way out of the baggage claim (where I would meet the person that was picking me up, which I had no clue!) I began to panic a little. Foreign country, different language, what would i do? I'm sure that I am working myself up for nothing! Sure was, there was a man holding a sign that said, "JESSICA GARNER". It was pretty cool, never seen one of those before (well for me at least!). David from Hungarian Baptist Aid picked me up. The first stop that we made was at the HBA building, where I met a lot of wonderful people. I stayed there and ate lunch.

David then told me it was time to go visit Monika, who would be my boss while I am here. We met Monika at my apartment (which the photos have already been put on here!) Very sweet ladies. Sandor and his family invited me to eat dinner with them tonight! PIZZA at that! :) Very exciting and VERY Yummy!

I guess my biggest prayer request at this time is for me to not be scared while staying in this apartment by myself at night. I have really not been scared at all. Although, any noises that could happen at night ...well, could change that.

Tomorrow I will be meeting with Monika to see what my tasks will be at the school and get my schedule. Pray for me to have a good nights sleep and not be scared of sleeping here by myself.

Until next time,
Jessie

My Apartment

This is a group of pictures for you to see my apartment! Hope all is well in the states and I will be on here again soon!

Love,

Jessie

Plane Rides and Surprises

5:45pm September 15, 2009
Hello to my family and friends,
I am currently sitting in the JFK (New York Airport). It has already been a remarkable trip. Amazing enough, I have already seen God at work. Three exciting and remarkable things have already happened today as I started my long journey to Budapest. When I first arrived at the airport (with my mom, dad and Gus) we ran into an old neighborhood friend which was very exciting. Once I got into the airport we ran into another Piney Grover, Liz Boykin who was flying to Ohio for business. Therefore, my anxiety subsided and I was able to go through the gates with Liz and her fellow co-workers. We then proceeded to our gates and coincidentally her gate was right next to mine. Therefore, we had some quality time together!

When Liz had to finally leave for Ohio, I went to sit at my gate. Now one thing you might all know about me is that I am a pretty outgoing person. Those of you who have traveled with me also know, that the airport does not stop me from being well, rather nosey. I sat down beside a girl that looked about my age (on purpose) and said "hello!" Her name was Annalenia and she was headed back home to Scotland and would be traveling with me on the plane ride to JFK. She would not be flying out of JFK until 7:55 that night (my plane leaves at 8:05). Therefore, we promised to grab dinner together and she even invited me to come visit her some point in time. Who knows what God has in store for me while I am there!!

Thirdly, when I got on the plane to go to New York I sat beside an older lady. Whenever I am in the airport, I am always curious to where people are going and why they are going to these certain places. I asked her where she was going and she told me, "Africa." I told her that two of my friends, both named Jessica had been going to Kenya for a couple of Summers now. She then proceeded to tell me that she was a missionary from Raleigh and that she was very excited about going. She told me about the ship that they have where women that have been cast out of their villages (because of many different reasons) come to them to get medical treatment. The ships have doctors and nurses that provide assistance to their medical needs so that they will be able to go back to their villages and at the same time, learn about God. What a wonderful story and also, what a heart-felt woman. You could tell she had a passion about the people that she was caring for. The same exact passion that lead me to go teach English to these children in Hungary.

I have been gone for only 8 hours and look at what God has already done for me. I will be leaving here at 8:05. Pray for Annalenia and her long flight to Scotland. Pray for Betty Ann as she had 2 more days of traveling before she could even make it to the ship in Africa. Also, pray for Betty Ann to help some of the African children and families and to show God's love through her.

Until then, take care!
Love,
Jessie

Leaving for Hungary: Plane Times

Hello-
I will be leaving Raleigh Durham Airport on Tuesday September 15th at 12:10 pm. I will arrive in JFK (New York City) and leave out of there at 8:00 pm.

I will arrive in Budapest the next day around noon. Please pray for a safe plane ride and for me to not be scared as I am traveling 6,000 miles away with no one that I know.

Love You All!
Thanks
Jessie

Next time I post, hopefully I will be gretting you from Hungary!!!

My first visit to the sister city of where I will be staying, Budapest.

Gwenn and I looking over the city that I will be in soon!!!

This is me in Budapest on the River on my last trip!!! I am going back to see the beautiful city.

This is also another picture of my dad and I when we were in Budapest.... What a beautiful City!!!!!!

Jessie is going to Hungary

Hello All-

Well first off, this has been an amazing week. I have recently moved home from UNC-Wilmington and have started to get my life in order as far as getting my room back situated, getting use to not living on my own and trying to get my job situated...etc. It has been a very exciting week for me.

The whole story begins with me going to the Ukraine this Summer through the North Carolina Baptist Aid. What an amazing story to be told about that trip. My heart went out to the people who lived in Muncaks. Everyday since I have returned, I have thought about those people and wanted to soon return to help with their ministry.

On Monday I got an amazing phone call from Bela (the ceo of Hungarian Baptist Aid) Bela approached me with an offer that I would go to a city that is about 20 minutes from Budapest, Hungary and be teaching in a Primary school. Well first off, I am not a teacher and this frightened me. Although, it was frightening... I felt that it was something that the Lord was calling me to do. Who would have thought...just a week later I would seriously be taking off on a plane to Hungary...where I would spend the next 3 months of my life. The Lord has seriously made every avenue in my life turn out positive so that I could go on this trip. Through Prayer, discussing this with NC Baptist Aid and my parents I have decided to go and follow the pathway that Jesus has laid out before me.

I know that it is going to be a struggle as I have to adjust to everyone speaking another language, unfamiliar territory and seeking God's Will. I need the prayers to begin now... but, I already know that they have begun!

I want to keep this BLOG as I am there...hopefully, showing pictures and stories of my journey. Hopefully, this will be able to communicate to those that I have left in the States and away to keep you updated on how God is changing my life.

My email address is Jessieg2005@aol.com. Please feel free to email me at any time... It will be nice to have encouraging emails and such from those that I miss. I will have internet there and am thankfully going to have a mobile phone.

Thanks for all of your support and prayers.

I will be blogging soon (my plane leaves on Tuesday!!!)

Love Always,
Jessie