Buenas Nuevas de Nicaragua
It’s March 31, 2012. I’m reminded that 22 years ago today, God moved me out of my comfort zone into the unknown regions of… Arkansas!!! This was the first step in obeying God’s call on my life to follow Him wherever and whenever. I can look back and see His hand in guiding me on this journey. I can also see His hand of protection, forgiveness and patience as I often detoured from His plan and made choices on my own. He is forever Faithful!!
As I live here in Nicaragua, I also find myself thinking about the two years that God called me to NYC to live and serve Him. So much of my life there is similar to my life here. The material circumstances are worlds apart, but the experiences and relationships are very similar. Just survival and living a very simple, frugal and thankful life. I’m so grateful that God has brought me every step of the way. And I know that He has plans beyond today, for which I am excited to see revealed.
I’ve been back in León for over a month now. Time does not have the same feeling for me here. I don’t feel like I’m marking off the days between trips. I just ‘am’. This is where God wants me to be and I’m so very comfortable in my heart and soul to be here.
The ministry is growing a lot. God is opening so many doors. It’s awesome to see. We do our best to keep up. There are changes every week and we are all very excited to be a part of God’s plan for the people of Nica.
I’ve started teaching Women’s Bible studies at ROSCC church again on Fridays, and will start the Wednesday classes at La Quimera in another week. I’m teaching Sewing classes for the women of ROSCC church on Thursdays. Mary is teaching Evangelism classes to the women of both churches on Mondays and is teaching Sewing classes to the women of La Quimera on Tuesdays. We have our afternoons all filled with classes and still have more to add. Mayela is our translator for the classes and we keep her busy!!
I get to work with Mayela every weekday morning going out to the Feeding Centers that VOH is a part of. As of the end of March, we are a part of 4, with another getting ready to start within weeks. Mayela and I will oversee sponsorships, and communication between the kids and their sponsors, for the first 6 Feeding Centers. Mary and a future translator will oversee the same for the next 6 Centers in the future. We will be visiting a different Feeding Center each morning (M-F) and then rotate. We will take pictures of the kids who have been sponsored and help write letters to the sponsors back in the states. It will be fun to keep up with how the kids’ lives are changing and improving from these sponsorships. (Contact me for info on becoming a sponsor - $45 per year will feed a child)
The church at La Quimera finally has a completed building. The concrete brick walls go a little over half way up the sides and there are metal latticework pieces above those. This allows for air circulation and some natural light. The building is now secure and we can keep ministry supplies, chairs, feeding supplies, etc., stored there. Pastor Brian will begin his ministry there this Sunday. He is very excited that we already have classes for Bible study, Evangelism and Sewing for the women. There is a Sunday School class for the kids each week, too. And the Feeding Center is going really well. I’m excited for Pastor Brian and his family to get started.
ROSCC church is going great as always. The Feeding Center is good, the Women’s Bible study classes are going great. The women finally got the Bibles that they have been praying for. A Paragould AR church donated the money and it took months to get all the details worked out, but the shipment finally arrived this week. The women are so thankful. And I was thrilled to hand them out on behalf of VOH. I’m getting to know these ladies better each week and I love their wonderful faces so much. I am blessed to know them!
The inaugural service for the church at Monte Horeb (aka Sewer Ponds) was this month. There are still no walls or a roof, but the people were happy to have the church start. The Spring Break teams from AR and OK were able to attend this service (and to help do some of the construction). The Feeding Center there is doing well. Women’s Bible study, Evangelism class and Sewing class are all being prayed over to see how we can fit them into our schedule. It’s been many years of serving at Monte Horeb, and many teams have been a part of the ministry out there. It’s exciting to see God’s plans being revealed for these people.
Spring Break week (3/17-3/24) brought teams from FBC Rogers AR and FBC Yukon OK. It was a great week for me since FBCR is my home church and the Pastor Leader of the OK team was Nate McConathy, whom I served with at FBCR in the past. They were great teams to work with. 432 Salavations that week, plus much construction, Fiestas, a VBS day, Feedings and a lot of Street Evangelism. The teams shared testimonies and messages in many churches that week. They all had a great time and we surely enjoyed having them here. It was a great kick-off for our 2012 year of teams.
Personally, I’m doing well. I’m trying not to push myself too much physically like I have done before. The heat really takes a toll on a body here. I’m trying to be wise with my time and energy. I’m feeling good. Sherry has Lydia, our cook, making lots of ‘American’ food, so I’m not eating as much veggies as I ought to, but it sure is yummy! My schedule and the heat don’t allow me to walk for exercise like before, but I have some workout videos I can do in my room. Staying disciplined is my hardest challenge. Pray that I stay diligent!
I went to a Nica beauty shop this past week. Through Lesly, my friend and translator, we explained how I would like my hair to be. It was hard for her to understand just by looking at the crazy grown out ‘do’ that I was sporting. She did perfectly! She trimmed then thinned my hair like I wanted. When she pulled out her straight razor to give me a kind of wispy-around-the-edges look, I was in heaven. It was perfect! I gave her a tip and it still only cost me $3.50 in US money! Woohoo!
I’ve been driving our little SUV, which we just call ‘the car’. It’s an automatic, so that makes it easier. Even though I can drive a stick shift, trying to keep track of which streets to stop at and watch traffic and pedestrians and trying to shift would be a little challenging. I’m thankful for the automatic. Of course, the first time I drove it, I backed into a tree and have not lived down that incident. It’s unusual for women to drive here, especially since few people have drivers’ license anyway. (very few people could afford to own a car, so why bother?) Alberto, our guard says I need more practice. Haha
I haven’t had the time to take more Spanish classes (I still have 6 hours of class time credit), but I’ve been able to practice a lot with our translators, full-time workers and others. Most people who know me are aware that I am learning and that I want to be helped and corrected, so they are very accommodating. I still have my hearing problem in my left ear and I can tell it limits me some, but I’m getting used to it. I’m going to conquer this language thing even with one ear!! God will make it happen! I also want to spend more time helping in the English classes.
Mary and I have been getting our sewing donations in order for our classes. We have been very blessed. We are excited to get the women to the point of using the machines on their own and turn them loose to make all kinds of things for their families and things that we can sell for them to buy food.
I am trying to plan my time better so that I can visit my friends here more consistently. I love living here and I have some good friends who feel like family. My work schedule, the difficult travel, the heat and the lifestyle make it hard sometimes to get together. But we manage when we can.
The Hulseys are doing well. Buster the dog is, well, a dog… Scratch the cat is disabled (due to Buster being a dog) but he gets around pretty well. Manuel has homeschool classes 4 afternoons a week. He is so handsome in his school uniform. He wanted one like the kids here wear to school. He’s growing up! Mary is doing well and loves teaching the women.
I’m still working on my website vickiecline.com. A friend is helping me with it, and so far it’s just linked to my blog. But it will eventually have pictures, stories about people here and much more. One of these days…
God is moving in many ways here (as He is all over the world) and it’s so fun to be a part of it. I’m thankful that He has brought me where He wants me to be. I’m thankful for you, too, for being a supporter and prayer partner. Thank you for being obedient to God’s call to help me be here. I share the blessings with you!
Pictures can be seen on my Facebook page. (and soon on my website)
I can be reached at vickiejocline@yahoo.com, facebook, twitter, skype,
US cell 479-270-0727, personal mail: PO box 567, Rogers AR 72757
I can be supported through: (be sure to note the funds are for my support)
Voice of Hope Ministries FBC Rogers
PO Box 1780 3364 W Pleasant Grove Road
Rogers AR 72757 Rogers AR 72758
centralameriahope.org (donate button)
Praises:
VOH team is growing (many workers are needed)
Everyone’s health has been pretty good so far
God opens doors as fast as we can walk through them
So thankful to be a tool for God to use in Nica
432 Salvations over Spring Break week
Hundreds of kids being fed daily at the Feeding Centers
Improved (but far to go) language skills in Spanish
Meeting new friends all the time
Thankful that God has put the desires and passions in my life to prepare for His work
Prayers:
Health and safety for me and the VOH staff
Financial support for the ministry
Financial support for me personally
Improved language skills
Discernment and wisdom when teaching classes
Safety (for everyone) when I’m driving in Nica
Future VOH workers
Discernment and Wisdom for the Hulseys as they lead the ministry
That I not miss even one opportunity to share Christ
Romans 9:17
“I raised you up for this very purpose that I might display my power in you and that my name might be proclaimed in all the earth.”
Thank you for helping proclaim the Name of Jesus to all the earth!!
¡Bendiciones!
Following Him Always,
Vickie
Saturday, March 31, 2012
Saturday, March 31, 2012
Today has been quite wonderful. Everyone else took off in the van for a road trip to Granada today. As much as I would have loved to see Manuel and Cecilia, I just couldn’t get myself to take a 3 hour ride over there, then have lunch and visit, and ride 3 hours back. So, I opted to stay here at the Mission House instead. I had a ‘Vickie day’. I was trying to decided between calling someone and visiting in town or just staying here and getting some things done. Staying here won out.
We had rented the place for the day for a kid’s retreat. I stayed in my room and could hear them outside, but it didn’t bother me at all. I got used to shutting out noise when I lived in NYC. And hearing children playing and laughing is a nice sound, anyway.
I caught up on my Bible study, took a mid-morning nap, worked on my Newsletter and got it sent out, after updating the distribution list, had tuna wraps for lunch, sent out emails and then had some leftovers for dinner. The kids left before 5pm. The Hulsey’s and Mary got back about 6pm. Mary is in her room watching a movie and I’m having my usual quiet evening in my room. (once the mosquitoes come out at dusk, I retire to my room)
It’s been such a nice day of just me talking with God and letting Him influence my thoughts. I need these types of days often. ☺
There’s been a lot on facebook to pray over lately. The father of one of the spring break team members passed away this morning. The father of a friend of mine is slipping away to Heaven slowly. It’s a hard time for loved ones to say goodbye, but I’m thankful that both families know that their loved one is going to be in Heaven with Jesus and that they are going to see them again!
Also, the Worship Pastor at my home church is in the hospital with what they think is viral meningitis. He’s in awful pain. I pray the doctors can figure it all out and can get him well soon. I pray that God will give him a quick, complete and miraculous healing.
I talked to Deanna tonight. I try to check in every Saturday so that she can report to her ABF class on Sunday mornings. She sounds good. She was glad to hear that I took a Vickie day and I am taking care of myself. She still has the extra dog that her son dropped off. I hope that she can find a home for it soon. It wears her out taking care of it and Deanna doesn’t need that extra physical and mental stress with her health problems. I’m praying that a home comes open soon. It was good to talk to Deanna. She is one of the sweetest ladies that I know and I’m blessed to have her care for me!
I guess I’ll watch my video and get ready for bed. I sure have enjoyed this day. Thank you God for special blessings like this.
We had rented the place for the day for a kid’s retreat. I stayed in my room and could hear them outside, but it didn’t bother me at all. I got used to shutting out noise when I lived in NYC. And hearing children playing and laughing is a nice sound, anyway.
I caught up on my Bible study, took a mid-morning nap, worked on my Newsletter and got it sent out, after updating the distribution list, had tuna wraps for lunch, sent out emails and then had some leftovers for dinner. The kids left before 5pm. The Hulsey’s and Mary got back about 6pm. Mary is in her room watching a movie and I’m having my usual quiet evening in my room. (once the mosquitoes come out at dusk, I retire to my room)
It’s been such a nice day of just me talking with God and letting Him influence my thoughts. I need these types of days often. ☺
There’s been a lot on facebook to pray over lately. The father of one of the spring break team members passed away this morning. The father of a friend of mine is slipping away to Heaven slowly. It’s a hard time for loved ones to say goodbye, but I’m thankful that both families know that their loved one is going to be in Heaven with Jesus and that they are going to see them again!
Also, the Worship Pastor at my home church is in the hospital with what they think is viral meningitis. He’s in awful pain. I pray the doctors can figure it all out and can get him well soon. I pray that God will give him a quick, complete and miraculous healing.
I talked to Deanna tonight. I try to check in every Saturday so that she can report to her ABF class on Sunday mornings. She sounds good. She was glad to hear that I took a Vickie day and I am taking care of myself. She still has the extra dog that her son dropped off. I hope that she can find a home for it soon. It wears her out taking care of it and Deanna doesn’t need that extra physical and mental stress with her health problems. I’m praying that a home comes open soon. It was good to talk to Deanna. She is one of the sweetest ladies that I know and I’m blessed to have her care for me!
I guess I’ll watch my video and get ready for bed. I sure have enjoyed this day. Thank you God for special blessings like this.
Friday, March 30, 2012
A busy day today!
Carlos (Alberto’s son and the guy I buy Bibles from) came by early to talk about the Bibles for the women at ROSCC church. It takes months for shipments to come from the US, so I had to settle for a different Bible than what I gave to the ladies at La Quimera church. But they are nice Bibles and the ladies really liked them. We got our numbers all in order and I didn’t think that Carlos was charging me enough. He insisted it was right. After he got back to his store he realized he had figured the cost of the second choice Bible. He came all the way back here to tell me that he had it figured wrong. I think he was afraid that I would be upset and make him give me the Bible at the reduced price. I told him that I thought that it should cost more and that I understood and there was no problem. He was very much relieved.
Mayela, Lesly and I went to Arca de Noe Feeding Center to take pictures of the kids and to get their information so that we can make a sponsorship book. It was so fun to get the pics of the kids. There were 93. Whew! I drove the SUV and instead of telling me that I’m wreckless, they kept saying that I was too careful. We had a lot of laughs about that!
We got back and ate the lunch that was saved for us. Then we rested a little while and got ready to go to the ROSCC Bible Study.
Carlos brought the Bibles for the ladies and I got him paid up. I was so excited to bring the Bibles to the class.
Edwin, a taxi driver that I use a lot, came to get us and drop us off at the church. He carried the Bibles in for us. (he carries our stuff a lot, and that’s part of why I like calling on him) Each lady received her Bible as she came in. I wrote in the front that they were from VOH and the date. They said that they had been praying for the Bibles for a long time and that God is ever Faithful. They absolutely loved the large print! We were all so happy!
Bible study was very good and we had nice participation. I took a picture of the group holding up their Bibles. It was fun.
I got back home and had left-overs with Mary for dinner. Then I came to my room and watched an action movie. It was pretty good. Then it’s bedtime! I’m so blessed!
Carlos (Alberto’s son and the guy I buy Bibles from) came by early to talk about the Bibles for the women at ROSCC church. It takes months for shipments to come from the US, so I had to settle for a different Bible than what I gave to the ladies at La Quimera church. But they are nice Bibles and the ladies really liked them. We got our numbers all in order and I didn’t think that Carlos was charging me enough. He insisted it was right. After he got back to his store he realized he had figured the cost of the second choice Bible. He came all the way back here to tell me that he had it figured wrong. I think he was afraid that I would be upset and make him give me the Bible at the reduced price. I told him that I thought that it should cost more and that I understood and there was no problem. He was very much relieved.
Mayela, Lesly and I went to Arca de Noe Feeding Center to take pictures of the kids and to get their information so that we can make a sponsorship book. It was so fun to get the pics of the kids. There were 93. Whew! I drove the SUV and instead of telling me that I’m wreckless, they kept saying that I was too careful. We had a lot of laughs about that!
We got back and ate the lunch that was saved for us. Then we rested a little while and got ready to go to the ROSCC Bible Study.
Carlos brought the Bibles for the ladies and I got him paid up. I was so excited to bring the Bibles to the class.
Edwin, a taxi driver that I use a lot, came to get us and drop us off at the church. He carried the Bibles in for us. (he carries our stuff a lot, and that’s part of why I like calling on him) Each lady received her Bible as she came in. I wrote in the front that they were from VOH and the date. They said that they had been praying for the Bibles for a long time and that God is ever Faithful. They absolutely loved the large print! We were all so happy!
Bible study was very good and we had nice participation. I took a picture of the group holding up their Bibles. It was fun.
I got back home and had left-overs with Mary for dinner. Then I came to my room and watched an action movie. It was pretty good. Then it’s bedtime! I’m so blessed!
Thursday, March 29, 2012
Thursday, March 29, 2012
I woke up really early this morning and got my shower and dressed and was ready to face the day. Then I started feeling yucky about 7:30am and decided to lay back down for a little bit. I took a 30 minute nap and felt a little better. I loaded up on vitamins and as the day progressed, I got better. Don’t know what was the matter. Oh well…
Mary, Sherry and I went to the grocery store this morning. It was nice to get out. I picked up my usual weekly fare: milk, cereal, tortillas, soup and I got some lotion and sweet relish for change of pace. Haha. Lydia fixes a good lunch Mon-Fri and there are usually leftovers, so I don’t have to cook much at all for dinner.
