Hey, Everybody!
For those of you who don't know me -- that's almost everyone :-D -- my name is BonnieJean Bavido. I go by "BJ" here in Taiwan, and I'm 22 years old. I served on the island of Kinmen last semester, and am very happy to be stationed here again for this year. The team here is fondly called both the "Retirement Team" and the "Sporty Team." (Yes, we know those two titles contradict.) :-D
Since most of the Kinmen team members are "old," I think I'll introduce each of them to you.
(Andrew) Drew Stewart is our team leader. I'm so grateful to have him as my leader again this year. He avoids either breathing down everyone's necks or being a non-existent leader, but is instead a great balance. He takes his responsibilities seriously, and I appreciate how he applies himself to being our spiritual leader. He loves the kids and loves teaching on the smaller island of Kinmen (that he boats over to two days a week). He's a great example of being the servant of all, and is also close with his brother (which is always a great sign! *grin*). And he does quite well in his role as leader of the "sporty team," organizing bike rides, etc.. :-D
Lucas Stewart is Drew's younger brother and was recently named Director of Domestic Affairs. He jumped right on the job and organized a card-playing/cookie-baking bash last night, with kids from our dorm and from the church's youth group. He's great with both younger and older kids, and has made a ton of friends here at the Jr. High (where we live). I think he knows every single basketball term in Chinese now, as he plays frequently with the kids on the court by our dorm. He also takes the initiative to do all sorts of things around the dorm which keep things running smoothly.
Megan Jefferies was my roommate last semester and is again this year, which is a tremendous blessing. She's such an encouragement as she continually strives to be closer to the Lord. This will be her second year in Taiwan, and she loves Kinmen. She's yet another great servant on our team, often "fighting" with Drew over who will get to do the dishes. :-) She isn't naturally animated or outgoing, but does a great job of throwing herself into people and stepping outside her comfort zone to make them feel welcome and loved. I've learned a lot from her, and she's a great help whenever anyone needs help with lesson-planning ideas.
I'm afraid I have no time to say anything about Ginger or Rebekah, but you all know how great they are! :-D We're all so thankful that God has brought them here to Kinmen, and are enjoying getting to know them.
BJ
