Life in Dorm 8...

I am Thankful For...

2006-10-09T12:54:00.000-07:00

We have soooo much to be thankful for. This Sunday at church our pastor got a bunch of people up front to say somethings they are thankful for. Then we had to pray with small groups of those sitting around us in the congregation for things we are thankful for. I realized how MUCH we have. God has blessed us. "Give thanks to the LORD our God and King!"
Here is my list of a few of the things I am thankful for....
grace
family
friends
tress in the fall
a home
Redeemer
education
my church (SF and Hamilton)
my amazing church FAMILY
my awesome dorm
little moments that take my breath away
simplicity
mercy
music
sunny days like today
freedom
a warm bed
...and so much more

I AM AT YWAM

2006-10-02T12:51:00.000-07:00

Hi Girls,
(warning this blog will be full of many gramatical errors and disjointed thoughts)

Where to start?? i got here September 22 at 4pm in the after noon. I was pretty freeked out to ride the plane alone but i met some jamacans in the miami airport and they took me under thier wing and lead me through the airport to find my next flight. I hung out with these women for 4 hours as i waited for my flight to Mobay. During that 4 hours i learned alot about jamacia and the culture here. The women ended up giving me there phone numbers and we exchanged emails and it was all cute. Then we got on the plan and i thought i had ended up haveing a whole row of seats to my self but at the last minute this guy around my age rushes in and sits down beside me and i am like ok what ever having the whole seat would be nice but if this is how it is going to be that is fine to. But then for some reason the dude just starts talking to me and he is like what are you doing in Jamcia and i am like YWAM and then he is like me TOO so that was kinda a God thing so i got to talk to him for the next hour and half cause he wouldn't shut up. Not that it was a bad thing but i am not a good conversationalist when it comes to talking with guys so i just found it kinda odd that we talked for a whole hour and a half. But i was pretty cool cause now i had a friend to go though the Mo bay airport with his name is Ian and for your information i am not intrested he is taken. when we got to the airport we met another girl that had been on our flight who was also with YWAM so that was pretty cool. We got picked up from the airport in a YWAM van and i relized that they drive on the other side of the road here which kinda freaked me out and it still suprises me everytime we get in the van (those right turns are killer.

Class started on Monday so i had the whole weekend to just hang out and get to know the others. There are 8 jamcians, 8 americans, 3 canadians,1 englander, 1 swiss, and one girl from the faroe islands.

On monday we had pretty intense day the spiritual realm is a huge thing here and then pray 10x the amount i prayed at home. We learned about intercession and intercessory prayer on the first day and we had to put it into practice right away. Now i have a phobia of praying out loud and i had no i dea if i was hearing Gods voice or not but i was a sink or swim situation and all turned out pretty good but my christian reformed beliefs are being severly shaken. I do admit that i miss those days at redeemer when i was a christian and my faith wasn't being shaken i just was. I find my self in tears everynight during my devotional sessions with the things that are being revealed to me and knowing that i am in way over my head. But it is also exciting because it is makeing my faith real. This is not a christian school where people go because they want to get away from thier parents and make them happy that they are going to a religious school, this is not a school where kids go ut on the weekend and party it up. This is a school where every one goes to bed at ten pm because they are so exausted from the stress put on their lives during the day, spiritually and emotionally, This is a school where everyone has to be at breakfast at 6:30 in the morning but they don't complain because they cant wait to see what God will be doing in thier lives that day. By no means are the people in this school perfect people, we shared testomonies this week and it was eye opening an amazing, these people are just people like you and me. But the diffrence is that they are taking Gods dream seriously, The harvest is plentiful but the workers are few. I am so excited/scared to be apart of that.

Trina

Dorm Dinner!

2006-10-02T10:37:00.000-07:00

So on Thursday we went out to Swiss Chalet for a dorm dinner. It was a really great time. On the way there I was in the car with my girls Cindy, Miriam and Laura. We were cranking the worship tunes, all pumped and super excited for the night ahead. At dinner we had a great time just laughing (alot), sharing childhood stories, taking pictures and well enjoying the delicious Swiss Chalet dinner. We then posed for pictures outside....some may or may not have been scandulous pictures involving a pole...then we came back to the dorm. We then made a dorm video, and made a bday card for our wonderful neighbour- Jehan Watson.So yeah all in all it was a good time! Here are some pictures!

So a New Year in Dorm 8 Begins...

2006-09-25T12:00:00.000-07:00

So now that things are starting to settle down a bit I thought it would be good to start this year off with a intro to the 2006-2007 Dorm 8 Girls! We are Emily, Cindy, Laura, Kaitlyn, Rachel, Miriam, Amy and Robyn!!

Life in Dorm 8 is good. Anyone who wants to stop by should feel free to come over at anytime. It's a pretty good place to be if I do say so myself. Well here's a look at us. Blessings to everyone this year!

The road He chose for me is not the one He chose for you...

2006-07-30T11:34:00.000-07:00

Wow where has the summer gone. Last year at this time I was getting ready to meet all of you. Now that I think about it in one way or anyother we have all gone our separate ways. Robyn you are going to be an RA to a new bunch of girls, Amy you are going to have a whole bunch of new dormates, Rachel is in the same boat as Amy, though she knows the girls she is living with plus saying good-bye to Rebecca, Rosie is off at school, engaged and starting her life with jayme, Trina is hoping to go on mission trip, Jenna and Nicole are off to Brock University, and I am off to Mohawk. Kind of feels like graduation reflection.

One of my all time favourite christian singers is Michael W. Smith he wrote a song called pray for me and well I want to dedicate it to all you dorm 8 girls

Pray for me

Michael w. smith

Here is where the road divides
Here is where we realize
The sculpting of the fathers great design
Thru time youve been a friend to me
But time is now the enemy
I wish we didnt have to say goodbye
But I know the road he chose for me
Is not the road he chose for you
So as we chase the dreams were after
Chorus:
Pray for me and Ill pray for you
Pray that we will keep the common ground
Wont you pray for me and Ill pray for you
And one day love will bring us back around again

Painted on our tapestry
We see the way it has to be
Weaving thru the laughter and the tears
But love will be the tie that binds us
To the time we leave behind us
Memories will be our souvenirs
And I know that thru it all
The hardest part of love is letting go
But theres a greater love that holds us

God has given us all different paths to follow so lets remember each other in prayer as we continue on with our journeys.

I love you all

freeman

If you could relive one day of redeemer which would it be?

2006-07-11T21:58:00.000-07:00

to be honest I couldn't tell you... infact I would want to combine a whole bunch of days. If you were reading my personal blog I talked about how I was watching the lion king and well you can't live in the past you have to learn from it. now in this case I think it is ok to dwell on the good things of the past cause they too can make you learn. Looking back on my year of redeemer I discovered what friendship was all about... what a christian community outside of my family and church is like... and the power of prayer. The year went by way to fast... how?... why? It is still hard to think we will never live in dorm 8 again all together. I was looking at our dorm pictures the very first dorm picture to our last and wow what a difference.