Mayela and I worked on getting stuff ready for the sewing class for ROSCC ladies today. While pulling things together, we practiced my Spanish and her English. It was a great time together and very helpful. We laughed a lot, too. I really like her and I think we’ll be great friends, as well as co-workers.
There were 6 ladies who came to the sewing class. It was really good. They are doing so well. It was the 2nd class and they do not know how to sew. They are moving along very well. Of course, we have prayer before each class starts. We pray for clear minds and understanding. The ladies joke that they want to become professionals. I think they just might! We worked on hand sewing little drawstring bags today. They took some fabric and cord with them to make more at home. They call it homework, and had brought the Kleenex covers that they did for homework this past week. They did good jobs.
Manuel had school this afternoon and since he did really well, he got to ride home in Jorge’s taxi. He thinks he’s big stuff. He looks pretty handsome in his school uniform.
Things are hopping around here. Faster than we can keep up with sometimes! Pastor Marvin said that he was giving a large donation of fabric for the sewing classes. I can’t wait to see what it is like! I’m excited! Sherry is getting the guys to divide off part of the conference room to make a sewing room for our tables, machines and supplies! That will be cool!
Pacheco called me today to see when I would be coming back to help in English class. VOH has me pretty busy now, with going to the Feeding Centers 5 mornings a week and then teaching classes 3 afternoons a week. Our weekends have been pretty busy with road trips, too. I do miss going to help in English class. I hope God can get my schedule slowed down enough to do so.
Tomorrow, Mayela and I will be going to the Noah’s Ark Feeding Center to take pictures and get info on the kids there so that we can get sponsorships for the kids. It will be hot and crazy, but it will be fun, too. This is our 4th Feeding Center to be a part of. #5 should open up in a week or 2. Lots of kids being fed and many, many more to be fed when we can open more Feeding Centers. God is providing!
Tomorrow afternoon is the Women’s Bible study for ROSCC church. I should have their Bibles soon. They will be so excited!
Well, time to get off of here and get more work done before bedtime. Time flies by so fast!
Mary, Sherry and I went to the grocery store this morning. It was nice to get out. I picked up my usual weekly fare: milk, cereal, tortillas, soup and I got some lotion and sweet relish for change of pace. Haha. Lydia fixes a good lunch Mon-Fri and there are usually leftovers, so I don’t have to cook much at all for dinner.
Mayela and I worked on getting stuff ready for the sewing class for ROSCC ladies today. While pulling things together, we practiced my Spanish and her English. It was a great time together and very helpful. We laughed a lot, too. I really like her and I think we’ll be great friends, as well as co-workers.
There were 6 ladies who came to the sewing class. It was really good. They are doing so well. It was the 2nd class and they do not know how to sew. They are moving along very well. Of course, we have prayer before each class starts. We pray for clear minds and understanding. The ladies joke that they want to become professionals. I think they just might! We worked on hand sewing little drawstring bags today. They took some fabric and cord with them to make more at home. They call it homework, and had brought the Kleenex covers that they did for homework this past week. They did good jobs.
Manuel had school this afternoon and since he did really well, he got to ride home in Jorge’s taxi. He thinks he’s big stuff. He looks pretty handsome in his school uniform.
Things are hopping around here. Faster than we can keep up with sometimes! Pastor Marvin said that he was giving a large donation of fabric for the sewing classes. I can’t wait to see what it is like! I’m excited! Sherry is getting the guys to divide off part of the conference room to make a sewing room for our tables, machines and supplies! That will be cool!
Pacheco called me today to see when I would be coming back to help in English class. VOH has me pretty busy now, with going to the Feeding Centers 5 mornings a week and then teaching classes 3 afternoons a week. Our weekends have been pretty busy with road trips, too. I do miss going to help in English class. I hope God can get my schedule slowed down enough to do so.
Tomorrow, Mayela and I will be going to the Noah’s Ark Feeding Center to take pictures and get info on the kids there so that we can get sponsorships for the kids. It will be hot and crazy, but it will be fun, too. This is our 4th Feeding Center to be a part of. #5 should open up in a week or 2. Lots of kids being fed and many, many more to be fed when we can open more Feeding Centers. God is providing!
Tomorrow afternoon is the Women’s Bible study for ROSCC church. I should have their Bibles soon. They will be so excited!
Well, time to get off of here and get more work done before bedtime. Time flies by so fast!
Wednesday, March 28, 2012
Wednesday, March 28, 2012
Was going to go walk this morning, but it’s too stinking hot even at 7am. I got some things done in my room instead. If I work in my room early morning and late evenings, it’s not quite so hot. Also, I turn my AC on in the evenings, although I keep the room in the 80s, but it helps.
This morning, Mary, Lesly and I went to La Curasau to pick up 5 sewing machines that we ordered on special for the Sewing classes. We are so excited! Edwin, the driver (and friend of Lesly’s family) is always wonderful about helping us to carry things. He’s the best!
We got back home and Sherry was getting a massage from Mayela. Manuel was keeping us occupied. I got started on computer work right away, since it’s backing up on me. We had lunch and then I came back to the computer until I was too brain stretched to continue. I opted to take a nap. Sherry, Manuel, Mayela and Lelsy left mid-afternoon. Buster dozed on my rug for a while. Mary studied and relaxed a little bit. It’s so hot that you just don’t have a lot of energy. It makes me feel like a slug though.
I’m excited about the things going on with the ministry. There is so much to keep up with. I’m thrilled to be a part of it all.
I’ve found that NO ONE in Nicaragua seems to carry the ink cartridges for my printer. I’ve always brought some down with me, but this time I got the wrong number. We’ve looked everywhere for cartridges. What a bummer. Mike bought a printer/scanner/copier/fax machine for the office, so I guess I can just use it, but it’s so handy to have my printer right here in my room. Ok, I need to suck it up and quit complaining!!!
Mayela is looking forward to translating for my sewing class tomorrow and then we have Bible study on Friday. She will translate for me on Wed, Thur and Fri for all my classes. She will translate for Mary on Mon and Tues. She will also work with me 3 days a week visiting the 6 Feeding Centers that we are in charge of. This will keep us hopping. I really like Mayela and I think we will work very well together! What a nice addition to the VOH family!
Well, better get back to work for now. I’m trying to pull together info to complete my website vickiecline.com. It’s hard for me to pull all the pieces together. Too much floating around in my head. But I’ll get it a little bit at a time. My friend JP is helping me from the states, but I have to get the info to him to put on the site. I’ll chug away a little more at a time.
Then it’s movie time. I’m so spoiled! I love my life!
This morning, Mary, Lesly and I went to La Curasau to pick up 5 sewing machines that we ordered on special for the Sewing classes. We are so excited! Edwin, the driver (and friend of Lesly’s family) is always wonderful about helping us to carry things. He’s the best!
We got back home and Sherry was getting a massage from Mayela. Manuel was keeping us occupied. I got started on computer work right away, since it’s backing up on me. We had lunch and then I came back to the computer until I was too brain stretched to continue. I opted to take a nap. Sherry, Manuel, Mayela and Lelsy left mid-afternoon. Buster dozed on my rug for a while. Mary studied and relaxed a little bit. It’s so hot that you just don’t have a lot of energy. It makes me feel like a slug though.
I’m excited about the things going on with the ministry. There is so much to keep up with. I’m thrilled to be a part of it all.
I’ve found that NO ONE in Nicaragua seems to carry the ink cartridges for my printer. I’ve always brought some down with me, but this time I got the wrong number. We’ve looked everywhere for cartridges. What a bummer. Mike bought a printer/scanner/copier/fax machine for the office, so I guess I can just use it, but it’s so handy to have my printer right here in my room. Ok, I need to suck it up and quit complaining!!!
Mayela is looking forward to translating for my sewing class tomorrow and then we have Bible study on Friday. She will translate for me on Wed, Thur and Fri for all my classes. She will translate for Mary on Mon and Tues. She will also work with me 3 days a week visiting the 6 Feeding Centers that we are in charge of. This will keep us hopping. I really like Mayela and I think we will work very well together! What a nice addition to the VOH family!
Well, better get back to work for now. I’m trying to pull together info to complete my website vickiecline.com. It’s hard for me to pull all the pieces together. Too much floating around in my head. But I’ll get it a little bit at a time. My friend JP is helping me from the states, but I have to get the info to him to put on the site. I’ll chug away a little more at a time.
Then it’s movie time. I’m so spoiled! I love my life!
Tuesday, March 27, 2012
Got up early this morning and prepared for the day. Meeting with a Pastor in Guatalupe to coordinate adding their feeding center to our organization. That makes 4 and a 5th will start in a week or two. I’ll be working with Mayela to oversee the process of the first 6 Feeding Centers we get going. Mary and a to-be-determined person will oversee the next 6. So exciting to see so many kids being fed! God is really blessing His work here!
After our meeting, Mike and German met with Brian, who will be the new Pastor at La Quimera church. Yay! He was so excited to know that we already have a Sunday School going on, as well as my Bible Study, Mary’s Evangelism class and Mary’s sewing class already going on. He has been associated with VOH before and God sent him to us right when we were looking for the right person to take over the Pastorate at LQ. God’s man in God’s time! Sunday night will be his first service and we’re excited to get to be there!
Mid-morning, Mary, Lesly, Mayela and I went to town. I drove the SUV. No incidents! We went to get my haircut first. The lady trimmed it, thinned it, which made me happy. Then when she got out her straight razor I knew I was in the right place. She cut it just like I wanted. I’m soooo happy! Also, it only cost 70 córdabas, but I gave her 80. That’s still under $3.50 US money for a haircut! I’m very happy!!
After the haircut, we went to a few stores looking for some items that Mike gave us a list to pick up. I also got a cushy ‘sleeve’ to put my computer in to keep the dust out and to protect it when it’s not in my laptop bag. I am very happy with it.
We headed back to the Mission House just in time to hand the car over to Mike and German, who had errands to run. We had chicken stir-fry for lunch and then Lesly and I headed back out via taxi for more errands.
The roads were interesting today because ‘la ruta’, the little trucks with tarps and benches in the back that are used for city buses are on strike today. It’s because people were boycotting them last week due to a rate hike. It did make the driving easier for me today, though! The taxi drivers loved it, too, since they got more business.
Lesly and I trooped along and got the items on our list and were trudging down the streets carrying four 6’ roller shades plus a tall laundry basket with all our other purchases. It was extremely hot and we were having trouble getting a taxi, since they were in such high demand. Lesly suggested that we go to get some ice cream while we waited for a friend who drives a taxi to come and get us. What a great idea! Edwin picked us up and we stuck everything in the little taxi, which the roller shades sticking out the window and drove home. I was very tired and sweaty, but we had a good, productive day.
Manuel stayed for dinner with Mary and I tonight so that Mike and Sherry could have a little time to their selves. I swam with Manuel for a little bit while Mary soaked her feet in the pool. Then we ate leftovers and such and then Manuel serenaded us. Pretty soon we got a call from Sherry that the taxi was on its way to pick up Manuel. He feels like big stuff getting to ride all by himself, but the driver is our friend Jorge, so it’s totally safe.
Mike and Sherry asked me to set up a facebook page for Manuel today because he is always getting on their pages and sending messages to people. It can be embarrassing sometimes, since the messages look like they are coming from them. Haha Manuel is very happy with his own page. But he thinks that people should be on the computer and writing to him all the time. He also would like a skype account, but that’s not going to happen any time soon!
Mary said that the sewing class went very well. We’re excited to see the LQ women again! I love all the relationships we get to have with all the ladies down here!
This evening I called my friend Carol in NYC. She has some major health issues right now and we keep missing each other on facebook, so I decided to call her. She was so thrilled that I would call from Nica. It was nice to hear her voice.
Well, time for me to watch my video and then hit the bed. I’m good and tired and very happy. I’m so thankful for God’s provision for me. I love the life He lets me live.
After our meeting, Mike and German met with Brian, who will be the new Pastor at La Quimera church. Yay! He was so excited to know that we already have a Sunday School going on, as well as my Bible Study, Mary’s Evangelism class and Mary’s sewing class already going on. He has been associated with VOH before and God sent him to us right when we were looking for the right person to take over the Pastorate at LQ. God’s man in God’s time! Sunday night will be his first service and we’re excited to get to be there!
Mid-morning, Mary, Lesly, Mayela and I went to town. I drove the SUV. No incidents! We went to get my haircut first. The lady trimmed it, thinned it, which made me happy. Then when she got out her straight razor I knew I was in the right place. She cut it just like I wanted. I’m soooo happy! Also, it only cost 70 córdabas, but I gave her 80. That’s still under $3.50 US money for a haircut! I’m very happy!!
After the haircut, we went to a few stores looking for some items that Mike gave us a list to pick up. I also got a cushy ‘sleeve’ to put my computer in to keep the dust out and to protect it when it’s not in my laptop bag. I am very happy with it.
We headed back to the Mission House just in time to hand the car over to Mike and German, who had errands to run. We had chicken stir-fry for lunch and then Lesly and I headed back out via taxi for more errands.
The roads were interesting today because ‘la ruta’, the little trucks with tarps and benches in the back that are used for city buses are on strike today. It’s because people were boycotting them last week due to a rate hike. It did make the driving easier for me today, though! The taxi drivers loved it, too, since they got more business.
Lesly and I trooped along and got the items on our list and were trudging down the streets carrying four 6’ roller shades plus a tall laundry basket with all our other purchases. It was extremely hot and we were having trouble getting a taxi, since they were in such high demand. Lesly suggested that we go to get some ice cream while we waited for a friend who drives a taxi to come and get us. What a great idea! Edwin picked us up and we stuck everything in the little taxi, which the roller shades sticking out the window and drove home. I was very tired and sweaty, but we had a good, productive day.
Manuel stayed for dinner with Mary and I tonight so that Mike and Sherry could have a little time to their selves. I swam with Manuel for a little bit while Mary soaked her feet in the pool. Then we ate leftovers and such and then Manuel serenaded us. Pretty soon we got a call from Sherry that the taxi was on its way to pick up Manuel. He feels like big stuff getting to ride all by himself, but the driver is our friend Jorge, so it’s totally safe.
Mike and Sherry asked me to set up a facebook page for Manuel today because he is always getting on their pages and sending messages to people. It can be embarrassing sometimes, since the messages look like they are coming from them. Haha Manuel is very happy with his own page. But he thinks that people should be on the computer and writing to him all the time. He also would like a skype account, but that’s not going to happen any time soon!
Mary said that the sewing class went very well. We’re excited to see the LQ women again! I love all the relationships we get to have with all the ladies down here!
This evening I called my friend Carol in NYC. She has some major health issues right now and we keep missing each other on facebook, so I decided to call her. She was so thrilled that I would call from Nica. It was nice to hear her voice.
Well, time for me to watch my video and then hit the bed. I’m good and tired and very happy. I’m so thankful for God’s provision for me. I love the life He lets me live.
Monday, March 26, 2012
Ok, so I had a very easy day today and I’m still very tired tonight. I think it’s the heat. But it makes me feel like I’m lazy!
I slept well last night and woke up early. Bible study and quiet time, then breakfast and shower. About the time I’m ready to get on the computer for a few hours of work, the electricity goes out. Okie dokie.
I worked on the Women’s Bible study for a couple of hours and am very much ahead of schedule for that. I kept thinking that I would do some stuff in my room, but it was way too hot and sticky without the fans blowing. So I sat under the rancho and talked with Mary about upcoming sewing classes and such.
Since we have a propane powered stove, we still had a great lunch of taco salad. There was a couple of meetings here off and on during the day. Mike and German were in and out doing business.
Manuel wanted to hunt Easter eggs again, so I grabbed a bag and set out to hide them. I didn’t realize that there were 42 eggs until we started looking for the ones that Manuel missed picking up. We had 20. After confirming the number of missing ones by looking at the package, we set out to find the rest. Mary said I am a good egg hider, but I really didn’t try to make it too difficult. We only looked once and after we found all 42, Mary and I gave up. Manuel filled the eggs with candy and hid them again. It was too hot to be out there looking for them, so Mary and I wimped out. Manuel got Alberto to look for them. It was funny to see Alberto walking around the property with a bag picking up eggs.
Manuel was later playing with a soccer ball and tripped over it. He ended up landing on it on his stomach. He was crying and we went to see what was wrong. He was holding his stomach and said he broke his knuckle. I assured him that his knuckle is not in his stomach. He said it was a broken bone. I told him the only thing I felt in that spot was the taco salad he had for lunch. He got over it pretty quick.
Manuel had school for a couple of hours and did really well. He got a ‘very good boy’ sticker today. He always looks so good in his school uniform. He put it on himself today and it only took about 45 minutes! ☺
Mayela is now working for us full time. She will work with me to oversee 6 Feeding Centers and also translate Bible Study and Sewing Classes for me and Mary. She will be a very busy girl! It’s good to have her come on board with us! She is so excited to learn how to sew and do crafts. We will have a great time together.
