It's the last day of November. Wow! Time has flown by for this year. It also feels surreal being here in Nic where the weather is hot and knowing that tomorrow is the first day of DECEMBER! I guess they are having cold weather and even some snow back in Rogers AR. My sister Sandy said that it was getting cold and rainy in Indiana, too. I'm sitting on my bed in a tank top and shorts in front of the fan. I'm sure Deanna is snug in flannel pants and a sweatshirt and under a blanket back home!
We've had a good day today. It's so quiet without a team here. It's good for studying and reading. We got ready this morning and German picked us up about 9am. We went to the Sewer Ponds and met Pastor Miguel there. He was pumping the water pump to help some of the people get their water for the day. He said it was good exercise, especially since he ate so much food last week when the team was here. Anyway, we told the people who had gathered that we would be back for some classes to teach the adults about the Bible and Christianity. And we would also be back to do a feeding one day. We will also be going back the week of Christmas to give them some toys for the kids, but we are keeping that part a surprise for now.
Then we followed Pastor Miguel to an area that he is working with another pastor in ministry. It was close to the area that Mike wants us to start ministering to. When I had asked Mike via text message where the area was, here is his reply: "There is an area on the east side of the bypass down the road at the traffic light that rarely works on the left where the big concrete pit is. German will know this area. There is no church in the area." Mary and I had to laugh when we read this. I don't think it would do any good to type that into a GPS system! By the way, the 'bypass' is not like an interstate in the US. It's a 2 lane highway that swings out around the city on that side. German was perplexed, too, so he called Mike and we found the place. It turned out that it was just a kilometer from where Pastor Miguel was showing us.
Mary and I met 3 brothers at the Concrete Pit site. They let me take their picture. I asked which of them is most handsome, but they didn't really have an opinion. They were playing with some kite string that had gotten tangled in a tree. The kite was long gone, but they were enjoying the string.
Pastor Miguel will go to the Sewer Ponds and the Concrete Pit site tomorrow to tell them that we will be returning on Thursday (and for a few days afterward) to do the classes. Pastor Miguel is so good with the kids. Hopefully, we can keep the kids busy while Mary and I are leading the class for adults. It can be hard to minister to everyone when there are just a couple of us, but I'm looking forward to being out there with them.
My dream is to be here in Nic for long periods of time so that we can start weekly Bible studies in each area. Oh how awesome that would be! God is opening doors and His timing is perfect. But it's hard sometimes to wait when He gives us big dreams.
German, Mary and I went to lunch at a buffet that is really good. (if you get there while they still have a selection) Anyway, I had some beef with chimichurri sauce, rice, beans, cabbage salad and tortilla. It was sooo good. Mary had grilled chicken, rice, beans, salad, a fried mashed potato ball with cheese inside and bread. German had chicken (kind of like chicken cordon blue), rice, beans, fried cheese and tortilla. The most expensive dinner was about $5. Mine was only $3 something. We were there soon after they opened, so we got good stuff. It became quite crowded after we sat down. I really enjoyed the meal.
We made a stop at La Union grocery store for some essentials (brown sugar to make stewed apples, chocolate snack pack pudding which I spied last time there, chocolate chip cookies and a few veggies). All very important stuff! I'm really impressed with how well the grocery store has been cleaned up, stocked and kept up. It was not so nice last summer and there is a lot of veggies and fruits now. I think being here right after the rainy season helps with that. I've seen pics that we have taken from inside the store and it looks like it could be in the states! The meat department is still a little iffy sometimes, but it's good by Nic standards.
German took us by to see his house that is being built. It's right as you go into León from the west (team house). He is going to finish part of it and move in so that he can apply his rent money for building supplies. It's all concrete block and will have concrete slab floors. It will be nice when it is finished. I'm sure he will be glad to get it to the place where he can live there and work on it. I asked about the neighborhood (it's gated even thought it's not too fancy). He said it's called "Los Altos de Vera Cruz" or Vera Cruz Heights in English.
Seeing German's house being built makes me excited to think about the future of VOH and building a new team house, chapel, training center, etc. It will be awesome to see that materialize. God has big plans for this ministry and there is much work to be done here in Nic. Please keep VOH, it's staff, volunteers, prayer partners, financial partners and volunteer teams in your prayers.
I took a long nap this afternoon and woke up in time for a walk on the beach before sunset. German had given Mary and me the keys to the front gate and the front door of the house. This way we can lock up, go out the back door (that locks us out) and walk the beach. Then we can come back through the alleyway and come in the front door. It was getting dark quickly and we got to the front gate. Saturnino had already returned from his visit home and had the gate open for us. He probably thought we were going to be stranded again. He probably thinks we are pretty helpless sometimes. We were proud to have our own keys and confidently walked to the front door only to find that we couldn't get the key to turn correctly. He came to our rescue with a smile which I'm sure meant 'you ARE helpless women'. ha. It's so good to have him to take care of us.
We rested a little bit. Mary was still stuffed from lunch and I was just a little bit hungry, so I had a peanutbutter sandwich for dinner. I came upstairs and took a quick shower and jumped on my bed with the computer. I've had some correspondence to keep up with and, of course, I needed to check on facebook! I'm ready now for a good night's sleep. We wake up early here and fall asleep early, too, at least when there are no teams. I'm looking forward to some good rest so I can get rid of this stupid cold. I'm taking lots of vitamins this week. Someday, I should be able to hear clearly again. Won't that be a hoot!
Thank You God for all Your blessings today. Keep me focused on seeing this world through Your eyes.
Tuesday, November 30, 2010
Monday, November 29, 2010
November 29, 2010
Monday evening. Almost time for sleep. A very relaxing time of day.
This morning started out by sleeping till 8am. I have been waking up a lot during the night with this silly cough, but it seems to be getting better. Crazy to come to tropical weather and have a cold for a week!
Today, Mary and I worked on our various projects around the house. I did some correspondence with Mike (VOH) and John (FBCR) and found out some good news about some missions support. I talked with Nana Ruth back home in Rogers and she is fixing me up with some money from my donation account to wire down here. I really appreciate having her take care of my 'business' stuff for me. She did this all through my time serving in NYC. It's such a help.
Today was sunny and beautiful. I stripped my bed and washed sheets and towels. The cleaning ladies were here and did the bathroom and floors in my room. It is much nicer now. The floors need to be swept and mopped often with all the sand and dirt that come into the open house. The terra cotta floors make it easier to keep clean.
I spent a few hours working on the information for the classes we hope to start tomorrow at the Sewer Ponds. Mary and I will work together teaching and German will be our translator. I think we will have fun. I'm looking forward to spending many days at the Sewer Ponds and another area that we are targeting for ministry in the next few weeks. It will be good for VOH to have a presence there continually.
Lunch today was whatever we happened to be hungry for. I had some tuna out of the can and a salad. It was good. Then a banana and some watermelon. I think Mary had the canalone chicken stuff and some melon. For dinner, we baked chicken breasts, potatoes, carrots and onions. It was soooo tasty! We have left overs for the next few days. The oven just has settings "1, 2, 3, 4", so I brought down an oven thermometer and we could tell how hot it was. It seemed to do the trick! We may try our hand at baking next!
We went for a walk along the beach before sunset. Saturnino (our guard) was home for the afternoon, so we locked up all the doors and gates and took off walking the beach. The sand was actually cool enough to walk without shoes. Usually the sand is so hot it blisters your feet. We enjoyed walking the length of the beach. We ran into a lady who is working with another missionary we know here (John Speigle). We noticed her "Go Hogs" t-shirt and stopped to ask where she was from. She was surprised that we knew the ministry she was here with and the Speigles. Small world. Then we saw John on the beach and had a chat. It was nice. We went back to the house and realized that the backdoor lock didn't open with the key. The lock has been kind of messed up lately. Anyway, we had to walk back to the beach and down a few houses to an alley kind of thing. Then we walked back to the front of the house and sat on the curb until Saturnino was due to arrive. We called German to discuss tomorrow's schedule and by the time we finished talking, Saturnino rode up on his bike. He looked at us kind of funny and we explained that we had locked ourselves out. He thought that was funny. We got all settled back inside and had dinner.
This evening we worked more on the classes for tomorrow. Mary got on facebook to do some catching up with her family. I'm glad that she can do that. I know she misses them when she's here.
Time for me to get to sleep. It's been a good day. But I'm ready to get out and get some work done at the Sewer Ponds tomorrow. We'll see how everything goes. Many of the people don't read or write and many are not Christians. Also, many will have their children milling around during the class. With just the 2 of us, it's hard to have something going on for everyone at the same time. We'll see how God has things planned for tomorrow. I'm looking forward to the day when we can start having some weekly Bible studies at each little village. How awesome!
Thank You Lord for all the blessings You pass my way. I love You.
This morning started out by sleeping till 8am. I have been waking up a lot during the night with this silly cough, but it seems to be getting better. Crazy to come to tropical weather and have a cold for a week!
Today, Mary and I worked on our various projects around the house. I did some correspondence with Mike (VOH) and John (FBCR) and found out some good news about some missions support. I talked with Nana Ruth back home in Rogers and she is fixing me up with some money from my donation account to wire down here. I really appreciate having her take care of my 'business' stuff for me. She did this all through my time serving in NYC. It's such a help.
Today was sunny and beautiful. I stripped my bed and washed sheets and towels. The cleaning ladies were here and did the bathroom and floors in my room. It is much nicer now. The floors need to be swept and mopped often with all the sand and dirt that come into the open house. The terra cotta floors make it easier to keep clean.
I spent a few hours working on the information for the classes we hope to start tomorrow at the Sewer Ponds. Mary and I will work together teaching and German will be our translator. I think we will have fun. I'm looking forward to spending many days at the Sewer Ponds and another area that we are targeting for ministry in the next few weeks. It will be good for VOH to have a presence there continually.
Lunch today was whatever we happened to be hungry for. I had some tuna out of the can and a salad. It was good. Then a banana and some watermelon. I think Mary had the canalone chicken stuff and some melon. For dinner, we baked chicken breasts, potatoes, carrots and onions. It was soooo tasty! We have left overs for the next few days. The oven just has settings "1, 2, 3, 4", so I brought down an oven thermometer and we could tell how hot it was. It seemed to do the trick! We may try our hand at baking next!
We went for a walk along the beach before sunset. Saturnino (our guard) was home for the afternoon, so we locked up all the doors and gates and took off walking the beach. The sand was actually cool enough to walk without shoes. Usually the sand is so hot it blisters your feet. We enjoyed walking the length of the beach. We ran into a lady who is working with another missionary we know here (John Speigle). We noticed her "Go Hogs" t-shirt and stopped to ask where she was from. She was surprised that we knew the ministry she was here with and the Speigles. Small world. Then we saw John on the beach and had a chat. It was nice. We went back to the house and realized that the backdoor lock didn't open with the key. The lock has been kind of messed up lately. Anyway, we had to walk back to the beach and down a few houses to an alley kind of thing. Then we walked back to the front of the house and sat on the curb until Saturnino was due to arrive. We called German to discuss tomorrow's schedule and by the time we finished talking, Saturnino rode up on his bike. He looked at us kind of funny and we explained that we had locked ourselves out. He thought that was funny. We got all settled back inside and had dinner.
This evening we worked more on the classes for tomorrow. Mary got on facebook to do some catching up with her family. I'm glad that she can do that. I know she misses them when she's here.
Time for me to get to sleep. It's been a good day. But I'm ready to get out and get some work done at the Sewer Ponds tomorrow. We'll see how everything goes. Many of the people don't read or write and many are not Christians. Also, many will have their children milling around during the class. With just the 2 of us, it's hard to have something going on for everyone at the same time. We'll see how God has things planned for tomorrow. I'm looking forward to the day when we can start having some weekly Bible studies at each little village. How awesome!
Thank You Lord for all the blessings You pass my way. I love You.
Sunday, November 28, 2010
November 28, 2010
Sunday in Nic.
As I write this, I'm sitting on the upstairs veranda (we call the upper room) with my feet propped up, looking at the very last rays of the sunset over the ocean and listening to the waves as they get louder with the incoming tide. I hear bugs, geckos, birds, kids playing in the street, an occasional horn honking... It's so peaceful. I can't imagine being anywhere else right now. Even with the heat and the dirt, no air conditioning or hot water. It's perfect.
Mary and I had a quiet day today. We opted to stay home and have our own quiet time with God today. (saved money on a van and gas, too!) I washed 3 small loads of laundry (our washer can only handle small loads) and hung them out to dry. It didn't take long! I grabbed a nap in the afternoon.
I've been reading the book Radical, and I spent some time catching up on it. Then I worked a little on the classes that we'll be teaching at the villages and also to the translators. I also did some computer work. Over all, a quiet day.
There was some leftover filling for the canalones we had earlier in the week. It's kind of like chicken salad when cold, so I had that on a sandwhich and Mary had 2 leftover canalones for lunch. We made a yummy salad. I'm so glad to get lots of veggies on this trip. We had butter cookies for dessert. Oh, and we had watermelon for a snack. yum
Cuerpo Vivo church back in Rogers AR had a huge Hispanic Youth Conference this past 3 days. I hear it went really well. I'm so glad. I would have loved to have been there for it. I love that church family. And I know that many wonderful things were taught during the conference.
I've spent a lot of time today praying for friends going through some tough times. I wish I could reach across the miles and hug them all. God will hug them for me.
I guess I don't have a whole lot to put in print today. The bugs seem to be enjoying my computer screen and aggravating me, so I'll sign off for now.
Can't believe I've been here 11 days already. I know time will really fly by. Pray that I glorify God in every moment.
As I write this, I'm sitting on the upstairs veranda (we call the upper room) with my feet propped up, looking at the very last rays of the sunset over the ocean and listening to the waves as they get louder with the incoming tide. I hear bugs, geckos, birds, kids playing in the street, an occasional horn honking... It's so peaceful. I can't imagine being anywhere else right now. Even with the heat and the dirt, no air conditioning or hot water. It's perfect.
Mary and I had a quiet day today. We opted to stay home and have our own quiet time with God today. (saved money on a van and gas, too!) I washed 3 small loads of laundry (our washer can only handle small loads) and hung them out to dry. It didn't take long! I grabbed a nap in the afternoon.
I've been reading the book Radical, and I spent some time catching up on it. Then I worked a little on the classes that we'll be teaching at the villages and also to the translators. I also did some computer work. Over all, a quiet day.
There was some leftover filling for the canalones we had earlier in the week. It's kind of like chicken salad when cold, so I had that on a sandwhich and Mary had 2 leftover canalones for lunch. We made a yummy salad. I'm so glad to get lots of veggies on this trip. We had butter cookies for dessert. Oh, and we had watermelon for a snack. yum
Cuerpo Vivo church back in Rogers AR had a huge Hispanic Youth Conference this past 3 days. I hear it went really well. I'm so glad. I would have loved to have been there for it. I love that church family. And I know that many wonderful things were taught during the conference.
I've spent a lot of time today praying for friends going through some tough times. I wish I could reach across the miles and hug them all. God will hug them for me.
I guess I don't have a whole lot to put in print today. The bugs seem to be enjoying my computer screen and aggravating me, so I'll sign off for now.
Can't believe I've been here 11 days already. I know time will really fly by. Pray that I glorify God in every moment.
Saturday, November 27, 2010
November 27, 2010
It seems surreal that it's the very end of November and that Thanksgiving has past. I was so blessed to spend that day working with the Paragould AR team here in Nic.
This time of year in the states is so focused on Christmas shopping and Black Friday sales and cyber Monday sales, etc. I have to remind myself that all of that is going on back 'home'. Here in Nic, it's a special time of year for Christmas, also. There is a custom (law) here called the Thirteenth Month. Everyone gets an additional month's pay and benefits in December. That means there is a lot of shopping and celebrating going on here. Lots of celebrations in the streets and parks. Lots of shopping in the stores and markets. The cashiers at La Union grocery store have been wearing santa hats since before we got here on Nov 17. Everywhere has Christmas trees up and Nativities set out. There are Christmas lights strung along the streets. Very interesting in 80-90 degree weather. I think the overstated excitement of the Thirteenth Month makes the Christmas season more prominent in my mind. Oh, and another thing they do down here for the holiday season is set off fireworks. Big, loud fireworks. Even our team bought some last week and set them off on the beach one night (much to the dismay of one of our neighbors). It will be really fun to spend the Christmas season here.
This morning I slept in as long as I could. I went to bed last night feeling very rotten. I coughed all night long, but I seem to be making progress on getting the junk out of my chest. I still sound pretty bad, but I'm feeling a little better. It will be better every day.
This morning, Mary and I worked on putting things away from the past week's ministry. The cleaning ladies did a wonderful job getting all the towels and sheets washed and put away, sweeping and mopping the whole house and cleaning up the bathrooms and kitchen. It was nice to just have our own rooms to deal with.
I spent most of the morning on the computer recapping the business transactions for all stuff that went on this last week. I miss having a printer at my disposal. I sent the spreadsheet as an attachment to an email to German, but he only printed off 3 of the 6 pages. Anyway, we got most of it discussed.
