Pr. Doug's contribution put the finishing touch on our harmony!
(For a better view, click on the image.)

I-20

Hey guys,

I am happy to hear you got your I-20. If you need Kamil's number to Germany, give me a call so he can get a new ticket for you. I hope everything works out for you and we will see you in Czech.

Rene

Eva and Casey,

I don't know what is your status, but if you get your I-20 before the week is over, you still should come on Monday to show up at the party.

We are still praying that things will work out for you

Rene

Zigi has his itinerary, and his is flying in on Fri, will be with Zigi the whole weekend, and he will bring him from PRG in his car.

Well, I am bringing the laptop, and it's saved on there. IT's been acting up, so if it doesn't work, I should still have all the songs in emails in my inbox. SO, I think we should be OK there. By the way, when is the pianist flying?

Ika

Ika, I just want to make sure you have all the soundtracks. I was not sure if I have to bring "His grace still amazes me" or not. I am about to be done with packing. I have 5 luggage for other people so it is pretty hard to take a lot of stuff like I would like to.
better go finish I still want to make me a skirt
see you all soon
zuzana

Thanks, Rene.

Make sure you bring lots of WARM clothing!!! Check out the weather forecast, if you haven't already. I'm not sure where you check your weather, but on accuweather.com you can put in Frydek-Mistek, and get your temps in metric and english. I am considering running to the grocery store for a box of hot chocolate....

OK, see you all tomorrow.
Ika

money

if I remember correctly, the CD will cost around $1000.00, so you can estimate around $200.00 per family, and food is hard to estimate, but I don't expect more then $100.00 per family, and that should include the party. As far as the dinner with our dad, you can estimate around 500-600 CZK per family($30.00). But I am really guessing. Jitka Peknikova is suggesting we take our dad to "na Zaguri", they are willing to cook for us the way we ask them, but we need to cal them in advance. Here is their menu:
http://www.nazaguri.cz/JidelniListek.aspx?kat=1

But as I said, we can ask them to prepare something else, but we need to call them ahead.

Don't forget anything. See you tommorrow.

Rene

I think Rene would tell us better about how much we need to have
zuzana

By the way, the list has stayed the same, except, please, make sure to add to it picture for Zuzka's picture frame, if you haven't mailed it to her yet.

Ika

P.S. Kamil & Annette, if you are still reading this today, have a safe trip! See you in Check! ;o)

Money

Could somebody PLEASE, let me know, how much money we need to bring? I feel like I've asked so many times, and still no answer. We need to borrow that money from J's parents, so it would be helpful, if we knew how much we need to ask them for. Thanks. Ika P.S. by the way, if they can't loan us that money for this trip, we will have to come up with alternative solutions.... Johnny was suppose to get paid by one of his clients yesterday a lot of money, but she couldn't pay him until next week... And he is super busy today and super stressed out, about having to leave his business for a week, so hopefully he'll be able to get through today OK...

Well, whatever the medicine is, that the doctor gave to the boys, it's working. So as far as I can see, the trip is still on. But believe me, I was not exaggerating yesterday. The boys were horrible...

Ika

Micah's OK

Annette brought Micah in to the Dr. today because he seemed to be crying quite a bit when he obviously wasn't hungry and didn't have any other obvious discomfort. We were concerned about congestion or an ear infection. After being checked out, the doctor isn't concerned about the little congestion he has (just take saline drops), and his throat and his ears are fine. He doesn't have a hernia or constipation, so it looks like a newborn mystery. At least he's been checked before we go, since he's so small (well, at least we think so! Some people say he's huge! [over 15 # now]).

If Ika and fam. and Eva and Casey can't come, they will be greatly missed!

Kamil & Annette

Casey and I came down to the only possibility and that is applying for F1 visa, although visa specialist has told us that there is a risk that they will find out that I married and then I don't really have chance to come back.
Well, we called Weimar in the beginning of last week, and as soon as I knew I could keep my job I faxed all the needed documents. And lo and behold. Weimar "forgot" to change my status when I went on OPT, but they did not forget to let them know that I graduated. So they deleted me out of the system. Normally the I-20 takes about 15 minutes to prepare, but we did not hear from Weimar, and then they said that they were extremely busy (with the 4 students that actually attend the school). On Thu they looked into it and they realized that they have problems with SEVIS (they give out I-20s), and they said that it will be taken care of on Monday. Well, today registrar emailed me and said that they still were not able to fix the problem.

What is really frustrating is that they should have kept me in status, especially if they were able to contact SEVIS that I have graduated, they should have changed it to practicum. So, we don't know at this point....

Eva

OK, so here is what's going on. Ezra and Levi are both sick. They are on few different kinds of medication right now, but still are going to be very contagious for the next few days. Ezra especially seems to be in a lot of pain, to the point, where he can't even take his medicine. Dr. said that they both have throat infection, they are both very congested (which would then make them more prone to getting ear infection...), they cough, they are very cranky. If I should give you our decision right now, then our decision is no, we are not going to be able to go. But we have until 1:00 p.m. tomorrow. That's our deadline for cancelling our plane tickets, in order to get our miles back. If their health improves significantly, then we will reconsider, but if they are same, or worse, our decision will be not to go. I am very sorry about this. Obviously, there is nothing we could have done about it, but the bottom line is, their health and comfort is my priority.

So, I will let you know tomorrow for sure, how we've decided.

Ika

Micah has a doctor's appointment this afternoon as well. (Respiratory/throat) And we are taking off tomorrow at noon!
Kamil

Iko, maminka mi prave volala a chtela at ji zavolas na skype budou ho mit zapnuty
zuzana

This morning I prayed for encouragement. The Lord gave me a beautiful promise.

"With men it is impossible, but not with God; for with God all thinks are possible." Mark 10:27

As I am reading through the gospels I see one principle over and over. When people have a need, and they ask, have faith, they receive. Many times they were people who came to Jesus who were not his followers. But He said "I have not seen such a faith in Israel." and He granted them their will.
God wants us to claim Bible promises, and ask Him to do the same for us as He did for others. This is what I will be claiming through out this day.
zuzana

Put me on the list too (Ika). I woke up with chest pain this morning (as with bronchitis), but maybe it's just me sleeping in a wrong position... Well, we are going to the doctor today at 11:50 A.M. We couldn't decide what to do, so we're seeking professional opinion. That way, if it's still safe for them to travel, at least we'll be equipped with some meds to make them feel more comfortable.

But I don't just worry about them feeling good, I worry too about them passing this on to other kids, especially the youngest one. What kind of trip it would be for them, if they end up being isolated for most of it. So, anyway, that's why we're going to the doctor to figure all that out. We'll let you know the verdict later on today.

Ika

wow, we need to unite in prayers like never before.
I think satan is trying to destroy this project.
I will dedicate this day to fast and prayer. Whoever can join me please do so. We need help from heaven. Not only for Evas papers, Ezras and my health but for each one of us.
love you
zuzana

Hey Everyone, I've been up most of the evening with Ezra. He's very sick. If it doesn't get any better, or if it gets worse before Wednesday, I am afraid we won't be able to go. So, continue praying even for us...

Ika

Hi Rene,

we were planning to work on the invitation tonight, because after we received the info from Zuzana we couldn't work on it right away (we both got in from work on Fri about half hour before sundown). But, what you came up with is just great.

Eva

pozvanka

So far we have not received anything about the invitation text, so here is first rough draft. The font didn't come up the way it is on the original word page. If you are happy with the text just at it is, please let us know soon. We have to print it on Tuesday. I will be in Myrtle Beach next couple of days, but Hanka will check the blog. Please respond as soon as possible.

Srdečně Vás zveme na oslavu
60-tých narozenin
naší maminky, paní

Ireny Metzové

Dne 24. Listopadu 2008 v 17:30
V kulturním sále budovy obecního úřadu Nižní Lhoty

Hanka is thinking to put a large number 60 in the background, in a light gray color. If you'd like to have more design done, like a flowers, decorative boarders, Bible text etc... please let us know. Please respond by Sunday night, because we need to have the final product by Monday night.
Casey, if you have done anything please e-mail it to Hana www.metzovi@yahoo.com

I don't know know how to attach a word dc here, so we will take a picture and will post a picture here on Monday night.

Have a great day

Rene

Clarification

1. I went to Wal-Mart to check out their scrapbooking supplies, and to my surprise, they didn't sell the 12x12 sheets separately. So, unless you want to buy a whole kit, you'll have to go to a different store (Michaels, Dollar Tree...), where you can buy individual background papers for between 97 cents and about dollar something.

I have yet to do my work. I've placed my order for pictures last night, so I am hoping to pick them up tonight, or tomorrow morning, and work on it.

I bought a small set of stickers related to travel. I will use these stickers to do our packing/travel page on.