Mary got a new air conditioner. It’s a floor type, but Saturnino built a shelf to put it up towards the ceiling. It will vent out of the old wall unit hole. I know she will really enjoy it tonight! I’m glad for her to get a good air conditioner.
Tomorrow we will have a meeting in the morning about Feeding Centers and then Mary, Lesly and I will go to town to pick up a few items and to get my hair cut. Mary is going to check out the haircutting place and see if she wants to go back and get hers cut, too.
Then Mary has Sewing class for the ladies of La Quimera in the afternoon. I may head to Pacheco’s school to help with English, or I may do some sewing myself.
There are some patterns for aprons and bags that I want to try out. Now that my room is about 90% organized, I feel free to have fun sewing a little.
I really need to get out my newsletter. That is a priority for the week. It’s going to be a busy week, but I’ll make it happen. I owe my supporters and prayer partners regular updates.
It seems like I’ve been here more than 4 weeks. There’s so many wonderful things going on. God is blessing the ministry big time with opportunities to serve. We are doing our best to keep up and be obedient. It’s crazy, but so much fun!
I have been praying for some friends who are going through some tough health problems lately. I wish I could be there to give them hugs. I know God will hug them for me.
Time to settle in for the night so I’ll have the energy to get a lot done tomorrow.
So blessed to live this life!!
I slept well last night and woke up early. Bible study and quiet time, then breakfast and shower. About the time I’m ready to get on the computer for a few hours of work, the electricity goes out. Okie dokie.
I worked on the Women’s Bible study for a couple of hours and am very much ahead of schedule for that. I kept thinking that I would do some stuff in my room, but it was way too hot and sticky without the fans blowing. So I sat under the rancho and talked with Mary about upcoming sewing classes and such.
Since we have a propane powered stove, we still had a great lunch of taco salad. There was a couple of meetings here off and on during the day. Mike and German were in and out doing business.
Manuel wanted to hunt Easter eggs again, so I grabbed a bag and set out to hide them. I didn’t realize that there were 42 eggs until we started looking for the ones that Manuel missed picking up. We had 20. After confirming the number of missing ones by looking at the package, we set out to find the rest. Mary said I am a good egg hider, but I really didn’t try to make it too difficult. We only looked once and after we found all 42, Mary and I gave up. Manuel filled the eggs with candy and hid them again. It was too hot to be out there looking for them, so Mary and I wimped out. Manuel got Alberto to look for them. It was funny to see Alberto walking around the property with a bag picking up eggs.
Manuel was later playing with a soccer ball and tripped over it. He ended up landing on it on his stomach. He was crying and we went to see what was wrong. He was holding his stomach and said he broke his knuckle. I assured him that his knuckle is not in his stomach. He said it was a broken bone. I told him the only thing I felt in that spot was the taco salad he had for lunch. He got over it pretty quick.
Manuel had school for a couple of hours and did really well. He got a ‘very good boy’ sticker today. He always looks so good in his school uniform. He put it on himself today and it only took about 45 minutes! ☺
Mayela is now working for us full time. She will work with me to oversee 6 Feeding Centers and also translate Bible Study and Sewing Classes for me and Mary. She will be a very busy girl! It’s good to have her come on board with us! She is so excited to learn how to sew and do crafts. We will have a great time together.
Mary got a new air conditioner. It’s a floor type, but Saturnino built a shelf to put it up towards the ceiling. It will vent out of the old wall unit hole. I know she will really enjoy it tonight! I’m glad for her to get a good air conditioner.
Tomorrow we will have a meeting in the morning about Feeding Centers and then Mary, Lesly and I will go to town to pick up a few items and to get my hair cut. Mary is going to check out the haircutting place and see if she wants to go back and get hers cut, too.
Then Mary has Sewing class for the ladies of La Quimera in the afternoon. I may head to Pacheco’s school to help with English, or I may do some sewing myself.
There are some patterns for aprons and bags that I want to try out. Now that my room is about 90% organized, I feel free to have fun sewing a little.
I really need to get out my newsletter. That is a priority for the week. It’s going to be a busy week, but I’ll make it happen. I owe my supporters and prayer partners regular updates.
It seems like I’ve been here more than 4 weeks. There’s so many wonderful things going on. God is blessing the ministry big time with opportunities to serve. We are doing our best to keep up and be obedient. It’s crazy, but so much fun!
I have been praying for some friends who are going through some tough health problems lately. I wish I could be there to give them hugs. I know God will hug them for me.
Time to settle in for the night so I’ll have the energy to get a lot done tomorrow.
So blessed to live this life!!
Sunday, March 25, 2012
We had a quiet day, still recouping from the week with the team and the weekend of getting the place put back together.
Sherry started cooking as soon as she got here. We had the VOH fulltime workers and their families over for a dinner and Easter egg hunt. The place is booked up on the weekends until Easter, so we had it early.
Great food and fun. We stuffed over 300 Easter eggs with prizes, candy and such and then hid them for everyone (including adults) to find. It was really a fun afternoon.
I put some videos and pictures on my facebook page of all the festivities. Egg hunting, raw egg toss, egg in a spoon relay race… All this was new to the people here, of course, since it’s a US kind of thing. You could tell by their faces sometimes that they were wondering what was going on and why. But it was fun.
Easter here, which they mostly call Holy Week, is a very religious holiday. Lots of parades and celebrations and ceremony. They draw pictures on some of the streets and some are very elaborate. Everyone takes off work and school for Holy Week. People start going to the beach, even though most don’t swim. It’s just something different to do.
I’ve been here for Holy Week before, but not for the actual Easter Sunday. This will be interesting.
I can’t imagine being anywhere else. I love getting to experience the holidays and traditions of my new homeland.
God has blessed me so much with allowing me to live in different places and cultures. I know I haven’t been around the world much at all, but living in the Mid-west and South in the US and then in NYC (which is in the US, but seems like a different world) and now living in Nicaragua has been such blessings to me. I’m thankful for every minute, even the tough ones! God is ever faithful!
Sherry started cooking as soon as she got here. We had the VOH fulltime workers and their families over for a dinner and Easter egg hunt. The place is booked up on the weekends until Easter, so we had it early.
Great food and fun. We stuffed over 300 Easter eggs with prizes, candy and such and then hid them for everyone (including adults) to find. It was really a fun afternoon.
I put some videos and pictures on my facebook page of all the festivities. Egg hunting, raw egg toss, egg in a spoon relay race… All this was new to the people here, of course, since it’s a US kind of thing. You could tell by their faces sometimes that they were wondering what was going on and why. But it was fun.
Easter here, which they mostly call Holy Week, is a very religious holiday. Lots of parades and celebrations and ceremony. They draw pictures on some of the streets and some are very elaborate. Everyone takes off work and school for Holy Week. People start going to the beach, even though most don’t swim. It’s just something different to do.
I’ve been here for Holy Week before, but not for the actual Easter Sunday. This will be interesting.
I can’t imagine being anywhere else. I love getting to experience the holidays and traditions of my new homeland.
God has blessed me so much with allowing me to live in different places and cultures. I know I haven’t been around the world much at all, but living in the Mid-west and South in the US and then in NYC (which is in the US, but seems like a different world) and now living in Nicaragua has been such blessings to me. I’m thankful for every minute, even the tough ones! God is ever faithful!
Sunday, March 25, 2012
Saturday, March 24, 2012
Technically, the day began at 2:30am when I got up to see the teams off to the airport at 3. But I went back to bed and slept in until 8am. What a blessing!
I got a quick load of laundry done before the cleaning ladies started washing the 28 sets of sheets and dozens of towels. I started working on my room. I have many goodies that the team from Rogers brought down for me, and I began the task of getting things put away. Of course, it takes some organization to fit things into my room, so I spent hours today working on that. I was planning for a nap, but my room was in such a mess by mid-afternoon, that I couldn’t find a spot on the bed to nap. ☺ So I just kept right on working.
Sherry made a salad with really yummy leaf lettuce that she found at the grocery store. It was so good! Lettuce here isn’t all that great and leaf lettuce is a special treat. Mike picked up some nacatamales for our lunch. Mary doesn’t care for them and Mike can’t stand them. Sherry was full from breakfast and didn’t eat. Manuel and I enjoyed ours and the workers enjoyed the special treat, too.
We (mostly Sherry and Mary with a little help from Manuel) filled 300 Easter eggs today for the dinner and Easter egg hunt for the workers families tomorrow. They don’t do the Easter Bunny and eggs and candy here, so it will be fun to see them go after those eggs!
Sherry is going to cook lasagna and salad and bread. She’s also going to make some different kinds of sweets. It will be a fun time.
Mary’s air conditioner died and she has been suffering with the heat. Mike picked up a floor type unit today. It needs to be vented to the outside, so she will get to use it on Monday after Saturnino rigs it up. I know she is looking forward to it. I sure am thankful for my new AC unit that I bought last October. It’s such a blessing to sleep in a cool room.
I’ve been reflecting on the past week and how much God blessed us with 2 great teams to work with and with a great ministry opportunity here in Nica. I’m so thankful for all God allows me to be a part of. He is opening doors here in Nica faster than we can walk through them. We are very thankful and happy to do His work here.
I called Deanna tonight. I try to call her on Saturday nights so that she can report to her Sunday school class on Sunday morning. She had some health problems last week, but she is doing really well. I miss her and am glad that I can call her often.
I think I’m going to cut this short and relax a little. I’m counting my blessings for sure tonight.
I got a quick load of laundry done before the cleaning ladies started washing the 28 sets of sheets and dozens of towels. I started working on my room. I have many goodies that the team from Rogers brought down for me, and I began the task of getting things put away. Of course, it takes some organization to fit things into my room, so I spent hours today working on that. I was planning for a nap, but my room was in such a mess by mid-afternoon, that I couldn’t find a spot on the bed to nap. ☺ So I just kept right on working.
Sherry made a salad with really yummy leaf lettuce that she found at the grocery store. It was so good! Lettuce here isn’t all that great and leaf lettuce is a special treat. Mike picked up some nacatamales for our lunch. Mary doesn’t care for them and Mike can’t stand them. Sherry was full from breakfast and didn’t eat. Manuel and I enjoyed ours and the workers enjoyed the special treat, too.
We (mostly Sherry and Mary with a little help from Manuel) filled 300 Easter eggs today for the dinner and Easter egg hunt for the workers families tomorrow. They don’t do the Easter Bunny and eggs and candy here, so it will be fun to see them go after those eggs!
Sherry is going to cook lasagna and salad and bread. She’s also going to make some different kinds of sweets. It will be a fun time.
Mary’s air conditioner died and she has been suffering with the heat. Mike picked up a floor type unit today. It needs to be vented to the outside, so she will get to use it on Monday after Saturnino rigs it up. I know she is looking forward to it. I sure am thankful for my new AC unit that I bought last October. It’s such a blessing to sleep in a cool room.
I’ve been reflecting on the past week and how much God blessed us with 2 great teams to work with and with a great ministry opportunity here in Nica. I’m so thankful for all God allows me to be a part of. He is opening doors here in Nica faster than we can walk through them. We are very thankful and happy to do His work here.
I called Deanna tonight. I try to call her on Saturday nights so that she can report to her Sunday school class on Sunday morning. She had some health problems last week, but she is doing really well. I miss her and am glad that I can call her often.
I think I’m going to cut this short and relax a little. I’m counting my blessings for sure tonight.
Friday, March 23, 2012
Up early to see the team off for Fun Day. They left at 7am for the 3 hour drive to the Canopy Tour (zipline) in Masaya. They were sleepy when they left and I think more than a few would be snoozing on the ride over.
After the zipline, they went to lunch at one of our favorite restaurants. Then they headed to Catarina for some shopping. They stopped at the National Park to see the Mombacho volcano. After dinner of pizza, they headed back and arrived home about 8:30pm. It was a long day for them, but they had a good time.
While the team was gone having fun, I grabbed a quick nap, which I very much needed and appreciated! Lesly and Jaasiel worked on sorting all the stuff that was stored in the office/storage room as well as the stuff the teams had brought down. We gave some clothing to the workers and then the rest was packed into old suitcases and taken to give away at Monte Horeb (Sewer Pond). Everything looks so nice and tidy now. Sherry grabbed some time in the pool while the team was gone and Mary did a little laundry and relaxed a little bit.
Estafanie came to the Mission House about 3pm to go over the material for the Bible Study we would do at ROSCC at 5pm. She did very well. The ladies liked her a lot, even though they miss seeing Lesly. The Bible Study was good and the ladies enjoyed it. They said they like the format of having handouts and homework (scripture to memorize). I’m always so blessed to be with those ladies.
About 9pm, the team gathered for a last meeting with Mike. We appreciate them coming to work with us. We can’t do what God is calling the ministry to do without teams of workers coming. We are thankful for every single person who comes to Nica to work with us.
Most everyone packed their stuff, staged their suitcases to be loaded onto the vans and then showered and relaxed (if not sleep) so they would be ready for the 2:30am wakeup call.
I slept very well knowing that I would get to go back to bed after the team leaves at 3am. And I really enjoyed the evening of talking with Cathy while she used my computer for some last minute facebook updates and emails. I will miss her greatly and I’m so glad that she got to come down. How awesome is our God!
After the zipline, they went to lunch at one of our favorite restaurants. Then they headed to Catarina for some shopping. They stopped at the National Park to see the Mombacho volcano. After dinner of pizza, they headed back and arrived home about 8:30pm. It was a long day for them, but they had a good time.
While the team was gone having fun, I grabbed a quick nap, which I very much needed and appreciated! Lesly and Jaasiel worked on sorting all the stuff that was stored in the office/storage room as well as the stuff the teams had brought down. We gave some clothing to the workers and then the rest was packed into old suitcases and taken to give away at Monte Horeb (Sewer Pond). Everything looks so nice and tidy now. Sherry grabbed some time in the pool while the team was gone and Mary did a little laundry and relaxed a little bit.
Estafanie came to the Mission House about 3pm to go over the material for the Bible Study we would do at ROSCC at 5pm. She did very well. The ladies liked her a lot, even though they miss seeing Lesly. The Bible Study was good and the ladies enjoyed it. They said they like the format of having handouts and homework (scripture to memorize). I’m always so blessed to be with those ladies.
About 9pm, the team gathered for a last meeting with Mike. We appreciate them coming to work with us. We can’t do what God is calling the ministry to do without teams of workers coming. We are thankful for every single person who comes to Nica to work with us.
Most everyone packed their stuff, staged their suitcases to be loaded onto the vans and then showered and relaxed (if not sleep) so they would be ready for the 2:30am wakeup call.
I slept very well knowing that I would get to go back to bed after the team leaves at 3am. And I really enjoyed the evening of talking with Cathy while she used my computer for some last minute facebook updates and emails. I will miss her greatly and I’m so glad that she got to come down. How awesome is our God!
Thursday, March 22, 2012
I got to take the day off from the Feeding Center at Las Quimeras this morning and take 4 women with me to help cook at the ROSCC Feeding Center. Cathy and Elisa from FBCR went, along with Whitney and Margaret from FBCY. We had a very good time.
Eddie (not sure if I have his name right) is a lay leader at the church. He lives there in a little room and takes care of the place. He oversees the Feeding Center, too. Damaris and Sylvia were there to show us how to cook the food. Eddie took us ladies on a walking tour of the Country Club neighborhood. The homes that have been there for 10 years are 1-2 rooms and made of cement block or stucco. They have electric that runs to them. There is no running water, but they get to collect water from a nice well that was provided by Living Water International.
There are also houses that have been there between 1 month and 1 year are made of tin or plastic or cardboard, and have another well. There are three ‘streets’ to the neighborhood. No one drives on them and they are just dirt lanes. There is an older well near a tree that the ladies use to wash their clothes at. It has a cement ‘sink’ & washboard for them to use. Then they hang their clothes on the tree until they are through washing. Then they take them home to hang around to dry. Margaret asked if she could do a little of the washing for the lady there, and was very happily accommodated!
We also got to stop at the preschool building that was in the neighborhood. It was 2-3 rooms. I recognized the teachers from the church and Bible study. We took pictures with the kids. It was a great excursion for us.
We helped fix the lunch, which consisted of boiled chicken (pulled from the bone and shredded and then the bones were cut up and added back in), spaghetti and tomato sauce. Rice was the side dish. Avena (oatmeal) is the drink. (they don’t eat it here, they drink it). It’s soaked in lots of water and LOTS of sugar is added. Everyone loves it. Cathy was a part-time caterer and really enjoyed getting to cook over the open fire. Whitney and Margaret played and sang with the kids while the food was cooking. I was trying my hand at translating and we all had lots of laughs and a good time.
We helped ladle up the food. The team came and helped serve the food to the kids. There is a process at each Feeding Center and we (teams) usually mess up the flow when we ‘help’, but the workers are gracious to allow us to be a part of it.