I'm really thankful to have my computer here and internet access. I can get emails and facebook on my phone, for a price, but having the computer is much superior. I know that it seems like I'm not roughing it much with that wonderful benefit, but it is sooo handy. I have some things to continue to organize back in Rogers AR while I'm here in Nic, so this is great! I can also post on my blog for those who are following the ministry down here. Speaking of being spoiled by gadgets, I also have my iPod here and a little portable speaker for it, a rechargeable book light and my electric toothbrush. I'm spoiled, huh? I keep everything charged up all the time, just in case we have any power outage. Don't want to be caught off guard!
The team wondered how Mary and I would make it here the next 5-6 weeks without air-conditioning and tv. We don't really notice not having those things. I love having the fans blowing on me much more than I enjoy air-conditioning. There is plenty to read and study, not to mention being able to research stuff on the net and keep up with blogs and facebook. And walking the beach is better than looking at tv any old day! Besides, we'll be busy most days going out to some of the communities like the Sewer Pond village and the Dump to serve meals and to minister to the people. We think it's perfect!
I've been able to use the internet (and facebook) to keep up with some friends who are going through some really tough medical situations. I'm so thankful to be able to follow their progress and know how to specifically pray for them. My sister Pam will be having her breast cancer surgery (and gallbladder removal) on Dec 5. I know that she is anxious for this to get over. I pray that her body will start healing fast and strong. I pray for God's hand on her life. I pray that she comes to know and trust Him soon.
I guess I don't have much else to say this evening. I'm ready for some sleep, even though it is still fairly early. Gotta get over this cold so I can go full steam ahead this week.
Blessings to all who take the time to read my musings. I am thankful for all of the love, prayer and support that allows me to serve as a full-time missionary. I can't imagine my life any different. God has blessed me so much. May He be glorified in every word, thought and deed. I love Him so.
This time of year in the states is so focused on Christmas shopping and Black Friday sales and cyber Monday sales, etc. I have to remind myself that all of that is going on back 'home'. Here in Nic, it's a special time of year for Christmas, also. There is a custom (law) here called the Thirteenth Month. Everyone gets an additional month's pay and benefits in December. That means there is a lot of shopping and celebrating going on here. Lots of celebrations in the streets and parks. Lots of shopping in the stores and markets. The cashiers at La Union grocery store have been wearing santa hats since before we got here on Nov 17. Everywhere has Christmas trees up and Nativities set out. There are Christmas lights strung along the streets. Very interesting in 80-90 degree weather. I think the overstated excitement of the Thirteenth Month makes the Christmas season more prominent in my mind. Oh, and another thing they do down here for the holiday season is set off fireworks. Big, loud fireworks. Even our team bought some last week and set them off on the beach one night (much to the dismay of one of our neighbors). It will be really fun to spend the Christmas season here.
This morning I slept in as long as I could. I went to bed last night feeling very rotten. I coughed all night long, but I seem to be making progress on getting the junk out of my chest. I still sound pretty bad, but I'm feeling a little better. It will be better every day.
This morning, Mary and I worked on putting things away from the past week's ministry. The cleaning ladies did a wonderful job getting all the towels and sheets washed and put away, sweeping and mopping the whole house and cleaning up the bathrooms and kitchen. It was nice to just have our own rooms to deal with.
I spent most of the morning on the computer recapping the business transactions for all stuff that went on this last week. I miss having a printer at my disposal. I sent the spreadsheet as an attachment to an email to German, but he only printed off 3 of the 6 pages. Anyway, we got most of it discussed.
I'm really thankful to have my computer here and internet access. I can get emails and facebook on my phone, for a price, but having the computer is much superior. I know that it seems like I'm not roughing it much with that wonderful benefit, but it is sooo handy. I have some things to continue to organize back in Rogers AR while I'm here in Nic, so this is great! I can also post on my blog for those who are following the ministry down here. Speaking of being spoiled by gadgets, I also have my iPod here and a little portable speaker for it, a rechargeable book light and my electric toothbrush. I'm spoiled, huh? I keep everything charged up all the time, just in case we have any power outage. Don't want to be caught off guard!
The team wondered how Mary and I would make it here the next 5-6 weeks without air-conditioning and tv. We don't really notice not having those things. I love having the fans blowing on me much more than I enjoy air-conditioning. There is plenty to read and study, not to mention being able to research stuff on the net and keep up with blogs and facebook. And walking the beach is better than looking at tv any old day! Besides, we'll be busy most days going out to some of the communities like the Sewer Pond village and the Dump to serve meals and to minister to the people. We think it's perfect!
I've been able to use the internet (and facebook) to keep up with some friends who are going through some really tough medical situations. I'm so thankful to be able to follow their progress and know how to specifically pray for them. My sister Pam will be having her breast cancer surgery (and gallbladder removal) on Dec 5. I know that she is anxious for this to get over. I pray that her body will start healing fast and strong. I pray for God's hand on her life. I pray that she comes to know and trust Him soon.
I guess I don't have much else to say this evening. I'm ready for some sleep, even though it is still fairly early. Gotta get over this cold so I can go full steam ahead this week.
Blessings to all who take the time to read my musings. I am thankful for all of the love, prayer and support that allows me to serve as a full-time missionary. I can't imagine my life any different. God has blessed me so much. May He be glorified in every word, thought and deed. I love Him so.
Friday, November 26, 2010
Friday, November 26, 2010
The official 'Fun Day' for the team. After a week of hard work and long schedules, it's good to take the team sightseeing and shopping so that they can fall in love with the country and people a little more.
Normally, we leave early in the morning to fit as much in as possible. Today was a little different. This team's church actually sponsors a Compassion International child and they had the chance to meet with her today at 10am. While the van load of those cleared to meet with her set of for the meeting place, the other 2 vans went to La Union grocery store to pick up some Nic coffee and other items. They we all joined up at On the Run to wait for the meeting with Fabiola, the little girl. By the time that meeting was over, we were leaving Leon at 11:30am instead of the usual 7:30am.
We went to the volcano first and then to the Gringo Market in Masaya and then to Narcy's to eat Tip Top Chicken and Pizza Hut Pizza. The volcano was interesting and there is a museum at the entrance to the park. After going up the volcano, we stopped at the museum to look around quickly and to use the bathrooms. Then we jumped back on the bus for that all important shopping trip.
We got to spend about an hour at the Market and I think everyone found what they were looking for. I had a couple of gifts to look for and Mary walked around with me just for fun. She didn't need to pick up anything and I needed very little. I was glad to find what I was looking for, though.
We went to Narcy's restaurant and took over their back room with the 31 of us. Oscar (one of the translators) had his 4 year old son with us today. It was fun for the 2 little girls on our team. We all chowed down and got really full. The checks are always a challenge to keep straight at the end and this time was no different. We finally got everything paid for and then headed to the hotel.
We had stopped at the hotel on the way into Managua earlier in the day, so the rooms were all prepared and everyone had their suitcases already in the rooms. We just got a quick team picture and then the team went to their rooms and the bus drivers, translators, Mary and I went to the gas station to prepare to part ways. Manuel and Fabio were staying in their hometowns of Managua and Masaya. All of the VOH people were traveling back to Leon with Danilo. We got drinks for the translators and dinner to bring back to Saturnino and hit the road. Most of us settled down to doze off on the way home. I for one, couldn't wait to get in bed and sleep till I feel like waking up tomorrow!!
I've had a battle with my ears being full for a while now. That has not changed and they are better on some days. Now I have added a head cold with a sore throat and congestion and cough. I'm hoping that some rest and getting back on my regular schedule of vitamins will knock it out quickly. I can't talk without really shouting and that hurts. I can't hear well, so people think I'm ignoring them, and I can't hear well on the phone. I feel like cutting my head off sometimes. But I'm thankful to have been able to keep working with the team this week in spite of feeling yucky. God is faithful in providing strength and healing.
I made some new friends on this team, who I like very much. This week has been pretty relaxing and fun, even with the usual changes and opportunities for flexibility that come with ministry here in Nic. It's been a good week and I'm thankful to be here. God is Good. In all things.
Normally, we leave early in the morning to fit as much in as possible. Today was a little different. This team's church actually sponsors a Compassion International child and they had the chance to meet with her today at 10am. While the van load of those cleared to meet with her set of for the meeting place, the other 2 vans went to La Union grocery store to pick up some Nic coffee and other items. They we all joined up at On the Run to wait for the meeting with Fabiola, the little girl. By the time that meeting was over, we were leaving Leon at 11:30am instead of the usual 7:30am.
We went to the volcano first and then to the Gringo Market in Masaya and then to Narcy's to eat Tip Top Chicken and Pizza Hut Pizza. The volcano was interesting and there is a museum at the entrance to the park. After going up the volcano, we stopped at the museum to look around quickly and to use the bathrooms. Then we jumped back on the bus for that all important shopping trip.
We got to spend about an hour at the Market and I think everyone found what they were looking for. I had a couple of gifts to look for and Mary walked around with me just for fun. She didn't need to pick up anything and I needed very little. I was glad to find what I was looking for, though.
We went to Narcy's restaurant and took over their back room with the 31 of us. Oscar (one of the translators) had his 4 year old son with us today. It was fun for the 2 little girls on our team. We all chowed down and got really full. The checks are always a challenge to keep straight at the end and this time was no different. We finally got everything paid for and then headed to the hotel.
We had stopped at the hotel on the way into Managua earlier in the day, so the rooms were all prepared and everyone had their suitcases already in the rooms. We just got a quick team picture and then the team went to their rooms and the bus drivers, translators, Mary and I went to the gas station to prepare to part ways. Manuel and Fabio were staying in their hometowns of Managua and Masaya. All of the VOH people were traveling back to Leon with Danilo. We got drinks for the translators and dinner to bring back to Saturnino and hit the road. Most of us settled down to doze off on the way home. I for one, couldn't wait to get in bed and sleep till I feel like waking up tomorrow!!
I've had a battle with my ears being full for a while now. That has not changed and they are better on some days. Now I have added a head cold with a sore throat and congestion and cough. I'm hoping that some rest and getting back on my regular schedule of vitamins will knock it out quickly. I can't talk without really shouting and that hurts. I can't hear well, so people think I'm ignoring them, and I can't hear well on the phone. I feel like cutting my head off sometimes. But I'm thankful to have been able to keep working with the team this week in spite of feeling yucky. God is faithful in providing strength and healing.
I made some new friends on this team, who I like very much. This week has been pretty relaxing and fun, even with the usual changes and opportunities for flexibility that come with ministry here in Nic. It's been a good week and I'm thankful to be here. God is Good. In all things.
Thursday, November 25, 2010
Thursday, November 25, 2010
It's Thanksgiving morning back in the states. Yesterday, I was thinking of all of the people who were preparing to spend the holiday with family and friends. The thing that I thought about most was all the stress that people put on themselves to have the house look just perfect, cooking way more food than can be eaten on that day, worrying about what to wear, if everyone will get along, if anyone will be critical of your own cooking, will the kids get too rowdy, etc. By the time most families get together and end the day, they are worn out, stressed out and burned out. I think the pilgrims were just happy to be able to gather together in what ever clothes happened to be clean at the time, bring whatever food they had available and just hang out together. They were thankful for all that God had given them in this new (to them) country. They were focused on their faith in our God and giving Him glory on that day. I picture it as being calmer than most celebrations these days.
Getting back to the basics of life (as the song goes). I think that's why I like being in Nic. It is very basic. You eat what is available and are very thankful for it. You get together with people and no matter how difficult the travel can be, you are thankful for that time of fellowship with them. No one is trying to impress anyone. No one worries about being judged or criticized for material things. You just share life with others and are thankful for all the blessings from God (no matter what day it is).
Today, we will be going back to El Sauce to do a feeding, 2 fiestas, a Pastor's conference and the last night of the crusade. I'm thankful for the team from Paragould AR who are here serving with us, for reliable transportation, for food to eat and clean water to drink, for the body of Believers in El Sauce who have worked very hard to make it possible to serve there this week, for the Voice of Hope ministry and staff for being here in Nic, for the chance to be here serving this year, and most importantly, I'm thankful for my God, who created me, sustains me, directs me, loves me, forgives me, teaches and strengthens me and is ever faithful.
Time for breakfast and to start this wonderful day. Thank You Lord for another day to serve You.
We got to El Sauce and went to an area where we did a fiesta the day before. We helped with the feeding of a few hundred people. They remembered us from the day before and I think that the team was very touched to be able to go back to this place again. We then went to do a couple more fiestas. At the beginning of the second one, German grabbed me for a quick 'numbers' session to get money squared away since it was the last night of the crusade. I didn't get the chance to tell the helpers where I was, but they stepped up great and handled everything. They had become pros during the week.
We had our last dinner cooked by the hosting church. It was chicken cordon blue with those great potatoes, veggies and rice. The food was delicious and we paid an excellent price for everyone. It was such a blessing to have the meal prepared for us. (we had originally planned to haul our dinner with us everyday)
The crusade went really well. The music was great. I love the Nic music and this night did not disappoint. Pastor Charles spoke about the crucifixion. We had beautiful crosses made by a man in El Sauce. Also, each person over the age of 10 was given a nail to hold during the message. Pastor Charles referred to the nails frequently. Then at the invitation, he asked that anyone who had made a decision for Christ to bring the nail and drop it in the bucket near the stage. A lot of people came forward.
At the end of the evening, a ticket was drawn for the motorcycle. A family won it and was very excited. Soccer balls left from the week's ministry, as well as many New Testaments were given out to the people in the crowd. I was told that for the week, over 1800 people accepted Christ. A very fruitful harvest.
Many of the churches in El Sauce were holding special services to enable the new believers to be brought into their flocks. Pray for the followup and discipling that will take place in the days and weeks and months to come. God is awesome and worthy of all Glory!
It was a long ride back to Leon and we were glad not to have to make that drive again this week. At On the Run store, the team said goodbye to the translators and gave them gifts. It's always touching to see those friendships that have started over the week of working together.
We made it home and in bed by 11pm or so. A very busy week, but very fruitful. Thank you God for letting us be Your tools.
Getting back to the basics of life (as the song goes). I think that's why I like being in Nic. It is very basic. You eat what is available and are very thankful for it. You get together with people and no matter how difficult the travel can be, you are thankful for that time of fellowship with them. No one is trying to impress anyone. No one worries about being judged or criticized for material things. You just share life with others and are thankful for all the blessings from God (no matter what day it is).
Today, we will be going back to El Sauce to do a feeding, 2 fiestas, a Pastor's conference and the last night of the crusade. I'm thankful for the team from Paragould AR who are here serving with us, for reliable transportation, for food to eat and clean water to drink, for the body of Believers in El Sauce who have worked very hard to make it possible to serve there this week, for the Voice of Hope ministry and staff for being here in Nic, for the chance to be here serving this year, and most importantly, I'm thankful for my God, who created me, sustains me, directs me, loves me, forgives me, teaches and strengthens me and is ever faithful.
Time for breakfast and to start this wonderful day. Thank You Lord for another day to serve You.
We got to El Sauce and went to an area where we did a fiesta the day before. We helped with the feeding of a few hundred people. They remembered us from the day before and I think that the team was very touched to be able to go back to this place again. We then went to do a couple more fiestas. At the beginning of the second one, German grabbed me for a quick 'numbers' session to get money squared away since it was the last night of the crusade. I didn't get the chance to tell the helpers where I was, but they stepped up great and handled everything. They had become pros during the week.
We had our last dinner cooked by the hosting church. It was chicken cordon blue with those great potatoes, veggies and rice. The food was delicious and we paid an excellent price for everyone. It was such a blessing to have the meal prepared for us. (we had originally planned to haul our dinner with us everyday)
The crusade went really well. The music was great. I love the Nic music and this night did not disappoint. Pastor Charles spoke about the crucifixion. We had beautiful crosses made by a man in El Sauce. Also, each person over the age of 10 was given a nail to hold during the message. Pastor Charles referred to the nails frequently. Then at the invitation, he asked that anyone who had made a decision for Christ to bring the nail and drop it in the bucket near the stage. A lot of people came forward.
At the end of the evening, a ticket was drawn for the motorcycle. A family won it and was very excited. Soccer balls left from the week's ministry, as well as many New Testaments were given out to the people in the crowd. I was told that for the week, over 1800 people accepted Christ. A very fruitful harvest.
Many of the churches in El Sauce were holding special services to enable the new believers to be brought into their flocks. Pray for the followup and discipling that will take place in the days and weeks and months to come. God is awesome and worthy of all Glory!
It was a long ride back to Leon and we were glad not to have to make that drive again this week. At On the Run store, the team said goodbye to the translators and gave them gifts. It's always touching to see those friendships that have started over the week of working together.
We made it home and in bed by 11pm or so. A very busy week, but very fruitful. Thank you God for letting us be Your tools.
Wednesday, November 24, 2010
November 24, 2010
Another beautiful morning. I love those birds cawing at 5:30. (the team doesn't so much, but they are music to my ears. I can go back to sleep listening to them. And I love it.