2. I'll make sure to add to The List to bring picture for Zuzka's picture frame, so nobody forgets.

3. I already found Amway person. The products are almost 2 and half times more expensive than here! It's ridiculous.

4. Johnny has changed his ticket last night. He will be coming back day after the Birthday party, so I will be staying that night still at dad's, so I am closer to the airport. He'll be flying from Ostrava, because I don't really feel like taking him all the way to Prague, and he doesn't want to take a train. Luckily the tickets are not too expensive. With the price of gas, it's not much of a difference to fly. And the flights are very frequent too.

But I will be staying as planned.

So, Annette, I'm sorry, but Johnny won't be able to do the story anymore.

5. REMEMBER, if there is anything missing from the list, you need to suggest it in the next day or two, because then I will post it, so everyone has enough time to do their final shopping. And don't forget your international drivers' licenses! At least that's what the rental company told me they'd prefer. And also, could you somebody please suggest how much cash we need to bring for all the expenses? (CD, food, electric). We're only going to bring as much as we need, we don't like to carry cash...

Talk to you soon,

Ika

Fire at Heritage academy

Just in case you didn't hear about this. It is little sobering.

http://www.gccsda.com/?option=com_content&task=view&id=2334&Itemid=211

Rene

Hanka needs just a plain text, because she will edit it anyway(hacky, carky etc.). If you are doing any design, please let us know what program you are using, so we can open it in case we need.

As far as Thanksgiving, I agree, for some spouses might be important. I don't know what exactly you have in mind. Let's do a special dinner or we can eat out if we want to do that. Time wise, we will be very busy, especially not knowing the complete roster yet, getting songs ready and the program, CD, ASI... But dinner, and a few hours of a special family time on Thursday night will be nice. Zuzu, don't put too much on your shoulders though. Let's do it simple it still can be very special.

Keep praying for Eva.

Rene

Casey,
Hanka would be able to tell you what is the size of the invitations so you can have better idea how much space you have
thankyou
zuzana

Hello dear family,
Andrew was asking me if we will do something about thanksgiving. I would like the idea of doing something special. I think it is important to our American spouses, and it is my favorite time of the year also.

I think it is very difficult to make a final list of songs for ASI when we do not know if Eva will be there.

Rene, make sure I have the information correct
24.listopad 2008 v 17:30
Obecni urad Nizni Lhoty
Casey and Evka, if you guys can put the text together, than email it to Hanca so she can print it. Maybe it would be nice to put it on this block so everyone can see it.

Thakyou very much
Please continue to pray for me getting better, my voice is gone so no practice for me:(
love
zuzana

One more invitation question

Zuzana: Are you wanting a fully-formatted invitation, or are you wanting just text? Casey

Details needed for invitation text

Zuzu,

We will post the invitation text, but we just need all the information from you like date, time, place, etc. Thanks!

Casey/Eva

Info about ASi

Hello everyone, I have been in touch with Radomir Steiner about our special music on Friday night. Here is the latest info he sent to me.

Zdravím Tě Zigi,

Info popořadě:

1. Zvuková zkouška pro Vás je v pátek od 14:00 hod. Klávesy se stojanem sebou.
2. Pošli mi obratem texty písní v PP, abych je předal technikovi přes projekce
3. Registrace pouze na sobotu platí od pátku 16:30 do soboty 22:00
4. Pokud chcete používat playback potřebuji ho dodat předem v MP3

V příloze posílám podrobný scénář, zkontroluj prosím Vaše technické požadavky a potvrď mi zda jsou pořádku. A označ kdy bude která píseň.

I have spoken with Rene about 3 songs. . . Tis so sweet, What a day and Each One . . .

Are these the songs we want to sing? We need to respond to Radomir ASAP

Zigi

Hey, what are we doing on Thursday, the Thanksgiving night? Should we try to do something? OK, I've got to run to a prayer meeting. We'll have the group pray for everyone and for this trip.

Ika

P.S. Do you anybody know anybody who sells Amway in Czech? If yes, PLEASE let me know ASAP!!! Need to place an order. Shipping turned out to be little too expensive, it would be better for me to buy it there. Thanks

Hello family,
you do not need to mail me the family picture you can either email it to me or to walmart at Ooltewah and select one hour pick up or if you can remember to bring it with you to Czech you can do that. The only think is to REMEMBER. That is why I wanted to get it before we go so there is one less think to remember. It wont be the same if there will be couple peactures blank.

Also, Evi about 3 weeks ago or maybe more I talked to you about puting the writing for the invitations on the block. Please let me know if you are not able to do it because Hanca needs to finish it soon and print it. We are praying that everything goes well with your papers.

Please pray for me as well. I am sick, lost my voice, feeling very weak. I hope my kids wont get sick just before it is time to go. So please pray for health.

have a blessed day
love
Zuzana

Story Volunteers Needed!

Dear All,

I need 4 volunteers (I'm assuming that I'll do a children's program for both weekends, since I haven't heard otherwise--though I'm still more than happy to drop a weekend if it's not needed) to share an experience they had from childhood and the lesson they learned for the children!

To my knowledge, the children's programs will be Friday nights and Sabbath mornings (for a Sabbath school format). You wouldn't need to stay in the children's program the whole time, you could just pop in to share the story with them, and then pop out. I'm sure Kamil must have something to share that he learned (smile!!--since I've heard that he was a little mischievous), so I think I would only need 3 volunteers to share different childhood stories for the kids to learn from! Please e-mail me at: kamilann@yahoo.com if you would be willing to share a testimony/story for the kids. Thank you!

Annette

Another weather link:

http://www.accuweather.com/world-forecast3.asp?partner=accuweather&locCode=EURCZEZ005PRAGUE&metric=0

and type in Prague

Ika

updates

Eva just called a few minutes ago, and there is a light at the end of the tunnel. But seriously, pray for Eva and Cassey. If Weimar will issue an extension on her I-20 she should be clear to go. And the phone calls and decisions are happening as we speak.

As far as potted plants, it is fine. We'll be happy to do it, but I also believe a few flowers that will just decorate the table will be nice. We don't need much, and because we don't need too much it might not be cost effective, and worth the hassle to get it from Helenka from Poland. But it is up to people who will do the decoration. I am not against geting it from her, but not sure if we need an extra stress to save few crowns.
As far as cukrovi, are we talking here to get it for us personally, or the party? Personally, I don't want any, for the party, let's be conservative, it will be only 2-4 hrs party, people can eat only so much, and if we have a cake plus rolady, I think we will have enough sweets but, Zuzu you are in charge of food, so we will go with your decision. The price 300CZK is good. Especially for homemade cukrovi, it is very good price.....and tastes great too. Just remember, Ika made great point, weather not favorable, easy to get sick, I will bring some crystal vitC(2000mg).
I am also thinking to invite someone who will operate a video camera for us at the party. Jakub Santa, or Daniel Mada are operating still cameras very well. But if you have any idea, please let me know.

1. I think we will pick out our own plant, but thanks for the offer.
2. Do we need more sweets?

Ika

oh and zuzana,

I had the envelope to mail the picture of zigi and I for "the frame of everyone". I thought I mailed it but just found it in the car. Do you want me to mail it to you or bring it with and give it to you in Czech? Let me know. ( and I have no idea if that is a good price for curkovi I'll let the siblings vote on that one)

Love ya,
Rachel

Zuzu,

If that lady can get some small potted plants/flowers for cheaper, sure, why not! A couple of questions.
*Is there some list we could order from or do we just tell her what to get and she will find it?
*When and where could she deliver the items?

I don't want this to be too much trouble for you to organize (since I can't speak with the lady in CZECH). If it doesn't work out I can just run over on Monday and buy some stuff at the place Ika mentioned, if they have something in season. Let me know what you think.

Rachel

I talked to Eva Slosarkova and she told me that her mom could get us beautiful flowers from Poland. She always gets it for all kinds of events for church. she said it is much cheaper. The idea was that instead spending money for decorations we could buy each flowers and use it for the tables. We could ask if she could get us something in a pot that could be more lasting. Let me know if I should talk to her about this. I think our mom will be expecting flowers and we need to have some kind of flowers for her.
Also, Eva told me that Helenka bakes excellent cukrovi and sales them 300 korun per kg. If you guys want me to order some from her we need to do it ASAP.
Zuzana

Publish Post

Last time I was in Czech, I bought beautiful potted plant in Baumax (similar to Home Depot or Lowes). They have some unusual kinds as well. I guess you could even buy bulbs, and they come in some pretty boxes. With a bow on it, and maybe a one stem of a flower or a shrub from outside, they could still look cool as centerpieces :o)

The weather doesn't look so good. Again, second year in a row it looks like we're going to be rained in... Which makes me really worried, about everyone's health...

Great job everyone, who is actively participating on making this trip happen!

Ika

Thanks Rene for the weather update! I was wondering what it would be like.

Rachel

hey ika!