Thank you girls for the good memories of our past... and thank you in advance to the memories we are going to make in the future

lov ya all
freeman

To my favorite Dorm 8'ers! :)

2006-07-09T18:03:00.000-07:00

Hey Ladies! :) Its your long lost Rachel here. I just wanna apologize right here, right now for not keeping up with this blog and with each one of you. I want each one of you to know that I love you individually for every little quirk and quality that you have. You all played a huge part in making my first year at Redeemer a wonderful time. (A special shout out to Sarah, my favorite roomie! You are a fantatsic human being who never fails to amaze and encourage me!! ) I wish you could say the same... but since 5 of you are not returning... I gather that I did not accomplish as much! :) JK! I am super excited for each one of you 5 as you embark on seperate and unique paths. I know that God has great plans for each one of you and He will bless your efforts to follow His will! (dont forget to visit!!) Robyn and Amy, I look forward to seeing you around campus and hopefully hanging out. (Robyn for sure since we are on SASC together :) You both are amazing women. My 2nd year at Redeemer will not be the same. I admit that I am a bit nervous again about living with people who I dont really know. I am praying that it all goes well. Although this year was a bit difficult at times for me, I feel that God used it to force me to grow in Him and rely on Him more! Thanks for being my friends!
<3 Rachel

JULY 1st

2006-06-30T10:31:00.000-07:00

I hope you all have a very HAPPY CANADA DAY! We sure are blessed to call Canada home! ~Robyn~

2006-06-17T12:17:00.000-07:00

I just finished a book called, A Table by the Window, it ended in a poem that applied to many conversations this year so i just thought i would share it:

Standing on what too long we bore

With shoulders bent and downcast eyes,

We may discern--unseen before--

A path to higher destinies.

Nor doom the irrevocable Past,

As wholly wasted, wholly vain,

If, rising on its wrecks, at last

To something nobler we attain.

Longfellow

~Trina

My Summer So Far

2006-06-10T18:56:00.000-07:00

Hi Everyone!
So due to dial-up which is the cause of a painful internet experience I have not been able to post anything lately. But tonight the computer seems to working pretty well so I thought I'd give an update. Summer has been really good so far. I'm working as an Acounts Payable clerk for my County's Finance Department. It's a pretty good municipal government job. I'm responsible for all the bills coming in, getting them approved, then I code them to the right accounts and process all the cheques to pay the bills. So it's pretty busy. But I miss the people contact. Being on a computer all day isn't the most exciting thing, but it's a good summer job. Other than work I've been hanging out with family and friends. We've started a college/university Bible study at church so that has been really good. It's amazing to see how so many of the youth I went to high school with have grown so much in their faith since going away to school. We've really grown tight as a group so far this summer. Oh and I bought a car which is pretty exciting. I didnt think I would ever see the day, but it has finally come. I got a 2001 Sunfire. It's pretty sweet. Tonight I was babysitting so that was fun. Then tomorow we have a college/university service at church. They want us students to share a bit of testimony of our year and hear how God is working in our lives. My church is SOOO supportive of us younger ones. It's actually pretty amazing. So they want to hear from us. We are also leading the music and everything so it's kinda exciting. So yes that pretty much sums up my life. Every day is so good. I like my hometown. But I'm also excited for the coming year! Last year of university! Anyways I better get going. Free time in the summer is very limited. Blessings to everyone!
~Robyn~

My life since redeemer

2006-06-02T10:00:00.000-07:00

Considering we as dorm eight all promised to keep up with the blog I decided I should write something. It seems like a lot but yet nothing has happened since I left dorm eight in our junky green van about a month ago. My brother showed up at the dorm around noon we packed up and I hugged goodbye the remainder of our now scattered dorm we prayed and the whole parting was hurtful yet beautiful and I felt I was ready to take the next to see where that would lead me.
After a year of some what freedom being at home felt suffocating. I had no job and I was stuck at home with my mother. Her and I are not a good combination we managed to make it thought the weekend without fighting, then well you get the picture. I went to the employment office and applied for a few jobs. One of the jobs I applied for was working in Gravenhurst at a country store I would live there and work 8-12 hour days. To me this was a dream come true I would make lots of money so I could go on YWAm and I would no longer be living at home. I also applied for a maid service job. They called me right away and we had an interview and they gave me their huge in-depth manual to read right away I took me about two hours to read and then I went home and I was supposed to come in for training on Friday of the same week. When I got home mom told me that I had gotten a call from the Gravenhurst people and they wanted to hire me! So I called up the maid service job quit that and headed out to Gravenhurst on Friday afternoon.
I soon realized why our boss hired people from far away. People in that area were not stupid enough to work for him. He was a jerk beyond belief and it felt like rather then my life being run by my mother it was being run by and alcoholic Nazi that I had to share a house with. There was one other girl there that had arrived just before me and she was talking about leaving already the first night. On Sunday I had to work the first Sunday of my life. I rolled out of bed in maga pain from the day before and took 2 aspirins just so that I could move around. At around noon the other girl told me that she would be leaving on Tuesday and I said that I could get us out to day. By 8 o’clock Sunday night I was in the car on my way home with my relieved mother and father and co- worker.
The next morning at home my parents layed down some ground rules for all of us that where living at home.
1. No working on Sundays.
2. Your room must be clean at all times or you must pay rent
3. We had a chore list that was expected to be done
I went back to Wendy’s that week and started working there the next week. Not my Idea of a great way to spend the summer but I need the money to go to YWAM so I guess that is what gets me through. On my days off I volunteer at the Christian elementary school in Woodstock.
And besides a few really blonde moments that has been my life up until now.

Memory Of Dorm Eight

2006-06-02T08:35:00.000-07:00

Its like a flower, so beautiful that I want to slip the memory between the pages of my life so it might dry and I can save it forever.

Well I don't miss the door bell but...

2006-05-05T16:52:00.000-07:00

I do miss all of my girlfriends.

How are you all doing? I am doing pretty good loving working at the Day Care with the little lambs and big sheep they are so cute. It has been nice being back with my boy and family and hitting the country roads jogging which I should do soon before the bugs come out.

It was hard saying good bye and your prayers and hugs as I left really meant a lot. I am sorry I left on short notice but it was meant to be.

I love and miss you all

keep in touch make sure you are posting

FOUND!

2006-04-22T12:37:00.000-07:00

No need to fear. These two beautiful ladies have been found. They returned home safely to Dorm 8 [The Homestead] at approximately 3:05pm. They were safe and unharmed, but just a little shaken up, after being held hostage at Limeridge Mall. The sales just wouldn't go away and all the summer clothing and accessories held them captured and caused excessive shopping and crazy purchasing behaviour. Robyn and Amy thank their girls for their efforts in the search party, which resulted in their safe return home. They are both recovering while basking in the new clothes and jewelery that have been bought. Thanks to all for your concern and thoughts. Robyn has returned to her mother {I mean RA} duties and Amy is out partying with her man.