This morning has been busy, getting ready for the fiestas and conference and crusade for today. We'll hurry and eat lunch and then head out for El Sauce. German is busy running errands for the team this morning. I tried calling him earlier and he didn't answer. When he called later I asked if there was a problem with his phone (you never know in Nic) and he said that it was on silent. Well, with the reception of these phones, my hearing loss and his Nic accent, I couldn't understand the word 'silent'. So he finally said 'mute', and then I got it. He laughed and asked if I was Russian or something, since I couldn't understand English. Ha! I have to say, that when I get engrossed in speaking Spanish, whether here or in Rogers with my Hispanic friends, I do lose my ability to speak good English. Oh well, I can butcher 2 languages instead of one. What an overachiever!
I worked on 'numbers' as German calls it. And sent some emails this morning. I haven't been on facebook to check in on a couple of friends who are going through some tough medical experiences right now. I wish I had more time to communicate, but I'm grateful to have the ability to use the internet at all. I can send up prayers for everyone no matter if I know their current status or not.
Time to run and get for lunch and to leave for the day. God has big things in store for us to do today. And we're ready!!
We got back late and I was tired, so I'm posting this on Thursday morning (early). Hope I can remember everything from yesterday and last night.
We packed up and the 2 vans that were here at the house went into Leon to meet the other van with German at the House of Bible (Bible bookstore) so the guys could pick out a few Bibles for the men/Pastor conference on Thursday. We split into the 3 vans and headed to On the Run for our usual stop for snacks. These stops seem to be getting longer rather than shorter, or maybe it's just me... Anyway, we got on our way.
It's a long drive 1.5-2 hours, depending on the traffic (which means how many tractors, old sputtering trucks, ox carts and horse carts, herds of animals crossing the road, or single cows or horses or pigs or whatever who are hanging out in the middle of the road). Part of the road is very bad with huge pot holes. Some of the road is very wavy because of the way that the earth beneath the pavers has settled. Even though we go very slow through this portion of the road, it can still make a person very car sick. It takes even longer to come home, since you can't see the holes until you up on them. Only one more trip there and one more trip back tonight. Pray for our vans as they have been faithful to make the trek with no problems so far.
The 2 areas for the fiestas were in areas that were mostly Christian, so we didn't see as many salvations today. But they are areas where the local churches are starting or strengthening their small groups and mission church. So it was beneficial for them to have us in the area. This gave the Pastors a chance to meet more people, talk with those who haven't been to a church for a long time, and get names of people in the area for their outreach.
The ladies of the team hosted a Women's Conference at the church and they said it went really well. They enjoyed doing it. At the end, they thanked everyone for coming and said goodbye and then left the 'stage' area. The women kept sitting there, so someone had to go back to tell them that it really was over. You just can't get enough of Christian fellowship!!
The crusade went really well. There were more people, as is the case each night as the crusade goes on. Thursday is the last night and should be big. Especially since the motorcycle will be given away.
Mary spoke on behalf of VOH and she was nervous. German and I talked her into it. She did good. I got a couple of pics of her on the stage and I call her Rock Star now.
Our dinner, that we paid on of the hosting churches to provide for us was really good! BarBQ beef, roasted potatoes with a white sauce, rice, salad with cold steamed veggies on the side. Everyone really enjoyed it. I didn't even pack peanutbutter this time because I know how yummy the food is, and with all the veggies, I have no trouble being able to eat the menu.
I don't know the total salvations for the day yet, but we met some great people, assisted many people in coming to know Christ, encouraged many Christians, assisted the churches in their outreach, planted seeds, gave out tons of New Testaments, grew in our own walks, and hopefully, glorified God in all things. Another great day serving the Lord.
This morning has been busy, getting ready for the fiestas and conference and crusade for today. We'll hurry and eat lunch and then head out for El Sauce. German is busy running errands for the team this morning. I tried calling him earlier and he didn't answer. When he called later I asked if there was a problem with his phone (you never know in Nic) and he said that it was on silent. Well, with the reception of these phones, my hearing loss and his Nic accent, I couldn't understand the word 'silent'. So he finally said 'mute', and then I got it. He laughed and asked if I was Russian or something, since I couldn't understand English. Ha! I have to say, that when I get engrossed in speaking Spanish, whether here or in Rogers with my Hispanic friends, I do lose my ability to speak good English. Oh well, I can butcher 2 languages instead of one. What an overachiever!
I worked on 'numbers' as German calls it. And sent some emails this morning. I haven't been on facebook to check in on a couple of friends who are going through some tough medical experiences right now. I wish I had more time to communicate, but I'm grateful to have the ability to use the internet at all. I can send up prayers for everyone no matter if I know their current status or not.
Time to run and get for lunch and to leave for the day. God has big things in store for us to do today. And we're ready!!
We got back late and I was tired, so I'm posting this on Thursday morning (early). Hope I can remember everything from yesterday and last night.
We packed up and the 2 vans that were here at the house went into Leon to meet the other van with German at the House of Bible (Bible bookstore) so the guys could pick out a few Bibles for the men/Pastor conference on Thursday. We split into the 3 vans and headed to On the Run for our usual stop for snacks. These stops seem to be getting longer rather than shorter, or maybe it's just me... Anyway, we got on our way.
It's a long drive 1.5-2 hours, depending on the traffic (which means how many tractors, old sputtering trucks, ox carts and horse carts, herds of animals crossing the road, or single cows or horses or pigs or whatever who are hanging out in the middle of the road). Part of the road is very bad with huge pot holes. Some of the road is very wavy because of the way that the earth beneath the pavers has settled. Even though we go very slow through this portion of the road, it can still make a person very car sick. It takes even longer to come home, since you can't see the holes until you up on them. Only one more trip there and one more trip back tonight. Pray for our vans as they have been faithful to make the trek with no problems so far.
The 2 areas for the fiestas were in areas that were mostly Christian, so we didn't see as many salvations today. But they are areas where the local churches are starting or strengthening their small groups and mission church. So it was beneficial for them to have us in the area. This gave the Pastors a chance to meet more people, talk with those who haven't been to a church for a long time, and get names of people in the area for their outreach.
The ladies of the team hosted a Women's Conference at the church and they said it went really well. They enjoyed doing it. At the end, they thanked everyone for coming and said goodbye and then left the 'stage' area. The women kept sitting there, so someone had to go back to tell them that it really was over. You just can't get enough of Christian fellowship!!
The crusade went really well. There were more people, as is the case each night as the crusade goes on. Thursday is the last night and should be big. Especially since the motorcycle will be given away.
Mary spoke on behalf of VOH and she was nervous. German and I talked her into it. She did good. I got a couple of pics of her on the stage and I call her Rock Star now.
Our dinner, that we paid on of the hosting churches to provide for us was really good! BarBQ beef, roasted potatoes with a white sauce, rice, salad with cold steamed veggies on the side. Everyone really enjoyed it. I didn't even pack peanutbutter this time because I know how yummy the food is, and with all the veggies, I have no trouble being able to eat the menu.
I don't know the total salvations for the day yet, but we met some great people, assisted many people in coming to know Christ, encouraged many Christians, assisted the churches in their outreach, planted seeds, gave out tons of New Testaments, grew in our own walks, and hopefully, glorified God in all things. Another great day serving the Lord.
Tuesday, November 23, 2010
Tuesday, November 23, 2010
I'm resting a little bit before lunch. And it's heavenly.
After breakfast today, I worked on pulling together more ladies gifts for the fiestas today. A couple of the ladies from the team helped to pack the tubs for the fiestas and youth conference. We're all set with time for me to rest and them to have fun on the beach. They are going to be sooo tired tonight!
Jasmina is making chicken spaghetti for lunch today. It's pretty good, but the tomato sauce is more like ketsup and I'm not a big ketsup fan. I'll add some chilero sauce to it and it will be yummy.
We will be eating our dinner in El Sauce tonight, and I don't know what they are cooking and if I'll be able to eat it with my diet restrictions, so I packed a peanut butter sandwich and some carrots and cucumbers and an apple, just in case. Granola bars, raisins and dried fruit are usually in my backpack for snacks. I should be just fine. And if the dinner is something I can have, that's a bonus!!!
The team was very excited about the fiestas and feeding yesterday. I think they will really enjoy the rest of the week and all that God is going to be doing through them. I'm so glad that God allows us to be part of His plans. He doesn't need us and we usually are in the way, but He is so patient with us and teaches us through each experience. How much more we could learn if we just paid attention! He is faithful and forgiving and long-suffering. I'm so thankful. And so blessed.
Got home from the day's ministry at 11pm. That's earlier than anticipated. Everyone is heading to bed to be rested for tomorrow's long day. But everyone is very excited about what God has done today.
We loaded up and all met at On The Run (convenience store on the edge of town). One of the vans had taken a couple of the team leaders to meet German and go purchase the motorcycle that they are giving away on Thursday night. We all bought our snacks for the day and headed out to El Sauce for ministry.
The first fiesta was great. We had many salvations. Lots of people turned out for the fiesta in the neighborhood. The team did a good job with the drama and everything. The second fiesta was smaller but had good results. Over 200 people were saved in the 2 fiestas and street witnessing. These guys are loving the street witnessing!
At the same time as the fiestas, there was a Youth Conference at one of the churches. 140+ youth attended. It was very successful in reaching out to the youth. Therre were no salvations this afternoon, but many seeds were planted and a lot of the kids are already Christians. I'm sure they got a lot out of the conference.
We then went to a house next to the main church that we are working with. Some ladies had prepared our dinner and it was wonderful! No need for the peanut butter sandwich! We had baked chicken filets, rice, potatoes with mushroom type sauce, broccoli, cauliflower, fresh veggie salad and bread. It was really good. I can't wait until tomorrow! We changed into our 'church' clothes and headed over to the crusade site. It was a nice big area that was concrete (instead of the usual dirt). The stage looked good and everything was ready.
The team prayer walked around the area and some music was playing over the speakers from a cd. It was nice. Then, right before we were to start, the electricity went out to the whole area. The team gathered into a couple of groups and started praying for the power to come back on. It wasn't long until they got it going again. Thank You Lord! (we have done conferences and other things in the dark, by candlelight and flashlight when the power has went off).
German asked me to speak on behalf of VOH ministries, and to introduce the team members who were giving their testimonies. After I did that, I had to go and sit in one of the vans, as the volume of the speakers was hurting my currently disabled ears. I had a great time talking with Fabio and stretching my Spanish.
The crusade was very good. Pastor Charles did a great job with the message. Over 130 peopler made decisions for Christ. It was a good night. A little hot and humid, but not too bad. Lots of people in attendance, especially for a first night. The team is so excited about the next 2 nights.
I'm tired and ready for sleep. The next 2 nights will go by quickly. Need all the ZZZZZZs I can get! God is so generous in how He allows us to see Him work in this world that He created and with the people He loves so much. Father, help us to keep seeking to see these people through Your eyes. And show us how to share You with them.
After breakfast today, I worked on pulling together more ladies gifts for the fiestas today. A couple of the ladies from the team helped to pack the tubs for the fiestas and youth conference. We're all set with time for me to rest and them to have fun on the beach. They are going to be sooo tired tonight!
Jasmina is making chicken spaghetti for lunch today. It's pretty good, but the tomato sauce is more like ketsup and I'm not a big ketsup fan. I'll add some chilero sauce to it and it will be yummy.
We will be eating our dinner in El Sauce tonight, and I don't know what they are cooking and if I'll be able to eat it with my diet restrictions, so I packed a peanut butter sandwich and some carrots and cucumbers and an apple, just in case. Granola bars, raisins and dried fruit are usually in my backpack for snacks. I should be just fine. And if the dinner is something I can have, that's a bonus!!!
The team was very excited about the fiestas and feeding yesterday. I think they will really enjoy the rest of the week and all that God is going to be doing through them. I'm so glad that God allows us to be part of His plans. He doesn't need us and we usually are in the way, but He is so patient with us and teaches us through each experience. How much more we could learn if we just paid attention! He is faithful and forgiving and long-suffering. I'm so thankful. And so blessed.
Got home from the day's ministry at 11pm. That's earlier than anticipated. Everyone is heading to bed to be rested for tomorrow's long day. But everyone is very excited about what God has done today.
We loaded up and all met at On The Run (convenience store on the edge of town). One of the vans had taken a couple of the team leaders to meet German and go purchase the motorcycle that they are giving away on Thursday night. We all bought our snacks for the day and headed out to El Sauce for ministry.
The first fiesta was great. We had many salvations. Lots of people turned out for the fiesta in the neighborhood. The team did a good job with the drama and everything. The second fiesta was smaller but had good results. Over 200 people were saved in the 2 fiestas and street witnessing. These guys are loving the street witnessing!
At the same time as the fiestas, there was a Youth Conference at one of the churches. 140+ youth attended. It was very successful in reaching out to the youth. Therre were no salvations this afternoon, but many seeds were planted and a lot of the kids are already Christians. I'm sure they got a lot out of the conference.
We then went to a house next to the main church that we are working with. Some ladies had prepared our dinner and it was wonderful! No need for the peanut butter sandwich! We had baked chicken filets, rice, potatoes with mushroom type sauce, broccoli, cauliflower, fresh veggie salad and bread. It was really good. I can't wait until tomorrow! We changed into our 'church' clothes and headed over to the crusade site. It was a nice big area that was concrete (instead of the usual dirt). The stage looked good and everything was ready.
The team prayer walked around the area and some music was playing over the speakers from a cd. It was nice. Then, right before we were to start, the electricity went out to the whole area. The team gathered into a couple of groups and started praying for the power to come back on. It wasn't long until they got it going again. Thank You Lord! (we have done conferences and other things in the dark, by candlelight and flashlight when the power has went off).
German asked me to speak on behalf of VOH ministries, and to introduce the team members who were giving their testimonies. After I did that, I had to go and sit in one of the vans, as the volume of the speakers was hurting my currently disabled ears. I had a great time talking with Fabio and stretching my Spanish.
The crusade was very good. Pastor Charles did a great job with the message. Over 130 peopler made decisions for Christ. It was a good night. A little hot and humid, but not too bad. Lots of people in attendance, especially for a first night. The team is so excited about the next 2 nights.
I'm tired and ready for sleep. The next 2 nights will go by quickly. Need all the ZZZZZZs I can get! God is so generous in how He allows us to see Him work in this world that He created and with the people He loves so much. Father, help us to keep seeking to see these people through Your eyes. And show us how to share You with them.
Monday, November 22, 2010
Monday, November 22, 2010
Woke up this morning feeling pretty good. I love waking up here.
A quick shower then breakfast then starting the days chores.
Some of the ladies on the team and I sorted and packaged the toys and gifts that their team brought for the Fiestas. They had brought about 6 tubs of stuff. We got it all ready for the rest of the week. By then, it was time for lunch.
Jasmina made a wonderful dish of shredded beef steak (much easier to chew) with carrots, onions and peppers in a gravy. It was sooo delicious. One of my favorite dishes that she makes. We also had rice and beans, and cabbage slaw and tortilla. For a treat, she fried up some white cheese. Everyone loved it. I can't eat cheese or anything fried so it was especially hard for me to smell it and see it. There was a tiny piece that had fallen off of someone's serving on the platter. It was about the size of a pencil eraser. I tasted it and oh, my goodness, was it delicious!!! That one little taste was like heaven! I probably wouldn't appreciate it as much if I could eat the whole thing. This tiny morsel was so much more special to me. Kind of like the little morsels of life that God gives us to treasure sometimes.
We got all packed up and headed to El Sauce for 2 Fiestas (like block parties) and a feeding. It's a long drive (usually 1.5-2 hours one way. But the roads are pretty good until the last 45 minutes and then it's really bad with potholes and we have to go slow and swing back and forth on the road. It's not pleasant for someone who gets carsick! I keep my ginger pills handy!
We stopped at the church in El Sauce for a quick bathroom break. Then we headed over to the site of the first Fiesta. it was a pretty good turn out.
When we first get to the site, the team splits up into groups to walk up and down the streets shouting "Venga, Venga. Fiesta de caramelos. Cinco Minutos." Come, Come. Candy festival. 5 minutes. (and we say where it is going to take place) Then when everyone arrives, Pastor Miguel starts his craziness with the crowd and gets them laughing and participating. We have riddles that they have to figure out and the first one with the right answer gets a prize. Then he gets the crowd singing songs like 'If you're happy and you know it'. Then there is a game for 6 girls and they all get prizes. Then there is a game for boys (usually 5-6 boys) and they all get prizes. Then a game for 4 women and they all get prizes. Do you see a trend here?
Then comes the drama. It's a big hit. It's about Sinbox Sally, who finds herself trying out the fun of a sinful life and then getting stuck in it. (she is standing in a box labeled sin). She can't get herself out and she starts shouting for help. Some singers come by to party with her and then they try to help her out and can't. They see that the box is labeled sin and they run away. Next a strong man comes along. (he really hams it up with the crowd). He can't get her out and he enlists a helper (usually a skinny boy in the audience) and they exercise and get buff and try to help Sinbox Sally out of her box. They can't do it and notice the box is labeled sin and they run away. Then along come 2 drunks, who are stumbling and spilling their 'drinks' on her. They try to get her out with their partying, but can't do it either. They notice the word sin on the box and run away. Now Sally is crying out for help and Pastor Miguel comes along and talks to her about her predicament. He offers to introduce her to someone who can help her get out of sin. He explains the plan of salvation and leads her in the prayer.