That's a great idea about the potted plants. I was talking to Zuzana and she had an idea of using the flowers as center pieces for the tables at the birthday party. We could use the small potted plants idea instead of cut flowers, they would still be nice as center pieces with a bow around each and maybe a name-tag of who gave mom the flowers, and she could take them home and plant them. What do you think? I would be willing to go get the flowers for everyone and just put your name on it, just to make it quick and efficient. I would need someone to tell me where a shop is that you think has good prices though. Let me know what you think. And thanks for putting together the list of items to bring!

Love ya,
Rachel

weather in Czech

if you want to have an idea what kind of weather to expect, check this link out

http://zpravy.idnes.cz/martin-dorazi-s-destnikem-snih-prinese-do-nizin-az-prosinec-pqd-/domaci.asp?c=A081110_162428_domaci_pje

have a great day

Rene

Hi everyone,

you know, I just thought of something, and I thought I'd run it by you to see what you all think.

First of all, you know that the Czech tradition calls for flowers on Birthday. I'd say it's pretty typical to give a small bouquet of flowers to the person having Birthday. Now, I thought, that flowers die in a couple of weeks, plus when you have so many, you don't really enjoy it so much, and you have hard time finding place for it in the house... (You know how it was after baptizms and weddings in Czech...) Well, I thought what we could do instead is each one of us (if you chose to give flowers) buy something little more lasting like potted plant, or flower bulb, that she can transplant to her flower garden. I bet you she would always look at those and remember exactly who gave her what. I know she was telling me yesterday on the phone, how sentimental she is about looking at her old Birthday cards... She would look at those when she's lonely and she'd cry... So, I guess that's just something to think about, but it's entirely up to you.




Ika

Hi everyone-- it's me, Casey, this time!

So, I just got off the phone with Rene and Zigi about the upcoming trip, and I understand that there are questions about what we're doing, and whether we can go or not. We have not been posting everything on the blog, obviously. The reason for that is that what we understand to be true changes literally every day.

However, I just wanted to assure you all that we are doing our very best to go to Czech as planned. Even though it is now only 10 days in the future, we are not giving up. I have been in almost daily contact with USCIS and US Customs/Border Patrol. I have been explaining the entire situation to them and also trying to make sure their answers correlate with the written information we have.

For an example of the way several conversations with them have gone, I have called the US Customs/Border patrol, explained everything, and then they have put me on hold because they don't know the answer. When they get back on the line and tell me everything is okay, and then I explain to them that Eva's OPT card says "Not Valid For Reentry" on it, then they doubt themselves again and have to go find out more information, and then the information they give me contradicts the information that other people/agencies give me, etc. etc. etc.

So, as I was explaining to Rene and Zigi, Eva and I have been working on this for several months, speaking with the Czech Embassy in NY and LA and Czech Republic, USCIS, and US Customs/Border Patrol, all numerous times, from the very moment that we suspected a problem.

One complicating factor is that for Eva's OPT card to be valid at all, she must have a full time job authorized by Weimar and in her particular field of education (a problem we discovered only since the wedding, although we had been in contact with the agencies). Eva and I have been trying to find a job for her that meets the criteria since before she left her job in Pullman, WA. So, in addition to all the abovementioned problems, her reentry is literally dependent on her having a job in the health field, which she finally found just last week. At the interview, she was promised Sabbaths off, but recently her employer has indicated that Sabbath-leave is not acceptable. Of course, Eva said that Sabbaths are not a negotiable issue, and the issue is not yet settled. We expect this to be taken care of when she returns to work on Tuesday. It could either way. We hope against hope that Sabbaths will not be a problem.

So, the bottom line everyone is that we understand how much you want everyone in the family to be in Czech for the planned trip. We want to be there too. We are doing everying we possibly can to facilitate this.

The options we have been (or are still) pursuing are these:
1) The new visa agreement between CZ and US
2) Obtainment of a greed card
3) A new F-1 visa
4) A new passport with Metzova
5) A new paasport with Harms
6) Appropriate letters/documentation attesting to her status
7) Paperwork that Weimar may need to complete
8) Having a job
9) Calling the embassy in LA
10) Calling the embassy in NY
11) Calling the embassy in CZ
12) E-mailing the embassy in CZ
13) Searching the USCIS website
14) Searching the US Customs/Border Patrol website
15) Searching the CZ embassy's website
16) Searching travel.state.gov
17) Consulting with Rene/Zigi/Kamil/Zuzana/Ika at one point or another :)
18) Praying
19) Having others pray for us
20) Reading all fine print on documents
21) etc. + things that I probably have forgotten to list

I will also mention that Eva would be having this difficulty even if she were expired (uh... single). Because:
1) Her F-1 visa is expired
2) Her I-20 is expired
3) Her OPT says "Not Valid for Reentry"

Anyways, family, thanks for all your prayers and concern about this. If you have any suggestions that we might be able to try, please let us know ASAP. We expect to have a final decision this week.

I love you all.
Casey

The "Czech" List

These are things everyone should bring with them, or purchase in Czech:

- 2-3 rolls of toilette paper (depending on size of the family)
- 1 box of tissues
- 1-2 rolls of paper towels (bring 2 if you are not bringing paper plates etc.)
- slippers for all the feet in your family unit
- cereal 1-2 boxes (depending on how much your family consumes)
- waterproof boots for kids
- hand sanitizer (according to your personal preference)
- 2-3 trash bags
- 2-3 small shopping plastic bags (for bathroom trash + trash in your room)
- scrapbook pages
- songbook with all the trip songs
- a couple of persons bring a sharpie (for marking cups)
- take picture for future scrapbook page packing/airport or airplane
- bring your own power converters, if you think you'll need it

-----------------------------------------------

- paper plates, bowls, forks as you commited to... (Rene & fam, Ika & fam, Zigi & fam + Zuzka & fam)
- antibacterial soaps (Ika)
- cleaning products + rags + sponges (Ika)
- 2 extra hand sanitizing foams - Warm Vanilla Sugar (Ika)
- childrens supplies (Annette)
- decorations for the Birthday party (Rachel)
- cleaning products (Ika)



Please, feel free to discuss additional items that need to be on the list (before you add it to the list, so that everyone is aware of the changes, because some people may print it out, and not notice that someone added something 3 days later, so, please, point out any changes you've made)

Ika

P.S. Final version of "The List" will be posted next Sunday, but this is the first version, if you want to start shopping.

You know, I was thinking about the exact same thing the other day - that we should invite all those neighbors that have been there all these years to help our family. ESPECIALLY Mrs. Filipcova. But, remember, we're probably going to have to arrange transportation for all these people. I mean, I don't know how it is now, but I know in the past they didn't really have a good way of transportation, so that may be something to consider, and ask, when you speak to them. That way, when we're preparing the room, we should send out a couple of guys in cars to pick them up, maybe one would be enough...

I agree with the dinner on the 23rd. We were planning on doing it the following Sunday, right? But it looks like most people are going to be leaving on that Sunday for their own plans and travel back, so maybe it would be a good idea to do it on that sunday, before our mom even knows we're there (or does she???). Because then we won't be able to do it during the week.

Rachel, you were asking about the color scheme, and I am not sure if you already talked to anyone over the phone, but I think any color will do. I can't really remember her favorite color, the only thing I remember is her being excited when she found out that gold/champaigne color looks good on her. That could be a good co-color. But I think she would probably any color (except maybe pink, orange or yellow... Haha)

Bye for now,

Ika

hello everyone,
Thank you Ika for getting the music.

I have couple of things to talk about.
I just got email from Rena and she said that Mrs. Blahutova, Filipcova nad Marta need to be invited to the dinner. Also she said that Nemcovi came to pick up mom to the airport and did not take any money for gas so she feels we need to invite them to the dinner. So if I do not hear otherwise I will call them this weekend because renata sent me their numbers.

I would like to suggest that we would take our dad for a dinner on Sunday the 23rd. I think this is going to be the only time when we all can get together with him. What do you all think?

I would like to remind all of us to pray for this project. It is so easy to get busy and forget about the most important part of this trip. Especially last couple of weeks I realized how much I need to pray for a kind spirit. So please let us keep this trip and each other in our prayers.

love you all and looking forward to see you soon
Zuzana

Zuzka asked me to get sheet music for the song I Believe In A Hill Called Mount Calvary. As I was trying to email it to everyone, I found out that I got into trouble, and my downloading privelages were suspended from the company I purchased it from, so I was on the phone with them for some time, trying to see, if they would allow me just one more attempt, so I could print it out. They finally did, and now I have the printed music in my hand, trying to figure out, how I could get it to all of you the easiest way. So, check your email throughout the afternoon, to see, if you got it... Should be pdf file.

Ika

I was just talking to Ika and she gave me a very good idea. What about having the program for our mom at the dinner party?
Hope to hear what you think
love
Zuzana

update on the program

I have an update ont he program for Sabbath morning. I just got the message that the Sabbath morning service in Komorni Lhotka has been canceled due to ASI in Ostrava and Jiri Moskala preaching in Cesky Tesin. That means we will have only evening program in Vojkovice at 5pm. As the situation has developed this way, we probably want to recognize mom's B'day in that evening program. Now Zuzka and I would like to ask the rest of you what you think about this. We wanted to invite dad's family, cousins etc... to the concert since we planned the morning program to be focused on mom's b-day. Are we still going to invite dad and his family o the evening concert, knowing his wife most likely will come? I hate to even ask this question, but I believe we need to think about it.