WANTED ALSO

2006-04-21T10:35:00.000-07:00

MISSING/WANTED- neglegant mother

status: single

favourite pastimes: telling her girls scary bed time stories, and sleeping

favourite words: oh shoot, like

hair colour: black with purple tips and pink streaks

eye Colour: yellow

height: 6'4

Future Ambition: marry bill gates son, or work at a famous university in the admissions office

last seen wearing: socks shoes, two pairs of pants, 4 t shirts and a hat
if found please call her scared girls in dorm 8

WANTED!!!

2006-04-21T10:17:00.000-07:00

MISS REDEEMER 2005/2006

status: taken

favourite pastimes: getting tackelled by 6 first year gals, and beating hugs out of random people

Dangerous: NO!... well... you can decide

Hair Colour: tinted pink

Lip Colour: Brown

Eyes: Colour: deep red

Height: 2'3

Age: 12

Future ambitions: Finsh elementary school and go to Redeemer

last seen wearing: overalls, pink high heels, red baggy t-shirt

call dorm 8 if found

Procrastination

2006-04-19T12:32:00.000-07:00

So I was looking for ways to procrastinate-and I decided to look up that very word in the dirctionary and do a google image search. Here is what I found:
Definition of Procrastination-
1: the act of procrastinating; putting off or delaying or defering an action to a later time
2: slowness as a consequence of not getting around to it

Oh how I love exam times-everyone always procrastinates and complains they are doing it, but they never, ever change. It's a part of life-and think of all the good times you've had while procrastinating. They would have never happended if you studied all the time. Take time to relax, enjoy life, hang out with people and enjoy the sun. Exams will soon be over, and marks will be forgotten, but the good times will last forever! (On second thought-also remember to study so what you have learned can be remembered and applied in your life!)
~Robyn~

Be Joyful Always!

2006-04-05T13:37:00.000-07:00

How hard it is sometimes to have joy and remain focused on the positives. This is something that has been on my mind a lot lately, and I've been noticing the joy (or lack of it) in the people around me and in myself. Right now I am writing a paper on Philippians. Reading the letter of Philippians that Paul wrote to the church at Philippi has been really encouraging, inspiring and challenging to me. It simply blows me away how Paul can be so joyful and rejoices to God even in the midst of his imprisonment for the sake of the gospel. He doesnt dwell on his circumstance or cry out "woe is me". He looks at the positive aspects of his current situation. Just think about how much better life would be if we were to look at only the positive side of every situation. It is so easy to dwell on the bad things or get caught up in a pity party or pick out the negative things about other people, or any situation. I really think that in order to experience the true joy that Christ offers we need to face each day with a poitive heart. Cuz I mean really, how can we justify complaining about anything? Is it worth it to let such trivial and minute things bother us? I think all these distractions are the devil's way of taking our focus off the joy we have in Christ. We shouldnt let the devil take a hold of our life in that way. Paul was facing the worst situation possible beacuse He was faithful to the gospel, but yet he saw how his suffering was worth it, beacuse it was helping to spread the gospel! Wow that compels me to not only be content, but to be so joyful everyday. The fact that we are saved by grace in Christ is more than enough to make every moment of every day a joyful one!
"In everything you do, stay away from complaining and arguing, so that no one can speak a word of balme against you...But even if I am to die for you, I will rejoice, and I want to share my joy with all of you. And you should be happy about this and rejoice with me." -Paul writing to the Philippians in the midst of being imprisoned and held in chains for his faith!!!!
My prayer is that you will all find this joy that is so freely available in Christ, if you allow Him to fill you up with Himself!
~Robyn~

What Kind of Friend are you

2006-04-02T17:39:00.000-07:00

A simple friend, when visiting, acts like a guest.
A real friend opens your refrigerator and helps himself.

A simple friend has never seen you cry.
A real friend has shoulders soggy from your tears.

A simple friend doesn't know your parents' first names.
A real friend has their phone numbers in his address book.

A simple friend brings a bottle of wine to your party.
A real friend comes early to help you cook and stays late to help you clean.

A simple friend hates it when you call after he has gone to bed.
A real friend asks you why you took so long to call.

A simple friend seeks to talk with you about your problems.
A real friend seeks to help you with your problems.

A simple friend wonders about your romantic history
A real friend could blackmail you with it

A simple friend thinks the friendship is over when you have an argument.
A real friend calls you after you had a fight.

A simple friend expects you to always be there for them
A real friend expects to always be there for you!

Dorm eight gals I love you all you are great friends and it nice to having you around and i can't believe are year together is coming to an end
~freeman~

2006-04-01T22:27:00.000-08:00

Nobody has touched the blog for a while so i decided to fill the space with some of my favorite lines from songs i like... So here it goes:

* Such Great Heights Lyrics
by The Postal Service
-But everything looks perfect from far away,
-I am thinking it's a sign that the frecklesIn our eyes are mirror images and whenWe kiss they're perfectly aligned

*Sounds Of Silence LyricsArtist: Simon & Garfunkel
-But my words, like silent raindrops fellAnd echoedIn the wells of silence

*Billy Joel - She's Always A Woman To Me
-And she never gives in, she just changes her mind
-And the most she will do is throw shadows at you,

*Artist: Pocahontas LyricsSong: Colors Of The Wind Lyrics
-But if you walk the footsteps of a strangerYou'll learn things you never knew you never knew
-Come roll in all the riches all around youAnd for once, never wonder what they're worth

*Swing Life Away LyricsArtist(Band):Rise Against
-I'll show you mine if you show me yours firstLet's compare scars I'll tell you whose is worseLet's unwrite these pages and replace them with our own words
-And I've got some friends some that I hardly knowBut we've had some times I wouldn't trade for the world

*Artist: Train Lyrics
Song: Calling All Angels
-'Cause I feel us drowning in a sea spilled from a cup
-I want a reason for the way things have to beI need a hand to help build up some kind of hope inside of me
-When children have to play inside so they don't disappearAnd private eyes solve marriage lies cause we don't talk for years

*The Geeks Get the Girls
-Even losers can get lucky sometimes
-All the stupid lines, that he had ever heardWouldn't come to mind he couldn't say a word

*Anna Nalick Breathe
-'Cause you can't jump the track, we're like cars on a cableAnd life's like an hourglass, glued to the table
-There's a light at each end of this tunnel,You shout 'cause you're just as far in as you'll ever be out
-And I feel like I'm naked in front of the crowdCause these words are my diary, screaming out loud

*Doesn't Remind Me
-I like studying faces in a parking lotCause it doesn't remind me of anything

*Nothing To Lose
-All the angels I knowPut concrete in my veins
-I’d have to check my mirrorTo see if I’m still here

*Gone Going
-I've seen your kind beforeYour the type that thinks souls is sold in a store

*U.G.L.Y.
-There ain't no pill cos you ain't ill You're ugly!
-When you wear a yellow coat people shout out cab

*Vindicated
-Hope dangles on a stringLike slow spinning redemption
-Defense is paper thin

And there are much more but i think i will stop now :)

Dinner?