Once the drama is over, the group is divided into 3 groups, boys, girls, adults (mostly women). They are talked to by the team members and listen to the description of the drama again. They are presented with the plan of salvation and have the opportunity to pray the prayer. After that everyone gets candy. All of the people who receive Christ have their names written down by the translators for the Pastors to use for follow up and disciple ship.
While the Fiesta is going on, those not in the drama go out in groups of 3-4 people with a translator and street witness. This is very effective.
You may wonder why the local church doesn't just do this all by themselves. For one thing, North Americans are a drawing card to the event. The people come because they want to see us. They listen to the Good News and have a chance to respond. And then the local church people can follow up. It's very effective in this culture where we serve. God uses us all to reach each person that He draws to Himself through these events. It's fun to be a part of it.
We did 2 Fiestas this afternoon and over 160 people prayed to receive Christ. Including one of the children on our team! The Pastors will follow up to confirm the decisions and start discipleship.
It is so great to hear the stories of the team members, especially if it's their first time witnessing. It's so easy to talk to people here since we have the translators and they are veterans of sharing the Good News thousands of times with our teams. The people are very receptive to hear about the hope that they can have in Jesus Christ. There is a lot of prayer to cover these encounters. God moves mightily.
After the Fiestas, we went to help out at a feeding that the group sponsored with a donation. There was enough food for about 300 people. While some of the team helped to serve the food, others walked around with the translators to witness to people in line and milling around. We left there at dark and started back for Leon. The drive felt very long.
When we got into town, we stopped at Eskimo ice cream shop and everyone enjoyed some yummy ice cream. Mary and I grabbed ours first and headed out with Danilo over to the La Union grocery store for more food for the week. We got done shopping and met up with the team at the park where they were watching some traditional performances for the Christmas season.
Then we all piled back in the vans and headed back to the house. We arrived about 9pm and had dinner that the cooks had left for us. Everyone loved the rice dish, which is a traditional dish and eaten especially for the holidays. Then we all retired for the night.
Everyone had a great day today and are looking forward to the next three long days serving in El Sauce. We will be heading out right after an early lunch, doing 2 fiestas, eating dinner that is prepared for us by someone in El Sauce, changing into our church clothes (somewhere) and attend the outdoor Crusade in the evening. We'll be gone about 12 hours each day and will be very tired when we get home at night, but I think God has some wonderful plans ready for us!!
It's way past time for me to be asleep, so I'll sign off for now. I pray for sweet dreams and wonderful, restful sleep tonight. I can't wait to get busy with work tomorrow.
He is so good. I love being here to work with the team and help with Voice of Hope Ministries. God has placed me in the perfect circumstances for my life right now. His plans are wonderful. I am truly blessed.
A quick shower then breakfast then starting the days chores.
Some of the ladies on the team and I sorted and packaged the toys and gifts that their team brought for the Fiestas. They had brought about 6 tubs of stuff. We got it all ready for the rest of the week. By then, it was time for lunch.
Jasmina made a wonderful dish of shredded beef steak (much easier to chew) with carrots, onions and peppers in a gravy. It was sooo delicious. One of my favorite dishes that she makes. We also had rice and beans, and cabbage slaw and tortilla. For a treat, she fried up some white cheese. Everyone loved it. I can't eat cheese or anything fried so it was especially hard for me to smell it and see it. There was a tiny piece that had fallen off of someone's serving on the platter. It was about the size of a pencil eraser. I tasted it and oh, my goodness, was it delicious!!! That one little taste was like heaven! I probably wouldn't appreciate it as much if I could eat the whole thing. This tiny morsel was so much more special to me. Kind of like the little morsels of life that God gives us to treasure sometimes.
We got all packed up and headed to El Sauce for 2 Fiestas (like block parties) and a feeding. It's a long drive (usually 1.5-2 hours one way. But the roads are pretty good until the last 45 minutes and then it's really bad with potholes and we have to go slow and swing back and forth on the road. It's not pleasant for someone who gets carsick! I keep my ginger pills handy!
We stopped at the church in El Sauce for a quick bathroom break. Then we headed over to the site of the first Fiesta. it was a pretty good turn out.
When we first get to the site, the team splits up into groups to walk up and down the streets shouting "Venga, Venga. Fiesta de caramelos. Cinco Minutos." Come, Come. Candy festival. 5 minutes. (and we say where it is going to take place) Then when everyone arrives, Pastor Miguel starts his craziness with the crowd and gets them laughing and participating. We have riddles that they have to figure out and the first one with the right answer gets a prize. Then he gets the crowd singing songs like 'If you're happy and you know it'. Then there is a game for 6 girls and they all get prizes. Then there is a game for boys (usually 5-6 boys) and they all get prizes. Then a game for 4 women and they all get prizes. Do you see a trend here?
Then comes the drama. It's a big hit. It's about Sinbox Sally, who finds herself trying out the fun of a sinful life and then getting stuck in it. (she is standing in a box labeled sin). She can't get herself out and she starts shouting for help. Some singers come by to party with her and then they try to help her out and can't. They see that the box is labeled sin and they run away. Next a strong man comes along. (he really hams it up with the crowd). He can't get her out and he enlists a helper (usually a skinny boy in the audience) and they exercise and get buff and try to help Sinbox Sally out of her box. They can't do it and notice the box is labeled sin and they run away. Then along come 2 drunks, who are stumbling and spilling their 'drinks' on her. They try to get her out with their partying, but can't do it either. They notice the word sin on the box and run away. Now Sally is crying out for help and Pastor Miguel comes along and talks to her about her predicament. He offers to introduce her to someone who can help her get out of sin. He explains the plan of salvation and leads her in the prayer.
Once the drama is over, the group is divided into 3 groups, boys, girls, adults (mostly women). They are talked to by the team members and listen to the description of the drama again. They are presented with the plan of salvation and have the opportunity to pray the prayer. After that everyone gets candy. All of the people who receive Christ have their names written down by the translators for the Pastors to use for follow up and disciple ship.
While the Fiesta is going on, those not in the drama go out in groups of 3-4 people with a translator and street witness. This is very effective.
You may wonder why the local church doesn't just do this all by themselves. For one thing, North Americans are a drawing card to the event. The people come because they want to see us. They listen to the Good News and have a chance to respond. And then the local church people can follow up. It's very effective in this culture where we serve. God uses us all to reach each person that He draws to Himself through these events. It's fun to be a part of it.
We did 2 Fiestas this afternoon and over 160 people prayed to receive Christ. Including one of the children on our team! The Pastors will follow up to confirm the decisions and start discipleship.
It is so great to hear the stories of the team members, especially if it's their first time witnessing. It's so easy to talk to people here since we have the translators and they are veterans of sharing the Good News thousands of times with our teams. The people are very receptive to hear about the hope that they can have in Jesus Christ. There is a lot of prayer to cover these encounters. God moves mightily.
After the Fiestas, we went to help out at a feeding that the group sponsored with a donation. There was enough food for about 300 people. While some of the team helped to serve the food, others walked around with the translators to witness to people in line and milling around. We left there at dark and started back for Leon. The drive felt very long.
When we got into town, we stopped at Eskimo ice cream shop and everyone enjoyed some yummy ice cream. Mary and I grabbed ours first and headed out with Danilo over to the La Union grocery store for more food for the week. We got done shopping and met up with the team at the park where they were watching some traditional performances for the Christmas season.
Then we all piled back in the vans and headed back to the house. We arrived about 9pm and had dinner that the cooks had left for us. Everyone loved the rice dish, which is a traditional dish and eaten especially for the holidays. Then we all retired for the night.
Everyone had a great day today and are looking forward to the next three long days serving in El Sauce. We will be heading out right after an early lunch, doing 2 fiestas, eating dinner that is prepared for us by someone in El Sauce, changing into our church clothes (somewhere) and attend the outdoor Crusade in the evening. We'll be gone about 12 hours each day and will be very tired when we get home at night, but I think God has some wonderful plans ready for us!!
It's way past time for me to be asleep, so I'll sign off for now. I pray for sweet dreams and wonderful, restful sleep tonight. I can't wait to get busy with work tomorrow.
He is so good. I love being here to work with the team and help with Voice of Hope Ministries. God has placed me in the perfect circumstances for my life right now. His plans are wonderful. I am truly blessed.
Sunday, November 21, 2010
Sunday, November 21, 2010
Sunday morning in Nic. Ahhhh.
I love hearing the birds in the trees. Their caws are so different, but very comforting. Now, hearing a ghecko in my bathroom throughout the night...that's not so fun. He kept me awake. But even lying here in bed awake in the middle of the night is fine with me. I just love being here.
We got up and had breakfast at 6:45. Scrambled eggs, gallo pinto (beans and rice mixed together), fruit salad and pico bread (which is a sweet bread and the name stands for a little kiss). Got packed up for the long trip to and from church. El Sauce is a town about 1.5-2 hours away. We split into 2 groups to attend 2 churches. I had to leave during the music and stand outside and listen due to my ears giving me fits. (that stupid trouble with my inner ears) Being in that open metal building made the music reverberate too much and my ear was roaring. I enjoyed the service from outside the open doorway, though. The team did a good job with testimonies and the message.
After church, we stopped by the Cauldrons (I can't remember the Spanish name). It's a place were the earth is bubbling with hot clay like stuff. I got some video of it on my camera. It was hot and stinky (sulphur) and steamy. It was so neat to walk up to the little craters and see the hot clay (the consistency of soupy mud) bubble away. Some spots on the ground had little holes that let steam out. Mary was standing on one area when some steam came up. We accused her of trying to be like Marilyn Monroe standing over the steam vent. It wasn't that dramatic, but it was funny. Kids make little items by molding the clay. They give them to you and you tip them. I ended up with 2 little treasures. One is still damp clay and the other is a little dryer. We'll see if they are ready to take home in 6 more weeks. One of the guys shared the gospel using the Evangecube with the kids. Then the team gave the kids some new testaments.
We headed back toward Leon and the team house and on the way we stopped by to see Pastor Miguel's church building that was started by a few on this team. We took some pictures and the guys talked about what it will take to put walls up. (right now it's just a tin roof and metal columns with a dirt floor) When our team was here in March, we had services there. It will be neat to see it become finished in the next year.
One more stop at One the Run to switch the translators to a separate van with German, and then the rest of us made our way to the house for lunch (about 3pm). Jasmina had made her yummy hamburgers. I just love them. I tease her about having secret ingredients and she knows how to stretch that ground beef to feed an army!
We all looked at menus from Suyapa restaurant down the road. We had to write down what we want for dinner so that they could go buy items if needed to feed us all at once. Manuel then drove our order down to the restaurant and we will go to eat there at 6pm. I hope we are hungry by then! A lot of the team ordered lobster and shrimp and stuff. Mary and I opted for the grilled (Mary) and roasted (me) chicken and veggies. I can't wait. But I'll probably have to bring a doggie bag back with me!
Mary and I had a discussion about studying Spanish. I told her not to be discouraged and that we would work hard on it beginning the week after the team leaves. We'll work on pronunciation first and then work on the words that she already knows and ones she needs to add to have conversations with the people around the house here. She does a good job of communicating some with little Spanish (and them with no English). She will be so happy to be able to speak to them more. I'm not fluent by any means, but I'm glad to help with what I do know and we'll both get help with going further.
On a happy note, all the translators have told me that they can tell a difference in my Spanish since the last time I was here. Mostly I have just been conversing with my friends at Cuerpo Vivo and doing Bible studies in Spanish with them. I would like to devote more time to intense study when I get back home. I always say that, but end up too busy to keep that promise to myself. Maybe I'll do better this time.
I'm laying here on my bed with the fan blowing, relaxing a little before we head out in 30 minutes for dinner. I'm still stuffed from our late lunch. I would love to just fall asleep instead. But that will come soon enough.
I had a wonderful conversation with Christopher, one of the translators who adopted me as Mom. Today was the only day that he would be working with us because he starts a new job in Managua tomorrow. It was good to talk about his life and the changes that God has made in him since the last time we were here. He is struggling with some of the same problems that young men from US do. He is leaning on God for guidance and I'm so proud of him. I hope to get to see him more while Mary and I are here these next weeks.
Joe couldn't work with us this week because his fiance is having surgery soon. I miss him very much (he's another son) and I pray for them and this time health problems. I'm going to make a point to getting to see them before we leave in January.
Hixel and I got to chat a lot on the trip to El Sauce today. She is doing well and her husband and baby boy are doing great.
Iris wasn't able to work with us this week. I miss her sweet smile. We have spoken over facebook and are planning on getting together in the next weeks, also.
Chico looks happy as always. He says Benjamin is walking now and getting into everything. I can't wait to see him and Elieth again.
Juan Pacheco's baby boy is due in early January. Maybe he will arrive before Mary and I leave.
Oscar is the same as always. Steady going. I want to try to visit with him some this week, too.
Rydder is working with us this week. He says his family is well and his little 3 year old girl is getting ready for preschool.
I think that covers everyone for now. I'm going to rest a little bit more and will post after our dinner. (if I'm not too full to type!)
Well, dinner was fun and good. I had ordered roasted chicken and it turned out to be breaded chicken breasts that had been oven fried. The breading was easy to remove and the chicken inside was delicious. The roasted potatoes where pretty good, too. Some of the team had ordered lobster, shrimp, whole fish among other items. It was fun to see 35 people at the table all chowing down. The team said that this was the first time they had seen Chico quiet. He was shoveling the food in! I got a great pic of Rydder holding up the skeleton of his fish like he was ready to drop it down his throat. Juan's fish was staring at me from his plate, so I took it's picture. We had a very enjoyable evening. And after removing half of what was on my plate (the breading) the rest was just the right amount to be satisfying and not stuffed.
After dinner, we piled into the vans and then German had Mary and I and Josh, the team leader get on the van with the translators. We had a quick meeting discussing being one big team and getting to know and work together. Then we went to the team house and had a meeting with the whole team. German even had the drivers come in. It was nice. Then whoever wanted to, went outside to set off the fireworks that Josh and other team members had purchased today. They were loud! The neighbor asked that they move them to the beach, so they did. I was glad. I was holding my poor ears and even went to get my earplugs. But everyone enjoyed them and no one got their appendages shot off.
Saturnino scaled one of the cocoanut trees and threw some down for the team. Then he took his machete to them and got them ready for the team to enjoy. I tried to get a picture of him scaling that tree, but it was too dark. He can climb like a monkey!
Most of the translators had not been to the team house before, so I took Jassiel and Hixel for a tour. It was nice to have them with us for a few hours 'off the clock'.
And a great big thank you goes to the team who treated us to dinner tonight. How wonderful was that!
Mary and I hung out in my room for a little bit and discussed schedules and money and shopping lists. Then Charlie came in to bring back my computer that he had borrowed and he stayed for a little while to chat. It has been a really nice evening. In fact, a really nice day.
Looking forward to what God is going to do with us the rest of the week. He is so gracious and imaginative to give us so many diverse blessings. I'm so thankful that VOH could use my help these 2 months and also that my work as a MIR with FBCR allows me to serve where and when called. God is so good to me. I don't deserve it at all. And I want to give each day back to Him in ways that glorify Him. He is worthy.
I love hearing the birds in the trees. Their caws are so different, but very comforting. Now, hearing a ghecko in my bathroom throughout the night...that's not so fun. He kept me awake. But even lying here in bed awake in the middle of the night is fine with me. I just love being here.
We got up and had breakfast at 6:45. Scrambled eggs, gallo pinto (beans and rice mixed together), fruit salad and pico bread (which is a sweet bread and the name stands for a little kiss). Got packed up for the long trip to and from church. El Sauce is a town about 1.5-2 hours away. We split into 2 groups to attend 2 churches. I had to leave during the music and stand outside and listen due to my ears giving me fits. (that stupid trouble with my inner ears) Being in that open metal building made the music reverberate too much and my ear was roaring. I enjoyed the service from outside the open doorway, though. The team did a good job with testimonies and the message.
After church, we stopped by the Cauldrons (I can't remember the Spanish name). It's a place were the earth is bubbling with hot clay like stuff. I got some video of it on my camera. It was hot and stinky (sulphur) and steamy. It was so neat to walk up to the little craters and see the hot clay (the consistency of soupy mud) bubble away. Some spots on the ground had little holes that let steam out. Mary was standing on one area when some steam came up. We accused her of trying to be like Marilyn Monroe standing over the steam vent. It wasn't that dramatic, but it was funny. Kids make little items by molding the clay. They give them to you and you tip them. I ended up with 2 little treasures. One is still damp clay and the other is a little dryer. We'll see if they are ready to take home in 6 more weeks. One of the guys shared the gospel using the Evangecube with the kids. Then the team gave the kids some new testaments.