Thank you everybody for participating. Also, I'd like you to pray for us, because even I asked my lawyer not to, they have filed for my green card 2 weeks ago. jus got a message from INS that they have received the paperwork. I have to contact them to see how thi will affect our travel, if I can postpond it, or what are the options we have.

Thank you

have a great day

Rene

Questions

I just began looking at the blog again, after a long time, since most of the discussion needs to be among the siblings and their decisions for their mom's birthday.

Ika, I hope you're doing better. I am so sorry you had to have that kind of pain!

Kamil has randomly told me different thoughts if it involved something else we needed to do, but I don't hear deadlines or a complete list. I just skimmed October's entries, and discovered that we need to do a scrapbook for our family (or is it just scrap book pages that we add to a larger scrap book?). I will try to get to that, but I've had a little trouble nursing (can be time-consuming) and some projects in our house that are creating extra work. But I understand from the example that I could make it simple with just a few pics. There's also something about taking a picture of our family. Should it be outdoors, indoors, in a studio? Does it matter? When do you need that by and who do I give it to? Or do we just bring it with? Kamil has said something about needing pics of Rebekah for a calendar or something that Rene is working on. When do you need those pictures? I read stuff about disposable dishes and plasticware. It looks like you have everything you need for the dinner (or do you?). Beyond that, should each family bring their own silverware and plates with, or are we all just bringing our own? Or should it be disposables that we bring?

I skimmed October but didn't get all the answers I needed, and with a head cold right now and the lateness of the hour, I don't want to go back several months in posts. If someone could help me know what all we need to do (kamilann@yahoo.com) so that I can make sure Kamil & I work together on this stuff, that would be great!

Annette

Yes, thank you so much Ika. Our internet keeps going off every few minutes. Thanks for posting it for me. I am so glad I didn't have to write it over again .

Love,
Rachel

***I have found this post unpublished, I think due to Zigi & Rachel having internet problems... (I assume this is Rachel writing), so hopefully they won't mind I published it... It sounds like they meant to publish it, but somehow it didn't... So, here it is: (Ika)
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


I don't know if this will go through. We have been having some real trouble with our internet this week. Someone will come look at it tomorrow.

Ika, thanks for all those calculations with the paper/plastic items. Zigi and I would like to commit to bringing the remaining amount of items, including plates, cups, bowls, knives, forks, spoons, and maybe a bag or two of cereal. We have a big suitcase we can devote to this cause.

* Zigi will be happy to plan some fun games for the party. Thanks for the ideas so far. If anyone else has ideas on this, please let him know.

* I will plan the decorations and bring them with me for the party.
I do need to know:
+how many people will be there? (for party favors if I do that),
+and does anyone have an idea of what color theme your mom would love?
+also, who has those place setting cards I saw a picture of? do you want to specify names? I think it would be nice but I would hate to leave anyone out if we went that route? let me know your thoughts on this topic please. . .
+did we finalize on the place for the party? is it at that place Rene gave the website/picture of?

* I would just like to reiterate what others have said. . . Ika and Zuzana thank you for all your hard work organizing everyone for this project, you're doing a GREAT JOB! And Annette it sounds like you are planning great things for the children, thank you for your work too!.

* I'm just curious . . . how is everything with Eva's card/visa/appointment etc?


*Please let me know if there is something else that needs to be planned/accomplished/prepared. I will be glad to help.

Rachel, I've already told this to Zuzka, but I wanted to say it on here as well, I think you should be the one in charge of decorating the room for our mom's Birthday. You've done a great job in past, and I am sure you'll do wonderful with this one too. I will help out as much as I can. Johnny said he'll help too.

Annette, I can't believe how well organized you are, despite your being so busy with Micah (and Rebekah and Kamil ;o)) I appreciate you putting so much thought into this, and I think from me, personally, that our boys will love this kind of stuff. They like anything to do with singing (with motions), coloring, play-doh, reading books, etc. I will probably try to pack a few of their favorite toys, as well, as a last resort, and even just for playing at mom's house. But again, thank you. I know how busy you are right now. For those of you without kids, it IS a big difference between having one or two kids. So, just keep it simple, and I'm sure I speak for everyone here (who IS a parent), that your plan sounds great, and our children will have a wonderful time, and they will remember this trip for a long time!

I have stopped taking the antibiotics, because I was feeling so unbelievably sick and had so many side effects from it. So, hopefully it will be getting better now. I still have a toothache, but it's a lot more managable.

I've asked Johnny's mom yesterday, if she could donate some of the Amway products for our trip, and she was very excited to help with that. I will have to send those ahead of time in mail, because she said, when she went to Florida, and wanted to take some of these cleaning products for her daughter there, they threw it out of her luggage at the airport. (Luckily, she has connections with some of the people there at the airport, so she was able to recover this stuff when she came back...) But I guess, I just wanted to warn you, to be very careful about what you pack, because once they take it, they won't give it back. So, that, and the soap will be there waiting. And I guess you all will take care of your hand sanitizers by your personal preference, right?

Dinnerware: I know Rachel had a question about that. Here is what I could bring (what I already have): 150 plates, 80 plastic cups, 80 bowls. I will look back at what Rene already said they are bringing, and then will start adding it up. From my personal calculations, there will be 22 persons eating solids Tuesday through Sunday (some may be leaving on Sunday), I didn't count Micah, since I didn't think he doesn't need a plate for his food yet :o) So, here are my calculations:

22 people x 3 plates (3 meals) x 6 days = 396 PLATES
22 people x 1 bowl (cereal or soup) x 6 days = 132 BOWLS (or more)
22 people x 1 cup person/day x 6 days = 132 CUPS

Then, if we are bringing forks and spoons as well, I thought we should bring about 132 spoons and 264 forks. But that's up to you all. I am not sure our mom even has 22 silver spoons and 22 silver forks...

So, I guess the remainder of plastic/paperware, that needs to be supplied is this:

Plates: 396-100-150= 146
Bowls: 132-80=52
Cups: 132-80=52

And all forks and spoons.

And one more thing, I bought a bath robe, for our mom, without thinking, if anybody else maybe already bought it for her. This one is very nice, from Bath&Body Works, ultra soft and warm. But I haven't opened it yet, because if someone has already bought one for her, I'd like to return it. So, please, could you let me know?

OK, talk to you all later.
Ika B.

Children's Program

This post is primarily for Hana, Zuzka, and Ika:

For the children's programs (Fri & Sabbath morning) I am planning on:
1) Singing (This little light of mine, The wise man built his house upon...etc.)
2) SHARE (Blessings/ things learned that day)
3) Testimony (one of the adults can share a childhood/adult life experience in which they learned a valuable lesson; preferably someone who thinks they can share in an interesting to hold children's attention)
4) Bible story using felts w/ questions to children regarding any deeper meanings they see (and touching on the surface meanings, as well)
5) Craft, sticker books (for younger 3), activity bible workbooks (older 4), play-doh (shaping things from the story), crayons & coloring books

As mothers of your kids, what do you think? I'm especially concerned about the older 4, interesting them in some bible activities. Rebekah's not at that age yet, so I can only guess. But I thought the play-doh would be good, since boys like to do things with their hands more than just relational activities.

Also, I'm not sure whether I should plan felts, etc for both weekends or just the second weekend. Please let me know.

I know we may not get to everything, but I like to over-plan and make sure that the kids have something to keep them interested and busy (my mom always had something for my sister and I to do and we never seemed to get bored, except when she made us take naps!).

Regarding cost, I think we can manage to take care of the things I'll need for the children's program. It shouldn't be too much, and if they don't care for whatever I bought, at least you won't have had to pay for it! :-)

Please let me know! Either here or at: kamilann@yahoo.com.

Blessings,

Annette, Rebekah, and Micah (he's at 100% for weight, and over 100% for height as of today!). He weighs 14 lbs.!

Oh, I wanted to touch base on the plans for decorating for the birthday party. Do I still need to help or plan this? I didn't hear back from anyone.

How many people will be invited/ and will come?
Did we decide to have it on Mon or Tue?

Rene: I will bring plates and cups etc also if needed. What do you suggest as a good amount? I know you said you were bringing 100 plates, I think it was. What do you estimate that we should bring?

Rachel

Rene: I saw that the girls decided to do black and white combo. . . what do I need to pack for guys? White shirt black tie or something else?

Zuzana: The pictures everyone is sending you to frame . . . is everyone sending just a casual shot or should it be more professional? or does it matter?

Ika: Hope you get feeling better!!! Hugs

Eva: Praying for you and wisdom to know what to do and when. I'm sure everything will work out the way it is suppose to.