2006-03-20T21:02:00.000-08:00

Laughter is an instant vacation. ~Milton Berle
Life today was quite blah ( guess that would be the word to describe it the best) before dinner. I am sure we all thought it was going to be just another dinner in which we mutter a few things to eachother, grin a little and give a few half hearted laughs. But one persons funny story gave way to another persons funny story and our whole dorm was caught upon a never ending tsunami of laughter. Laughter is the best medicine and good exercise too our whole bodies were shaking and we were gasping for breath as the next person picked up where the last person left off. Talking about past school expiriences, work and many other things that would not normally be exciting. But in these momments we grasped on to our most exciting moments and held them under the microscope to be viewed by all.
Super lasted longer than usual, it wasn't exactually an amazing dinner for eating either (left overs actually). But for me i think it will be one of the most memorable of this year, jokes landed spots on the quote board and spots on our minds. And the laughter mad the rest of my day drift by with a little less blah-ness.
"i like your dot."

IT RAINED TODAY... ah spring is right around the corner

2006-03-09T10:09:00.000-08:00

I love waking up to a rainy day.
Call me crazy but I think there is something unique about walking in the rain
Infact one of my fondest memories from Redeemer was lying on a hill with my gals just talking in the rain.
As a child my favourite movie was Singing in the Rain(good movie)
Anyways I hope you can find joy in the rain it is a gift from above

~freeman~

ps Trina hope you enjoy your last day being a 18 just think in 366 days you will no longer be a teenager ahhhhhhhhhhhhh!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!1

From me to you

2006-03-08T20:43:00.000-08:00

First I would like to say Congratulations to Rosie and Jayme on their official engagment! I love you both and May God Bless you in your upcoming marriage

Recently I have been searching the bible for answers to why life is going the way it is... well I was directed to this verse and I would like to share it with you

3All praise to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ. He is the source[b] of every mercy and the God who comforts us. 4He comforts us in all our troubles so that we can comfort others. When others are troubled, we will be able to give them the same comfort God has given us. 5You can be sure that the more we suffer for Christ, the more God will shower us with his comfort through Christ. 1 Corinthians 1:3-6

It is so nice to know that as Christians we don't have to face anything alone, and that God's loving arms of comfort are open wide

I don't know what you are going through you might be dealing with something that no one elses knows about, but where ever you are on your road of life rest in the knowledge that there is a God who knows your name and it is written on His heart and and He loves you

~freeman~

2006-03-06T07:47:00.000-08:00

I am in Amsterdam!

2006-02-24T14:46:00.000-08:00

Hey everyone. Just wanted to say that I am having a blast here in Amsterdam! It's not every day that you get offered ecstacy and coccaine among other drugs offered so freely to you! Putting some of those things aside it is really incredible to see how God is working in this city and to be a part of it. I hope that you all are having a great reading break! I'm back next week, but I have so much to tell. I dont have much time here so I have to keep this short. Keep praying for all the poeple we have connected with, and that God will reveal Himself to them.
~Robyn

2006-02-21T13:32:00.000-08:00

When i was in mt last year of highschool the question i was asked the most was where are you going to university... The answer was always a mumbled out, Redeemer. And now that i am there the new question i am asked is "are thier any nice boys at Redeemer?" Well yes i say, thier are alot of nice boys at Redeemer. And then i am imediately asked if i have a boyfriend, and ofcourse the answer is no. It feels to me that at this point in the conversation the women that i am talking to expect me to be sad or frusterated over this situation and when i am not they can't understand why any young lady wouldn't want to take that 'next step' in her life.
Well what i am thinking is if going from highschool to university is one step and from university to getting a boyfriend is another step, where does education fall. In other words if getting a boyfriend or moving on in life means getting hooked up i would reather just stand still for the time being. Sure every now and then i fall back on that child hood dream of wanting to get married and live happily ever after with the man of my dreams, but then i get slapped in the face with the reality of how the world is today.
As some of you know i co-oped in a grade one class last year and it was a blast. But as we know with the good comes the bad and as a teacher/teachers assistant i saw it all. I heard the stories behind each so called 'bad' child and saw the pain that these children were feeling at a young age. It hurt to see this. The children whose parents that were fighting at home trying to fit in at school. the little girl whose mother was gone striving for female attention. The little boy whose mother doesn't love him because he reminds her of his dead father. Broken families. oh how it effected those children in ways that you couldn't even imagine. There was so much that just a little love could do.
So, i guess you could call me chicken, or just plain scared. I guess i could say i just don't trust myself right now. How could I? In our world so scarred by sin how can i expect to fall in love with the right man who i will spend the rest of my life with, raise my children with and help them grow in love for jesus christ. When i look at my parents i feel blessed and wonder how they did it, sure there are somethings that i know i will change in how i parent my children(if i ever have any) but over all they did a really good job. I guess i am one of the lucky ones, my parents stayed together, i only ever heard them fight once, all of us kids were loved equally and we were raised knowing God. I was lucky, what a life to live up to, in a world where broken families and remarriage is becoming the norm.

Just a Thought

2006-02-13T20:09:00.000-08:00

Well tomorrow is Valentine's day I don't tend to celebrate it infact most times I tend to be really negative about that day, but tonight at devos my RA shared with a love letter from God to us his children and it really touched me. I know that God loves me but I never really let it sink it. So I guess my challenge for you is to as you see or receive the gifts of flowers, chocolates, and such, whether you have a significant other or not remember that there is one who loves you so very much he created love and knows the most about it and has given us the greatest love gift his Son Jesus on the cross

Don't for a second think that you can't enjoy the gifts and they day but remember there is one who goes above and beyond everyday to show you his love, I guess in a way for God everyday is Valentine's and each morning he has a special gift of love for you

~freeman~

Do People really know nothing about Candians

2006-02-07T16:19:00.000-08:00

I got this forward from my English Prof and I thought you would all enjoy it

Now that Vancouver has won the chance to host the 2010 Winter Olympicsthese are some questions people the world over are asking!! Believe it ornot these questions about Canada were posted on an International TourismWebsite (frightening, isn't it!)Obviously the answers are a joke; but the questions were really asked.

Q: I have never seen it warm on Canadian TV, so how do the plants grow?(UK)
A. We import all plants fully grown and then just sit around and watchthem die.

Q: Will I be able to see Polar Bears in the street? (USA)
A: Depends on how much you've been drinking.

Q: I want to walk from Vancouver to Toronto-can I follow the Railroadtracks? (Sweden)
A: Sure, it's only Four thousand miles, take lots of water.

Q: Is it safe to run around in the bushes in Canada? (Sweden)
A: So it's true what they say about Swedes.

Q: It is imperative that I find the names and addresses of places tocontact for a stuffed Beaver. (Italy)
A: Let's not touch this one.

Q: Are there any ATM's (cash machines) in Canada? Can you send me a listof them in Toronto, Vancouver, Edmonton and Halifax? (UK)
A: What did your last slave die of?

Q: Can you give me some information about hippo racing in Canada? (USA )
A: A-fri-ca is the big triangle shaped continent south of Europe. Ca-na-dais that big country to your North...oh forget it. Sure, the hippo racingis every Tuesday night in Calgary. Come naked.