We headed back toward Leon and the team house and on the way we stopped by to see Pastor Miguel's church building that was started by a few on this team. We took some pictures and the guys talked about what it will take to put walls up. (right now it's just a tin roof and metal columns with a dirt floor) When our team was here in March, we had services there. It will be neat to see it become finished in the next year.
One more stop at One the Run to switch the translators to a separate van with German, and then the rest of us made our way to the house for lunch (about 3pm). Jasmina had made her yummy hamburgers. I just love them. I tease her about having secret ingredients and she knows how to stretch that ground beef to feed an army!
We all looked at menus from Suyapa restaurant down the road. We had to write down what we want for dinner so that they could go buy items if needed to feed us all at once. Manuel then drove our order down to the restaurant and we will go to eat there at 6pm. I hope we are hungry by then! A lot of the team ordered lobster and shrimp and stuff. Mary and I opted for the grilled (Mary) and roasted (me) chicken and veggies. I can't wait. But I'll probably have to bring a doggie bag back with me!
Mary and I had a discussion about studying Spanish. I told her not to be discouraged and that we would work hard on it beginning the week after the team leaves. We'll work on pronunciation first and then work on the words that she already knows and ones she needs to add to have conversations with the people around the house here. She does a good job of communicating some with little Spanish (and them with no English). She will be so happy to be able to speak to them more. I'm not fluent by any means, but I'm glad to help with what I do know and we'll both get help with going further.
On a happy note, all the translators have told me that they can tell a difference in my Spanish since the last time I was here. Mostly I have just been conversing with my friends at Cuerpo Vivo and doing Bible studies in Spanish with them. I would like to devote more time to intense study when I get back home. I always say that, but end up too busy to keep that promise to myself. Maybe I'll do better this time.
I'm laying here on my bed with the fan blowing, relaxing a little before we head out in 30 minutes for dinner. I'm still stuffed from our late lunch. I would love to just fall asleep instead. But that will come soon enough.
I had a wonderful conversation with Christopher, one of the translators who adopted me as Mom. Today was the only day that he would be working with us because he starts a new job in Managua tomorrow. It was good to talk about his life and the changes that God has made in him since the last time we were here. He is struggling with some of the same problems that young men from US do. He is leaning on God for guidance and I'm so proud of him. I hope to get to see him more while Mary and I are here these next weeks.
Joe couldn't work with us this week because his fiance is having surgery soon. I miss him very much (he's another son) and I pray for them and this time health problems. I'm going to make a point to getting to see them before we leave in January.
Hixel and I got to chat a lot on the trip to El Sauce today. She is doing well and her husband and baby boy are doing great.
Iris wasn't able to work with us this week. I miss her sweet smile. We have spoken over facebook and are planning on getting together in the next weeks, also.
Chico looks happy as always. He says Benjamin is walking now and getting into everything. I can't wait to see him and Elieth again.
Juan Pacheco's baby boy is due in early January. Maybe he will arrive before Mary and I leave.
Oscar is the same as always. Steady going. I want to try to visit with him some this week, too.
Rydder is working with us this week. He says his family is well and his little 3 year old girl is getting ready for preschool.
I think that covers everyone for now. I'm going to rest a little bit more and will post after our dinner. (if I'm not too full to type!)
Well, dinner was fun and good. I had ordered roasted chicken and it turned out to be breaded chicken breasts that had been oven fried. The breading was easy to remove and the chicken inside was delicious. The roasted potatoes where pretty good, too. Some of the team had ordered lobster, shrimp, whole fish among other items. It was fun to see 35 people at the table all chowing down. The team said that this was the first time they had seen Chico quiet. He was shoveling the food in! I got a great pic of Rydder holding up the skeleton of his fish like he was ready to drop it down his throat. Juan's fish was staring at me from his plate, so I took it's picture. We had a very enjoyable evening. And after removing half of what was on my plate (the breading) the rest was just the right amount to be satisfying and not stuffed.
After dinner, we piled into the vans and then German had Mary and I and Josh, the team leader get on the van with the translators. We had a quick meeting discussing being one big team and getting to know and work together. Then we went to the team house and had a meeting with the whole team. German even had the drivers come in. It was nice. Then whoever wanted to, went outside to set off the fireworks that Josh and other team members had purchased today. They were loud! The neighbor asked that they move them to the beach, so they did. I was glad. I was holding my poor ears and even went to get my earplugs. But everyone enjoyed them and no one got their appendages shot off.
Saturnino scaled one of the cocoanut trees and threw some down for the team. Then he took his machete to them and got them ready for the team to enjoy. I tried to get a picture of him scaling that tree, but it was too dark. He can climb like a monkey!
Most of the translators had not been to the team house before, so I took Jassiel and Hixel for a tour. It was nice to have them with us for a few hours 'off the clock'.
And a great big thank you goes to the team who treated us to dinner tonight. How wonderful was that!
Mary and I hung out in my room for a little bit and discussed schedules and money and shopping lists. Then Charlie came in to bring back my computer that he had borrowed and he stayed for a little while to chat. It has been a really nice evening. In fact, a really nice day.
Looking forward to what God is going to do with us the rest of the week. He is so gracious and imaginative to give us so many diverse blessings. I'm so thankful that VOH could use my help these 2 months and also that my work as a MIR with FBCR allows me to serve where and when called. God is so good to me. I don't deserve it at all. And I want to give each day back to Him in ways that glorify Him. He is worthy.
Saturday, November 20, 2010
Saturday, November 20, 2010
Another beautiful morning. I love waking up to the birds cawing and other critter noises.
Charlie left at 7:30 with German to head into Managua to pick up the team who arrive at noon-ish. I think they were secretly planning on grabbing pizza at the airport before the team got in.
Mary and I worked around the house for awhile and then took a stroll along the beach. I wasn't expecting to be gone very long and didn't put on sunscreen. I know better than to go without it, but oh well. After a 45 minute walk this morning, I'm burnt on my face and neck. One of my meds says not to be in direct sunlight (Like that's going to happen-ha), so I burn very easily. It usually goes away quickly, though. I'm hoping that it won't bother me too much tomorrow and will be gone by Monday. If not, it's what I get for not listening to my own advice!
There was a few families on the beach this morning. One had 2 little black, long haired dogs. They were hilarious to watch in the waves. One loved the waves and would run into them and then hop straight up and down. The other didn't like the water much and would high-tail it back up the beach when the waves came in. Other than that, they chased each other around and played a lot. The dad of the family spoke English and said that he lived in Minneapolis for 23 years. He said that he still visits there and brings items back to the people here. We were telling him about Voice of Hope and how we bring things to the Nica people when we have teams in.
I forgot to mention yesterday when we were shopping at La Union grocery store that we met a man named Alfonso. The store is owned by Walmart and the employees are actually Walmart associates. He has been working for them for 11 years. He asked where we are from and when he heard Arkansas, he smiled really big. He said that he had just been there in June for the Walmart shareholders meeting. Kinda cool. Charlie had me take his picture with Alfonso. I took a lot of pictures of the store. It was looking very nice. Alfonso should be proud.
Walking along the beach this morning was so nice. The waves come crashing in. One will be right at your feet, the next up to your knees and the next will stop about 10 away from you. You never know how strong or far reaching it will be. The ocean is to huge and beautiful and strong. These waves will knock you off your feet in an instant. They will also drag you back out into the water very quickly. I can stand still and the retreating wave will pull the sand from around my feet and even pull my flip-flops off of my feet while I'm standing perfectly still. What a force. We take so much of life for granted and at face value. When you take time to look deeper, you see how marvelous God's handiwork is.
We washed a load of our dirty clothes and hung them out to dry this afternoon so we wouldn't have do so when the team is here. During the next week we will be too busy to mess with the laundry and the cleaning ladies will have the machine going each day keeping up with the towels for the total of 28 people staying here.
The drivers stay here in a little room each night during a team week. We also include them in the meals. They work hard keeping the vans running and clean for us each day. They are very good drivers, especially here where traffic rules are so different (um, non-existent sometimes). I feel very safe in their capable hands and I don't pay attention to the seemingly close calls on the road. I remember one team this summer had a UPS driver on it and he couldn't get over the driving here. He was a little frightened at first, but then had the utmost respect for the way guys handle the road. I guess we each notice the part of the culture that we identify with best.
German said that the team was finishing lunch and would be here about 4:30pm. We're ready. When they get in, they'll figure out room assignments, unpack a little, hear the house rules, and I'm sure hit the beach for awhile. Dinner tonight will be sandwiches and chips and cookies. I'm sure they will just like to relax a little this evening. Traveling seems to take a lot out of a person these days.
While I'm waiting on the team to get here, I think I'll study a little Spanish and nurse my sunburn. :)
Well, the team finally got here about 5ish. They had stopped at the mall in Managua. They also stopped along the road to buy 3 iguanas. more on that later... Everyone was pretty tired from traveling. We listened to Mary discuss the house rules and then everyone found beds and rested or went out to the beach. It was getting a little dark, since it was overcast, but they took flashlights and looked around anyway.
Mary and I fixed dinner of ham and cheese sandwiches, Nica chips, cookies and drinks. Of course, there is always the option of peanut butter and jelly, which some of the team was excited about. I had a sandwich of lettuce, tomato and cucumber. It was so good, I had a second one! Yum! I'm loving getting some good veggies! I've had a cucumber every day. Mary thinks I'm funny.
After dinner, everyone just hung out and visited and relaxed. It is so good to see Manuel and Fabio again. And Danilo has been with us the last 2 days. I can't wait to practice my spanish as they practice their english while we are traveling in the vans.
Now about those iguanas...
Saturnino took them home to make soup out of them. The drivers were looking forward to eating some. I walked outside our gate and sat on the sidewalk with Fabio and Danilo to chat. (by the way, they think my spanish is improving a little bit) We always have fun with the quirky things that happen during our conversations. Anyway... they were trying to talk me into waiting for the soup and trying it. They say it is very good. They said it 'tastes just like chicken'. Uh-oh! Those are words that bring fear into my heart. I told them that everyone in the world says that every weird thing tastes just like chicken and that I wasn't brave enough to eat any. We also talked about some traditional Nica Christmas foods. It's amazing how much we can converse with a little bit of spanish, even less English and a some body language.
Oh, speaking of body language... yesterday, when we were ate Tip Top Chicken, Charlie wanted to know if this description of a meal was wings. German was busy on the phone, so I asked the waiter myself. I pointed to the description and then flapped my bent arms like a chicken. He said yes and we all laughed. He seemed proud of me for trying. And Charlie got to order his favorite dish of chicken wings. I'm not afraid to try anything to communicate. And if it makes us laugh, all the better.
It's really quiet around here. I think the team may have went to bed even earlier than the 10pm curfew. I don't hear a peep. They will be really tired later in the week when we are out for 12 hours at a time and going to bed at midnight and getting up at 6am. But by then, we will have wonderful stories and memories of all that God is doing while we are out there getting tired.
It's been a great day. I like this team so far. It will be interesting to get to know each of them as the week goes on. I love meeting the people that God has created for this world of His. Isn't He amazing???
Charlie left at 7:30 with German to head into Managua to pick up the team who arrive at noon-ish. I think they were secretly planning on grabbing pizza at the airport before the team got in.
Mary and I worked around the house for awhile and then took a stroll along the beach. I wasn't expecting to be gone very long and didn't put on sunscreen. I know better than to go without it, but oh well. After a 45 minute walk this morning, I'm burnt on my face and neck. One of my meds says not to be in direct sunlight (Like that's going to happen-ha), so I burn very easily. It usually goes away quickly, though. I'm hoping that it won't bother me too much tomorrow and will be gone by Monday. If not, it's what I get for not listening to my own advice!
There was a few families on the beach this morning. One had 2 little black, long haired dogs. They were hilarious to watch in the waves. One loved the waves and would run into them and then hop straight up and down. The other didn't like the water much and would high-tail it back up the beach when the waves came in. Other than that, they chased each other around and played a lot. The dad of the family spoke English and said that he lived in Minneapolis for 23 years. He said that he still visits there and brings items back to the people here. We were telling him about Voice of Hope and how we bring things to the Nica people when we have teams in.
I forgot to mention yesterday when we were shopping at La Union grocery store that we met a man named Alfonso. The store is owned by Walmart and the employees are actually Walmart associates. He has been working for them for 11 years. He asked where we are from and when he heard Arkansas, he smiled really big. He said that he had just been there in June for the Walmart shareholders meeting. Kinda cool. Charlie had me take his picture with Alfonso. I took a lot of pictures of the store. It was looking very nice. Alfonso should be proud.
Walking along the beach this morning was so nice. The waves come crashing in. One will be right at your feet, the next up to your knees and the next will stop about 10 away from you. You never know how strong or far reaching it will be. The ocean is to huge and beautiful and strong. These waves will knock you off your feet in an instant. They will also drag you back out into the water very quickly. I can stand still and the retreating wave will pull the sand from around my feet and even pull my flip-flops off of my feet while I'm standing perfectly still. What a force. We take so much of life for granted and at face value. When you take time to look deeper, you see how marvelous God's handiwork is.
We washed a load of our dirty clothes and hung them out to dry this afternoon so we wouldn't have do so when the team is here. During the next week we will be too busy to mess with the laundry and the cleaning ladies will have the machine going each day keeping up with the towels for the total of 28 people staying here.
The drivers stay here in a little room each night during a team week. We also include them in the meals. They work hard keeping the vans running and clean for us each day. They are very good drivers, especially here where traffic rules are so different (um, non-existent sometimes). I feel very safe in their capable hands and I don't pay attention to the seemingly close calls on the road. I remember one team this summer had a UPS driver on it and he couldn't get over the driving here. He was a little frightened at first, but then had the utmost respect for the way guys handle the road. I guess we each notice the part of the culture that we identify with best.
German said that the team was finishing lunch and would be here about 4:30pm. We're ready. When they get in, they'll figure out room assignments, unpack a little, hear the house rules, and I'm sure hit the beach for awhile. Dinner tonight will be sandwiches and chips and cookies. I'm sure they will just like to relax a little this evening. Traveling seems to take a lot out of a person these days.
While I'm waiting on the team to get here, I think I'll study a little Spanish and nurse my sunburn. :)
Well, the team finally got here about 5ish. They had stopped at the mall in Managua. They also stopped along the road to buy 3 iguanas. more on that later... Everyone was pretty tired from traveling. We listened to Mary discuss the house rules and then everyone found beds and rested or went out to the beach. It was getting a little dark, since it was overcast, but they took flashlights and looked around anyway.
Mary and I fixed dinner of ham and cheese sandwiches, Nica chips, cookies and drinks. Of course, there is always the option of peanut butter and jelly, which some of the team was excited about. I had a sandwich of lettuce, tomato and cucumber. It was so good, I had a second one! Yum! I'm loving getting some good veggies! I've had a cucumber every day. Mary thinks I'm funny.
After dinner, everyone just hung out and visited and relaxed. It is so good to see Manuel and Fabio again. And Danilo has been with us the last 2 days. I can't wait to practice my spanish as they practice their english while we are traveling in the vans.
Now about those iguanas...
Saturnino took them home to make soup out of them. The drivers were looking forward to eating some. I walked outside our gate and sat on the sidewalk with Fabio and Danilo to chat. (by the way, they think my spanish is improving a little bit) We always have fun with the quirky things that happen during our conversations. Anyway... they were trying to talk me into waiting for the soup and trying it. They say it is very good. They said it 'tastes just like chicken'. Uh-oh! Those are words that bring fear into my heart. I told them that everyone in the world says that every weird thing tastes just like chicken and that I wasn't brave enough to eat any. We also talked about some traditional Nica Christmas foods. It's amazing how much we can converse with a little bit of spanish, even less English and a some body language.
Oh, speaking of body language... yesterday, when we were ate Tip Top Chicken, Charlie wanted to know if this description of a meal was wings. German was busy on the phone, so I asked the waiter myself. I pointed to the description and then flapped my bent arms like a chicken. He said yes and we all laughed. He seemed proud of me for trying. And Charlie got to order his favorite dish of chicken wings. I'm not afraid to try anything to communicate. And if it makes us laugh, all the better.
It's really quiet around here. I think the team may have went to bed even earlier than the 10pm curfew. I don't hear a peep. They will be really tired later in the week when we are out for 12 hours at a time and going to bed at midnight and getting up at 6am. But by then, we will have wonderful stories and memories of all that God is doing while we are out there getting tired.
It's been a great day. I like this team so far. It will be interesting to get to know each of them as the week goes on. I love meeting the people that God has created for this world of His. Isn't He amazing???
Friday, November 19, 2010
Friday, November 19, 2010
Woke up so rested this morning. I have not have had the time to rest and relax like this in months!!! God is so good! One more morning of sleeping in and then we'll be up about 5:30 or so to get ready for the team each morning. I have so much enjoyed getting to have a room to myself this trip. What a blessing!!
Charlie Brown got in late last night, so I met him this morning. He is with the team that arrives tomorrow and decided to come early. He has really been a great help. It's fun getting to meet new people and getting to know them and hear all about what God is doing in there lives.