We all came back to the Mission House for our lunch. Some of the team swam in the pool, some napped and others traveled out to the beach for a few hours. Everyone was having a nice, relaxing afternoon.
Cathy and Tori went with me and Estefanie to the first Sewing Class at ROSCC. 6 ladies came (we were expecting 12, but there was confusion about transportation boycott of the buses and whether we could move the class to the church). Anyway, the 6 that came were a hoot! We had so much fun! They are learning the basics and made Kleenex packet covers. They were very proud and wanted their picture made holding their projects. Tori is a youth and doesn’t know how to sew, but does knit and wanted to come along to see the class. She demonstrated how to knit. I told the ladies when I learn how to do it, we’ll have a class on that, too. It was a wonderful afternoon.
Something funny… I was handed the keys to drive the car (little SUV) to class. My reputation for backing into the tree is still going strong. So everyone laughed as we left. On the way back to the hotel, I veered to the right to miss the speedbumps on one side (as all vehicles do down here) and Cathy thought I was going off the road. She’s never been afraid of my driving before, so maybe the joke of me hitting the tree is more powerful than I thought.
This was also Estafanie’s first time to translate. She is a student of Pacheco’s English Academy. She is so sweet and I was happy to give her a chance to experience working as a translator. She came early to learn some sewing terms. She did a very good job. The ladies liked her and I was very pleased with her work. Yay Estafanie!
We split into 2 groups for church again. The church I went to was Todopoderosa church, which I love. My ‘son’ Jeremy is an associate Pastor and worship leader there. His dad is the Sr Pastor. I love the people there. It was a Youth service and the music was lively and loud. Our group enjoyed it very much. Elisa and Cathy shared their testimonies and Katie (a Senior on the FBCR team) gave a very good message. It was a good night.
The team was given their instructions for Fun Day on Friday. We took their food orders for the restaurant, so it could be called in ahead of time. Everyone was ready for bed and happy that the ministry was successful.
There were a total of 432 salvations for the week. A lot of construction was done and hundreds of kids fed at the Feeding Centers. God was glorified in many ways.
We are so blessed to be able to serve here and have teams come to work with us.
Eddie (not sure if I have his name right) is a lay leader at the church. He lives there in a little room and takes care of the place. He oversees the Feeding Center, too. Damaris and Sylvia were there to show us how to cook the food. Eddie took us ladies on a walking tour of the Country Club neighborhood. The homes that have been there for 10 years are 1-2 rooms and made of cement block or stucco. They have electric that runs to them. There is no running water, but they get to collect water from a nice well that was provided by Living Water International.
There are also houses that have been there between 1 month and 1 year are made of tin or plastic or cardboard, and have another well. There are three ‘streets’ to the neighborhood. No one drives on them and they are just dirt lanes. There is an older well near a tree that the ladies use to wash their clothes at. It has a cement ‘sink’ & washboard for them to use. Then they hang their clothes on the tree until they are through washing. Then they take them home to hang around to dry. Margaret asked if she could do a little of the washing for the lady there, and was very happily accommodated!
We also got to stop at the preschool building that was in the neighborhood. It was 2-3 rooms. I recognized the teachers from the church and Bible study. We took pictures with the kids. It was a great excursion for us.
We helped fix the lunch, which consisted of boiled chicken (pulled from the bone and shredded and then the bones were cut up and added back in), spaghetti and tomato sauce. Rice was the side dish. Avena (oatmeal) is the drink. (they don’t eat it here, they drink it). It’s soaked in lots of water and LOTS of sugar is added. Everyone loves it. Cathy was a part-time caterer and really enjoyed getting to cook over the open fire. Whitney and Margaret played and sang with the kids while the food was cooking. I was trying my hand at translating and we all had lots of laughs and a good time.
We helped ladle up the food. The team came and helped serve the food to the kids. There is a process at each Feeding Center and we (teams) usually mess up the flow when we ‘help’, but the workers are gracious to allow us to be a part of it.
We all came back to the Mission House for our lunch. Some of the team swam in the pool, some napped and others traveled out to the beach for a few hours. Everyone was having a nice, relaxing afternoon.
Cathy and Tori went with me and Estefanie to the first Sewing Class at ROSCC. 6 ladies came (we were expecting 12, but there was confusion about transportation boycott of the buses and whether we could move the class to the church). Anyway, the 6 that came were a hoot! We had so much fun! They are learning the basics and made Kleenex packet covers. They were very proud and wanted their picture made holding their projects. Tori is a youth and doesn’t know how to sew, but does knit and wanted to come along to see the class. She demonstrated how to knit. I told the ladies when I learn how to do it, we’ll have a class on that, too. It was a wonderful afternoon.
Something funny… I was handed the keys to drive the car (little SUV) to class. My reputation for backing into the tree is still going strong. So everyone laughed as we left. On the way back to the hotel, I veered to the right to miss the speedbumps on one side (as all vehicles do down here) and Cathy thought I was going off the road. She’s never been afraid of my driving before, so maybe the joke of me hitting the tree is more powerful than I thought.
This was also Estafanie’s first time to translate. She is a student of Pacheco’s English Academy. She is so sweet and I was happy to give her a chance to experience working as a translator. She came early to learn some sewing terms. She did a very good job. The ladies liked her and I was very pleased with her work. Yay Estafanie!
We split into 2 groups for church again. The church I went to was Todopoderosa church, which I love. My ‘son’ Jeremy is an associate Pastor and worship leader there. His dad is the Sr Pastor. I love the people there. It was a Youth service and the music was lively and loud. Our group enjoyed it very much. Elisa and Cathy shared their testimonies and Katie (a Senior on the FBCR team) gave a very good message. It was a good night.
The team was given their instructions for Fun Day on Friday. We took their food orders for the restaurant, so it could be called in ahead of time. Everyone was ready for bed and happy that the ministry was successful.
There were a total of 432 salvations for the week. A lot of construction was done and hundreds of kids fed at the Feeding Centers. God was glorified in many ways.
We are so blessed to be able to serve here and have teams come to work with us.
Wednesday, March 21, 2012
I’m actually typing this on Sunday, trying to remember what happened on Wednesday! It got so busy with the teams and all, that I didn’t have time to write each night.
Since these 2 teams were near and dear to me (Nate and Whitney from Yukon, and FBCR is my home church) I spent more time interacting with them in the evenings and at down times. Therefore, I didn’t get much typing done. But that’s perfectly fine!
I did remember to call my youngest sister, Pam, and wish her a Happy Birthday!
Let’s see, I went out to Las Quimeras Feeding Center with Ramon. It was hot and dusty as always. I enjoyed hanging out with the ladies and trying to converse. They are so patient with my Spanish and they help me a lot. They also feel free to laugh with me when I mess up. That makes me know that they accept me as a friend and not feel as though they have to be formal with me. I want them to feel friendly with me and it makes me happy when they do so. They will always be respectful of me because I’m North American and also because I’m part of the VOH ministry. But they are learning that I’m a Sister-in-Christ and a friend. I love growing these relationships. God is so good!!
Even though I wear #50 sunblock and stay in the shade as much as possible (like Nicas), I still got a little sunburned. It didn’t hurt though. I was just so tired and drained from being in the hot sun for 5 hours. Of course, since I can’t really use the bathroom comfortably out there, I refrain from drinking too much water. That’s not good for my health, but after getting back to the Mission House and getting rehydrated and resting a little bit, I’m ready for the afternoon.
The team has been working out in the hot sun, too. They had done lots of Fiestas and Street Evangelism. Some of them have been working on construction at a house and also at the Feeding Center at Monte Horeb (Sewer Pond). They are ready for drinks and the pool when they get back to the Mission House every afternoon.
The team actually did all of their work at Monte Horeb (Sewer Pond) today. Then they had the afternoon off and went to town for ice cream and a little bit of shopping. Then we split into 2 groups for church.
1 van went to a church here in town and everyone else went out to Monte Horeb for the inaugural worship service at the church site there. Many of the congregation of Pastor Marvin’s church (ROSCC) was there and the praise team was there to do great music. It was a good service and I was thrilled to be able to attend that precious moment. We have been praying for that moment for a long time. It has been many years of serving and praying and ministering to the people out there. There have been many teams over the years who have helped us minister to the people in that area. I thought of them and how excited they would be to attend. I hope they enjoy the couple of pictures that I got to take.
As the days go by on a ministry week, the teams always get more and more tired. They get quieter and less rambunctious in the evenings. It’s good that we are here for them to be able relax when they want and to swim when they want and to enjoy each other. The hammocks got a good workout this week. We’re so blessed to have this place for the teams to come to. God is so good to us!
Since these 2 teams were near and dear to me (Nate and Whitney from Yukon, and FBCR is my home church) I spent more time interacting with them in the evenings and at down times. Therefore, I didn’t get much typing done. But that’s perfectly fine!
I did remember to call my youngest sister, Pam, and wish her a Happy Birthday!
Let’s see, I went out to Las Quimeras Feeding Center with Ramon. It was hot and dusty as always. I enjoyed hanging out with the ladies and trying to converse. They are so patient with my Spanish and they help me a lot. They also feel free to laugh with me when I mess up. That makes me know that they accept me as a friend and not feel as though they have to be formal with me. I want them to feel friendly with me and it makes me happy when they do so. They will always be respectful of me because I’m North American and also because I’m part of the VOH ministry. But they are learning that I’m a Sister-in-Christ and a friend. I love growing these relationships. God is so good!!
Even though I wear #50 sunblock and stay in the shade as much as possible (like Nicas), I still got a little sunburned. It didn’t hurt though. I was just so tired and drained from being in the hot sun for 5 hours. Of course, since I can’t really use the bathroom comfortably out there, I refrain from drinking too much water. That’s not good for my health, but after getting back to the Mission House and getting rehydrated and resting a little bit, I’m ready for the afternoon.
The team has been working out in the hot sun, too. They had done lots of Fiestas and Street Evangelism. Some of them have been working on construction at a house and also at the Feeding Center at Monte Horeb (Sewer Pond). They are ready for drinks and the pool when they get back to the Mission House every afternoon.
The team actually did all of their work at Monte Horeb (Sewer Pond) today. Then they had the afternoon off and went to town for ice cream and a little bit of shopping. Then we split into 2 groups for church.
1 van went to a church here in town and everyone else went out to Monte Horeb for the inaugural worship service at the church site there. Many of the congregation of Pastor Marvin’s church (ROSCC) was there and the praise team was there to do great music. It was a good service and I was thrilled to be able to attend that precious moment. We have been praying for that moment for a long time. It has been many years of serving and praying and ministering to the people out there. There have been many teams over the years who have helped us minister to the people in that area. I thought of them and how excited they would be to attend. I hope they enjoy the couple of pictures that I got to take.
As the days go by on a ministry week, the teams always get more and more tired. They get quieter and less rambunctious in the evenings. It’s good that we are here for them to be able relax when they want and to swim when they want and to enjoy each other. The hammocks got a good workout this week. We’re so blessed to have this place for the teams to come to. God is so good to us!
Tuesday, March 20, 2012
Tuesday March 20, 2012
Up early to head to Las Quimeras for the Feeding Center. Cathy went with me today to see some of the women at Las Quimeras. Pastor Marvin’s dad picked us up and we headed off. I asked if we had everything the ladies needed today, since we didn’t stop to see Pastor Marvin to get the note like we did yesterday. His dad said everything was fine.
We stopped for gas and then stopped at Maxi Palí to get some plastic buckets for drink mixes. The store wasn’t open, so we just drove on toward Las Quimeras. We were almost there when I heard my phone ring. (that’s a miracle in itself, since I’m slightly hearing impaired and the windows were down and the truck is loud.) Anyway, God made it possible for me to get the phone call. It was from German. He said that Pastor Marvin had called him to get in touch with us, because we hadn’t come by to get the note (with menu and recipe) and some of the food items from him. His dad was not happy about having to turn around and drive all the way back across town. I think it might be good that I don’t understand everything in Spanish… Just kidding. We finally got to Marvin’s house and picked up the food and note and then drove back across town and out to Las Quimeras. We were driving for 1.5 hours total. Crazy.
The ladies were waiting for us at the Feeding Center. They were glad to see us. Thankfully, the food was quick cooking for today and Silvia had cooked the beans at home last night. She and Leticia set to work building the fire and getting the food started. They told Cathy and I to sit down and they would take care of everything. It was hot, even in the shade, but we enjoyed talking with them in our limited Spanish. It was fun getting to know them better.
Today we had beans, rice and spaghetti, with watered oatmeal to drink. 67 kids came today, so they are building back up after the week off. Some ladies came by to say hello and ask when the Bible study classes and sewing classes would start up again. It was good to get hugs and talk with them.
Marvin’s dad had left us there and went to do something on his truck. He didn’t come back forever. When we were ready to clean up, I called German and asked him to find out when our ride was coming back (in case the truck was torn apart and not able to come and get us). Marvin’s dad drove up as we were finished cleaning up. We were glad to see him. We were ready to get back to the Mission House for a bathroom! Ha
Cathy enjoyed seeing the kids and ladies today. The kids are so poor and dirty, but very happy. They don’t know any different life. It’s so nice to be able to bless them with a hot meal once a day.
We got back to the Mission House and had lunch that our cooks had saved back for us. It was yummy! Meatloaf and Mashed Potatoes, corn and slaw. We finished eating and rested for a tiny bit.
I got a much needed shower and then the whole team headed off to downtown to shop at the square and have ice cream. I don’t always go with the team for this, but I needed to get some items for the Feeding Center, so Cathy and I went to the House of Plastics and Piñatas to purchase our items. We got them back to the van and then went for ice cream. We then met up with Mary and a few of the team and went to Plaza del Carmen, one of my favorite shops, but it was already closed for the day. We walked on down to La Unión grocery store really quickly. I picked up some bags of salt for the Feeding Center and a cold water for me to drink! We got back to the van 4 minutes late and everyone was teasing us.
We got back to the Mission House and had dinner (quesadillas, beans , rice and salad) and then had the rest of the evening off. It was son nice!
Cathy helped me cut some fabric for the sewing class on Thursday. Brian Sander helped me download skype onto my computer and set it up so I can use it on my iPhone to make $.19 calls to the US instead of $.50 calls on my Nica phone or $1.99 calls on the iPhone. Yay!
I’m so tired. I caught Buster and took him to Alberto’s little house for bed. Then I came in my room, put on my jammies and as soon as this posts, I’m hitting the bed!
I think everyone else is good and tired, too. It’s not 10 yet and they are already in their rooms. I think we will all sleep well tonight!
I’m so thankful for all the blessings that God is allowing us to see this week. The teams are having a great time and experiencing a closer walk with God. I’m thankful to be a part of the ministry here.
I’m also thankful for my comfy bed, so I’m going to enjoy it now. God is good!
We stopped for gas and then stopped at Maxi Palí to get some plastic buckets for drink mixes. The store wasn’t open, so we just drove on toward Las Quimeras. We were almost there when I heard my phone ring. (that’s a miracle in itself, since I’m slightly hearing impaired and the windows were down and the truck is loud.) Anyway, God made it possible for me to get the phone call. It was from German. He said that Pastor Marvin had called him to get in touch with us, because we hadn’t come by to get the note (with menu and recipe) and some of the food items from him. His dad was not happy about having to turn around and drive all the way back across town. I think it might be good that I don’t understand everything in Spanish… Just kidding. We finally got to Marvin’s house and picked up the food and note and then drove back across town and out to Las Quimeras. We were driving for 1.5 hours total. Crazy.
The ladies were waiting for us at the Feeding Center. They were glad to see us. Thankfully, the food was quick cooking for today and Silvia had cooked the beans at home last night. She and Leticia set to work building the fire and getting the food started. They told Cathy and I to sit down and they would take care of everything. It was hot, even in the shade, but we enjoyed talking with them in our limited Spanish. It was fun getting to know them better.
Today we had beans, rice and spaghetti, with watered oatmeal to drink. 67 kids came today, so they are building back up after the week off. Some ladies came by to say hello and ask when the Bible study classes and sewing classes would start up again. It was good to get hugs and talk with them.
Marvin’s dad had left us there and went to do something on his truck. He didn’t come back forever. When we were ready to clean up, I called German and asked him to find out when our ride was coming back (in case the truck was torn apart and not able to come and get us). Marvin’s dad drove up as we were finished cleaning up. We were glad to see him. We were ready to get back to the Mission House for a bathroom! Ha
Cathy enjoyed seeing the kids and ladies today. The kids are so poor and dirty, but very happy. They don’t know any different life. It’s so nice to be able to bless them with a hot meal once a day.
We got back to the Mission House and had lunch that our cooks had saved back for us. It was yummy! Meatloaf and Mashed Potatoes, corn and slaw. We finished eating and rested for a tiny bit.