Q: Which direction is North in Canada? (USA)
A: Face south and then turn 180 degrees Contact us when you get here andwe'll send the rest of the directions.

Q: Can I bring cutlery into Canada? (UK)
A: Why? Just use your fingers like we do.

Q: Can you send me the Vienna Boys' Choir schedule? (USA)
A: Aus-tri-a is that quaint little country bordering Ger-man-y, whichis...oh forget it. Sure, the Vienna Boys Choir plays every Tuesdaynight in Vancouver and in Calgary, straight after the hippo races. Comenaked.

Q: Do you have perfume in Canada? (Germany)
A: No, WE don't stink.

Q: I have developed a new product that is the fountain of youth. Can yousell it in Canada? (USA)A: Anywhere significant numbers of Americans gather.

Q: Can you tell me the regions in British Columbia where the femalepopulation is smaller than the male population? (Italy)
A: Yes, gay nightclubs.

Q: Do you celebrate Thanksgiving in Canada? (USA)
A: Only at Thanksgiving.

Q: Are there supermarkets in Toronto and is milk available all yearround?(Germany)
A: No, we are a peaceful civilization of Vegan hunter/gathers. Milk isillegal.

Q: I have a question about a famous animal in Canada, but I forget itsname. It's a kind of big horse with horns. (USA)
A: It's called a Moose. They are tall and very violent, eating the brainsof anyone walking close to them. You can scare them off by sprayingyourself with human urine before you go out walking.

Q: Will I be able to speak English most places I go? (USA)
A: Yes, but you will have to learn it first.

Hope you liked it...is it sad

Friendships

2006-02-03T21:58:00.000-08:00

In the last couple of days I have been in contact with some of my good "best" friends and it is so nice that our friendship have lasted over the long distance and that I can count on them all the time. It is nice that God puts people in our lives that are irreplaceable and I look forward to making those kinds of friendships here

~freeman~

Meet the Family...

2006-02-02T20:45:00.000-08:00

So tonight I was thinking about how much I love and miss my family and I thought that maybe I should share a bit about them since 99.9% of the people at redeemer have never met them. I also think that you can never fully know a person until you know their family. Anyone that knows me knows that I am a family girl and will proudly boast about my siblings and parents. Since I'm not big on large wordy posts I thought I'd sum up my description of the Hogans using some lists.

My dad-an accountant, hockey coach, funny, smart, hard-working, stubburn [Hogan trait...glad I didnt get that one lol ;)], man of few words, motivated, leader

My mom-part time kindergarten teacher, hospitable, very social, talks a lot, hugs a lot, kisses a lot[all Burden family traits], very involved, inspirational, caring, amazing cook, super strong faith, was a stay-at-home mom for 15 years

My bro Luke (aka Lukus Pukus)-19 years old, hilarious, loves history [and girls ;)], hockey player, 1st year at Carleton U, studying history and geo to become a HS teacher, athletic, sarcastic

My bro Blair (aka Burse)-15 years old, grade 10 at SFDCI, super athletic, pro hockey player, in love, funny guy, cool and confident, ladies man, likes to sleep, all-round fun guy

My lil sis Carla (aka Prinny-derived from the word princess)-baby of the family at 13 years old, grade 8 at Chimo Senior Elementary, fun, friendly, plays every sport going, outgoing, cheery, thoughtful, caring, beautiful, bubbly

So that's pretty much my family-oh yeah except for my dog Patty. She's a border collie and is pretty much my favorite pet ever. We inherited her from my grandma after she passed away. Patty's a farm dog who never runs out of energy and has a tough job keeping up with the hectic and constantly on-the-go Hogan household. My family is super busy so there's always someone running and going to all the many things we do. So yeah I hope it doesnt sounds like I'm bragging, but I hope by knowing a bit about my family you can maybe understand a bit more about me!

That is the second time

2006-02-02T20:43:00.000-08:00

Sorry... I hit the wrong button by accident again.

Anyways the Lip Syncs tonight were amazing they were so entertaining and so much fun. I will have to say I have seen many things in my day but I have never seen a white Steve Urkel, hear Aqua's Barbie Girl in Dutch, or The King of Pop return in front of my very eyes. An outstanding performance.

I laughed I cried I had a great time

I hope you didn't miss it

~freeman~

If you didn't go... man you missed out

2006-02-02T20:35:00.000-08:00

2006-01-30T22:23:00.000-08:00

somewhere
anywhere
But here
The air has become stale
Have I become a stagnant person?

leaving the valley

2006-01-28T19:02:00.000-08:00

I am sure you have all at least once in life have felt really down well it is a great feeling when you start climbing out of the valley, when life seems worth living and things are going right finally. It all started Wednesday when I got a surprise visit from my boy and he took me out and we just hung out it was great and then the good times kept coming. I went over to my friend's house (Cass and Louis) and I tried fish and it wasn't as bad as I thought it would be. I "learned" about womenhood and then today I had pretty quiet day until I decided to go visit dorm 18 and Kat and I watched a movie and then had a wild dance party. We were practicing for lip syncs and got carried away and pulled in my RA. Let me say everyone should come to the lip syncs.

Well I hope for those who feel like there are stuck in a valley will soon feel like they are climbing the mountain soon

peace

~freeman~

2006-01-27T12:56:00.000-08:00

My Beautiful Dorm 8 Girls!

2006-01-27T08:28:00.000-08:00

Dorm 8 is an amazing dorm, and God has blessed us in so many ways! At the beginning of the year I must say that I wondered what my place would be in this dorm as I am only an "RA's roommate". I wondered at times how I should act, because I didn't want to take Robyn's place as an RA, yet I still really wanted to be involved in the girls' lives and just be their friend. I didn't want to be intimidating in any way as an older student, but I just wanted them to see me on their level, as a friend. I must say that this year has been amazing in so many ways -- I never thought it would be this good. Honestly girls, when I watch Robyn as your RA and what she does for you and how she acts I am amazed, inspired, and reminded again how blessed you are as first- years, and how blessed I am as well to be her roommate. I have ever always seen you guys as my friends, and I wish that we could all live together next year as well! I know that both Robyn and I prayed hard in the summer for all of you, and we say to each other all the time how much we love you guys. I have grown so much this year yet again because of the examples you set for me, the things you share, and the ways you act. Thank you dorm 8 girls, God has given me a gift when He gave you to me.

I Appreciate the Dorm 8 Girls!!

2006-01-26T21:52:00.000-08:00

So today was RA Appreciation day at Redeemer! The girls in my dorm are amazing and encouraged me all day with words, hugs, cards and even flowers!! I LOVE flowers!! I have to say that these girls are a HUGE blessing in my life and I love and appreciate each one of them. God has blessed this dorm with amazing young women! I hope that you have been blessed by dorm 8 in some way! Have we blessed you?