This morning, Jasmina (the cook), came and talked with Mary and I about the meals for this week. We have lots of funny moments with our language challenges! But we get it done.
Then Danilo came and picked up Mary, Jasmina, Charlie and I and took us to the bakery and then to La Union grocery store to buy the food for the team. German met us and we all had lunch at Tip Top Chicken. I enjoyed a salad with grilled chicken. Yum! We went to a little store for cream and then another for bagged ice. One more stop at a roadside place for chips. After we got home, we had to lug everything in and put it away. That's not Mary's favorite chore, but we worked hard and got it done.
Now we can relax and chat. I was thinking of a nap, but since I can get on the internet, I may stay on the laptop too much.
Mary and Charlie both want to learn Spanish, and I brought my lesson books with me, so we can have some very simple classes. I want to try to keep up with my postings as much as possible. I'm so thankful for chance to get them on here in a timely manner. One of many blessings.
Didn't ever fall asleep, but really enjoyed laying on the bed for an hour.
Mary, Charlie and I went for a walk down the road from the team house to the inlet where the fishermen come in. We walked around the bend since the tide was out and walked back along the beach. It was overcast, but still beautiful.
After we got back, it started raining really hard and then we had a thunderstorm with really loud thunder. It rained and blew in like crazy. We enjoyed peanut butter sandwiches and I had a cucumber, which made Mary laugh.
After dinner, we played a rousing game of Farkle, which was new to all of us. We had a hilarious time and then realized that we had misread the directions. Mary blew us out of the water on the scores. It was a lot of fun.
Then we sat around and played on the computer and talked and enjoyed our last night of quiet.
We're all going to bed before 9am. The rain is over for now. We can hear the waves rolling. It will be a nice sleeping night.
God is so good. We have enjoyed the encounters that we have had. God is preparing our bodies and hearts and minds for this busy week to come. I'm praying for the team as they sleep in their own beds tonight and travel tomorrow. It will be a hard week of working, but God will do so much through us, we can't wait!
Going to bed now. Counting my blessings.
Charlie Brown got in late last night, so I met him this morning. He is with the team that arrives tomorrow and decided to come early. He has really been a great help. It's fun getting to meet new people and getting to know them and hear all about what God is doing in there lives.
This morning, Jasmina (the cook), came and talked with Mary and I about the meals for this week. We have lots of funny moments with our language challenges! But we get it done.
Then Danilo came and picked up Mary, Jasmina, Charlie and I and took us to the bakery and then to La Union grocery store to buy the food for the team. German met us and we all had lunch at Tip Top Chicken. I enjoyed a salad with grilled chicken. Yum! We went to a little store for cream and then another for bagged ice. One more stop at a roadside place for chips. After we got home, we had to lug everything in and put it away. That's not Mary's favorite chore, but we worked hard and got it done.
Now we can relax and chat. I was thinking of a nap, but since I can get on the internet, I may stay on the laptop too much.
Mary and Charlie both want to learn Spanish, and I brought my lesson books with me, so we can have some very simple classes. I want to try to keep up with my postings as much as possible. I'm so thankful for chance to get them on here in a timely manner. One of many blessings.
Didn't ever fall asleep, but really enjoyed laying on the bed for an hour.
Mary, Charlie and I went for a walk down the road from the team house to the inlet where the fishermen come in. We walked around the bend since the tide was out and walked back along the beach. It was overcast, but still beautiful.
After we got back, it started raining really hard and then we had a thunderstorm with really loud thunder. It rained and blew in like crazy. We enjoyed peanut butter sandwiches and I had a cucumber, which made Mary laugh.
After dinner, we played a rousing game of Farkle, which was new to all of us. We had a hilarious time and then realized that we had misread the directions. Mary blew us out of the water on the scores. It was a lot of fun.
Then we sat around and played on the computer and talked and enjoyed our last night of quiet.
We're all going to bed before 9am. The rain is over for now. We can hear the waves rolling. It will be a nice sleeping night.
God is so good. We have enjoyed the encounters that we have had. God is preparing our bodies and hearts and minds for this busy week to come. I'm praying for the team as they sleep in their own beds tonight and travel tomorrow. It will be a hard week of working, but God will do so much through us, we can't wait!
Going to bed now. Counting my blessings.
Thursday, November 18, 2010
I slept great listening to the distant crashing of the waves. And then I woke up as the birds and other critters started making their chatter to start their day.
I had remade my bed last night because the cleaning ladies don’t understand that the mattress pad goes under the fitted sheet. It was funny to look at. Like someone who had their underwear over their clothes. I slept very well. Since Mike and Sherry aren’t here now, Sherry said for me to stay in their room, which is upstairs by Mary’s. I think Mary feels better about it, too. She tends to worry about me like a child sometimes. It’s a very nice room with a breeze. I’m thankful for the pleasure of getting to use it. The privacy while the team is here will be great.
Mary has been up doing things around the house this morning. We are just puttering around getting things in place and taking our time unpacking. This afternoon we will go into Leon for lunch and some personal shopping at the grocery store. Then we’ll be back to work on the house some more.
One of the team members is coming tonight because he wanted some extra time here. His name is Charlie Brown. He’ll get in really late tonight. I’m sure that Ms Mary can find all kinds of work for him to do tomorrow as we get the house ready for the team of 20+ people who are arriving Saturday afternoon.
Well, I’d better get to work for now. Daylight is burning….
We headed into town with Danilo and met up with German at Tip Top Chicken. It was yummy. We went over the schedule for next week and ‘did numbers’ as German calls it. That entails going over costs and giving money back and forth. We conferred with Mike via telephone and got everything figured out for now.
Then Mary and I went to La Union, a grocery store owned by Walmart. It’s pretty modern by Nic standards. You can get some North American items there, but they are expensive. I even found chocolate milk! I got some cucumbers and grapes and apples and Mary picked up some chips and cookies and such.
Then we went with German to the House of Bible to pay the deposit on the Bibles for next week’s Crusade. We got a good deal on them. I think the team will be pleased. After that, we stopped for German to put some minutes on the Nic phone that Beth is loaning me for this trip. And then to pick up some paint for the sprucing up of the team house. We dropped off German and Danilo drove us home.
Mary and I decided we would relax for awhile. She talked on the phone to folks back home and I took a delicious nap. We got up to a rain storm. The lightning is pretty when it’s out over the ocean.
I had a cucumber and instant mashed potatoes for dinner. Mary had peanut butter and apple. It was just right after eating a good lunch.
Mary and I had a spirited conversation tonight, trying to solve the world’s problems. I think we’ll have to leave it up to God to figure out. ☺
We are retiring early tonight (before 10pm) since there is no team here. Charlie Brown should be here in an hour or so. We made up his bed downstairs and called German to tell him where Charlie is to sleep.
I’m going to read a little more in one of the books I brought down. It’s titled ‘Radical’ by David Platt. Mary mentioned that she would like to read it and I told her that I just happened to have brought it with me. I do a lot more reading and studying here where there is no distraction of tv and such.
Can’t wait to start another great day tomorrow. We’ll be busy grocery shopping (usually 5 carts full for starters) and making beds. It will be nice to see the cook again. I love her food!
Sweet dreams
I had remade my bed last night because the cleaning ladies don’t understand that the mattress pad goes under the fitted sheet. It was funny to look at. Like someone who had their underwear over their clothes. I slept very well. Since Mike and Sherry aren’t here now, Sherry said for me to stay in their room, which is upstairs by Mary’s. I think Mary feels better about it, too. She tends to worry about me like a child sometimes. It’s a very nice room with a breeze. I’m thankful for the pleasure of getting to use it. The privacy while the team is here will be great.
Mary has been up doing things around the house this morning. We are just puttering around getting things in place and taking our time unpacking. This afternoon we will go into Leon for lunch and some personal shopping at the grocery store. Then we’ll be back to work on the house some more.
One of the team members is coming tonight because he wanted some extra time here. His name is Charlie Brown. He’ll get in really late tonight. I’m sure that Ms Mary can find all kinds of work for him to do tomorrow as we get the house ready for the team of 20+ people who are arriving Saturday afternoon.
Well, I’d better get to work for now. Daylight is burning….
We headed into town with Danilo and met up with German at Tip Top Chicken. It was yummy. We went over the schedule for next week and ‘did numbers’ as German calls it. That entails going over costs and giving money back and forth. We conferred with Mike via telephone and got everything figured out for now.
Then Mary and I went to La Union, a grocery store owned by Walmart. It’s pretty modern by Nic standards. You can get some North American items there, but they are expensive. I even found chocolate milk! I got some cucumbers and grapes and apples and Mary picked up some chips and cookies and such.
Then we went with German to the House of Bible to pay the deposit on the Bibles for next week’s Crusade. We got a good deal on them. I think the team will be pleased. After that, we stopped for German to put some minutes on the Nic phone that Beth is loaning me for this trip. And then to pick up some paint for the sprucing up of the team house. We dropped off German and Danilo drove us home.
Mary and I decided we would relax for awhile. She talked on the phone to folks back home and I took a delicious nap. We got up to a rain storm. The lightning is pretty when it’s out over the ocean.
I had a cucumber and instant mashed potatoes for dinner. Mary had peanut butter and apple. It was just right after eating a good lunch.
Mary and I had a spirited conversation tonight, trying to solve the world’s problems. I think we’ll have to leave it up to God to figure out. ☺
We are retiring early tonight (before 10pm) since there is no team here. Charlie Brown should be here in an hour or so. We made up his bed downstairs and called German to tell him where Charlie is to sleep.
I’m going to read a little more in one of the books I brought down. It’s titled ‘Radical’ by David Platt. Mary mentioned that she would like to read it and I told her that I just happened to have brought it with me. I do a lot more reading and studying here where there is no distraction of tv and such.
Can’t wait to start another great day tomorrow. We’ll be busy grocery shopping (usually 5 carts full for starters) and making beds. It will be nice to see the cook again. I love her food!
Sweet dreams
Wednesday, November 17, 2010
I was at the NWA airport by 1pm for my 3:16pm flight. I wanted to get checked in and my luggage turned over asap. I am tired of lugging that stuff around! One bag was 51 pounds and the other was 53. Luckily, they didn’t charge me overage. Yay!
I have a very tight transfer time at the Houston airport, and I was booked in the back of the first plane, so I paid $19 to sit in the very front seat. I don’t usually like sitting there, since there is not a seat in front of me to put my backpack under, but it’s worth the piece of mind to sit there today so I can hop off the plane really quickly and high-tail it across the terminal for the international flight.
I just talked to Mary. She’s at the Little Rock airport waiting for her flight. She gets to Houston about 45 minutes before me. She said she would throw herself across the plane’s doorway so they couldn’t shut it until I get there. Haha. We may both end up in the pokey!
I got through security really quickly. Since I’m so early, there was no line at all. I didn’t even have to have a pat-down search. Too bad… I was looking forward to the attention. Ha
I would much rather get to the airport early and wait here after getting checked in, getting rid of the bags, and just being ready to hop on the plane.
My ears are still full and I sure hope that they don’t give me problems on the flight. They don’t hurt, they just won’t drain. I’ve tried all kinds of things to no avail. Maybe the hot humid (or dry) air in Nic will fix me up. I’m just praying for no earaches in flight.
This morning I had a nice time of finishing the very last packing of personal items, cleaning my rooms, washing the sheets on my bed and remaking it, sending out some emails, etc. I took my last ride in the missions mobile and went through Chick-Fil-A’s drivethrough for my last North American meal of grilled chicken sandwich, cole slaw and very puckery handmade lemonade. Yum! Jet was quite confused by all my suitcases. He really wanted to go out the front door with me. I’ll miss him.
My sister Pam had her last tests today before her breast and gallbladder surgeries on Dec 3. I think she’s glad to get these tests all done. Next step, surgery and getting better! How wonderful! I hope that she feels the love of God, the perfect healer, through all of this.
I feel like I could easily take a nap right now. I’ll be really tired by the time we make it to the team house tonight around midnight. But it will be wonderful to wake up in Nic in the morning!!!
The flight to Houston went like clockwork. I was so thankful that we didn’t have any delays of any kind. God gave me a peace for that. I grabbed my carry-on bags and headed to the tram to get to another terminal. I tried calling Mary 3 times, but just got her voicemail. I was hoping that her flight was there and everything was fine. I stopped by Schlotsky’s and grabbed a sandwich to eat sometime during the rest of the day. Yum
I met up with Mary at our gate. After getting my passport checked for the flight, I settled in for the few minutes left before we were to board the plane. I heard my name called over the speaker and thought uh-oh, I hope there wasn’t a problem at this point. But all they wanted was for me to give up my seat so that a family could all sit together. They moved me to an exit row seat that had extra leg room due to not having a seat directly in front of it. This seat costs a little extra, but they let me have it for free for moving. I would have moved to any seat, I didn’t much care since all the seats would get me to Nic, but it was nice to stretch out my legs for the 3 hour flight.
I dozed a little bit on the flight. My ears did okay. They just popped a little and didn’t explode like I was fearing. I was even hoping that maybe they would clear up from the pressure changes during the flight, but they were still full and actually kind of roaring from the drone of the engines. But I was thankful for no pain.
They served us a meal of packaged cheeseburgers, salad and cookies. I ate the salad and cookies (Pepperidge Farm Milanos) and ended up throwing away the cheeseburger. I didn’t even want to try it and I was going to give it to my seat mate when he finished his, but he must not have liked it and threw away part of his. So I just tossed mine.
We arrived in Managua and got our luggage. Mary didn’t want to have to tip the porter who had a cart we could use, but we had so much heavy baggage that there was no way we could carry it ourselves. I told her I would be glad to pay him. Of course, she fussed at me for tipping him too much. ☺
German met us at the door and brought the van around. Another porter and German loaded our heavy bags in the van and we left. A quick stop at On The Run (the convenience store) for water, juice and some snacks, and we were on our way to the team house. We chatted throughout the long drive and ran into just a few little holdups, like a road construction site that down to one lane and no one to direct traffic so it was every man for himself (of course the big trucks got preference).
It was so nice to get to the house. Saturnino met us at the gate and looked very sleepy. He and German carried those heavy bags upstairs for us. Yay! Mary and I put our cold drinks in the fridge, she prepared her coffeepot for the morning and we headed to our beds.
I listened to the ocean, but couldn’t see it in the dark. But I knew the promise of that beautiful view that would come in the morning. It’s kind of like heaven I think. We know by faith that the view we will see when this dark life on earth is over will be the most beautiful thing we could imagine. It’s right beyond our earthly sight. But it’s there, it’s wonderful and it’s from God.
I’m so blessed to be able to serve here for the next 7 weeks. It will be interesting meeting the 2 teams coming (Thanksgiving week Christmas week). They have been here before, but I have not met them yet. Then those weeks between teams will be different and interesting as Mary and I get to go out to the villages and teach and minister our-selves. It’s going to be an awesome time of watching God work. I can’t wait to see what He is going to show me and teach me while I’m here. My eyes and my heart are wide open.
I have a very tight transfer time at the Houston airport, and I was booked in the back of the first plane, so I paid $19 to sit in the very front seat. I don’t usually like sitting there, since there is not a seat in front of me to put my backpack under, but it’s worth the piece of mind to sit there today so I can hop off the plane really quickly and high-tail it across the terminal for the international flight.
I just talked to Mary. She’s at the Little Rock airport waiting for her flight. She gets to Houston about 45 minutes before me. She said she would throw herself across the plane’s doorway so they couldn’t shut it until I get there. Haha. We may both end up in the pokey!
I got through security really quickly. Since I’m so early, there was no line at all. I didn’t even have to have a pat-down search. Too bad… I was looking forward to the attention. Ha
I would much rather get to the airport early and wait here after getting checked in, getting rid of the bags, and just being ready to hop on the plane.
My ears are still full and I sure hope that they don’t give me problems on the flight. They don’t hurt, they just won’t drain. I’ve tried all kinds of things to no avail. Maybe the hot humid (or dry) air in Nic will fix me up. I’m just praying for no earaches in flight.
This morning I had a nice time of finishing the very last packing of personal items, cleaning my rooms, washing the sheets on my bed and remaking it, sending out some emails, etc. I took my last ride in the missions mobile and went through Chick-Fil-A’s drivethrough for my last North American meal of grilled chicken sandwich, cole slaw and very puckery handmade lemonade. Yum! Jet was quite confused by all my suitcases. He really wanted to go out the front door with me. I’ll miss him.
My sister Pam had her last tests today before her breast and gallbladder surgeries on Dec 3. I think she’s glad to get these tests all done. Next step, surgery and getting better! How wonderful! I hope that she feels the love of God, the perfect healer, through all of this.
I feel like I could easily take a nap right now. I’ll be really tired by the time we make it to the team house tonight around midnight. But it will be wonderful to wake up in Nic in the morning!!!