I got a much needed shower and then the whole team headed off to downtown to shop at the square and have ice cream. I don’t always go with the team for this, but I needed to get some items for the Feeding Center, so Cathy and I went to the House of Plastics and Piñatas to purchase our items. We got them back to the van and then went for ice cream. We then met up with Mary and a few of the team and went to Plaza del Carmen, one of my favorite shops, but it was already closed for the day. We walked on down to La Unión grocery store really quickly. I picked up some bags of salt for the Feeding Center and a cold water for me to drink! We got back to the van 4 minutes late and everyone was teasing us.
We got back to the Mission House and had dinner (quesadillas, beans , rice and salad) and then had the rest of the evening off. It was son nice!
Cathy helped me cut some fabric for the sewing class on Thursday. Brian Sander helped me download skype onto my computer and set it up so I can use it on my iPhone to make $.19 calls to the US instead of $.50 calls on my Nica phone or $1.99 calls on the iPhone. Yay!
I’m so tired. I caught Buster and took him to Alberto’s little house for bed. Then I came in my room, put on my jammies and as soon as this posts, I’m hitting the bed!
I think everyone else is good and tired, too. It’s not 10 yet and they are already in their rooms. I think we will all sleep well tonight!
I’m so thankful for all the blessings that God is allowing us to see this week. The teams are having a great time and experiencing a closer walk with God. I’m thankful to be a part of the ministry here.
I’m also thankful for my comfy bed, so I’m going to enjoy it now. God is good!
Monday, March 19, 2012
Monday, March 19, 2012
The day started early and I left at 7:30am with Pastor Marvin’s Dad to go to the Feeding Center at Las Quimeras.
The team had breakfast and got ready to leave at 8am for their ministry assignments, which were 2 Fiestas and 1 Construction session. They all got back and had lunch and then headed back out shortly after I returned at 1pm. They are having a blast. They went back out to do another Fiesta and more construction work.
I enjoyed working with the women at Las Quimeras Feeding Center. A few of the women I had not met before and a few I knew from Bible Study and Sewing Class. They wouldn’t let me do anything but sit in a chair and talk with them. I enjoyed the time with them. We don’t have a translator to go with me, so we get along with my limited Spanish. It’s entertaining sometimes.
I just love the little kids who come to the Feeding Center there. They are so sweet and I just want to grab them and hug them and bathe them and give them clothes that fit and make them happy. One girl had a dress on that was once a nice party dress. Now it is in tatters, but she wears it with pride. Her too big flip flops were from 2 different pairs and she didn’t care at all because they were hers and she cold walk without hurting her bare feet.
We laughed about some chickens that came around looking for dropped morsels to eat. I said they are food for the rest of the week and we named them Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday. The ladies thought that was very funny.
Some of the kids didn’t have a glass to carry their drink in. We tried finding some plastic bags. I drank down my water quickly so they could use the empty bottles for the kids. I’m taking more empty bottles with me tomorrow.
There are some items needed for the Feeding Center, so I’m taking them tomorrow. We’ll have to stop at Maxi Palí store in the morning for some of the items.
Cathy Krupka is going with me tomorrow to the Feeding Center. She knows a little Spanish and we will have talking with the ladies. I don’t know who is working tomorrow, but it will be fun to be with them. The ladies have a 5 day rotation of workers, so they only have to work 1 time a week. It’s a good set up.
Pastor Marvin’s Dad (I think his name is Ramond, but I’m not sure), drives very slowly. Everything passes us on the road, including the buses and the semi-trucks. The only thing that didn’t pass us today was a bicycle, and that was neck and neck for a while. Although he drives slowly, that doesn’t mean that he drives safely. I was a little worried a few times for our safety. I just kept praying. I shouldn’t say much, since I backed into a tree last week, but he does make me a little bit nervous!
Tonight we had a presentation by the Youth of a Baptist Church here in town. They came to the Mission House and it was very nice. They did an excellent job. It lasted over 2 hours, which we weren’t expecting, but it was fun. Then we had the Tall Lady (Nica folk presentation) after we grabbed a quick bite of dinner.
The team had some time in the pool and to relax during the late afternoon and I think everyone enjoyed their day very much.
I’m still trying to put things away from the tubs that the team brought down, but I’m very thankful to have the stuff here. Mostly it’s sewing and craft stuff. It will come in so handy for the ladies’ classes.
I’m very tired right now and I’m going to hit the sack. No videos before bed for me this week. Plenty of sharing with the teams and having fun.
God has blessed us with a lot of good work today and the fruit of 138 salvations from the Fiestas and street witnessing. We’re so blessed to be able to do His work. Truly blessed indeed.
The team had breakfast and got ready to leave at 8am for their ministry assignments, which were 2 Fiestas and 1 Construction session. They all got back and had lunch and then headed back out shortly after I returned at 1pm. They are having a blast. They went back out to do another Fiesta and more construction work.
I enjoyed working with the women at Las Quimeras Feeding Center. A few of the women I had not met before and a few I knew from Bible Study and Sewing Class. They wouldn’t let me do anything but sit in a chair and talk with them. I enjoyed the time with them. We don’t have a translator to go with me, so we get along with my limited Spanish. It’s entertaining sometimes.
I just love the little kids who come to the Feeding Center there. They are so sweet and I just want to grab them and hug them and bathe them and give them clothes that fit and make them happy. One girl had a dress on that was once a nice party dress. Now it is in tatters, but she wears it with pride. Her too big flip flops were from 2 different pairs and she didn’t care at all because they were hers and she cold walk without hurting her bare feet.
We laughed about some chickens that came around looking for dropped morsels to eat. I said they are food for the rest of the week and we named them Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday. The ladies thought that was very funny.
Some of the kids didn’t have a glass to carry their drink in. We tried finding some plastic bags. I drank down my water quickly so they could use the empty bottles for the kids. I’m taking more empty bottles with me tomorrow.
There are some items needed for the Feeding Center, so I’m taking them tomorrow. We’ll have to stop at Maxi Palí store in the morning for some of the items.
Cathy Krupka is going with me tomorrow to the Feeding Center. She knows a little Spanish and we will have talking with the ladies. I don’t know who is working tomorrow, but it will be fun to be with them. The ladies have a 5 day rotation of workers, so they only have to work 1 time a week. It’s a good set up.
Pastor Marvin’s Dad (I think his name is Ramond, but I’m not sure), drives very slowly. Everything passes us on the road, including the buses and the semi-trucks. The only thing that didn’t pass us today was a bicycle, and that was neck and neck for a while. Although he drives slowly, that doesn’t mean that he drives safely. I was a little worried a few times for our safety. I just kept praying. I shouldn’t say much, since I backed into a tree last week, but he does make me a little bit nervous!
Tonight we had a presentation by the Youth of a Baptist Church here in town. They came to the Mission House and it was very nice. They did an excellent job. It lasted over 2 hours, which we weren’t expecting, but it was fun. Then we had the Tall Lady (Nica folk presentation) after we grabbed a quick bite of dinner.
The team had some time in the pool and to relax during the late afternoon and I think everyone enjoyed their day very much.
I’m still trying to put things away from the tubs that the team brought down, but I’m very thankful to have the stuff here. Mostly it’s sewing and craft stuff. It will come in so handy for the ladies’ classes.
I’m very tired right now and I’m going to hit the sack. No videos before bed for me this week. Plenty of sharing with the teams and having fun.
God has blessed us with a lot of good work today and the fruit of 138 salvations from the Fiestas and street witnessing. We’re so blessed to be able to do His work. Truly blessed indeed.
Sunday, March 18, 2012
Sunday, March 18, 2012
We were up early (partially due to Buster getting out and barking at 5am) and had pancakes, scrambled eggs and fruit for breakfast. Everyone was happy.
We split into 3 groups and went to different churches for morning service. I went with the Yukon team to the big Rose of Sharon church in León near a market. It’s an established church with awesome praise band and dancers. It’s usually so hot in there that it’s like a sauna. But they have put some fans up and it was bearable. The team still thought it was very hot, but they haven’t experienced what it was like before. They enjoyed the music and the service. It was looooonnnnng. About 1 hour of standing singing and clapping and dancing to the praise music. Then Holly gave her testimony and Nate gave a good message. The congregation really liked his message and there was a lot of applauding. Very good.
We got back to the Mission House and had grilled chicken, green beans, mashed potatoes and slaw for lunch. Everyone enjoyed that, too.
We had training time and it was fun and informative. There was a baptism scheduled at 1:30, but the church had to cancel it for some reason. So after the training time, we had a surprise party for Abby Bolander, who turned 16 today. Her dad had brought down 4 cake mixes with icing, candles and special plates. I had picked up a piñata and filled it. We had a nice celebration.
Then part of the overall group swam a little bit and the rest of us worked on various projects. We got all 19 tubs unpacked, sorted and repacked. The Yukon tream worked on getting all the prizes for the Fiestas for the week put together. We have lots of candy for the week. We’re all set!
I was really tired and very soaking wet from working in the hot conference room. I wished I could have had a shower and a nap, but had to settle for freshening up and changing for church.
We split into 3 groups again and I went with Nate’s team again tonight. We went to Cristo Viene church, which is where Saturnino and Aracelys, two of our workers go to church. It’s down the road from our old team house, so we drove by for Nate’s team to see where we used to stay.
We had a good time at the church. LOTS of music. The total service was over 2 hours long. Then it was 30 minutes back to the team house for dinner. We had tuna salad and chicken salad. It was yummy.
I helped Mary in the kitchen and then chatted with various people. It’s been a good day and I’m tired. I need to get up early and be ready to leave by 7:30am to help with the Feeding Center at Las Quimeras this week. I think I’ll sleep well. God is good
We split into 3 groups and went to different churches for morning service. I went with the Yukon team to the big Rose of Sharon church in León near a market. It’s an established church with awesome praise band and dancers. It’s usually so hot in there that it’s like a sauna. But they have put some fans up and it was bearable. The team still thought it was very hot, but they haven’t experienced what it was like before. They enjoyed the music and the service. It was looooonnnnng. About 1 hour of standing singing and clapping and dancing to the praise music. Then Holly gave her testimony and Nate gave a good message. The congregation really liked his message and there was a lot of applauding. Very good.
We got back to the Mission House and had grilled chicken, green beans, mashed potatoes and slaw for lunch. Everyone enjoyed that, too.
We had training time and it was fun and informative. There was a baptism scheduled at 1:30, but the church had to cancel it for some reason. So after the training time, we had a surprise party for Abby Bolander, who turned 16 today. Her dad had brought down 4 cake mixes with icing, candles and special plates. I had picked up a piñata and filled it. We had a nice celebration.
Then part of the overall group swam a little bit and the rest of us worked on various projects. We got all 19 tubs unpacked, sorted and repacked. The Yukon tream worked on getting all the prizes for the Fiestas for the week put together. We have lots of candy for the week. We’re all set!
I was really tired and very soaking wet from working in the hot conference room. I wished I could have had a shower and a nap, but had to settle for freshening up and changing for church.
We split into 3 groups again and I went with Nate’s team again tonight. We went to Cristo Viene church, which is where Saturnino and Aracelys, two of our workers go to church. It’s down the road from our old team house, so we drove by for Nate’s team to see where we used to stay.
We had a good time at the church. LOTS of music. The total service was over 2 hours long. Then it was 30 minutes back to the team house for dinner. We had tuna salad and chicken salad. It was yummy.
I helped Mary in the kitchen and then chatted with various people. It’s been a good day and I’m tired. I need to get up early and be ready to leave by 7:30am to help with the Feeding Center at Las Quimeras this week. I think I’ll sleep well. God is good
Saturday, March 17, 2012
Went on walk downtown to change money, stopped and bought some thread and needles from Bazar Jerry and then headed back to Mission House to shower and get ready for the day.
Finished one last load of clothes before the teams get here. Pretty hot by mid-morning. Had a yummy lunch and then headed out to Managua at 2:30pm with José, who doesn’t speak English. We chatted just a little bit on the way to the airport, but I was in a drowsy mood and tried to nap. Never did go to sleep, but it felt good to just rest.
Got to the airport 1 hour early, but was expecting the drive to take longer because of some issues with people blocking roads for political reasons. Roads were all clear, though, so it was fine.
German called me at the airport and said that Manuel and Roland were there a couple of hours early, because they hadn’t gotten the change in arrival time for the later team. So I looked for them and gave them some money for dinner. We chatted a lot and had a good time. Manuel said my Spanish is getting much better.
Nate’s team got in and we collected their luggage and headed for the van. The larger suitcases were tied on top of the van and the carry-ons were put in the back. Everyone had nice room for the drive. We stopped at TipTop Chicken for them to get something to eat. They loved it. We headed back out on to the road for León.
We got to the Mission House and got their stuff unloaded. It was only about 9pm and we were waiting for the Rogers team to get here, so everyone sat around the pool and some people dangled their feet in the water while we talked and got to know each other. It was very relaxing.
I couldn’t believe that Buster wasn’t barking his head off. He’s so funny. He did steal one of the girl’s socks and took off. They learned quickly not to leave anything within his reach.
Mike got back with the Rogers team and all the luggage and tubs. We got the vans unloaded and everyone met for a quick meeting with Mike. There were a few issues with electricity and water pressure, but the teams were very nice about it.
I didn’t get to bed until about 12:30am, but it was nice to get everyone here and settled. I can’t wait to start the week! God is so good. The flights were safe and hassle-free. It’s been a blessed day.
Finished one last load of clothes before the teams get here. Pretty hot by mid-morning. Had a yummy lunch and then headed out to Managua at 2:30pm with José, who doesn’t speak English. We chatted just a little bit on the way to the airport, but I was in a drowsy mood and tried to nap. Never did go to sleep, but it felt good to just rest.
Got to the airport 1 hour early, but was expecting the drive to take longer because of some issues with people blocking roads for political reasons. Roads were all clear, though, so it was fine.
German called me at the airport and said that Manuel and Roland were there a couple of hours early, because they hadn’t gotten the change in arrival time for the later team. So I looked for them and gave them some money for dinner. We chatted a lot and had a good time. Manuel said my Spanish is getting much better.
Nate’s team got in and we collected their luggage and headed for the van. The larger suitcases were tied on top of the van and the carry-ons were put in the back. Everyone had nice room for the drive. We stopped at TipTop Chicken for them to get something to eat. They loved it. We headed back out on to the road for León.
We got to the Mission House and got their stuff unloaded. It was only about 9pm and we were waiting for the Rogers team to get here, so everyone sat around the pool and some people dangled their feet in the water while we talked and got to know each other. It was very relaxing.
I couldn’t believe that Buster wasn’t barking his head off. He’s so funny. He did steal one of the girl’s socks and took off. They learned quickly not to leave anything within his reach.
Mike got back with the Rogers team and all the luggage and tubs. We got the vans unloaded and everyone met for a quick meeting with Mike. There were a few issues with electricity and water pressure, but the teams were very nice about it.
I didn’t get to bed until about 12:30am, but it was nice to get everyone here and settled. I can’t wait to start the week! God is so good. The flights were safe and hassle-free. It’s been a blessed day.
Friday, March 16, 2012
Friday, March 16, 2012
Wow, the month is half over! Time is flying by!
I took the morning off from walking today. I got some things done in my room getting ready for the sewing class next week and Women’s Bible study today. Worked ahead a little on my daily Bible study in case I get distracted while the teams are here next week. Had lunch and then Mary, Lesly and I went to town to get a few items. Poor Lesly had to take care of me and Mary like we were out on a day pass from the funny farm and she was our caretaker. Haha
Lesly and Sherry had gone to La Unión this morning to buy groceries for the team for the first 3 days. It took up all the room in the SUV (with Mike driving) and then Sherry and Lesly had to take a taxi back with more food in it. It takes a lot of grub to feed teams. But it’s a good thing! Lydia, our main cook, does a wonderful job following Sherry’s recipes and we eat a lot of American food. I know the teams will be happy with the grub.
Lesly and I went to the Women’s Bible study in ROSCC church this afternoon. We are having a good time so far. I think the women will be into the discussion portions of this study. I love spending time with them. I got more pics of the ladies that came today and missed last week. All the ladies enjoyed seeing their pictures that I had printed from last week. They don’t get to see pictures too often. I like to treat them with these small gestures when possible. I hope they know how loved they are.
I talked to Deanna today. She is at home and her house sounded like a circus. One of the grand-dogs was over, along with Jet and the puppy that was dropped off there before I left for Nica. People were in and out. I told her that I wished I could bring her down here to a quiet room and relaxation. ☺ She sounded pretty good. I hope she gets the rest and recuperation that she needs. She is one of the sweetest ladies that I have ever met. I miss her while I’m here.