I am with Zuzana on the laundry thing. I do not want to have to do laundry there, we can definitely make it one week without doing laundry with only two of us. We were there last time for two weeks and I didn't do laundry. Others with kids may have to and that's understandable for sure. Like Rene said. . . if we just plan well it will be fine.

Love u all! Can't wait to see everyone.
Rachel

Internet

I am glad they got the high speed internet. This is much better then they got, that's for sure. But I am sure they didn't counsel with anybody, because the monthly payment is on top of what they pay for the phone so it is not as cheap as it looks, and second catch is the speed. If you take a look, they have a good speed for download but only 512 upload, which is always the case with faster phone internet. But overall, they will have much better internet and for skype and basic e-mailing very good.

I am still trying to find out about the morning service in Komorni Lhotka, since most people want to see Doug Batchelor. But I am in touch with them, and we will know more after this weekend.

It is getting late...

Good night

Rene

I am sorry to hear that you are Ika still sick. We will be praying for you. It seams that it has been a while since you started. I hope everything will be well with you.
Yesterday and today I have been busy cooking for 50 people. I am pretty tired.
So girls let us have black and white combination outfits for the program. I think it is nice and simple.
Ok, I need to go cleanup before Andrew gets home
take care of yourselves
zuzana

HIGH SPEED INTERNET IN KL

I just finished talking to our mom and she told me about their hi speed internet order. The modem arrived today so they should be set up in a couple of days.

They'll pay 475 KC/mo., wireless router included! (Click on the link for more details.)

http://www.cz.o2.com/osobni/cz/internet_a_email/vysokorychlostni_pripojeni/internet_a_email-vysokorychlostni_pripojeni-internet__adsl_8192.html

Kamil

Johnny and I have a 40 gallon tank, which is only about 9 gallons bigger than our moms, and we can take long showers right after each other, so, I don't see a problem, if we take other people in consideration, and take a 8 minute shower, instead of 20. Plus, we have two bathrooms, plus we'll have people, who'd rather take a shower at night, and some in the morning... So, it shouldn't be a problem.

I like the idea of having black and white clothes for the events, because I already have black and white dress. I only hope I can fit in it... I'd rather not buy all new outfits though. Since we are already spending so much money on this trip, I would like to ask, if we could just work with what we have...

And again, I appologize for "laying low", I feel nauseous from the antibiotics, and so hope you can understand I am not really in the mood for talks or making plans...
Ika

OPT and Water

Evko,
get a job quickly, and fill out the application form for the visa, and visa is a matter of 3 days in Czech, but you need to have a date set up for an interview. Mom can schedule the appointment.

As far as the concern for the hot water, it is an option to take a shower somewhere else, but don't count on aunt Emka, their house is under construction now. I think this is a matter of wise scheduling. I wrote here before, the boiler is only 125L, which means faster heated up, I estimate around 45 min. Also the have 10 radiators in the house using 30% of water to heat up, so the system is upgrated, and I believe we should be fine. We just need to plan well, that's all.

Rene

Kozi, to neni ta psnicka Eva rikala ze se to jmenuje The Bible stands a ze to nejaka cernoska zpivala
Zuzana

I found my OPT card, but I did research on it and I need to have a job in order to return to US. Also my visa needs to be up to date and I don't have either. So please pray because I don't know what to do.

Eva

Obecní úřad

V prostorách obecního úřadu se nachází kulturní sál (včetně kuchyně, šatny) s možností uspořádání různých typů akcí, pro cca 70 osob.
Pronájem místnosti si občané mohou objednat na tel. č. 558 642 127.

tady je ta mistnist krerou budeme mit na tu sedesatku

Ika and Eva,
what do you ladies think about our outfits for the programs?
Zuzana

Hey,
I was thinking about laundry in my mom's house. I think that for as much as possible we should not need to do laundry there. Especially families without children and staying only for one week should have enough clothing to last for the whole time. Even with my children I will try as much as possible last and than take all my dirty stuff back home. Of course not always everything can be done perfect, but let us try to keep it simple.
have a wonderful day
Zuzana

Clothes, water etc.

Hello everyone,
1. Clothing for ASI - I like the Sabbath outfits - black suits and color coordinated shirts and ties
2. Sabbath morning and/or evening I am a game for good respectable outfits, just remember, everything we will do, wear, say can and may be used against us :) let's stick to a more traditional looks. I also would like to hear more of ladies inputs on this issue :)
3. Water - this can really create problems, especially when you are soaped up and temperature suddenly changes :). I spoke to my mom about this issue. . . The water heater is linked to the "night" and therefore cheaper electricity and is turned on a couple time a day for a couple of hours. Remember, we will have to do also our laundry that requires hot water, which mom uses this cheaper electricity for.
However, we can use wood to heat up the water, and since it is going to be cold, we will be using the wood stove in the basement. I am not sure how long does it take to heat up the water, but I think it is a little longer than electric.
4. Water alternative solution - we can call upon our friends (aunt Ema, Marian Bialon, Kloda's, etc.) and since it is a short drive, we could uses their bathrooms. Most likely it would be easier for couples w/out children.
5. We need to settle on the ASI night so songs can be translated and put on Power Point. . .

Zigi

One of Eva's songs

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_uzgfsRJTrQ
Julia Link (Pickett) sang this song in Michigan. I can get a soundtrack from her. Also, it sounds better when a female sings the song.
kamil

Sorry for not contributing, but I am still in a lot of pain (with my tooth), but thanks to my Lortab + Motrin coctail, I am surviving... I am also on my third antibiotic, actually, I am taking two antibiotics at the same time right now. He doesn't really know what it is, because my root canal is done perfectly. If the atb. doesn't work, the only other possibility is that there is a fracture, but he can't see it on the x-ray, so we'll see... Please, pray for me. The pain is very bad, it's keeping me up at night...

I am keeping a list of stuff that everyone is mentioning as we discuss what needs to be brought... I will post the list one week before our scheduled departure, and also the Monday right before our departure. That way, you'll have plenty of opportunities to make sure you get everything on the list. While we are on the topic, how do you feel, if everyone brought 3 or 4 plastic trash bags? It's just something that could save us couple of dollars here and there... I am going to continue thinking of stuff that we could bring from here, and you do the same.

Also, I wanted to say, we're bringing our own pillows, in case you guys are going to start putting bedding together when you get there (I mean, if anybody will be already getting bedding ready...), and we'll also bring the boys' blankets (Levi would die without his blue nite-nite). We are also going to bring their travel cots, so they won't need a mattress or nothing like that.

OK, that's about it from me for now.
Ika

List of songs

I read the list of song that Zuzka posted again, and I like it. It is only missing the opening song "I Just Came to Praise the Lord", and if someone could specify what solos Eva will sing. I think she is working on 4 songs, so we need to pick which ones she will sing.

Rene

I think it is good idea to wear a black suit, and no tie in the evening, for the morning if we want a matching ties we need to deicde, or just have a dark ties.
I am glad mom will have a high speed internet. I guess she will become addicted to Skype now.

I am leaving Nov 4 to go on the trip, and I will visit Andrews as well. It would be helpful to have the list of songs finalized. It looks like the song I just came Praise the Lord was voted as an opening song. Also to have the list of songs finalized will help me to start on the translation. I want to put all english songs on power point.
Also let me know if you want us to prepare a power point with the family pictures, we could possible make a power point in the style of the scrapbook. It is for the Sabbath morning program.
Have a good day

Rene

Oh, I forgot marnotratny syn. Wow, thanks Kozi for reminder. Yes I think it needs to be there.
zuzana

Kozi, Ika is making the list of all the things. If I remember it, she said she will give us a complete list before leaving.
zuzana

Some observations:

1. "What to bring" list:
How about somebody puts together a list of things that all of us will need to bring, so we don't have to go through several posts to find out all the suggestions.

2. What to wear?
I second Zuzka's idea. (Black suits and matching ties.... Sat. evening no tie.) For ASI program, let's look as sharp as we can. I would say, let's dress the same way as on Sabbath morning.

3. Soundtrack:
I have it--I've been practicing. (Not an easy task!)

4. Marnotratny syn:
What happened to my favorite song? I don't see it on the list?

5. Electrical converter:
You can order it online--it costs around a dollar/each.

6. Internet @ home:
I can bring our wireless router so we can all enjoy the internet.

7. Sleeping arrangements:
When I listed all the rooms in mom's house and how many people will be staying there, I thought it was quite obvious that it's nearly impossible for all of us to stay there. I'm very concerned for Annette and the baby--as well as for you--since the baby isn't polite enough to be quiet at night, etc. We could stay there for a night so we can all say, "we did it", but we'll love to stay with somebody else, maybe Evuna.