The flight to Houston went like clockwork. I was so thankful that we didn’t have any delays of any kind. God gave me a peace for that. I grabbed my carry-on bags and headed to the tram to get to another terminal. I tried calling Mary 3 times, but just got her voicemail. I was hoping that her flight was there and everything was fine. I stopped by Schlotsky’s and grabbed a sandwich to eat sometime during the rest of the day. Yum
I met up with Mary at our gate. After getting my passport checked for the flight, I settled in for the few minutes left before we were to board the plane. I heard my name called over the speaker and thought uh-oh, I hope there wasn’t a problem at this point. But all they wanted was for me to give up my seat so that a family could all sit together. They moved me to an exit row seat that had extra leg room due to not having a seat directly in front of it. This seat costs a little extra, but they let me have it for free for moving. I would have moved to any seat, I didn’t much care since all the seats would get me to Nic, but it was nice to stretch out my legs for the 3 hour flight.
I dozed a little bit on the flight. My ears did okay. They just popped a little and didn’t explode like I was fearing. I was even hoping that maybe they would clear up from the pressure changes during the flight, but they were still full and actually kind of roaring from the drone of the engines. But I was thankful for no pain.
They served us a meal of packaged cheeseburgers, salad and cookies. I ate the salad and cookies (Pepperidge Farm Milanos) and ended up throwing away the cheeseburger. I didn’t even want to try it and I was going to give it to my seat mate when he finished his, but he must not have liked it and threw away part of his. So I just tossed mine.
We arrived in Managua and got our luggage. Mary didn’t want to have to tip the porter who had a cart we could use, but we had so much heavy baggage that there was no way we could carry it ourselves. I told her I would be glad to pay him. Of course, she fussed at me for tipping him too much. ☺
German met us at the door and brought the van around. Another porter and German loaded our heavy bags in the van and we left. A quick stop at On The Run (the convenience store) for water, juice and some snacks, and we were on our way to the team house. We chatted throughout the long drive and ran into just a few little holdups, like a road construction site that down to one lane and no one to direct traffic so it was every man for himself (of course the big trucks got preference).
It was so nice to get to the house. Saturnino met us at the gate and looked very sleepy. He and German carried those heavy bags upstairs for us. Yay! Mary and I put our cold drinks in the fridge, she prepared her coffeepot for the morning and we headed to our beds.
I listened to the ocean, but couldn’t see it in the dark. But I knew the promise of that beautiful view that would come in the morning. It’s kind of like heaven I think. We know by faith that the view we will see when this dark life on earth is over will be the most beautiful thing we could imagine. It’s right beyond our earthly sight. But it’s there, it’s wonderful and it’s from God.
I’m so blessed to be able to serve here for the next 7 weeks. It will be interesting meeting the 2 teams coming (Thanksgiving week Christmas week). They have been here before, but I have not met them yet. Then those weeks between teams will be different and interesting as Mary and I get to go out to the villages and teach and minister our-selves. It’s going to be an awesome time of watching God work. I can’t wait to see what He is going to show me and teach me while I’m here. My eyes and my heart are wide open.
Tuesday, November 16, 2010
Tuesday, November 16, 2010
Tuesday evening. All packed and ready to go. I finishing running my errands yesterday and today. So many things that had to get done before I leave. Now that they are done, I feel no stress at all. Very peaceful.
I had some Schlotskys for dinner tonight. It was yummy. I was trying to think of something very different from what I will be eating the next 7 weeks. I truly enjoyed it.
I cleaned out the car tonight. I didn't get the chance to vacuum or detail it out, but at least it's empty. It holds so much stuff. It was a great 'mission mobile'. The Eatons will pick it up in the next few days. I have really been blessed by them loaning it to me these last 18 months.
I was in Walmart today and a nice lady came up to me and introduced herself. She said her family are new members to FBCR and that she appreciated me sharing my testimony Sunday in the morning services. How sweet. I'm glad that God could use my life to touch the hearts of others. I hope they are all encouraged to seek His face and find out His will for them.
My sister Pam is supposed to have a gallbladder test and then an MRI on her other breast tomorrow. Then her breast cancer surgery will be on Dec 3rd. They are going to go ahead and do her gallbladder surgery the same day. I can't wait for her to feel better. My friends and prayer partners have been so wonderful to send her prayers and well wishes. I think them all for their concern and efforts to reach out to her.
I'm going to miss Deanna and Jet while I'm gone. Deanna will be gone 2 weeks in December to visit with Jake and Elaine's family and go to San Francisco for Jake's graduation. What a great time they will have!!!
Jet had a hematoma removed from his ear last week. He felt pretty yucky for a while, but he's doing much better. I'll miss his loving self while I'm gone. He's such a good dog.
I stopped in for a few minutes to see Miss Juanita today and to tell her that I am leaving tomorrow. It was nice to see her. She's a sweetie. Ella the dog was there and didn't even bark when I walked in. I think she remembers me. She's a good dog, too.
I'm blessed by wonderful people and special pets of all kinds.
I need to send some messages to people before I retire for the night. I hope that internet service in Nic is good for me this trip. How dependent we have become on it!
God has blessed me with so much... materials things (just what I need and when I need it), friends who share their love, opportunities to share Him with others, and most importantly, Salvation through Christ and the promise that I will be with Him after this life is over. Who could ask for anything more...
I had some Schlotskys for dinner tonight. It was yummy. I was trying to think of something very different from what I will be eating the next 7 weeks. I truly enjoyed it.
I cleaned out the car tonight. I didn't get the chance to vacuum or detail it out, but at least it's empty. It holds so much stuff. It was a great 'mission mobile'. The Eatons will pick it up in the next few days. I have really been blessed by them loaning it to me these last 18 months.
I was in Walmart today and a nice lady came up to me and introduced herself. She said her family are new members to FBCR and that she appreciated me sharing my testimony Sunday in the morning services. How sweet. I'm glad that God could use my life to touch the hearts of others. I hope they are all encouraged to seek His face and find out His will for them.
My sister Pam is supposed to have a gallbladder test and then an MRI on her other breast tomorrow. Then her breast cancer surgery will be on Dec 3rd. They are going to go ahead and do her gallbladder surgery the same day. I can't wait for her to feel better. My friends and prayer partners have been so wonderful to send her prayers and well wishes. I think them all for their concern and efforts to reach out to her.
I'm going to miss Deanna and Jet while I'm gone. Deanna will be gone 2 weeks in December to visit with Jake and Elaine's family and go to San Francisco for Jake's graduation. What a great time they will have!!!
Jet had a hematoma removed from his ear last week. He felt pretty yucky for a while, but he's doing much better. I'll miss his loving self while I'm gone. He's such a good dog.
I stopped in for a few minutes to see Miss Juanita today and to tell her that I am leaving tomorrow. It was nice to see her. She's a sweetie. Ella the dog was there and didn't even bark when I walked in. I think she remembers me. She's a good dog, too.
I'm blessed by wonderful people and special pets of all kinds.
I need to send some messages to people before I retire for the night. I hope that internet service in Nic is good for me this trip. How dependent we have become on it!
God has blessed me with so much... materials things (just what I need and when I need it), friends who share their love, opportunities to share Him with others, and most importantly, Salvation through Christ and the promise that I will be with Him after this life is over. Who could ask for anything more...
Sunday, November 14, 2010
Sunday, November 14, 2010
Sunday evening. Busy day. I was blessed to be able to share some of my testimony in both services at FBCR this morning. Bro Wes had asked me to speak a little about my life as a MIR (Missionary In Residence) and how God has worked in my life to bring me to this wonderful season in my journey of following Him. I don't get too nervous when I'm talking about God. (If I was talking about myself, I would be scared to death!) God puts so many thoughts into my head and feelings into my heart, that I don't know where to start (or stop) sometimes. I spoke in both services, and I'm sure I mentioned different things in each of those services. I just pray that people were touched by the words and feel drawn to hear God clearer and are encouraged to seek His will.
The journey that God has allowed me to take has been full of ups and downs (by my perspective), trials and celebrations. But they have all been blessings for me. I can look back on certain circumstances and see how God drew me closer to Him and grew me. One of my favorite songs is "The Potter's Hands". God created me and He continually molds me to be what He needs me to be to accomplish His will. Only HE knows how long each 'season' of my life will be. The main thing for me to remember is to be willing, available and open to His changes in my life. My life belongs to Him and I shouldn't be surprised by the changes that He decides to put into in. How awesome to have someone so wonderful, wise and sovereign in charge. Help me, Lord, to stay out of Your way and to be submissive and obedient.
Bro Wes prayed for me in each service this morning and I treasure those moments. He actually made me choke up and cry the first time. He blessed me so much. The music today went well with what I shared. And I loved Bro Wes' message. It was a good morning of worship for me. I love the Lord so much.
I made it across town to the Cuerpo Vivo service after the music had started, but I enjoyed the praise and worship very much. I love being at Cuerpo Vivo. Usually, I get really teary when I'm there for the last time before a trip, but today it was okay. I think I'm seeing these trips as part of the whole calling that God has placed on my life. When I'm here, I miss Nicaragua... When I'm there, I miss FBCR and Cuerpo Vivo. It's okay, though, because I know that God is going bless me in both places and that He has work for me in both places. I still miss NYC and my friends there, too. I'm so blessed to have places and friends and family that I want to spend time with.
I went to Walmart this afternoon to pick up some stuff to take to Nic. Yesterday, I spent most of the day sorting and packing my suitcases and shipping tub. I'll finish up tomorrow. I doubt that everything I want to take will fit in vessels, but I'll try my best.
Tonight I'll wrap the Christmas presents for family in Indiana, so I can get them shipped. I have the Christmas cards signed and addressed. At least all the ones that I can manage to send this year.
I have more errands to run tomorrow and Tuesday. Then I'll leave on Wednesday. Time will fly by quickly and then it will go by just as fast while I'm in Nic. Life moves really quickly. We shouldn't take even one moment for granted.
My sister Pam has seen 3 doctors in the last week. They have scheduled her breast surgery for the day before Thanksgiving. She's nervous, but I think that she can feel some peace from all the prayer emails that she has been receiving from my friends. I pray that God will be able to draw her near to Him through this situation. I would love for all my family to come to know the Lord.
Time to get busy wrapping those presents. Maybe I'll make a little hot chocolate to enjoy while doing it. Lots of blessings to be had!!!
The journey that God has allowed me to take has been full of ups and downs (by my perspective), trials and celebrations. But they have all been blessings for me. I can look back on certain circumstances and see how God drew me closer to Him and grew me. One of my favorite songs is "The Potter's Hands". God created me and He continually molds me to be what He needs me to be to accomplish His will. Only HE knows how long each 'season' of my life will be. The main thing for me to remember is to be willing, available and open to His changes in my life. My life belongs to Him and I shouldn't be surprised by the changes that He decides to put into in. How awesome to have someone so wonderful, wise and sovereign in charge. Help me, Lord, to stay out of Your way and to be submissive and obedient.
Bro Wes prayed for me in each service this morning and I treasure those moments. He actually made me choke up and cry the first time. He blessed me so much. The music today went well with what I shared. And I loved Bro Wes' message. It was a good morning of worship for me. I love the Lord so much.
I made it across town to the Cuerpo Vivo service after the music had started, but I enjoyed the praise and worship very much. I love being at Cuerpo Vivo. Usually, I get really teary when I'm there for the last time before a trip, but today it was okay. I think I'm seeing these trips as part of the whole calling that God has placed on my life. When I'm here, I miss Nicaragua... When I'm there, I miss FBCR and Cuerpo Vivo. It's okay, though, because I know that God is going bless me in both places and that He has work for me in both places. I still miss NYC and my friends there, too. I'm so blessed to have places and friends and family that I want to spend time with.
I went to Walmart this afternoon to pick up some stuff to take to Nic. Yesterday, I spent most of the day sorting and packing my suitcases and shipping tub. I'll finish up tomorrow. I doubt that everything I want to take will fit in vessels, but I'll try my best.
Tonight I'll wrap the Christmas presents for family in Indiana, so I can get them shipped. I have the Christmas cards signed and addressed. At least all the ones that I can manage to send this year.
I have more errands to run tomorrow and Tuesday. Then I'll leave on Wednesday. Time will fly by quickly and then it will go by just as fast while I'm in Nic. Life moves really quickly. We shouldn't take even one moment for granted.
My sister Pam has seen 3 doctors in the last week. They have scheduled her breast surgery for the day before Thanksgiving. She's nervous, but I think that she can feel some peace from all the prayer emails that she has been receiving from my friends. I pray that God will be able to draw her near to Him through this situation. I would love for all my family to come to know the Lord.
Time to get busy wrapping those presents. Maybe I'll make a little hot chocolate to enjoy while doing it. Lots of blessings to be had!!!
Friday, November 12, 2010
Friday, November 12, 2010
Friday night. Home working on the new laptop and counting my blessings.
Our early Thanksgiving Dinner was very eventful last night. We put all the food out in the kitchen. The ladies brought side dishes and we set them out on the bar. All of a sudden we heard a loud explosion. We all looked at each other to see what happened (and who did it). Turns out that a glass serving dish exploded. Chunks of glass and small slivers of glass were everywhere. We had to wipe down the counters, sweep and mop the floor and look for glass everywhere. The ladies chose to remove the top layer of the side dishes, but I didn't want to chance eating any slivers of glass, so I just had turkey and dressing (which was on the other side of the kitchen from the explosion). It was good and everyone survived the meal. We had a nice time of fellowship and that's what Thanksgiving is all about. I really appreciate the ladies for putting the dinner together. They are sweet.
Last night I worked on Christmas cards till bedtime. I know that I won't remember to give everyone I should a card, but I wanted to do my best. I hope to finish them tomorrow. Then I need to pack up the presents for my family in Indiana and get them shipped.
Today I started the day by opening up the Food Pantry, since Shirley wouldn't be able to be there. We had 3 workers, so I got to spend some precious time on the computer and transferring files between my old one and new one. Then I got to have lunch with my friend Elizabeth. We ended up going to Dixie Cafe and we enjoyed a yummy turkey and dressing dinner. It was soooo good. We talked for a long time and enjoyed each other's company. She speaks virtually no English and I speak very broken Spanish, but we communicate very well. She said her daughter-in-law is amazed that we understand each other. We decided that we speak the language of God and He makes us able to understand each other's hearts.
I came home and had nice phone chat with Mary about Nicaragua and then had a quick nap. Later, I headed off to the Janes' house for dinner and fun times with the family. Becca made a wonderful Thai dinner. It was awesome! Later we had pumpkin pie and ice cream for dessert. It was great to get to spend some special time in conversation with them. I just love that family!
I need to head off to bed soon. Tomorrow will be a busy day of packing, cleaning up my rooms here at the house, shopping at Walmart of the rest of the stuff to take to Nic, packing Christmas for Indiana, (hopefully) a nap and spending time with Deanna.
I can't believe that I leave on Wednesday. The next few days will fly by and I know that the next 7 weeks will, too. I feel so very blessed!
Our early Thanksgiving Dinner was very eventful last night. We put all the food out in the kitchen. The ladies brought side dishes and we set them out on the bar. All of a sudden we heard a loud explosion. We all looked at each other to see what happened (and who did it). Turns out that a glass serving dish exploded. Chunks of glass and small slivers of glass were everywhere. We had to wipe down the counters, sweep and mop the floor and look for glass everywhere. The ladies chose to remove the top layer of the side dishes, but I didn't want to chance eating any slivers of glass, so I just had turkey and dressing (which was on the other side of the kitchen from the explosion). It was good and everyone survived the meal. We had a nice time of fellowship and that's what Thanksgiving is all about. I really appreciate the ladies for putting the dinner together. They are sweet.
Last night I worked on Christmas cards till bedtime. I know that I won't remember to give everyone I should a card, but I wanted to do my best. I hope to finish them tomorrow. Then I need to pack up the presents for my family in Indiana and get them shipped.
Today I started the day by opening up the Food Pantry, since Shirley wouldn't be able to be there. We had 3 workers, so I got to spend some precious time on the computer and transferring files between my old one and new one. Then I got to have lunch with my friend Elizabeth. We ended up going to Dixie Cafe and we enjoyed a yummy turkey and dressing dinner. It was soooo good. We talked for a long time and enjoyed each other's company. She speaks virtually no English and I speak very broken Spanish, but we communicate very well. She said her daughter-in-law is amazed that we understand each other. We decided that we speak the language of God and He makes us able to understand each other's hearts.
I came home and had nice phone chat with Mary about Nicaragua and then had a quick nap. Later, I headed off to the Janes' house for dinner and fun times with the family. Becca made a wonderful Thai dinner. It was awesome! Later we had pumpkin pie and ice cream for dessert. It was great to get to spend some special time in conversation with them. I just love that family!
I need to head off to bed soon. Tomorrow will be a busy day of packing, cleaning up my rooms here at the house, shopping at Walmart of the rest of the stuff to take to Nic, packing Christmas for Indiana, (hopefully) a nap and spending time with Deanna.
I can't believe that I leave on Wednesday. The next few days will fly by and I know that the next 7 weeks will, too. I feel so very blessed!
Thursday, November 11, 2010
Thursday, November 11, 2010
I'm typing this on my new MacBook laptop that I bought with the spoils of my granny/kid/house/pet-sitting adventures. I worked hard for this and I am enjoying very much! I also had enough left over to buy a new, small camera. I am truly blessed. It's taken a few days to get things switched over to the Mac and I still have some things to finish up, but I'm loving it already. I know that it will be even more precious to me since I worked so hard for it.