Manuel stayed here at the Mission House with Mary and I after his school session today. He and I swam a little bit and then we had left overs for dinner. He sang for Mary, Juver and I. It was funny. He and Juver talked about women in general while I translated between the two. Then Manuel got mad a Mary and I and was in a huff for a little bit. Juver asked Manuel to draw with him. That calmed Manuel down and he had fun until Jorge came to pick him up and take him home. Manuel is big stuff when he gets to ride in the taxi all by himself. Of course, Jorge works for us part-time, so it’s not like we’re putting in with a stranger or something. Manuel gets to pay the fare and everything. He’s so cute about it.
I’m going to watch my video and head to bed early tonight. I didn’t sleep very well last night. I didn’t know that Buster had gotten into my room before bed. He likes to lay under my bed where it is cooler on the tiles. He woke up around 2-ish this morning and pawed at my bed. Scared me to death! I let him out and he went to sleep on his run outside my door. I couldn’t go back to sleep for a long time.
Alberto told me this morning that he had tried to get me on the walkie-talkie about 1:30am when he walked around the property on a security check and didn’t see Buster anywhere. I had forgotten to turn the wt on, so I didn’t hear him. When I told Alberto about Buster waking me up in the middle of the night, he laughed.
Buster and the cat, Scratch, keep things interesting. Oh, and Manuel, too!
I took the morning off from walking today. I got some things done in my room getting ready for the sewing class next week and Women’s Bible study today. Worked ahead a little on my daily Bible study in case I get distracted while the teams are here next week. Had lunch and then Mary, Lesly and I went to town to get a few items. Poor Lesly had to take care of me and Mary like we were out on a day pass from the funny farm and she was our caretaker. Haha
Lesly and Sherry had gone to La Unión this morning to buy groceries for the team for the first 3 days. It took up all the room in the SUV (with Mike driving) and then Sherry and Lesly had to take a taxi back with more food in it. It takes a lot of grub to feed teams. But it’s a good thing! Lydia, our main cook, does a wonderful job following Sherry’s recipes and we eat a lot of American food. I know the teams will be happy with the grub.
Lesly and I went to the Women’s Bible study in ROSCC church this afternoon. We are having a good time so far. I think the women will be into the discussion portions of this study. I love spending time with them. I got more pics of the ladies that came today and missed last week. All the ladies enjoyed seeing their pictures that I had printed from last week. They don’t get to see pictures too often. I like to treat them with these small gestures when possible. I hope they know how loved they are.
I talked to Deanna today. She is at home and her house sounded like a circus. One of the grand-dogs was over, along with Jet and the puppy that was dropped off there before I left for Nica. People were in and out. I told her that I wished I could bring her down here to a quiet room and relaxation. ☺ She sounded pretty good. I hope she gets the rest and recuperation that she needs. She is one of the sweetest ladies that I have ever met. I miss her while I’m here.
Manuel stayed here at the Mission House with Mary and I after his school session today. He and I swam a little bit and then we had left overs for dinner. He sang for Mary, Juver and I. It was funny. He and Juver talked about women in general while I translated between the two. Then Manuel got mad a Mary and I and was in a huff for a little bit. Juver asked Manuel to draw with him. That calmed Manuel down and he had fun until Jorge came to pick him up and take him home. Manuel is big stuff when he gets to ride in the taxi all by himself. Of course, Jorge works for us part-time, so it’s not like we’re putting in with a stranger or something. Manuel gets to pay the fare and everything. He’s so cute about it.
I’m going to watch my video and head to bed early tonight. I didn’t sleep very well last night. I didn’t know that Buster had gotten into my room before bed. He likes to lay under my bed where it is cooler on the tiles. He woke up around 2-ish this morning and pawed at my bed. Scared me to death! I let him out and he went to sleep on his run outside my door. I couldn’t go back to sleep for a long time.
Alberto told me this morning that he had tried to get me on the walkie-talkie about 1:30am when he walked around the property on a security check and didn’t see Buster anywhere. I had forgotten to turn the wt on, so I didn’t hear him. When I told Alberto about Buster waking me up in the middle of the night, he laughed.
Buster and the cat, Scratch, keep things interesting. Oh, and Manuel, too!
Thursday, March 15, 2012
Thursday, March 15, 2012
I took off for my walk this morning without my water bottle. But I stopped at the bus stop market and grabbed a new one. It sure tasted good! I walked to Pacheco’s school again and dropped off a couple more videos. Then I got some money changed and headed back to the Mission House. I stopped in Bazar Jerry and bought some thread for the sewing class. I love my morning walks, even if they are hot and sweaty and dusty.
I got a shower and had some cereal for breakfast. I worked on my Bible study and had quiet time in my room with the door and window open (that’s the whole front of my room and the only portals). It was nice.
German got here and I got to chat with him for a little bit. I never get much chance to talk with him since he’s so busy. I really want to visit his family one of these days… Anyway, he called Pastor Marvin to confirm the sewing class and it has to be postponed until next week. So I got a lot of stuff ready for it and can relax until then.
After lunch, I worked on Women’s Bible study stuff and printed off some pictures of the women from the ROSCC church group. Lesly tweaked the Spanish notes for the Bible study tomorrow. I’m ready to print them off for class.
Manuel saw me printing pictures and decided he needed the pictures of him in his school uniform printed off, too. I gave him one print of each. He said he’ll need more tomorrow. I don’t know what he thinks he is going to do with them…
Lelsy and I ran downtown on la ruta (the city bus aka a little truck with bars and a tarp). We ran into Josselin on the way. What a nice surprise. Lesly and I went to 4 stores and finally found a tower fan that I was looking for. It’s not as forceful as the floor fans, but it doesn’t blow my papers away when I’m in my rocker studying and I don’t trip over the criss-cross feet of the other fans. I’m happy with it.
Manuel was playing pretend games with Mary. He was the dad and she was the daughter. I ended up being the wife. He was taking us all to Disneyland until the daughter got into trouble. Ooops. Time out!
Earlier today, when Lesly and I were getting ready to leave for town, she had Jorge’s keys to the taxi. She said that I was going to drive it. Everyone got a big laugh out of that, since they are still teasing me about backing into the tree. I told Jorge that while he is teaching Manuel in the afternoon, I could drive his taxi and make some money for him. He said only in a desert where there are no trees. Hahaha
I got a call the chance to talk to Deanna’s son Bryon about her tests and diagnosis. I guess she didn’t do well on the stress test and her bloodpressure dropped dangerously low and she passed out. They are talking about doing some kind of procedure soon. I am praying that all goes well and she is feeling better than ever really soon! I hate being down here when this is going on, but I know that she is in good hands with God. It’s hard to get the news down here, so I keep calling up there. I miss her and I know that Jet does, too. Poor guy doesn’t know where his mama is. I’m sure Deanna wants to get back home soon. I’m sending her lots of cyber hugs.
Tomorrow is Women’s Bible study at ROSCC church. Can’t wait to see the ladies! I think there will be more in attendance tomorrow, so I’ll take my camera to get more pics. They are a sweet bunch of women!
I talked Mary’s head off tonight. I think she was glad to go to her room. Haha.
Time for my video and early to bed! God is so good to me!
I got a shower and had some cereal for breakfast. I worked on my Bible study and had quiet time in my room with the door and window open (that’s the whole front of my room and the only portals). It was nice.
German got here and I got to chat with him for a little bit. I never get much chance to talk with him since he’s so busy. I really want to visit his family one of these days… Anyway, he called Pastor Marvin to confirm the sewing class and it has to be postponed until next week. So I got a lot of stuff ready for it and can relax until then.
After lunch, I worked on Women’s Bible study stuff and printed off some pictures of the women from the ROSCC church group. Lesly tweaked the Spanish notes for the Bible study tomorrow. I’m ready to print them off for class.
Manuel saw me printing pictures and decided he needed the pictures of him in his school uniform printed off, too. I gave him one print of each. He said he’ll need more tomorrow. I don’t know what he thinks he is going to do with them…
Lelsy and I ran downtown on la ruta (the city bus aka a little truck with bars and a tarp). We ran into Josselin on the way. What a nice surprise. Lesly and I went to 4 stores and finally found a tower fan that I was looking for. It’s not as forceful as the floor fans, but it doesn’t blow my papers away when I’m in my rocker studying and I don’t trip over the criss-cross feet of the other fans. I’m happy with it.
Manuel was playing pretend games with Mary. He was the dad and she was the daughter. I ended up being the wife. He was taking us all to Disneyland until the daughter got into trouble. Ooops. Time out!
Earlier today, when Lesly and I were getting ready to leave for town, she had Jorge’s keys to the taxi. She said that I was going to drive it. Everyone got a big laugh out of that, since they are still teasing me about backing into the tree. I told Jorge that while he is teaching Manuel in the afternoon, I could drive his taxi and make some money for him. He said only in a desert where there are no trees. Hahaha
I got a call the chance to talk to Deanna’s son Bryon about her tests and diagnosis. I guess she didn’t do well on the stress test and her bloodpressure dropped dangerously low and she passed out. They are talking about doing some kind of procedure soon. I am praying that all goes well and she is feeling better than ever really soon! I hate being down here when this is going on, but I know that she is in good hands with God. It’s hard to get the news down here, so I keep calling up there. I miss her and I know that Jet does, too. Poor guy doesn’t know where his mama is. I’m sure Deanna wants to get back home soon. I’m sending her lots of cyber hugs.
Tomorrow is Women’s Bible study at ROSCC church. Can’t wait to see the ladies! I think there will be more in attendance tomorrow, so I’ll take my camera to get more pics. They are a sweet bunch of women!
I talked Mary’s head off tonight. I think she was glad to go to her room. Haha.
Time for my video and early to bed! God is so good to me!
Wednesday, March 14, 2012
Wednesday, March 14, 2012
A hot, sunny and very windy/dusty day. A couple of times there was so much dust in the air that you couldn’t see. It covers everything. We keep our stuff covered under towels on the tables, and I’ve got most of the stuff in my room under wraps.
But it’s still ok. I love being here.
I went for a walk this morning down to Pacheco’s school. I was dropping off more VeggieTales movies. The school wasn’t open yet at 7:50am, so I called Juan to see when it would open. He said 8:00am, but he wouldn’t be there personally until 8:30. I told him I would just leave the videos with whoever opened the door. While sitting on the stoop (under an awning for shade) I got covered by lots of dust as traffic went by. One large truck caused a huge wave of dirt and dust to cover me. It was almost funny.
On the way back to the Mission House, I stopped in at the artist’s place a couple of doors down from Pacheco’s. The guy remembered me and introduced his daughter, who was painting some landscapes. She is learning and doing pretty well. He is working on a huge, beautiful landscape that I wish I could afford. His stuff is really nice. We said goodbye and I told him I would stop in often to see his paintings.
I also stopped at the used clothing store to say hi. She was ready to show me lots more ‘new’ items, but I had spent my allowance yesterday. I then stopped in at the Libreria to buy some notebooks and pens for documenting the procedures for the Feeding Centers.
I needed to get some more minutes on my phone, so I stopped in at a small place that I hadn’t been to before. The lady was very friendly. She was having trouble getting my number correct and we laughed about it. I was paying in US money and she only took a $5 bill. I didn’t think that was enough, but she insisted and I said okay. As I was leaving, she ran after me and said that she needed more money. I told her that I thought so and it was okay that she was asking. I think she was afraid that I wouldn’t give it to her. I went ahead and gave more a little more than it cost. She needs the money more than me. I will probably stop in there to get minutes for my phone more often. I like to give the little businesses some help when I can.
I got back to the house and got my shower and had breakfast. I started working on organizing some stuff and then Lesly got here. We talked a little bit and I found out that Sherry and Manuel had planned to go with Mike and German to Managua to pick up Mary today. I ended up having a very nice, tranquil, quiet day here at the Mission House. I got a little work done, washed my sheets and then we had a yummy lunch. (mashed potatoes, meatloaf and corn) Lesly left not long after lunch and I rested for just a short while.
The Hulsey’s and Mary got in mid afternoon and we chatted a little bit. Mary got settled in and I had dinner and a shower and then worked on stuff for the sewing class that starts tomorrow. I watched a VeggieTale movie in Spanish and then listened to some of the Bible recorded in Spanish. I need to keep listening to the language as much as possible. I long for the day when it all makes sense automatically. ☺
I got a message that Deanna was in the hospital going through tests for a possible heart attack. I called her son Bryon to see what was going on. He said they are keeping her overnight and doing some tests, but it didn’t look too serious. She needs to take care of herself. I don’t like being away from her so much, but God wants me here and she has lots of family to take care of her, if they will. Bryon posted a picture of her in the hospital bed with a ton of family all in the room. I’m sure she was ready for some rest. I know Jet will miss her tonight. I’m praying for her to have rest and restoration and renewed strength.
I called my sister, Sandy, tonight. She’s doing pretty well. She and my brother-in-law are taking the grandkids on a 4 day Spring Break trip to TN. This should be interesting!!! I think Sandy will be ready for a ‘break’ when she gets back home! Hahaha
Well, time to settle down for the night. I’m looking forward to the sewing class tomorrow. It will be fun to hang out with the women. God sure blesses me in many wonderful ways.
But it’s still ok. I love being here.
I went for a walk this morning down to Pacheco’s school. I was dropping off more VeggieTales movies. The school wasn’t open yet at 7:50am, so I called Juan to see when it would open. He said 8:00am, but he wouldn’t be there personally until 8:30. I told him I would just leave the videos with whoever opened the door. While sitting on the stoop (under an awning for shade) I got covered by lots of dust as traffic went by. One large truck caused a huge wave of dirt and dust to cover me. It was almost funny.
On the way back to the Mission House, I stopped in at the artist’s place a couple of doors down from Pacheco’s. The guy remembered me and introduced his daughter, who was painting some landscapes. She is learning and doing pretty well. He is working on a huge, beautiful landscape that I wish I could afford. His stuff is really nice. We said goodbye and I told him I would stop in often to see his paintings.
I also stopped at the used clothing store to say hi. She was ready to show me lots more ‘new’ items, but I had spent my allowance yesterday. I then stopped in at the Libreria to buy some notebooks and pens for documenting the procedures for the Feeding Centers.
I needed to get some more minutes on my phone, so I stopped in at a small place that I hadn’t been to before. The lady was very friendly. She was having trouble getting my number correct and we laughed about it. I was paying in US money and she only took a $5 bill. I didn’t think that was enough, but she insisted and I said okay. As I was leaving, she ran after me and said that she needed more money. I told her that I thought so and it was okay that she was asking. I think she was afraid that I wouldn’t give it to her. I went ahead and gave more a little more than it cost. She needs the money more than me. I will probably stop in there to get minutes for my phone more often. I like to give the little businesses some help when I can.
I got back to the house and got my shower and had breakfast. I started working on organizing some stuff and then Lesly got here. We talked a little bit and I found out that Sherry and Manuel had planned to go with Mike and German to Managua to pick up Mary today. I ended up having a very nice, tranquil, quiet day here at the Mission House. I got a little work done, washed my sheets and then we had a yummy lunch. (mashed potatoes, meatloaf and corn) Lesly left not long after lunch and I rested for just a short while.
The Hulsey’s and Mary got in mid afternoon and we chatted a little bit. Mary got settled in and I had dinner and a shower and then worked on stuff for the sewing class that starts tomorrow. I watched a VeggieTale movie in Spanish and then listened to some of the Bible recorded in Spanish. I need to keep listening to the language as much as possible. I long for the day when it all makes sense automatically. ☺
I got a message that Deanna was in the hospital going through tests for a possible heart attack. I called her son Bryon to see what was going on. He said they are keeping her overnight and doing some tests, but it didn’t look too serious. She needs to take care of herself. I don’t like being away from her so much, but God wants me here and she has lots of family to take care of her, if they will. Bryon posted a picture of her in the hospital bed with a ton of family all in the room. I’m sure she was ready for some rest. I know Jet will miss her tonight. I’m praying for her to have rest and restoration and renewed strength.
I called my sister, Sandy, tonight. She’s doing pretty well. She and my brother-in-law are taking the grandkids on a 4 day Spring Break trip to TN. This should be interesting!!! I think Sandy will be ready for a ‘break’ when she gets back home! Hahaha
Well, time to settle down for the night. I’m looking forward to the sewing class tomorrow. It will be fun to hang out with the women. God sure blesses me in many wonderful ways.
Tuesday, March 13, 2012
Tuesday, March 13, 2012
A wonderful day for a walk. I went into to town to exchange money and to buy minutes for my phone. The guy wasn’t at the bank corner yet, so I decided to walk on to Parque Central and change money there. I went on over to the parque and visited my favorite vendor in the square. I found a couple of gifts for people back in the states and she gave me my usual discount. She’s so nice.
I then stopped in at the House of the Bible and bought a few items to use for VBS and other kids’ activities. Then I strolled past a bakery that Jeremy and Kelly live near, but it wasn’t open yet.
I stopped in at my favorite used clothing store and got some items for other people here. I never made it to get phone minutes and I also spent every córdaba that I had exchanged earlier. How funny!