Kamil & Micah

renatajirkamitura

I talked to our mom today and she said they should have high speed internet withing next few days. Ika, what is Renata's skype address?
Also, Andrew was asking me about what do we need to buy to be able to use electric things? He said he can't go two weeks without cutting his hair :-)
By the way Rene I was not saying that the kids should not take a shower for the whole week. All I was saying that in my opinion they do not need it every single day. Of course each parent should make decision as they want. So relax :-)
I was thinking about what to wear for the concerts. I think for the morning program in KL guys should wear the whole deal. For the evening program I really liked the Heritage singers idea. Guys had black suits with white, black or gray shirts without a tie. And the girls had combination of black with little of white but each of them different.
I would love to hear what rest of you think so please write
zuzana

Thanks Zuzu for helping with the songs.

Also the reason I raised the issue with the water, is that there will be mud everywhere, and kids will have fun playing outside. I don't agree that kids will bath once a week. They should bath every 2-3 days. The water in the boiler can be heated through the central heat, I guess it will be important to schedule showering, or baths. The boiler will re-heat the water every 30-45 min. I wasn't trying to say in my previous blog that kids shouldn't shower. We just need to be on schedule to allow water to heat up.
As far as sanitizing hands, only for those who don't know, the best is to buy a hand sanitizer. Soaps even they claim being anti-bacterial, they are not hand sanitizers. I agree, we have to be more careful, and the idea with the sugar is wise.

It is only 3 weeks and we will be sitting on the plane.

Have a great day
Rene

Ika, do you have all the soundtracks that we were planning to use? Do you have "your grace still amazes me"? If not I can email it to you so you can have them all together. Also Kozi do you have that soundtrack so you can work on that song?
zuzana

I think Rene you brought a real concern and that is issue with water. Well , I think that children do not need bath every single day, we were 7 and took bath once a week and were just fine. I think what is more important is what Ika said. Make sure that our children hands are clean. Maybe each of us can bring antibacterial liquid to wipe their hands often. Also, let us now start taking sugar out of their diet so they have a good immunity. As far as adults I think we can still remember how to take a quick shower and we can train our spouses to do the same for just few days. I think we all are tolerant it can all work just fine.
zuzana

Songs for the CD

Zpevy zni (Czech)
Your grace still amazes me (English)
Learning to lean(Ja duverim) (Czech)
Holy City (Czech)
Each One (English)
I surrender All (can we do it in Czech?)
You saved me (English)
Jesus Loves me(children) (English)
Tis so sweet (English)
I have decided to follow Jesus (English)


Extra songs for the program:

Kdyz jsem uslysel jmeno Jezis
Tam kde bozi duch prebyva
Muj jezis
poslouchej Tvuj Pan vola te
Uz nechej svoje starosti
What a day
The song we decided for an opening song(can't remember the name)
Solo for Eva of her choice

This is just my idea how I would like it. The extra Czech songs we can see which work the best for us and that is how we can choose the best.I hope I did not forget any song.

Put your thought on this so we can come up to some final list. I know each one of us has a little different taste, but I think we can all be happy and come to some kind of conclusion.
I am really looking forward to see all of you soon.
hope to read some ideas soon
love
zuzana

a few questions

Hey everyone,

I have a few questions. What is the sleeping arrangement? Are we all staying at the house? Kamil, it wasn't clear from your post. I think it is fine to be all together, but it will be crazy, especially since mom has installed a smaller boiler to heat the water (mom downgraded from 200L to 120L, and Renata has only 80L boiler). An idea for our children, I suggest we bring for our kids warm winter shoes, but water and mud resistant. November will be cold, and most likely wet month. Also a reminder, bring your own slippers. We will bring 100 plates and bowls, couple of roles of toilet paper and paper towel, we will bring probably 2 bags of cereal(good idea Zuzu).
Second question is, what are we going to wear for the morning and evening program?
Talking of us, men, I would like to know if we will wear suit and tie, or suit and shirt without tie, dark suit?.....or just shirt and black pants...what about the ASI concert?....I'd like to hear some feedback.
The invitation cards. Since nobody has posted any idea, we will post here some ideas and you let Hanka know what you like the best.
Zuzu, how many spreads do you want Hanka and Jitka to make, and how much of it?
I shared with Zuzu, this trip will be hurting all of us financially, therefore I suggest we cook very simply, and if anyone wants something special, it needs to be at the personal expense.
Mom told us she is paying monthly around $100.00 for electricity, with us being there for a week or 10 days, we should give her $100.00 all together. Phone use is something Hanka and I stay away from using at mom's house, and that is something we want to think through very carefully.
Let me know about the songs please.

Got to run.

Have a good one

Rene

Hello family,
we are so exited. This trip is almost here. It is so great to see people willing to help. Let us make schedule who is going to do what with the dinner. We will need several people who are willing to be at the Town Hall couple hours before the dinner to get the place ready for the event.

Also we need to have a final list of songs before Rene goes to meet the pianist.

I was thinking it would be a good idea for each family to bring a box of cereal. That is going to make breakfast much easier specially for the kinds. Also I though each family could bring some plastic forks and spoons and some plates and bowls. Not only we would not have to do dishes so much, but also safer with so many people in the house.

Great I'll talk to you all latter
Have a great night
zuzana

Happy Sabbath everyone! This is Rachel.
First, I would just like to say, everyone is doing a GREAT job planning this wonderful event. I am so proud of you all! The communication, ideas, prayers, time, and immense effort that has been put into this is trip is going to be such a blessing to not only your mom but to those who will be hearing the messages you have to offer at the concerts. And it will definitely be a memory to look back on with joy!
I would also like to say how exciting it is to anticipate together, the soon coming of our Lord. I myself have been very convicted over these last few months that the time is near for our Lord's Return. I could write a few testimonies but right now I will answer some of the posts from earlier. . .

1. Zuzu: I will get a horizontal picture in the mail to you this week of Zigi and I for the picture frame. I think that is a great idea to have seven pictures framed together.

2. Ika: I will work on the scrapbook pages and be sure to have Zigi write any words said, in Czech. Also, I may have some pictures from Mom's trip to Florida and Niagara Falls. If I find some good ones I will mail them to you. And thanks for the heads up about new regulations on bagged luggage.

3. If I can be of use in decorating for the birthday party I would love to do that. Just to be clear . . . siblings please pool a consensus and let me know if that is something you all want me to do. And if so . . . do you want me to be in charge or just help someone who is in charge. . . either way is fine I just need to know how much to plan for. I would be happy to purchase supplies as a contribution. If someone has decor ideas they want me to follow let me know. Anyway just let me know so I know how to plan

4. And finally: I will leave the travel and accommodation plans up to Zigi and the rest of the gang. I am pretty easygoing in this respect. I have no kids and not a lot of luggage. I just need a blanket and a pillow and a floor.

If there is anything else I have forgotten to address please let me know. Or if there is anything else I can help with, let me know. I could bring an extra suit case of supplies (decor, paper/plastic dishes, or whatever the group decides we need to take with us)

I have kept each of you in my prayers, for the last few months especially. And I know that God is going to bless each of you. Stay close to Him as we continue to support each other during this event. And sorry this post is so long.

Love each of you,
Rachel

I've talked to mom on Skype today, and it sucked, because they have very slow internet, but it was kind of cool, because they were able to use the web cam, and I used the web cam as well... Well, I asked her how much the high speed internet was over there, and if they'd consider getting it. And they said yes, and that they were going to try to get it as soon as possible, because they really want to be able to use Skype. In fact our mom was so excited talking and being able to see us, that she said she is tempted getting a computer herself, but for now she is going to use Rena's and Jirka's laptop with them... So, if they have high speed internet before our trip, we'll consider staying there. We would probably still stay until Monday night at dad's.

As far as the crowding situation at the house, we will definitely have to have a solid "sanitation crew" and plenty of hand soap. That's really the most effective way of preventing spreading disease. I am going to get some this week from Bath and Body Works, since they're having a sale.

I guess as far as bathrooms, we should all bring 2-3 toilette paper rolls and 1 box of tissues (per family). I am not sure if we should do paper towels or not, but to me it is just something that could be a big waste. Instead, we should have lots of clean hand towels availabe, that we could wash frequently...

Gotta go,
Ika

P.S. if you all want to start suggesting stuff that we need to bring or do, I will try to write them down, and right before our trip, I will post a summary, to help us as we pack...

Job for mom

I thought of something very useful for our mom. We can put her in charge of our health and have her make us all the teas, smoothies, concoctions. . . :) (lemon, garlick, eggshell potions) yummy :)

If we indeed stay together, we have to keep tight eye on our health. Maybe we can bring some supplements from the US. . . if anyone is going to be flying in sick, we should decide what to do about that and temporarily isolate the person. . .

Please, give some input on that. . .

Clarification and vote

I vote to have the party on Monday. . . sooner better since then we can fully immerse into preparation for the following weekend.

ASI (Radomir Steiner) requested 2-3 songs. I thought of the third song to be with all of our spouses. . . If we can find cousins or Rena to watch the kids for few minutes. . . BUT this is just an idea, not a decision.

Rachel is going to catch up today on all the blogs and respond to some.