Saturday evening I got to come home and take a much deserved nap. I started on laundry and went to bed early in my own bed. It was heavenly.
Sunday I went to Cuerpo Vivo church, but had to listen to the sermon from outside the sanctuary, as my ears are still all stopped up. It's amazing what a little sound can do to a person's mind when it doesn't filter through your ears properly. Dr. Bob called me in a prescription for antibiotics, but they don't seem to be doing much good. I've tried all kinds of things, and I relying on prayer to clear up my head before I have to get on that plane next week.
Sunday evening, we had a team meeting for the Nic Spring Break team. I passed out Voice of Hope planning booklets with some additional information tailored to the FBCR team. We are all set to see who will be able to commit on Dec 8th for the trip. We will have another meeting when I get back in January to start more detailed info sharing and ministry training. I think it will be a good group.
I helped a little while in the Food Pantry on Monday. It was really busy. Then we had Staff meeting in the afternoon. Bro Wes mentioned that I would be sharing my missions testimony in both services this coming Sunday. Then he asked if they had told me that yet. I said No, but I'm willing. So I'll be praying for my mouth to stay out of God's way when He is sharing with people using my voice. I always pray that I won't let 'me' get in the way of His message. I think I get 5 minutes in each service. I hope I can hold it to 5 minutes. I have a habit of talking and talking when it comes to what God is doing. I love to share Him and His work with who ever will listen to me.
Sunday afternoon, we got word that Jim & Cindy Sigmon were in a motorcycle vs deer accident. Cindy is doing pretty well, but they airlifted Jim to St John's Hospital in Springfield with head injuries. He is still unresponsive, but they have determined that he is not paralyzed and they expect him to improve each day. Only God knows how well he will bounce back and how long it will take. Cindy and family are wonderful examples of trusting in the Healer and giving Him glory in everything.
Monday morning I got a call that my friend Sarah had passed on. I'm very sad to not have her here on earth with her loved ones, but I'm so happy for her to be 'healed' and celebrating with Jesus and Father. Today was her funeral service and it was very nice. Wonderful messages from Bro Tommy and Bro Wes. Her son, Charlie, spoke in her honor and shared the path of Salvation with those in attendance. He did so well. I know Sarah is so proud of him. I keep Charlie and Billy in my prayers as they adjust to this next phase of life without Sarah with them. They are all Christians and will be with Sarah in heaven someday. Billy said he doesn't know how people without Christ can make it through times like this. I know that God will draw him and Charlie and Leslie close to Himself.
I've been working on Christmas cards the last few days. I need to have them all done before I leave next week. I've also been working on thank you cards for some of my financial supporters. It means so much to me to have prayer partners covering me in their precious prayers. Also, I couldn't serve full time if it weren't for the financial supporters. It's all reflected in Romans 10:15... How can they go if they are not sent? It is written "How beautiful are the feet of those who bring the Good News." Those who help to 'send' me are as much a part of this ministry as I am when I go. God uses us all in the ways that He has planned for us.
Deanna is fixing Thanksgiving Dinner for me today, since I won't be here for the holiday. It is smelling pretty yummy here! I am truly blessed by her and her love and hospitality. She really takes good care of me.
My sister has been seeing doctors last week and this week. She is finding out more about her breast cancer. So far, we know that they have caught it very early, which is a huge blessing! She will find out when they will schedule the surgery and what other treatment she will require. So far, it looks like 33 weeks of 5 x week radiation after the surgery. She has been blessed by the uplifting emails. Thanks to all who have sent them to her. I continue to lift her up to the Father for physical healing as well as Salvation.
Better go for now. It's great to be able to get on here and update my post. Many things to be thankful for.
Saturday evening I got to come home and take a much deserved nap. I started on laundry and went to bed early in my own bed. It was heavenly.
Sunday I went to Cuerpo Vivo church, but had to listen to the sermon from outside the sanctuary, as my ears are still all stopped up. It's amazing what a little sound can do to a person's mind when it doesn't filter through your ears properly. Dr. Bob called me in a prescription for antibiotics, but they don't seem to be doing much good. I've tried all kinds of things, and I relying on prayer to clear up my head before I have to get on that plane next week.
Sunday evening, we had a team meeting for the Nic Spring Break team. I passed out Voice of Hope planning booklets with some additional information tailored to the FBCR team. We are all set to see who will be able to commit on Dec 8th for the trip. We will have another meeting when I get back in January to start more detailed info sharing and ministry training. I think it will be a good group.
I helped a little while in the Food Pantry on Monday. It was really busy. Then we had Staff meeting in the afternoon. Bro Wes mentioned that I would be sharing my missions testimony in both services this coming Sunday. Then he asked if they had told me that yet. I said No, but I'm willing. So I'll be praying for my mouth to stay out of God's way when He is sharing with people using my voice. I always pray that I won't let 'me' get in the way of His message. I think I get 5 minutes in each service. I hope I can hold it to 5 minutes. I have a habit of talking and talking when it comes to what God is doing. I love to share Him and His work with who ever will listen to me.
Sunday afternoon, we got word that Jim & Cindy Sigmon were in a motorcycle vs deer accident. Cindy is doing pretty well, but they airlifted Jim to St John's Hospital in Springfield with head injuries. He is still unresponsive, but they have determined that he is not paralyzed and they expect him to improve each day. Only God knows how well he will bounce back and how long it will take. Cindy and family are wonderful examples of trusting in the Healer and giving Him glory in everything.
Monday morning I got a call that my friend Sarah had passed on. I'm very sad to not have her here on earth with her loved ones, but I'm so happy for her to be 'healed' and celebrating with Jesus and Father. Today was her funeral service and it was very nice. Wonderful messages from Bro Tommy and Bro Wes. Her son, Charlie, spoke in her honor and shared the path of Salvation with those in attendance. He did so well. I know Sarah is so proud of him. I keep Charlie and Billy in my prayers as they adjust to this next phase of life without Sarah with them. They are all Christians and will be with Sarah in heaven someday. Billy said he doesn't know how people without Christ can make it through times like this. I know that God will draw him and Charlie and Leslie close to Himself.
I've been working on Christmas cards the last few days. I need to have them all done before I leave next week. I've also been working on thank you cards for some of my financial supporters. It means so much to me to have prayer partners covering me in their precious prayers. Also, I couldn't serve full time if it weren't for the financial supporters. It's all reflected in Romans 10:15... How can they go if they are not sent? It is written "How beautiful are the feet of those who bring the Good News." Those who help to 'send' me are as much a part of this ministry as I am when I go. God uses us all in the ways that He has planned for us.
Deanna is fixing Thanksgiving Dinner for me today, since I won't be here for the holiday. It is smelling pretty yummy here! I am truly blessed by her and her love and hospitality. She really takes good care of me.
My sister has been seeing doctors last week and this week. She is finding out more about her breast cancer. So far, we know that they have caught it very early, which is a huge blessing! She will find out when they will schedule the surgery and what other treatment she will require. So far, it looks like 33 weeks of 5 x week radiation after the surgery. She has been blessed by the uplifting emails. Thanks to all who have sent them to her. I continue to lift her up to the Father for physical healing as well as Salvation.
Better go for now. It's great to be able to get on here and update my post. Many things to be thankful for.
Friday, November 5, 2010
Friday, November 5, 2010
Friday evening and I'm relaxing on the sofa in my jammies with my laptop, getting some work done and then going to veg out watching tv with Gus, the dog.
It's my last night with Gus. We've had a good week. He has mostly slept in another room, so I have been able to sleep better without his very loud snoring. He's been trying to teach me to fetch for him. He likes to play a lot. And he likes to cuddle. He's a pretty good dog.
I have a couple of projects to work on this weekend to be ready for Sunday, but they will be a pleasure to do, since I can stay in and concentrate on them. No major running around for me this weekend. Just going home Saturday and then Church and a Nic Mission Team meeting on Sunday.
I'll be spending the next week getting ready to leave for Nic on the 17th. I can't believe it's almost time! I'm excited to get down there. I know those 7 weeks will go by really fast. I plan to enjoy every minute of it. It's hard to realize that when I come back, it will already be January.
It will be nice to spend time with Deanna this next week. As soon as she got back from 6 weeks in Las Vegas, I was already doggie/house-sitting. We haven't spent much time together in the last few months. Next week will be a nice change for that.
I was able to check off a few more projects this week. I feel like I'm untieing strings from my arms as I finish up or pass on projects. I was blessed to be able to spend some time with Shirley and Elizabeth at the Food Pantry today.
Kesha is going to start working with Cuerpo Vivo, giving accounting support. We took her to lunch after our meeting yesterday. We joke that we enjoy eating even more than others since we are Baptists AND Hispanic. It's all about relationships and fellowship!
Today, I went with Glenda and Jennifer to visitation for Miss Wilma from church. Her daughter, Brenda is a good friend and special person. I hadn't seen Miss Wilma since I had gotten back from NYC, since she was in a nursing home for a while. But when I worked at the church full-time, she came in when Brenda worked. She loved to go to the Salvation Army store and buy little knick-knacks and bring them to me. She was a special lady. Very strong emotions in all directions and warmly remembered by many. I just think of her running around Heaven and entertaining everyone.
My sister, Pam, met with a surgeon this week. They think that the cancer was found really early. She meets with a radiology specialist and an oncologist next week. Then they will schedule the surgery. She has been receiving lots of emails from my friends. I pray that she will see the love of Christ in every contact from my Christian friends. I pray that she will find Christ through this journey.
Gus is trying to entice me to play with him by bringing all his toys to me, one at a time. Guess I should pay some attention to him for now. After all, it's our last night to hang out together for a while. It's been a blessing.
It's my last night with Gus. We've had a good week. He has mostly slept in another room, so I have been able to sleep better without his very loud snoring. He's been trying to teach me to fetch for him. He likes to play a lot. And he likes to cuddle. He's a pretty good dog.
I have a couple of projects to work on this weekend to be ready for Sunday, but they will be a pleasure to do, since I can stay in and concentrate on them. No major running around for me this weekend. Just going home Saturday and then Church and a Nic Mission Team meeting on Sunday.
I'll be spending the next week getting ready to leave for Nic on the 17th. I can't believe it's almost time! I'm excited to get down there. I know those 7 weeks will go by really fast. I plan to enjoy every minute of it. It's hard to realize that when I come back, it will already be January.
It will be nice to spend time with Deanna this next week. As soon as she got back from 6 weeks in Las Vegas, I was already doggie/house-sitting. We haven't spent much time together in the last few months. Next week will be a nice change for that.
I was able to check off a few more projects this week. I feel like I'm untieing strings from my arms as I finish up or pass on projects. I was blessed to be able to spend some time with Shirley and Elizabeth at the Food Pantry today.
Kesha is going to start working with Cuerpo Vivo, giving accounting support. We took her to lunch after our meeting yesterday. We joke that we enjoy eating even more than others since we are Baptists AND Hispanic. It's all about relationships and fellowship!
Today, I went with Glenda and Jennifer to visitation for Miss Wilma from church. Her daughter, Brenda is a good friend and special person. I hadn't seen Miss Wilma since I had gotten back from NYC, since she was in a nursing home for a while. But when I worked at the church full-time, she came in when Brenda worked. She loved to go to the Salvation Army store and buy little knick-knacks and bring them to me. She was a special lady. Very strong emotions in all directions and warmly remembered by many. I just think of her running around Heaven and entertaining everyone.
My sister, Pam, met with a surgeon this week. They think that the cancer was found really early. She meets with a radiology specialist and an oncologist next week. Then they will schedule the surgery. She has been receiving lots of emails from my friends. I pray that she will see the love of Christ in every contact from my Christian friends. I pray that she will find Christ through this journey.
Gus is trying to entice me to play with him by bringing all his toys to me, one at a time. Guess I should pay some attention to him for now. After all, it's our last night to hang out together for a while. It's been a blessing.
Wednesday, November 3, 2010
Wednesday, November 3, 2010
It's been a good week so far. Monday I finished doggie-sitting for Gusto and Sophie. I got to sleep in my own bed for one night! yay Then Tuesday I started doggie-sitting for Gus. I'll be staying here until Saturday evening, when I get to go back to my own bed again.
I have to say that I have had fun with the pups and I have slept pretty well. The best part is that I can get internet at each house and I have gotten tons of computer work done each night.
I have done so much doggie/granny/kid-sitting in the last 6 weeks, that I earned enough money for a new laptop and camera. I'm soooo excited. My allergies are still on the rampage, but hopefully my head will all be cleared up next week when I'm back home.
I had a blast sorting and bagging and delivering the gifts for the teachers at Northside Elementary. I think they felt very appreciated and loved by all they received. It's nice to encourage people. I hope that when I can slow down a little, that I can get in more of a habit of looking around me and finding ways to bless others every day. I get too distracted with all the 'things' I need to do and forget about people sometimes.
Today, I went to a lunch meeting with Glenda (the director of our church's medical clinic) and 2 doctors who are wanting to start a community-wide Christian medical/dental clinic. They were asking about the possibility of our medical clinic being a part of the bigger, community one. We had a good conversation with lots of things to pray over and think about.
I was thrilled that the restaurant we ate at today had turkey and dressing dinners. I will be in Nicaragua for Thanksgiving and I was wanting to have turkey before I leave. It was very yummy today!! I may have to go back a couple of more times before I leave!
I was working on cleaning out more closets and rooms at the Olive St church building today. I hope to get one of the projects done this week. I won't be able to finish cleaning out the whole church before I go back to Nicaragua, but Sam and Becky Weaver are taking over the task. They are very good at it and I know they will be blessed by doing it.
Yesterday, I was blessed to join the Faithsetters (FBCR Senior Adults) for their monthly luncheon. One of the guys played guitar and sang some old hymns. It was really nice. We all joined in on a few of them. Raleigh (Sr Adult Pastor) had asked me to speak to the group a little about what I'm going to be doing in the future with FBCR Local Missions and Voice of Hope Ministry in Nicaragua. I always love talking about what God is up to.
It is so exciting to watch God at work. I think the biggest challenge for people everywhere is to slow down their lives enough to see what He is doing around them. I love the life that He allows me to live. The less material things I have, the more I can be available for His work. It's strange to me when people say they admire me for going and serving when and where He asks. I think I'm extremely blessed that I get to do these things. I wish and hope that I can do my best for Him each day. I know I fall short of that all the time. The life that He has given me is so precious to me. He is worthy of so much more than I can give back to Him. I pray that starting tomorrow I will spend more time focusing on Him and try harder to live my life in a way that is honorable and acceptable to Him.
I have to say that I have had fun with the pups and I have slept pretty well. The best part is that I can get internet at each house and I have gotten tons of computer work done each night.
I have done so much doggie/granny/kid-sitting in the last 6 weeks, that I earned enough money for a new laptop and camera. I'm soooo excited. My allergies are still on the rampage, but hopefully my head will all be cleared up next week when I'm back home.
I had a blast sorting and bagging and delivering the gifts for the teachers at Northside Elementary. I think they felt very appreciated and loved by all they received. It's nice to encourage people. I hope that when I can slow down a little, that I can get in more of a habit of looking around me and finding ways to bless others every day. I get too distracted with all the 'things' I need to do and forget about people sometimes.
Today, I went to a lunch meeting with Glenda (the director of our church's medical clinic) and 2 doctors who are wanting to start a community-wide Christian medical/dental clinic. They were asking about the possibility of our medical clinic being a part of the bigger, community one. We had a good conversation with lots of things to pray over and think about.
I was thrilled that the restaurant we ate at today had turkey and dressing dinners. I will be in Nicaragua for Thanksgiving and I was wanting to have turkey before I leave. It was very yummy today!! I may have to go back a couple of more times before I leave!
I was working on cleaning out more closets and rooms at the Olive St church building today. I hope to get one of the projects done this week. I won't be able to finish cleaning out the whole church before I go back to Nicaragua, but Sam and Becky Weaver are taking over the task. They are very good at it and I know they will be blessed by doing it.
Yesterday, I was blessed to join the Faithsetters (FBCR Senior Adults) for their monthly luncheon. One of the guys played guitar and sang some old hymns. It was really nice. We all joined in on a few of them. Raleigh (Sr Adult Pastor) had asked me to speak to the group a little about what I'm going to be doing in the future with FBCR Local Missions and Voice of Hope Ministry in Nicaragua. I always love talking about what God is up to.
It is so exciting to watch God at work. I think the biggest challenge for people everywhere is to slow down their lives enough to see what He is doing around them. I love the life that He allows me to live. The less material things I have, the more I can be available for His work. It's strange to me when people say they admire me for going and serving when and where He asks. I think I'm extremely blessed that I get to do these things. I wish and hope that I can do my best for Him each day. I know I fall short of that all the time. The life that He has given me is so precious to me. He is worthy of so much more than I can give back to Him. I pray that starting tomorrow I will spend more time focusing on Him and try harder to live my life in a way that is honorable and acceptable to Him.
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