Wednesday, December 26, 2012

Christmas with the Overmeyers

Our Christmas tradition in Knysna has grown this year.  If you recall past year's posts Nathan and I (and any other interested friends/volunteers) spend Christmas morning feeding the homeless.  This year The Island Church joined us and we had a real "sit-down" feast.





Christmas Eve day was spent working together to decorate tables

























Food arrived in abundance on Christmas Day
















While Nathan hugged and prayed for them as they arrived while I dished up the plates.



















and 60 people ate and ate and ate... and took home leftovers











Only after all was said and done did we get to compare notes... I asked Nathan if he knew why one lady was crying as she came up the stairs.  For her Christmas memories are not happy ones.  As a 6 year old her father murdered her mother on Christmas Day.  Our prayer is that everyone fed felt the love of our Saviour as He wrapped His loving arms around them through us.  Thank you Jesus the peace that you bring!





Christmas Play for the International Volunteers

Anke and Sarah were busy all of November helping the Vineyard Mission School prepare for their Christmas Play.   The honeymoon phase of culture shock ended as this experience brought much frustration with last minute changes daily.  Our prayers each day included trusting God for help when life doesn't go as planned.  In the end... God came through and the kids did an amazing job.  Well done Anke and Sarah... even though practice didn't make perfect - God always uses our efforts and works it all out for good!  If you have time, click on the Youtube link to watch the play in 2 parts.





Attending this function was one more reminder that Jesus is Emmanuel with us even in Knysna!


Farewell to Tarta


I have heard that God puts friends in our life for a season... it is probably true for pets as well.  Two weeks ago our neighbor decided that it was time for Tarta (tortoise in Portuguese) to be moved to a wildlife sanctuary.  Below is a pictorial of his time with us.  

The first month here
A love-hate relationship with Barnabas
The face of determination
Close the gate quick... he moves fast!
There is no relaxation when Tarta is around
Not happy unless he has something to push around!
Warming up in the sun
3 years later - My how he has grown!
Good-bye pic with Anke and Sarah
















Farewell Tarta... may you find peace in your new home!




Tuesday, December 25, 2012

Family Camp


Final YFC event of 2012

Club 4:13 Family Camp

The first weekend of December was an opportunity for the Holy Spirit to repair relationships between Club 4:13 students and their mothers.  
Arrival
Welcome!!
Opening icebreaker was a challenge to see who could keep from smiling the longest... obviously I lost right out of the gate!
Don't smile...
Really... DON'T SMILE!
Our first experiential activity provided opportunities for parents to trust their kids and practice listening.
Do you trust me?





Watch your head!




Working together to solve a puzzle upside down, with the realization that your can't force pieces to fit that don't belong.  Mother's learned that God has a perfect place purpose for each child and they can't force them to be someone they are not.  

Be careful or the pieces will break!



While the youth learned about conflict resolution, the parents practiced "listening to your child's feelings"

The "Slippery Slope"
Role playing everyday conflict situations brought practice for new skills learned.






Time to eat!!



Rain kept us inside for the afternoon



A talent show brought laughters and smiles.  

It's not a movie without popcorn and cool drink!


Everyone needs a hug!


Up early for some exercise!


Sunshine allowed for outdoor teachings

What does your body language say?











Appreciating God's creation as we hike
Waiting for the moms to catch up!
Group photo (and time to catch our breath)
What did we learn this weekend?

I can glorify God through conflict
Listening to my child's feelings show love



Friday, November 2, 2012

Chief Invigilator

Matric Exams are well underway...




And the Western Cape Department sent gentle reminders of the no-no's








Nathan has an excellent team working with him to ensure all students follow the rules.  This month is going to fly by.