Zigi

link na hotel v Tatrach

http://www.hotel-krivan.sk/index.php?mnu=3

Dinner for mom

Monday--ZR, KM, RM
Tuesday--IM

In our mother's house there are many rooms...

Or are there? I was trying to think about where we can all fit:

Mom's bedroom--Mom
Living room downstairs--Family #1
Room next to bathroom UP--Family #2
Old Evuna's Room--Family #3
Room in the back--Family #4
Old living room--Family #5
Pepik's Room--Family #6
Above Pepik--Family #7

Total adults: 15
Total children: 8
Total persons: 23

The idea of all of us being together may seem very inviting, for our mom a dream come true, but at what price? What if somebody gets sick? What about showers and toilette facilities? On top of that, we have a baby that will require more TLC, etc. Just think about it--because he is little, plus the time change, he'll be up at night and that will keep everybody awake.

So, even though there are some wonderful reasons to stay together, it's not practical or even realistic.

What are your thoughts?

Rene (just kidding--this is Kamil)

Last week I posted that the town hall will cost us 500 plus about 500 for utilities.
I talked to the lady who rents that hall and she needs to know the date for the dinner because she has another group who wants to rent is that week and so she wants to make sure the schedule works for all of us. So please vote soon (dinner Monday or Tuesday).
thanks
Zuzana

Town Hall and Scrapbook

I was talking with Karel Poloch yesterday, and I asked him about the town hall, and he highly recommended it, but the charge is 500CZK plus all the utilities(water, power, natural gas, heating...etc). So it might double, but the good news is that USD is today 20.00 CZK, and at Exchange is this rate without any fees. If you are interested, I will be going to exchange some USD for SVK, and I have a membership with them, and that gives you 10% more on an exchange rate(20.20CZK). Also their store is next to the Charles bridge and not far from the Old Town square, so we can go for a walk from there. You can check the rates at www.exchange.cz

As far as a scrapbook, Ika let me know if you want some decorative pictures. I have very nice pictures from Niagara Falls, Sunset in Puerto Rico, pictures from Mission trip. They are not personal or family related, but might be useful as decorative pics. Also I have good quality laser printer, just in case you want something to be printed just let me know. We will be happy to help. As far as pictures I mentioned above, I can burn a DVD and send it to you, so if you find something you want to use... Anyway, let me know.

Have great day guys.

Rene

You don't have to give me the pages until Czech, but if you'd rather send it to me now, so you don't have to worry about getting it wrinkled on the plane, that's fine too.

My suggestion for how many pages you should do is maybe this: do one page from your wedding, another page from maybe when your kids were born (either one for each child, or both on one page), with birth weigh info on it, in grams, centimeters, if you still know it... (ww.onlineconversion.com) and then do one or more pages of family photos. If you don't have kids, maybe you can do some from trips, or something like that. Also, what would be good is to do a page from college, or something like that. When we have all these pages together, we can group them however we want.

What I was thinking too is, if somebody has picture of us when we were very little, we could put it on the first page, and write underneath it, or above it in some cool writing "Bylo, nebylo..." or something like that. Also, if anyone has any cool pictures of her from U.S.A., like in front of Niagara falls, or somewhere here in U.S., send it to me (via email, I can make prints myself). I might do a two page spread with the title something about Visiting U.S.A. If you have any other ideas, bring them up. So far I have room for 60 pages, and I think it can be expanded.

Also, when we get to Czech, we can all sign it, write a few words for her Birthday, etc. Also, what would be cool is if you could all save your boarding passes from one of the flights, we could use that for one of the pages... where we could put a couple of pictures from airplane, or something. I usually like saving different little scraps... it makes it a lot more personal and cool.

Well, don't want to overwhelm you with all my ideas But just remember for right now, save one of the boarding passes for me, if you can, take picture on airplane and send me any cool picture of our mom here in the U.S.

Later,
Ika

I have something to think about.
Since things have changed with the recording time I suggest that we would do the dinner for our mom on Monday. She is going to be even more surprise because it wont be her birthday yet. Also all of you know our mom, and you know that if Evka and I will go for practice on Monday she will be mad that we are not staying at her house with her. Also everyone who wants to stay in KM wont have to look for a place to stay.
So what do you all think?
Ika I hope you feel better.
At the Town Hall they will supply all of the dishes for us . The only think we would have to pay extra for are tablecloths. I was thinking maybe whoever is going to be in charge of decorations can buy them in a dollar store.
I would like to hear from you all soon because we need to let them know if we change the date.
talk to you soon
zuzana

Scrapbook and ASI

Ika, when would you like us to send you the pages? Do you want the before the trip, or in Czech?

As far as ASI singing, I have no preference whether to sing with or without our partners. I know Zigi suggested total of 3 songs, and one of them with our partners. Also the choice of the song has to respect it. It doesn't have to be mandatory for them to sing that one song with us. I imagine Annetka will be pretty busy, that's why I'd leave up to them whether they want to sing one song with us.

Rene

Scrapbook

Just a quick note. If you are writing anything on the scrapbook page, please, write it in Czech.



I have several pictures of Renata and her husband, so I am going to make their page too, if it's OK with everyone.



And as I said, if there is anyone, who can't do their page (which would be understandable for example for Annette, who is very busy with Rebekah and her new baby...), please feel free to send some pictures and we'll get your pages done for you.



Bad luck with my teeth this year. I just had my first root canal... And I am in a lot of pain even after the procedure. Just picked up my Lortab and antibiotic... Hopefully it will get better soon.

And also, I wanted a clarification. When are we suppose to "reveal" ourselves to mom? I thought it was suppose to be on Tuesday night, at the Birthday party, but as I can see, there is going to be problem with where people would be staying until then. So, could someone please clarify the plan?

And in conclusion one little tip, as you are starting to pack, and maybe buy presents, make sure you carefuly read your airline regulations, because from what I understand, there are a lot stricter limitations on stuff that can be even in checked baggage.

Zuzu, let us know if there is anything else we need to get for the Birthday party (i.e. drinks - mineralka, birrell...) I can't remember exactly if anybody was getting that or not, but we wouldn't mind pitching in for some of this stuff. As far as the decorations, I think Rachel did a beautiful job at Eva's wedding. It was simple, and very pretty.

OK, I've got to go make dinner. Cream of broccoli soup, perfect in this cold and rainy weather...

Levi

ASI and Spouses

Talking to Annette, she isn't really interested in singing at ASI. She'll sing for the Sabbath morning or evening program, a song that will not require much practicing. When it comes to singing at ASI, the songs need to be well prepared, and we shouldn't burden our spouses with it. So in conclusion, we'll do better leaving spouses out of the ASI project and let them watch us from the congregation.

Kamil

Zigi,
Let us talk about some specifics concerning ASI.
Are we going to sing just one song? Did you say we will sing it with our spouses?
Let us talk because I think you were telling us some different information than you just put on blog.
Talk to you all latter
zuzana

Catching up

Hello everyone,

I had to read 3 pages of blogs just to catch up. . . :) We have been extremely busy and forgot to check the blog. . .

1. I like the "I just came to praise the Lord" for an opening song.
2. Picture and scrapbook will be Rachel's department so I will let her handle that part.
3. We will be staying with Oto Jiranek on Thurs and Fri night with Ika and her family.
4. We don't have plans for Sat night yet. Maybe there could be a list of possible place to stay. . .
5. ASI is going to be a great opportunity and fun. . . I spoke to some of you about one of the song to be sung by all of us. . . siblings, spouses. . . let's pick easy one but great sounding one . . .

Later,

Zigi

Thanks Ika,
I will work on it this weekend.
The pictures that I am asking for should be vertical and horizontal.
We have 4 spaces for horizontal and and 3 spaces for vertical.
I was thinking that families who do not have children yet which are Rena, Zigi and Evka could use the horizontal and one more and than last three with children can take the vertical. Let me know if you have a preference.
talk to you all latter
zuzana

Scrapbook

Here are my personal scrapbook examples. If anybody doesn't want to do it, or knows won't have time to do it, please let me know.

Does the picture need to be vertical or horizontal?

Scrapbook info: Well, what I wanted to do was to make a scrapbook for our mom for her birthday. It's little more personalized than a photo album, but that requires some time, and I am not sure if everyone will have time to do it. Anyway, if you still want to do it, here is the info. You can create as many pages as you'd like. One is a minimum, and I think if you have little time on your hands, you could try for 2-5 pages. Remember, in scrapbooking, you can put as little as one photo on a page. You can always look at some scrapbooking ideas online. When mom was here, she really enjoyed looking through my scrapbook.

The kind of scrapbook that I have for this project is the kind with protective sleeves, so all you have to do is make your pages on those pretty scrapbook papers. Or even use plain construction paper, just make sure of the size. It should be 12 x 12. You can buy your supplies at Michaels, Wal-Mart, Dollar Tree or specialty stores, or many others. Whatever pages don't get filled, I am going to put extra background sheets, so that mom can keep creating and adding pages on her own, as she receives pictures from us in the future.