I was almost home when Sherry called my cell phone to ask if I was still going to do pilates with her this morning. We have been doing it on Tues and Thurs. Since I had been walking for 2 hours, I told her I would skip. It really hurts my spine when I do it. I think I should wait until I lose more weight and get more toned before I start rolling around on my backbone. I’ll stick to walking and aerobics for now.
Anyway, I got my shower and started some laundry and ate some of my favorite cereal for breakfast. Manuel and I played pretend games for a little bit. He loves playing with Julie, my teddy bear from Pastor Marvin and Ingrid. It’s a reward for him for being good.
I worked a little more on getting ready for Women’s Bible studies and also met with Mike, German, Sherry and Pastor Marvin about overseeing the Feeding Center at Las Quimeras for the next 2 weeks. I will go out there Mon-Fri about 9am-1pm to help organize everything, make sure the workers get trained and to document the procedures for other people to learn to help. It will be fun.
I won’t be working with the team this next week, except for going to church and maybe a few afternoon excursions when I’m not teaching. But I will get to be with them for breakfast and dinner and the evenings. That will be fun. I’m so excited for them to get here!
I was going to Pacheco’s school again this afternoon, but Lesly left fairly early and I didn’t want to leave until about 3:30pm. So Mike said he would take me. When I started to the car with my bag, I told Alberto that I would be back about 6-6:30pm. Saturnino asked if I was driving and I said no. He said that is good. Alberto then asked if I was driving and I said no, Mike is. He felt better about it. Even though I know that part of their impressing is that women shouldn’t drive (and neither of them do), I don’t think I will ever live down backing into the tree. Jorge teases me about trees all the time when I ride with him in his taxi. Oh well…
I got home and had some great leftovers and even heated them up! I exercised, got a shower and then did some mending while watching a VeggieTales movie. As soon as I post this I’m going to watch a video and get ready to ready myself to sleep for the night. I sure sleep well on my new bed. I’m very blessed!
Mary arrives tomorrow. She should be here about 4pm. It’s the same flight into Managua that I had. Even though you have to get up really early to start the travel day, it’s nice to get here in enough time to relax and unpack and have some time to get settled before jumping into bed. Getting here at 11pm isn’t all that much fun. I know she is glad to get here.
I then stopped in at the House of the Bible and bought a few items to use for VBS and other kids’ activities. Then I strolled past a bakery that Jeremy and Kelly live near, but it wasn’t open yet.
I stopped in at my favorite used clothing store and got some items for other people here. I never made it to get phone minutes and I also spent every córdaba that I had exchanged earlier. How funny!
I was almost home when Sherry called my cell phone to ask if I was still going to do pilates with her this morning. We have been doing it on Tues and Thurs. Since I had been walking for 2 hours, I told her I would skip. It really hurts my spine when I do it. I think I should wait until I lose more weight and get more toned before I start rolling around on my backbone. I’ll stick to walking and aerobics for now.
Anyway, I got my shower and started some laundry and ate some of my favorite cereal for breakfast. Manuel and I played pretend games for a little bit. He loves playing with Julie, my teddy bear from Pastor Marvin and Ingrid. It’s a reward for him for being good.
I worked a little more on getting ready for Women’s Bible studies and also met with Mike, German, Sherry and Pastor Marvin about overseeing the Feeding Center at Las Quimeras for the next 2 weeks. I will go out there Mon-Fri about 9am-1pm to help organize everything, make sure the workers get trained and to document the procedures for other people to learn to help. It will be fun.
I won’t be working with the team this next week, except for going to church and maybe a few afternoon excursions when I’m not teaching. But I will get to be with them for breakfast and dinner and the evenings. That will be fun. I’m so excited for them to get here!
I was going to Pacheco’s school again this afternoon, but Lesly left fairly early and I didn’t want to leave until about 3:30pm. So Mike said he would take me. When I started to the car with my bag, I told Alberto that I would be back about 6-6:30pm. Saturnino asked if I was driving and I said no. He said that is good. Alberto then asked if I was driving and I said no, Mike is. He felt better about it. Even though I know that part of their impressing is that women shouldn’t drive (and neither of them do), I don’t think I will ever live down backing into the tree. Jorge teases me about trees all the time when I ride with him in his taxi. Oh well…
I got home and had some great leftovers and even heated them up! I exercised, got a shower and then did some mending while watching a VeggieTales movie. As soon as I post this I’m going to watch a video and get ready to ready myself to sleep for the night. I sure sleep well on my new bed. I’m very blessed!
Mary arrives tomorrow. She should be here about 4pm. It’s the same flight into Managua that I had. Even though you have to get up really early to start the travel day, it’s nice to get here in enough time to relax and unpack and have some time to get settled before jumping into bed. Getting here at 11pm isn’t all that much fun. I know she is glad to get here.
Monday, March 12, 2012
Good walk in the morning. I have decided to walk into town and not down the highway, since all of our workers are concerned that I will get robbed or mugged or something along the highway by myself. I used to walk into town every morning when I was taking Spanish classes. I walk earlier now, so some of my favorite shops to stop in are not open yet, but it’s still a nice walk.
This morning I went to the corner by the bank to exchange money, but the guy wasn’t out yet. I did hear my name being called and I looked over to find Jonathan there. What a nice surprise! We talked a little bit and he introduced me to his dad, Orlando. He is a very nice guy. Jonathan will be working as a translator for us next week, so I’m excited to talk more with him.
I headed back towards the Mission House and stopped in at the Libreria to buy some folders and pens for the women’s Bible study class. I then stopped at Bazar Jerry and bought some needles for the sewing class. Then it was on to the Mission House for a shower and breakfast.
Sherry, Lesly and I went to a (new to me) market to get Manuel’s school uniform. He’s homeschooled, but he worked hard so he could earn a uniform like the rest of the kids wear if they are lucky enough to go to school. I’m looking forward to going back to the market with Lesly one day just to look around.
After lunch, I worked some on the Bible study notes with Lesly. We’re ready for Friday’s class. I also hemmed Manuel’s uniform pants so he can wear them this week.
When Lesly was ready to leave for the day, about 2:30pm, I grabbed a ride with her and Jorge to Pacheco’s school. I was about an hour early, so I got to sit and talk with his aunt Sonya in Spanish. Salvador dropped in, too, so that was a nice surprise.
I had fun talking with Octavio and Estefani in the English class. They are both sweet and a lot of fun to work with. They are trying very hard to learn English and are doing great!
I grabbed a taxi home and settled in for the night. A really good day.
This morning I went to the corner by the bank to exchange money, but the guy wasn’t out yet. I did hear my name being called and I looked over to find Jonathan there. What a nice surprise! We talked a little bit and he introduced me to his dad, Orlando. He is a very nice guy. Jonathan will be working as a translator for us next week, so I’m excited to talk more with him.
I headed back towards the Mission House and stopped in at the Libreria to buy some folders and pens for the women’s Bible study class. I then stopped at Bazar Jerry and bought some needles for the sewing class. Then it was on to the Mission House for a shower and breakfast.
Sherry, Lesly and I went to a (new to me) market to get Manuel’s school uniform. He’s homeschooled, but he worked hard so he could earn a uniform like the rest of the kids wear if they are lucky enough to go to school. I’m looking forward to going back to the market with Lesly one day just to look around.
After lunch, I worked some on the Bible study notes with Lesly. We’re ready for Friday’s class. I also hemmed Manuel’s uniform pants so he can wear them this week.
When Lesly was ready to leave for the day, about 2:30pm, I grabbed a ride with her and Jorge to Pacheco’s school. I was about an hour early, so I got to sit and talk with his aunt Sonya in Spanish. Salvador dropped in, too, so that was a nice surprise.
I had fun talking with Octavio and Estefani in the English class. They are both sweet and a lot of fun to work with. They are trying very hard to learn English and are doing great!
I grabbed a taxi home and settled in for the night. A really good day.
Sunday, March 11, 2012
Sunday, March 11, 2012
Well, let’s see, what’s happened today…
Beautiful sunshine this morning. Loving it and gonna miss it when the rainy season starts in a few months. But I love waking up to it every morning for now.
Bible study and worship time here. Pastor Marvin and his praise team were still on their prayer retreat. (they have Sunday evening services because of the heat).
A church group came to use the pool for baptism today and then stayed for an hour of swimming. They were sweet. I got a couple of photos and a couple quick videos.
I had been working on the computer under the rancho when they arrived, so I moved to my room and did some sewing projects. I hemmed 2 dresses and then made a cozy for my printer and stand. Then I rigged up a curtain for my wall to wall shelve. Juver helped me hang it. Let’s just say we used our own method – including 4 screws, clothesline rope and a needle and thread. I need to get used to it, but I like it instead of seeing all my ‘stuff’ on display along the back wall.
The group left and Juver and Alberto and I just relaxed and talked. I’m getting a workout on my Spanish! Alberto mumbles, so Juver translates what Alberto says in Spanish to me in Spanish, but I can understand Juver much easier. It’s kind of funny!
The Hulseys came by to check on things and Manuel and I got the chance to play a little bit. Mike ran and bought us some grilled chicken from one of the street vendors. I never thought I would ever see Sherry buy food from the street. I’m glad she is more accepting of it. This particular vendor does a good job and it’s safe for us.
We realized that the keys were locked in the van. Alberto, Juver, Mike, Sherry and I all were trying to get the lock open. Yes, all of us. We were holding 2 flashlights, 2 screwdrivers and one wire coat hanger. Needless to say, we couldn’t get the job done. German came by and said he would go get someone he knew could open it up (kind of a shady character, I think, but a pro). I told Mike that I didn’t lock the keys in it, I just run into trees. Lol
Well, it’s time for me to relax and get ready for a video and read myself to sleep. We’ve got more work to do this week to get ready for the teams on Saturday. Woohoo!!
Can’t wait to serve the Lord with these 28 people! God is good!
Beautiful sunshine this morning. Loving it and gonna miss it when the rainy season starts in a few months. But I love waking up to it every morning for now.
Bible study and worship time here. Pastor Marvin and his praise team were still on their prayer retreat. (they have Sunday evening services because of the heat).
A church group came to use the pool for baptism today and then stayed for an hour of swimming. They were sweet. I got a couple of photos and a couple quick videos.
I had been working on the computer under the rancho when they arrived, so I moved to my room and did some sewing projects. I hemmed 2 dresses and then made a cozy for my printer and stand. Then I rigged up a curtain for my wall to wall shelve. Juver helped me hang it. Let’s just say we used our own method – including 4 screws, clothesline rope and a needle and thread. I need to get used to it, but I like it instead of seeing all my ‘stuff’ on display along the back wall.
The group left and Juver and Alberto and I just relaxed and talked. I’m getting a workout on my Spanish! Alberto mumbles, so Juver translates what Alberto says in Spanish to me in Spanish, but I can understand Juver much easier. It’s kind of funny!
The Hulseys came by to check on things and Manuel and I got the chance to play a little bit. Mike ran and bought us some grilled chicken from one of the street vendors. I never thought I would ever see Sherry buy food from the street. I’m glad she is more accepting of it. This particular vendor does a good job and it’s safe for us.
We realized that the keys were locked in the van. Alberto, Juver, Mike, Sherry and I all were trying to get the lock open. Yes, all of us. We were holding 2 flashlights, 2 screwdrivers and one wire coat hanger. Needless to say, we couldn’t get the job done. German came by and said he would go get someone he knew could open it up (kind of a shady character, I think, but a pro). I told Mike that I didn’t lock the keys in it, I just run into trees. Lol
Well, it’s time for me to relax and get ready for a video and read myself to sleep. We’ve got more work to do this week to get ready for the teams on Saturday. Woohoo!!
Can’t wait to serve the Lord with these 28 people! God is good!
Saturday, March 10, 2012
Up early to get ready for our road trip to Granada. It’s a beautiful, sunny day. We are taking one of the nice vans that belong to German’s transportation business. Jorge and Lesly are going along to be our driver and translator. Manuel is my date.
Manuel saw my new teddy bear (birthday gift from Pastor Marvin and Ingrid) and wanted it. I told him that he could play with it, but it was mine because it was a gift. I let him name it, though, and he decided on Julie. He took Julie with us on the trip. He said he was going to buy her a dress.
We drove into Managua and stopped at On the Run for a bathroom break. Always glad to see an OTR!
We made it into Granada about 11am. The restaurant was not open yet, so we walked around the square and downtown. It’s very touristy there. I bought a couple of pairs of handmade sandals on the square for $5 each. Sherry bought some stuff in one of the shops.
We decided to take a horse-drawn coach ride. Manuel sat up front with the driver. Sherry and Mike shared a seat and Lesly and I shared the other one. Jorge decided to stay with the van. We had a nice 20 minute ride to the lake and back. The driver stopped every once in a while and showed us a landmark and gave us some history. He was very nice. I took some pics and they actually turned out pretty good, even though we were moving most of the time. The horses’ names were Donkey and Perro (dog). Perro got his name because he bites the other horse.
We had a yummy lunch at Zarguán, one of our favorite restaurants in Granada. The steaks are the best we have had in Nica. Very tender. The menus are wooden pieces with a door on the front that opens to the actual menu. I took a picture of mine and made Jorge shake his head at my tourist behavior. ☺
We then went to Masaya to the big market. Mike doesn’t like to shop and he definitely didn’t enjoy the experience, but he was a trooper. Manuel had done very well on his test on Thursday and Friday, so he got to get shoes as part of his school uniform. I picked up another pair of sandals and some little ceramic turtles that are whistles. These are for my great-nephews in IN. I’m sure that my sister will thank me. Haha
We headed back to León and I think everyone except Jorge took a nap on the way back. Jorge kept teasing me about my driving (since I hit the tree yesterday). He’s quiet most of the time around us, but I like it that he is opening up more. I hope that he considers me a friend. I truly love Lesly and her family.
I ate some leftovers for dinner (cold of course, my favorite) and just relaxed for a while. I got on facebook and email for a couple of hours.
I gave Deanna my Saturday check-in call so that she could update everyone at church. She is doing well. I miss her and Jet. I hope the phone calls help her feel that I’m still connected.
Pastor Marvin and the praise team got back from dinner and were going to practice and worship a little bit. I told them they could stay under the rancho and that they wouldn’t bother me at all. It was nice to hear them playing and singing. A nice blessing for me.
I watched a video before going to bed to read. It was a good day.
Manuel saw my new teddy bear (birthday gift from Pastor Marvin and Ingrid) and wanted it. I told him that he could play with it, but it was mine because it was a gift. I let him name it, though, and he decided on Julie. He took Julie with us on the trip. He said he was going to buy her a dress.
We drove into Managua and stopped at On the Run for a bathroom break. Always glad to see an OTR!
We made it into Granada about 11am. The restaurant was not open yet, so we walked around the square and downtown. It’s very touristy there. I bought a couple of pairs of handmade sandals on the square for $5 each. Sherry bought some stuff in one of the shops.
We decided to take a horse-drawn coach ride. Manuel sat up front with the driver. Sherry and Mike shared a seat and Lesly and I shared the other one. Jorge decided to stay with the van. We had a nice 20 minute ride to the lake and back. The driver stopped every once in a while and showed us a landmark and gave us some history. He was very nice. I took some pics and they actually turned out pretty good, even though we were moving most of the time. The horses’ names were Donkey and Perro (dog). Perro got his name because he bites the other horse.
We had a yummy lunch at Zarguán, one of our favorite restaurants in Granada. The steaks are the best we have had in Nica. Very tender. The menus are wooden pieces with a door on the front that opens to the actual menu. I took a picture of mine and made Jorge shake his head at my tourist behavior. ☺
We then went to Masaya to the big market. Mike doesn’t like to shop and he definitely didn’t enjoy the experience, but he was a trooper. Manuel had done very well on his test on Thursday and Friday, so he got to get shoes as part of his school uniform. I picked up another pair of sandals and some little ceramic turtles that are whistles. These are for my great-nephews in IN. I’m sure that my sister will thank me. Haha
We headed back to León and I think everyone except Jorge took a nap on the way back. Jorge kept teasing me about my driving (since I hit the tree yesterday). He’s quiet most of the time around us, but I like it that he is opening up more. I hope that he considers me a friend. I truly love Lesly and her family.
I ate some leftovers for dinner (cold of course, my favorite) and just relaxed for a while. I got on facebook and email for a couple of hours.
I gave Deanna my Saturday check-in call so that she could update everyone at church. She is doing well. I miss her and Jet. I hope the phone calls help her feel that I’m still connected.
Pastor Marvin and the praise team got back from dinner and were going to practice and worship a little bit. I told them they could stay under the rancho and that they wouldn’t bother me at all. It was nice to hear them playing and singing. A nice blessing for me.
I watched a video before going to bed to read. It was a good day.