2006-01-25T07:57:00.000-08:00

As i left math class this morning all i could think about was getting home. I walked my fast paced walk down the hall and tried to avoid the sea of blank faces as i rushed towards the exit. As i stepped through the door the brisk wind kissed my cheek and lifted my hair. It was as if i had entered a world between worlds. a world where nothing matters. No presure of school work and no presures that come with living with 7 other young women. Life had stood still and given me a moment to feel the happyness of just living in this world. A moment to realize the blessings that come with being alive. Just breathing in the winter air that peirces the back of my throat made me feel so alive. I got to my dorm door and opened it, knowing that if i needed to think or free my mind, beauty was waiting for that moment just out side my door.

2006-01-24T13:22:00.000-08:00

Have you ever walked into a situation that you knew you should have been excited for but when you got there you felt repulsed. When you looked around you and saw all the happy faces did you want to just curl up in your bed and dream of anything but the thoughts that were drumming on your brain at that moment.
These are the feelings that i felt once i got to the winter retreat. As soon as i walked through those doors i didn't want to be there, actually wanted to go home, like home as in where my parents live. A place where i only go if there is nothing happening anywhere else. All week i was getting excited with my dorm mates about the awesome time i was going to have at the retreat and now that i was there i felt like i was suffocating. We sang some songs that should have been moving and sat down to listen to our first sermon/lecture. I know i should remember what was said but i didn't. To say that i didn't hear God speaking to me during those moments when the speakers voice drifted over my ears would be a lie. In the moments when the other students were being touched by what ever God was saying through the man at the front. God was speaking his own message into my ears. A message of peace, a message to calm the torrent of thoughts in my head, a message that i would not have heard if i hadn't gone on the retreat. It was revealed to me the reason i was brought to this place. God had to speak to me and since Him and i hadn't been talking for a while he decided to bring me to a place where i would let my heart be open to his words. Wow God works in mysterious ways.
I'd like to be able to say that after my talk with God the rest of the sessions sunk in and made me feel good about the trip, but i can't. But the small group talk that i mainly listened to rather then participate in touched my heart and taught me things that i wish i had known before.
The retreat was well put together and everything would have been more fun if i had felt better about the occasion. The organized games where great and the one i liked the best was the one we played at night, we had to find various SASC members out side. Now i didn't like i because we won, because we actually lost, we didn't find any one. But i loved it because it was an excuse to go out side. Just staring up at the beautiful expanse of the night sky and the silhouettes of nature all around us. Sure, during the day the creation looked gorgeous, but at night the vastness just covers you and i could feel God wrap around my insignificant presence.

The SSS?

2006-01-23T17:56:00.000-08:00

The SSS has been referred to a few times on this blog so I thought it was time we clarified a few things and got it all out in the open. So the SSS stands for "Single Sisters Society". It was formed on a late Sunday afternoon in November at the kitchen table in Dorm 8. We are Trina, Jenna, Rachel and Robyn aka the single girls in Dorm 8. Now dont get us wrong-we LOVE our dating sisters and their boyfriends (who are unofficially a part of our dorm) but there is just something about being single that can bring girls together. It all started out as a bit of a pity party about being single at Redeemer and the challenges that come along with that. Our discussion, turned counselling session, turned big joke, turned movie-making session was the beginning of something great-The SSS. Life is obviously wonderful regardless of whether you have a significant other or not, but in any situation it is good to have friends who are in the same shoes and who can relate to you in that aspect of life. So our mission is to encourage each other and BE PURSUED (lol)! We have made the decision to not pursue guys or go out there and be flirty or take initiative, but to enjoy our singleness and wait for God's timing when he prompts a certain guy to pursue us. Well here are some pics of the SSS. Keep looking for more info about these wonderful young women :)

2006-01-23T11:51:00.000-08:00

Well girls, I have to admit to you I have alot to think about after the retreat this weekend and Matt Pamplins talk last night.

I'm starting to realize more and more how much being a christian is like a cross country race. In each step you have to push harder and harder to become more like Jesus but sometimes your just out of air and want to collapse and go to sleep.

Now, I'm not much of a cross country runner, but from this weekend i've come to appreciate phillipians 2:13 even more, " -continue to work out your salvation with fear and trembling, for it is God who works in you to will and to act according to his good purposes. " In the words of a very wise man we just need to make the most out of every oppurtunity that comes our way becuase the days are evil. (Eph. 5:16)

On a lighter note I want to thank all you guys for the good times we've had and how much i appreciate your strength, honesty, compassion, and the little things that bring us together.

Nicole

P.S. Since I finallly blogged all the bets are off !

Robyn's Commandment:

2006-01-23T07:40:00.000-08:00

THOU SHALT VOTE!!

If you are a Canadian citizen today is the day to exercise the democratic freedom we have been so graciously given. Please allow God to use your vote to accomplish great things in this GREAT nation!

Sitting in theoffice with Katrina

2006-01-23T07:17:00.000-08:00

Varsity B-BALL

2006-01-21T07:07:00.000-08:00

well I will have to stay that the varsity b-ball games were a highlight of my home alone weekend so far. Man the girls kicked some wicked BUTT!! I don't usually watch girls b-ball but I was impressed. The defeated Niagra 60-53.

Now my fav team the varsity boys were up against the Goliath's of the 21 century they were huge. By our boys play hard and were only defeat by 12 points.

a side note man bleachers need to come padded....

peace

Just Thought you should know

2006-01-20T15:17:00.000-08:00

I am not putting down anyone decision to go to the retreat I am simply saying that I have decided not to go because of the reason I labelled below. I guess for me past experiances affect my decisions. I encourage people to go if they feel God calling them. God does wonders in all situations. At one event I was able to see my friend give their live to Christ but there have been times where the outcome is different. I could have very greatly benefitted from this weekend but in my heart it is not what I felt called to do. However maybe next time I will feel the pull to attend this type of fellowship. I will be praying for all those who have attended the Winter Retreat that they will truly be touched by the Holy Spirit. I hope that everyone will be able to grow in their faith and feel closer to God. It is also my prayer that as I stay here that I will grow in my walk with Christ.

~freeman~

You will never walk alone

2006-01-20T09:58:00.000-08:00

One of the comments from my Winter retreat post was that Christ doesn't call us to walk alone but I want to throw something out at you. Are you really ever alone... i means Christ is with you at all times in your walk. Don't forget if you were the only one on earth Christian or not he still would have died for you. Some of my favourite Christian singers were inspired to write a song and I want to share some of the lyrics with you.

You will never walk alone
As long as you have faith
Jesus will be right beside you all the way
You may feel you're far from home
But home is where He is
And he'll be there down every road
You will never walk alone

Jesus knows your joy,
Jesus knows your need
He will go the distance with you faithfully

(from Point of Grace's song You will never walk alone)

...don't forget if you have Christ in your life and apart of your walk... YOU WILL NEVER WALK ALONE!