I will post some examples from my personal scrapbook. I am not a pro, but I like it because it's personal. So, take advantage of the longer evenings and get creative! You can get your kids involved as well. If you have their picture with mom, you can have them make a page that says: "Grandma and me" or something like that.

Ika

who put the idea for that song anyways?
zuzana

that is a great song. If we decide to sing it someone should put the words together, maybe Ika?

Also I remember while ago Ika was working on some scrapbook. Ika could you refresh us on what we need to do and how many pages to do. I really like this idea and I know mom would love it.

I was looking for a picture frame that frames 7 pictures because I wanted to work on this project for our mom. Finally I got it. It was not easy to find it but I did it. So now I need a picture of each family so I can frame it. I need it 6 by 4. If you all please can get me a picture of your family that would be great.
thank you
Zuzana

I have it on DVD, but somehow I'd have to get the sound into mp3 format to be able to get it to you.

Rene

I have it on VHS
Ika

Yesterday I was listening to Heritage Singers on youtube and there was a cool medley of I've Got Jesus right in my heart/I love the Thrill that I feel when I get together with God's wonderful people/Plenty of Room in the family/Family of God.

The problem is, it's just a partial thing on youtube, so I was wondering if someone had the whole thing. It sounds really cool....
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=G40HP4BLksk&feature=related

Medley is good one, but "I just Came to Praise the Lord" is much better choice for opening.

RENE

I like "I just came to praise the Lord" too
zuzana

Opening Song

Ike,

Thanks for sending us the song suggestions. After listening to both songs, I clearly see the contrast between the songs. "I just came to praise the Lord" is an opener, I don't think the other one is.

What do you think--ya'll?

Kamil

Songs

Check your emails for the medley and one other song.

Ika

Iko do you have the medley that I posted couple of days ago?
It would be much better to hear it so we all can say what we think about it
thank you
love zuzana

HaPpy BirthDaY, KamiL

From: Bennetts

Kozine,
nevim co jsi cetl, ale pokud si pozorne prectes menu, tak jedine co Zuzka bude delat je bramborovy salat, a Hanka s Jitkou 2 pomazanky. Zbytek budou delat jini, a za nektere veci ani nebudemem platit. Co se tyka financistranky, tak by to nemelo byt moc narocne, a ani casove to nebude narocne. Myslim ze je to v pohode.

Rene

B-Day Dinner:

As I looked at the extensive menu and the preparation that we are undertaking, I have to ask a question: "Do we want to do it? Do we want to invest so much energy, time, and money for the dinner?" It's like a 2-hour wedding, where you spend hours preparing for and then it's over. If we do it, it should be coordinated by somebody besides one of us so we can enjoy the time in Czech.

As for the medley song proposed by Zuzka, remind me, what are the song titles in Czech and did we sing them growing up? (I can't remember if we did or not.)

KM

The old country church/Sweet by and by/what a fellowship/leaning (medley heritage singers)
this is my suggestion for an opening song
what do you think?
zuzana

Hello,
Here is the final price for the kulturak in Lhoty. 500kc for the rent and about 500kc for heating and electric. So let me know if you still like it so I can call her back to make sure we have it for sure.
It will be about $8.00 per family.
Thanks Rene for putting the list on for us. What do you want to have as a opening song for the evening program. It should be a faster song.
looking forward to hear from EVERYONE, please.
I hope all of you realize that the time is going very fast and we need to start being active. Please take it responsibly. I would like you to write not in one week but now.
I do not think that there is anyone who does not have way to get on Internet every day so there is no reason why we would wait for a whole week to hear from anyone. I would like to say specifically that I do not understand why Evka who does not work, has Internet at home but was not willing to be active on this blog. I think similar situation is with Zigi too. I do not want to sound mean but we are not going to have well planned trip if some of us will just wait that somebody else will take care of it. And I think that it is very rood when other people are trying to work on this and some of you cannot even respond to what you think about this or that.
It would be very nice to go back last couple of weeks and respond to thinks that other people suggested and finally let your opinion be known.
hope to hear from all of you soon
Zuzana

Internet

the only option I can suggest is either Karel Poloch, Vlastik Peknik, Valachovi, Marty Buron...at mom's house the internet is available, but walking speed, and expensive. The above listed have high speed and at no cost.

Phone situation is unknown to me, I know a few americans have used their cell phones there (T-Mobile) but have no idea about the cost.

List of songs after the May practice

For CD:

Zpevy zni
Your grace still amazes me
Learning to lean(Ja duverim)
Kdyz jsem uslysel jmeno Jezis
Holy City
Each One
I surrender All
You saved me
Jesus Loves me(children)

In addition to this list we have suggested these songs to add for the concert:

I have decided, Love lifted me, Muj jezis, poslouchej Tvuj Pan vola te, Tam kde Bozi Duch prebyva, Uz nechej svoje starosti.

Just recently Zuzka suggested a solo for Eva, (don't remember the name), also a different version of "Tis So Sweet".

Zigi is suggesting acapella "The Lord's Prayer".
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eiGnJCflcP0
this link has different singers, but same arrangement

Please Discuss these songs, some of them are new and fairly difficult songs. I know there are some concerns that were expressed already, but it would be helpful if you express the concerns here on the blog.

Ika, this one is great:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=g_cJFoy8QDM&feature=related

So, please listen to the songs, go through them, I'd like to visit Roland at Andrews first week in November, and I would really like to have a lot better idea what we are doing. It is getting more and more exciting.

Thank you everybody for the participating and your responses.

Rene

So, the list of songs is posted on October 3, so you can look back at that. Plus, I am not really sure what other songs we are doing. For example is I Have Decided still on?

If any of you need your part for any song written down, let me know. I can try to figure it out, and send it to you.

Few things we (Johnny and I) were concerned about. We are still deciding wheather or not it is a good idea to stay at our dad's Tuesday through Saturday night; the things that I wanted to know are, how many people are already planning on staying there - at mom's, and what is going to be the internet situation at mom's house? Johnny needs to have access to internet and phone to be able to keep in touch with his employees. So, if there was no internet available, we probably couldnt' stay there. As far as phone, when he has internet access, he can hook his vonage up anywhere in the world, and call free. At least that's how he says it works... So, if anyone knows, please let me know. Thanks.

OK, have to run for now.
IMB

1. Congrats to Eva!
2. I need a list of songs sorted by priority and arrangement style so I can spend time practicing.
3. Practice should take place in the church. There is nothing like having all mics working and speakers to really hear what it will sound like. It adds more dynamics to the whole practice. I agree with Ika, practice shouldn't be long since we'll have families with us.
4. I'm glad that the pianist will be able to come so the whole family can focus on singing.
5. Where are we staying before Slovakia? It depends on the weather. Idnes reported snow coming during our trip so I don't know. If it's warm we'll be in Germany for one night and in Prague (hotel) for one night before going to SR.
Kamil

Hey,
I think we should see how much practice we actually need. It is hard to say sure couple of hours but we may find out that we need more than that.
First of all if we can put the list of final songs. If each of us really works on their parts than I believe couple of hours each day will be plenty. Let us make commitment to set a time each day to work on this music.
So who is putting the final list on here?
love
zuzana

I agree, the trip and it's purpose is not to spend 3 days practicing, and one day recording. We are not going to practice all day long, but in saying that I want to encourage everybody to think before we suggest new songs. Let's keep it simple and familiar. We can have practices 2-3 hours a day if we have simple songs, that we know for most part. I am glad Evka found her OPT card, so we can start finalizing the program.

In the light of Ika's comment I would like to suggest to pick our songs for ASI Friday program out of our songs for a CD or Sabbath night program rather then bringing a new songs. But this is just my opinion.

Last thing, I would and I know Zuzka too, we would like to see more participation here on this blog as we come closer to the event. Don't plan on doing everything when we come there. I know Zigi has made some calls about songs for ASI, let's discuss it here.

Have a good day

Rene

Question

I have a question about the practice. We're not talking about all day, are we? Maybe a couple of hours every day?

Ika

practice

We can practice at the church, or at someone's house. I will think about it.

Rene

I like that plan.
Where do you think we could practice on Monday?
Zuzana

CD

I called Tomas, and here is the plan. He will record in the way hat we want to do it, and how we want to do it. We will have to practice Mon-Wed and Thursday all day we will record the CD at Vojkovice church. Milan will be there as well to help Tomas. We will record as many songs as we want, but also we have only one day to do it. The reason Tomas picked Thursday is the time that allows us to practice, and also it is his day off. If you have any questions, ideas etc. don't hesitate to ask, call or post here.

Pianist

His name is Sung Sup Park and I am sure you will like him. Zuzka and I, we met him at the retreat, and I am sure he will fit with his personality, and his piano skills are great so I hope we will appreciate this decision. He is available for the whole trip.

Have a great day
Rene