Thanksgiving

11.11.12
Giving thanks is a conscious decision we need to make daily. So last night at our house meeting we began by listing the things that we were thankful for in our Dorm...

Jose said, "For my 10 new brothers."
Miguel- "For the experiences we do together, like on Saturday when we all went to the girl's Basketball game."
Costi- "I'm thankful for Pizza Hut Pizza on Saturday nights!"
Santi- "For this experience"

I'm thankful for this opportunity to share life with 11 International boys! I'm thankful for the sound of the ping pong balls hitting the table as they challenge each other to a friendly match. I'm thankful for our Cook- Nancy, and our Janitor-Yvonne. I'm thankful for cable T.V and wifi in the dorm. :) I'm thankful for a beautiful 75 degree day in November! 

 I'm thankful when the boys display kindness as when Jose offered to give up his chicken last night so that Bruno could have some. When Yannic lost his wallet and Costi offered to go back to the school to help him look for it. When Keita, Fan, and Costi helped with chores last night when it was not their job this week. When Miguel took time to play with my biological boys. When Keita played 'tag' with Caleb. When Jose missed the Sports Bus because he was looking for Keita to make sure Keita had a ride home. When Thanh bought fruit snacks and beef jerky for Caleb and Micah. When the boys bought their host parents gifts from their countries. When Santi went to watch and support his host brother at his soccer game. When Oscar helped us move our items into the dorm. When Yannic and Fan helped me with my computer. When Arthur helps take pictures for the blog. These acts of Kindness show the character of the students here and that is refreshing to see!!

Happy Thanksgiving!

Happy Birthday Jose!!!

 Jose celebrated his 17th Birthday today! His Host Family decorated his room with Purdue items and dropped off some packages! 

He requested Lemon Pie for his special dessert and was graced with compliments from his brothers. Many reported that Jose is very polite, a good friend, fun to be around, has a great laugh, and is a excellent athlete! We are so thankful for Jose's leadership in the dorm and his polite spirit! Happy Birthday Jose- we love you!!!

Prom 2012!!

 Kokomo High School hosted their Prom this past weekend and 8 of our 11 Boys were in attendance! What a great looking group!!

 The day started at 3p.m  with pictures. Then they headed to the high school to get in their HUMMER LIMO!! The limo took them to Indianapolis, IN for dinner at Buca de Beppo! Then it was back to the high school for a fun night of dancing and festivities! 

 Costi and Rachel

 Jose and Kelsey

 The boys!

 Stephanie and Bruno

 More pictures

 Thanh and date

 Miguel and Kinley

 The boys and their dates. Oh Miguel....:) 

 I snuck in a little picture too! 

Yannic and Lejla

[I wasn't able to get Arthur and Keita's individual shots :( ] 

Fall Party at the Merrell's Home!

 Jane and Jean

 Fan enjoying the games

Some of our American girls came to our Fall party too!

 

 Yannic and Jose

 Arthur, Oscar, and Caleb posing for a picture!

 Each boy is encouraged to bring a friend to our Dorm events. Thanh with a friend from school.

 Fanmeng

 Bruno

Santi, Costi, and Keita!

A special Thanks to Jean and Ted Merrell of opening up their home to our boys. We have a great evening filled with many laughs!
Blessings!

Fall Break

10.27.12
It is 11a.m on Saturday morning and the dorm is quiet and empty. The International Students are spending the weekend with their Host Families. Please join me in praying for our boys! Pray that the boys would feel love and peace as they re-enter the dorm on Monday, that they would grow in their character, and make lasting friendships. Please pray for Travis and I as we desire to love and serve these students each day. We pray for wisdom and guidance!
Amen

Purdue University Trip!

On Friday, Travis took the International Students to see an American University...Purdue University. 

The students were able to meet with professors, see classrooms, tour a dorm [One International Student reported, "Our dorm is better!"], and talk with the International Student Dept. Two of our seniors, Thanh and Jose were especially interested in Purdue University! 

A special "Thank You" to Jean Merrell for planning our day and making sure every detail was in place! THANK YOU JEAN!!!

Blender!!

Last night we said "Goodbye" to our blender...it broke. I thought I would see if anyone had an old blender sitting around at home that they would like to donate to the dorm. Our boys are very healthy eaters so it's not uncommon to see them in the Kitchen blending up a fruit smoothie or protein shake. So if you have one- we would gladly take it off your hands! 

Thanks!

Lisa