~its nice to know that I'll never have walk alone~

a second thought for you

2006-01-20T09:41:00.000-08:00

I am not trying to say that we as Christians don't need fellowship I am simply saying look in your heart and ask yourself why are you going to the Winter Retreat? Why does it matter so much that a fellow Christian doesn't want to go? Too many Christians worry so much about someone else's walk instead of their own. Yes, we need fellowship to grow Jesus had a group of believers around him but he also took alone time. Jesus also gives the choice to choose him or the world with love and understanding. If only all Christians could do that. Jesus doesn't force us to follow him instead he invites and if we don't accept he continues to love us. I support those who are going, and hopefully you are going for the right reasons, ones that are God honouring.

peace out

SSS

2006-01-19T23:05:00.000-08:00

Wanting to have a significant other is like, being a child and wanting to grow up.
When i was a child i wanted so badly to be grown up and now that i am there i wish i could have the freedoms of being a child again. In the same way when you have a significant other or a spouse you will look back on your single days and miss those freedoms.

So i guess as a member of the SSS i am saying enjoy your singleness

Why I am not Going to the Winter Retreat

2006-01-19T19:33:00.000-08:00

You know what I hate. I hate the looks I get when I tell people that I am not attending the Winter Retreat. It is a look like they can't not believe I would past up the chance of a spiritual weekend, a weekend to grow in my faith with God. Well here is what I have to say about that. I don't need a weekend away to grow in my faith with God. My faith is a personal walk with Christ and to be honest I don't feel like hanging out with a bunch of people who are going to be a bunch of fakes. You'll make "new friends" who once you get back to the normal routinue of life will never ever be apart of your life again. It is so easy to be a Christian at a winter retreat, to give your testimony to let everyone think you are so strong or that you are struggling and on your way back to the faith. Most people whether they admitt it or not are going to get a spiritual high because they know that their battery is dying and they need to charge it. The Winter Retreat is like a hot box to get on a high for God. Don't get me wrong being on fire for God is awesome but one should be striving to do that everyday. If you want to be on fire with God you need to get in to the word, you need to spend time with the big guy not wait for the next spiritual weekend or event. God says find a quiet space and spend time with Him. I mean I would rather stay in my dorm alone where I won't have any distractions and place the focus on him. Being a christian is a personal choice, God gave everyone the free will to chose him or chose the world (satan) it is your choice on how you want your walk to go. You can stay a baby christian and get spoon feed your whole life, and depend on others or events to feed you what you are suppose to do in your walk or you can put all your trust in right place in the hands of God. I am not saying that I am too good for the retreat but I know in my heart that going isn't going to bring me to where I feel God wants me to be in my walk with Christ. I don't want to be like the Pharisees boasting look at me I am such a good christian or look what I am doing for God. I want to be like the tax collector who comes before God without the desire of catching the crowds attention. I just want to be intimate with God. So why go the retreat when God is in my presence day in and day out.

~freeman~

Wow He's Smart

2006-01-19T13:46:00.000-08:00

I opened my devotional today and i thought i would share what was written. The text was "Take courage, it is i, don't be afraid."Matt 14:27
Wave slapping his waste and rain stinging his face. Jesus speaks (to the diciples) at once. "Courage! I am! Don't be afraid!"
Speaking from a burning bush to a knee knocking Moses, God anounced: " I AM, WHO I AM" God gets into things!
Red Seas... Judean wildernesses, weddings, funerals, and Galilean tempests. Look and you will find what everyone from Moses to Martha discovered.
God in the middle of our storms.
Max Lucado, "Everyday Blessings"

Just be true to yourself its what He wants

2006-01-19T08:38:00.000-08:00

one thing that I have learned from living with seven girls is that you'll never please everyone. Something you say will bring some up and others down. Taking a stand can mean hurting someone, someone you never meant to hurt. Becoming close with some makes others feel left out. Maybe it is all has to do with the transition from childhood into adulthood. Some of us hang on the past and are in no rush, others are leaping ahead, while others are just stuck in the middle. When you live with seven different people you get a huge mixture. So what do you do. As a first year I like many others sought acceptance, who doesn't right? Well it is how you go about that which is important. I mean looking back at my first week here I was quiet an observer watching, I wanted to make a good first impression I wanted to fit in, and I would have done anything to make sure that happened. Each day you wake up hoping that you don't mess up that you don't ruin a chance to be that perfect person. Well I did that. I sought each day to do everything that would make me accepted I thought that would make me happy. Man I was wrong a good friend pointed out to me that it is important to true to yourself, to take a stand and not let what others think affect the person God created me to be. It is hard being yourself because we all have those days when we look in the mirror and point out all the things that we think are wrong with us. A challenge/a thought for you and for me ... if you're trying pleasing the world you'll never succeed... please God by being true to yourself and you'll fine inner peace and happiness

What I have Learned From Living With Girls

2006-01-19T08:29:00.000-08:00

At home the majority of my family is male, i have 2 older brothers and one younger, no sisters. I grew up playing with swords, army men and lego, though the only lego i ever got was pink, purple and white, and the sets had people sitting peacfully on the beach, but the peacful beach scene didn't last long because the people where soon drafted and sent to war and my girlish bricks were soon built int magnificent castles or thick walls to keep the enemy out. As i grew up more male things were in the house (exept for clothes) such as all the star wars video's and alot of killing video games. But toys weren't the only thing that made it male, the main emotions that got thrown around where my mothers and mine, the boys were always layed back and let it go on around them.

So what have i learned from living with girls?

I have learned...

That when people grab your butt that is a sign of affection

That compliements flow like crazy, and people actually mean it

If you are going to cry you never ever cry alone, unless we get the vibe that you want to be alone

That is it is not what you say, its what you don't say

That no matter how hard you try, you won't be able to avoid stepping on peoples feet

That hugs are an essensial in every day life

That sappy romance shows are worth watching, they are not a waste of time

That no matter how much you like to avoid talking about being single, you are going to have a conversation related to that topic atleast once a day

That if you are going to take someone down fair fighting is not an option, you may: bite, scratch, pinch and punch people (anywhere)

I have learned more things then this but i cant think of them right now.

~Trina

Masterpieces

2006-01-18T21:26:00.000-08:00

One thing that we have always said about our dorm is that we all are so unique. From the get-go, we have been able to recognize and appreciate the characteristics that set us apart from each other and the qualities that we all share. Each of has been created with care and purpose and I love how this is evident in our dorm.
Robyn-- the mother bird, so insightful and caring, always willing to listen and give advice
Amy-- super massager and best listener, joyful-, loving-, and giving- heart
Nicole-- talented photographer and scrapbooker, intelligent, kind, funny
Rosie-- "fashionista" and poet and artist, real, world-wise, and willing to share
Sarah-- best roommate ever, knowledgeable, kind-hearted friend
Trina-- best lookin tall, Fresian chick, hilarious, fun, best hugger in the world
Jenna-- endless bundle of energy, encouraging, fun, genuine
Although we all are so unique-- as different and distinct as each individual snowflake-- we all have something in common. We all are beautiful masterpieces created by God. Our worth to God is unfathomable. That's something that we should never forget! :)

Hey girlfriends

2006-01-18T20:39:00.000-08:00

Proverbs 17:17 says a friend loves at all times and I am so glad I've met people who fill that description.

To be honest Redeemer wasn't where I really wanted to be this year. I took a year off school to work and I loved it I was doing what I love working with children and youth at my local YMCA. I was also living a life for myself instead of for God. I figure that if I applied to Redeemer it would seem like I was a really strong christian and that no one would be able to see the lost girl I was. To be honest it is hard to get back on the path when you have experianced the world and its "pleasures". One of our first devos we did testimonies and it was amazing to hear that there were other who had or were going through stuggles too. Girls I just want you to know that whether or not you realize it God has worked through you to get to my heart and it has been great watching him use me for his glory. I love all of you. Dorm 8 will always be a huge part of my heart.

Sweet Nothings

2006-01-18T20:38:00.000-08:00

I'm so sleepy right now but because of my great love for you girls I'm adding to our blog! I just want to give a preview for some events to come....the SSS WILL be soon posting their adds (you know what I'm talking about Trino, Rach and RobIN! LOL
I just also want to say I love Trino, my roommate, despite the fact she's playing country right now!!
I love Robyn because she is so excitable- like me!
I love Rosie because she pulled her moves today and she ate the freaky rice I made her for dinner last night
I love Amy because she is always cheery and makes me feel warm and fuzzy inside
I love Nicole because when she plays guitar and I sing I feel like a star even though we're wildly bad...because we have way to much fun!
I love Rachel because she gives awesome hugs and gets on witty streaks that keep me constantly laughing
I love Sarah because she is starting to wear purple and pink (my fav. colour) and she looks so cute in them even though she doesn't like it....you're gonna be going on those shirts for a looong time!

From My Heart To Yours

2006-01-18T16:11:00.000-08:00

well here goes my first time blogging, it will probably be full of many spelling and gramatical errors but hey...

it seems like the topic that we have been following so far has been first impressions and how much we love eachother... so i will continue on with that...

i will have to admit that i came to redeemer with all the wrong reasons in mind, it was mainly for my parents sakes that i made the choice to come here... they really wanted me to go to university and a christian one at that.
I came here thinking that i would just stay here for a year to quench my parents wants and then move on to bigger and better things, things that i wanted to do with my life, like join Youth With Mission for example. Going to university didn't seem like a way that i could actually get out on the battle front and help win wars for God.
I didn't expect to get much out of the whole redeemer expeirience, for me it was an escape, sure home life was good and i am blessed with a great family, but it started to feel like i was breathing stale air so coming here i knew i would have new air to breath. I walked throughthe door into the dorm wondering what this chapeter of my life would bring and wondering to my self if i could make it through another year of desk work and education that i didn't feel i needed.

As i think about the past few months in our dorm the verse at the top of our blog really rings true. God says, "for i know the plans i have for you." It is a hard thing to trust God especially when you cant see where he is taking your life. through out the past few months God has given my glimpses of the plans that he has set out so neatly for me. i have met many people here that i have helped me throught my walk on earth, people who have had same expierinces as me, people who have helped me sift through the fog of my past so that i can see a future.

I finally can see that i took classes here that can help me with my life goals, and am for once doing better in my studies.
I can finally say now that i am going to redeemer this year and next because i want to, it is my decision.

God put me in a dorm full of beautiful people in side and out. We have had conversations that made us laugh till our stomachs ached and have had deep conversations that made us weep till our hearts ached. we can now some times finish eachothers sentences or tell when some one needs to talk. I am truely blessed.
~Trina

Each Day I thank God for my Dorm 8 gals

2006-01-18T11:29:00.000-08:00

As I went to bed last time I realized that I am truly blessed to have my Dorm 8 gals.
Girls I just want to say it is awesome always having someone around to just talk to you. Chatting with you can really make my day. Man can you believe it has already been a semester. Everyday I go back to the memory of our first day together, our first devo, our christmas, all these good times will stay in my memory forever.

GIRLFRIENDS
I LOVE YOU ALL

YAY for SnOw

2006-01-18T10:32:00.000-08:00

So this is the current view form my window. It's about time that we get some snow. Winter in Ancaster is definitely not as nice as winter in Ottawa. I mean I do love the warm weather and the fact that we didn't have to wear coats last week, but at the same time winter in Canada=snow. It is just wrong any other way! So yay for the gift of snow today. Snow really amazes me. Just the fact that no two flakes are alike, and the fact that it falls so beautifully from the sky, and the fact that it brightens the day of so many-it's a constant reminder of how great our God is! I am thankful for the snow! How about you?
~Robyn~

Dorm 8 Girls!

2006-01-18T09:45:00.000-08:00

Hey Dorm 8 Girls!

Honestly, you girls are amazing! I love living with you guys! There is never a dull moment in this dorm. I love that we are all so unique, so different, and yet we can still get along so well. We share a common faith which is such a wonderful foundation for our dorm. God's plans are always perfect, He knew what He was doing when He placed us all together. This has been such an amazing year, I am enjoying every minute of it. We have so many great memories so far, so many videos, pictures, quotes, and the memories we weren't able to quite capture (the homeless man in the basement! =) but we'll always remember them, how could we not? This year has been amazing, you girls are amazing!
Amy

The Picture That Made Us Famous...

2006-01-17T19:09:00.000-08:00

...Well at least this picture made it into The Crown. I must say we are a pretty good looking dorm eh?

8 amazin' friends

2006-01-17T16:20:00.000-08:00

to be honest I didn't expect to make lasting friendships with the girls in my dorm before I came to Redeemer but I am so glad that I am here and in this dorm. Let me tell you my top eight things about chillin in the HOMESTEAD!

H- honestly the most 7 amazing girls I could ever have hope to live with
O- outrageously good time
M- memories forever
E- excellant food
S- super special
T- talking girl talk rocks
E- extremely photo times
A- amazing devo times (really meaningful)
D-Don't ever think I ever forget my time in Dorm 8 the homestead

So stop by for the time of you life

peace

Sarah

2006-01-16T21:53:00.000-08:00

So starting this site off is the hard part-being a business and math student I am generally not so good when it comes to words-so bear with :)
I hope that everyone is having a great year in 2006 and that God will bless you throughout! I just wanted to share a couple things to get this blog started. So I thought I would share the top 8 reasons (in no particular order) of why I love dorm 8!
1-The Girls. Honestly I could easily argue that the highest qulaity, most fun, beautiful and amazing girls are all in this dorm!
2-Fun and Laughter-There is always someone laughing in this house and we sure do know how to have fun!
3-The Encouragement-If you need a compliment, hug or a listening ear this dorm is always there for you.
4-The Hospitality-our door is always open to visitors, starngers and anyone needing a good meal
5-The Cooking-we sure do eat some pretty good quality food around here
6-The fact that we are like a 30 second walk form the school!
7-The Good Times just hanging out-and taking pictures ;)
8-Our love and desire to have a deeper relationship with God

Am I missing anything? There are many more great things about this dorm!

"Give thanks to the Lord, for He is good; His love endures forever" Psalm 107:1

The Beginning...

2006-01-16T20:26:00.000-08:00

Dorm 8 has now entered the blogging world!