Friday, March 9, 2012
Friday, March 9, 2012
Happy Birthday to me!! Hahaha
Actually, I have hated my birthday for most of my life, but in the past 5 years or so, I’ve loved celebrating it. Not celebrating Me, but celebrating the Life that God is allowing me to live! He has filled my life with so many blessings. I give Him glory on this day!
I got up and walked and then came back to my room and spent time putting everything back in its place after getting my new bed yesterday. Which I slept very well on, by the way. Then I got ready for the day. I decided to wear a skirt today and it was very comfortable. It’s one of the ones I got at the second had store here in Nica last year and altered. I felt like a lady today.
I worked a little bit on Bible Study and then talked with Lesly about the plans for today’s class at ROSCC church. Then Sherry and Lesly took me to Sosteo for lunch. I had a nacatamal, which is a lot like tamales in other Latin countries. This was the corn masa steamed with pork, onions, peppers and other flavorings inside. It’s cooked by steaming it all wrapped up in a banana leaf. Sherry and I love them. Lesly doesn’t so she had tacos. At the restaurant, we ran into Chico, who was working with a team from another ministry. It was good to see him and he gave me birthday hug. The team was from one of the Carolinas and was nice. They were having their shopping day after 2 weeks of work.
Jeremy and Kelly surprised me this afternoon with a birthday cake decorated “Feliz Cumpleaños Mami Vickie”. How fun! It was so good to hug them! We had some cake (which they had brought on the motorcycle) and visited a little bit.
Lesly and I left for the Bible study at ROSCC church, which is only 2.5 miles down the road. Sherry had told me to just take the VOH car (suv). I was backing up and watching in my side mirrors for trees and backed straight into a tree behind me. I felt so stupid! Few people know how to drive here, since they can’t afford a car. Women are especially scarce as drivers. So I was a novelty at the church when some of the ladies saw that I had driven us.
Alberto, our guard, asked later if I was practicing my driving abilities. I told him that I have been driving for 39 years. He said I need more practice. Hahaha Luckily, the damage was cosmetic to a thing that hangs over the back window. I don’t think it hurt the back door. I sure hope not. Mike was not upset. Sherry had put a huge dent along the side of our previous vehicle (ChinChin the van) last year. I think he’s used to women wrecking the vehicles. I think this was my first ever accident. I can’t remember any others, but then again, I’m a year older today and my memory is slipping!
Anyway, I’ve had a wonderful day. I’ve had about 150 birthday wishes on facebook and email today. How blessed am I? I’m so thankful!
Well, better get ready for bed now. Gotta get up early tomorrow to go on a road trip to beautiful Granada tomorrow. Mike, Sherry, Manuel, Lesly and Jorge are going. Jorge is driving the van for us. It’s nice for them to get to come. It will be like a date! I guess Manuel will be my date! I’m looking forward to getting to spend time in the city and look at all the wonderful buildings. It will be so fun. Even though is 3 hours each way.
Sweet dreams everyone! I know I will have them in my new bed. I’m blessed
Actually, I have hated my birthday for most of my life, but in the past 5 years or so, I’ve loved celebrating it. Not celebrating Me, but celebrating the Life that God is allowing me to live! He has filled my life with so many blessings. I give Him glory on this day!
I got up and walked and then came back to my room and spent time putting everything back in its place after getting my new bed yesterday. Which I slept very well on, by the way. Then I got ready for the day. I decided to wear a skirt today and it was very comfortable. It’s one of the ones I got at the second had store here in Nica last year and altered. I felt like a lady today.
I worked a little bit on Bible Study and then talked with Lesly about the plans for today’s class at ROSCC church. Then Sherry and Lesly took me to Sosteo for lunch. I had a nacatamal, which is a lot like tamales in other Latin countries. This was the corn masa steamed with pork, onions, peppers and other flavorings inside. It’s cooked by steaming it all wrapped up in a banana leaf. Sherry and I love them. Lesly doesn’t so she had tacos. At the restaurant, we ran into Chico, who was working with a team from another ministry. It was good to see him and he gave me birthday hug. The team was from one of the Carolinas and was nice. They were having their shopping day after 2 weeks of work.
Jeremy and Kelly surprised me this afternoon with a birthday cake decorated “Feliz Cumpleaños Mami Vickie”. How fun! It was so good to hug them! We had some cake (which they had brought on the motorcycle) and visited a little bit.
Lesly and I left for the Bible study at ROSCC church, which is only 2.5 miles down the road. Sherry had told me to just take the VOH car (suv). I was backing up and watching in my side mirrors for trees and backed straight into a tree behind me. I felt so stupid! Few people know how to drive here, since they can’t afford a car. Women are especially scarce as drivers. So I was a novelty at the church when some of the ladies saw that I had driven us.
Alberto, our guard, asked later if I was practicing my driving abilities. I told him that I have been driving for 39 years. He said I need more practice. Hahaha Luckily, the damage was cosmetic to a thing that hangs over the back window. I don’t think it hurt the back door. I sure hope not. Mike was not upset. Sherry had put a huge dent along the side of our previous vehicle (ChinChin the van) last year. I think he’s used to women wrecking the vehicles. I think this was my first ever accident. I can’t remember any others, but then again, I’m a year older today and my memory is slipping!
Anyway, I’ve had a wonderful day. I’ve had about 150 birthday wishes on facebook and email today. How blessed am I? I’m so thankful!
Well, better get ready for bed now. Gotta get up early tomorrow to go on a road trip to beautiful Granada tomorrow. Mike, Sherry, Manuel, Lesly and Jorge are going. Jorge is driving the van for us. It’s nice for them to get to come. It will be like a date! I guess Manuel will be my date! I’m looking forward to getting to spend time in the city and look at all the wonderful buildings. It will be so fun. Even though is 3 hours each way.
Sweet dreams everyone! I know I will have them in my new bed. I’m blessed
Thursday, March 8, 2012
Thursday, March 8, 2012
Nice long walk this am. Bible study. Pilates with Sherry. (ouch). No electricity, so showered by flashlight.
Emptied half of my room and decided to have it sprayed for bugs while mostly empty. Check. Bought new bed and mattress. Bed was delivered via horse and cart! Table (bought last fall) revarnished along with new bed. Check. Room mostly put back together. Check. Love, love, love the new bed!!! Slightly higher than the old one, so even more room underneath for storage! Nice firm mattress. I’m such a happy camper!
I think my bed will be my birthday present to myself! My 55th birthday will be tomorrow. Sounds weird. I don’t know how 55 is supposed to feel, but I don’t feel old.
Mike and German had lots of meetings today off an on with some Pastors who want to work with our ministry. It’s nice to know that we have a good reputation here.
There is so much Kingdom work to be done! I pray for discernment for us all so that we will know how and where God is leading us.
I’m so excited to have lots of friends here in Nica. Not just from working with the ministry, but also from helping in the classes at Pacheco’s school. I am truly blessed! I’m having fun talking with them on the phone, emailing and, of course, facebooking!!
Tomorrow will be the first class starting back for Women’s Bible study at Rose of Sharon church. I’ve missed those ladies!
Last night I bought some special minutes for the US that needed to be used by tonight, so I made some phone calls back to Rogers AR and to my family in Indiana. It’s cold in IN and was raining, hailing and sleeting in Rogers today. Nice and sunny and hot and sweaty here!
Tonight I think I’ll get ready for bed early and watch a video and then read a little bit. Buster starting barking and chasing things about 2:30 this morning and I didn’t get much sleep. Add that to the long walk and pilates class and my 54.999999 year old body is tired!
I’m glad that God still finds me useful at any age. I promise to be obedient to His call as long as I draw breath!
Emptied half of my room and decided to have it sprayed for bugs while mostly empty. Check. Bought new bed and mattress. Bed was delivered via horse and cart! Table (bought last fall) revarnished along with new bed. Check. Room mostly put back together. Check. Love, love, love the new bed!!! Slightly higher than the old one, so even more room underneath for storage! Nice firm mattress. I’m such a happy camper!
I think my bed will be my birthday present to myself! My 55th birthday will be tomorrow. Sounds weird. I don’t know how 55 is supposed to feel, but I don’t feel old.
Mike and German had lots of meetings today off an on with some Pastors who want to work with our ministry. It’s nice to know that we have a good reputation here.
There is so much Kingdom work to be done! I pray for discernment for us all so that we will know how and where God is leading us.
I’m so excited to have lots of friends here in Nica. Not just from working with the ministry, but also from helping in the classes at Pacheco’s school. I am truly blessed! I’m having fun talking with them on the phone, emailing and, of course, facebooking!!
Tomorrow will be the first class starting back for Women’s Bible study at Rose of Sharon church. I’ve missed those ladies!
Last night I bought some special minutes for the US that needed to be used by tonight, so I made some phone calls back to Rogers AR and to my family in Indiana. It’s cold in IN and was raining, hailing and sleeting in Rogers today. Nice and sunny and hot and sweaty here!
Tonight I think I’ll get ready for bed early and watch a video and then read a little bit. Buster starting barking and chasing things about 2:30 this morning and I didn’t get much sleep. Add that to the long walk and pilates class and my 54.999999 year old body is tired!
I’m glad that God still finds me useful at any age. I promise to be obedient to His call as long as I draw breath!
Wednesday, March 7, 2012
Wednesday, March 7, 2012
I was still sore from pilates when I woke up this morning, and since I had walked 3 days in a row, I let this be my ‘off’ day. I laid in the bed and read until about 8am. Sweet! Then I got ready for the day and had my Bible study/quiet time.
Sherry and Manuel got here about 9:30 and got busy on Manuel’s homework for today. I was working on reorganizing some stuff in my room and doing laundry. I must say it is very nice having water pressure in the washing machine again! Woohoo! No more 4-6 hour washing cycles!
Pastor Marvin and his father, Raymon, picked me up about 11am to go to Monte Horeb (aka Sewer Ponds) to help serve kids their 5 x a week lunch. One of the sweet ladies from Rose of Sharon church was there and heads up the newly established feeding center (tin roof, concrete block fire pit, black plastic tacked onto tree limbs). I enjoyed seeing her. It was a very nice time. Since there is no shade for the kids to sit and eat, they come and get their food and take it home. They bring their own containers and it sure is a mis-matched set of items. Some bring plastic bags for us to poor their food into. I would love to get them all nice bowls with lids and some cups with lids. Sherry and I are talking about having the summer teams bring down some. We’ll see…
Anyway, I thoroughly enjoyed my time there. This is my 3rd year to be here in March and we have spent a lot of time at Monte Horeb. It is awesome to see how much the kids have grown!
Wendy, a sweet girl with Down’s Syndrome, came running up to me and gave me a big hug. She is so precious! I took our picture together. She loves being a helper. Another girl went home and brought me a mango as a gift. One little boy saw me and said “la gringa está aquí!!” They can’t always remember my name, but some call me “la gringa con pelito corto” (the Anglo with short hairs). I didn’t get to see Rosita today. I hope to see her soon. I did see Bismark and Franklin and some others. My how they are growing! I took some fun pictures of Alberto Franciso, a 6 month old who’s brother was feeding him some kind of candy that was goopy. Being 6 months old, Alberto keep nodding forward at in-opportune times and ended up with candy on his forhead, cheeks and every where else. He was funny! I posted some pics from today on my facebook account.
After the Feeding (about 100 kids today), Pastor Marvin and I walk part way to his parents’ house when his dad picked us up on the road. We stopped to see Maria Luisa. She had fallen down last week and really bruised up her hip and side. She showed me that her bruises are better and she looked so much better than on Sunday, when she was in so much pain. We had a fun visit. She keeps saying that she is going to come and sleep in my room. She is intrigued by our pool, but can’t swim. I told her that Sherry would teacher her, but she’s afraid that she will drown. We decided she needs some arm ‘floaties’ like we put on her grandson last Sunday. We all got a good laugh about that. I got to meet Raymon’s sister, Luisa. It was fun stopping at their house. I gave Maria Luisa some mangoes from our trees. We said we would see each other on Friday for the Women’s Bible study.
We got back to the Mission House and Sherry had saved me some grilled chicken (everyone else had fried and they are sweet to fix my grilled), home made potato salad and baked beans. Yummy!!!
I finished more work in my room and then left for a visit with Juan Pacheco, my friend who has the English Academy and was my Spanish tutor. I had a great time talking with Juan and also sitting in on an English class with a really sharp student, named Octavio. Estefany is a girl from the Saturday morning class that I helped with before. She came by also to practice her English with me. We had a blast talking. We exchanged phone numbers and I look forward to getting together.
Juan showed me where I could get minutes for my phone. I usually get them when running the streets during the day, but needed them tonight. He also showed me how to get some bonus minutes for the states. It costs about 50cents per minute for the states on my Nica phone. It costs about $2 a minute on my iPhone. Email and Facebook are definitely the better choices!!!
I grabbed a taxi and got home about 6:30. Alberto let me in and locked up the joint. I came to my room for some special supper that Sherry had left me. Stuffed green peppers! Yum! I grabbed a quick shower and got on the computer for some communication stuff and now I’m ready to watch a video and read and go to bed.
It’s been so much fun today. Hot and dirty and so full of blessings!
Sherry and Manuel got here about 9:30 and got busy on Manuel’s homework for today. I was working on reorganizing some stuff in my room and doing laundry. I must say it is very nice having water pressure in the washing machine again! Woohoo! No more 4-6 hour washing cycles!
Pastor Marvin and his father, Raymon, picked me up about 11am to go to Monte Horeb (aka Sewer Ponds) to help serve kids their 5 x a week lunch. One of the sweet ladies from Rose of Sharon church was there and heads up the newly established feeding center (tin roof, concrete block fire pit, black plastic tacked onto tree limbs). I enjoyed seeing her. It was a very nice time. Since there is no shade for the kids to sit and eat, they come and get their food and take it home. They bring their own containers and it sure is a mis-matched set of items. Some bring plastic bags for us to poor their food into. I would love to get them all nice bowls with lids and some cups with lids. Sherry and I are talking about having the summer teams bring down some. We’ll see…
Anyway, I thoroughly enjoyed my time there. This is my 3rd year to be here in March and we have spent a lot of time at Monte Horeb. It is awesome to see how much the kids have grown!
Wendy, a sweet girl with Down’s Syndrome, came running up to me and gave me a big hug. She is so precious! I took our picture together. She loves being a helper. Another girl went home and brought me a mango as a gift. One little boy saw me and said “la gringa está aquí!!” They can’t always remember my name, but some call me “la gringa con pelito corto” (the Anglo with short hairs). I didn’t get to see Rosita today. I hope to see her soon. I did see Bismark and Franklin and some others. My how they are growing! I took some fun pictures of Alberto Franciso, a 6 month old who’s brother was feeding him some kind of candy that was goopy. Being 6 months old, Alberto keep nodding forward at in-opportune times and ended up with candy on his forhead, cheeks and every where else. He was funny! I posted some pics from today on my facebook account.
After the Feeding (about 100 kids today), Pastor Marvin and I walk part way to his parents’ house when his dad picked us up on the road. We stopped to see Maria Luisa. She had fallen down last week and really bruised up her hip and side. She showed me that her bruises are better and she looked so much better than on Sunday, when she was in so much pain. We had a fun visit. She keeps saying that she is going to come and sleep in my room. She is intrigued by our pool, but can’t swim. I told her that Sherry would teacher her, but she’s afraid that she will drown. We decided she needs some arm ‘floaties’ like we put on her grandson last Sunday. We all got a good laugh about that. I got to meet Raymon’s sister, Luisa. It was fun stopping at their house. I gave Maria Luisa some mangoes from our trees. We said we would see each other on Friday for the Women’s Bible study.
We got back to the Mission House and Sherry had saved me some grilled chicken (everyone else had fried and they are sweet to fix my grilled), home made potato salad and baked beans. Yummy!!!
I finished more work in my room and then left for a visit with Juan Pacheco, my friend who has the English Academy and was my Spanish tutor. I had a great time talking with Juan and also sitting in on an English class with a really sharp student, named Octavio. Estefany is a girl from the Saturday morning class that I helped with before. She came by also to practice her English with me. We had a blast talking. We exchanged phone numbers and I look forward to getting together.
Juan showed me where I could get minutes for my phone. I usually get them when running the streets during the day, but needed them tonight. He also showed me how to get some bonus minutes for the states. It costs about 50cents per minute for the states on my Nica phone. It costs about $2 a minute on my iPhone. Email and Facebook are definitely the better choices!!!
I grabbed a taxi and got home about 6:30. Alberto let me in and locked up the joint. I came to my room for some special supper that Sherry had left me. Stuffed green peppers! Yum! I grabbed a quick shower and got on the computer for some communication stuff and now I’m ready to watch a video and read and go to bed.
It’s been so much fun today. Hot and dirty and so full of blessings!
Tuesday, March 6, 2012
I think I am always saying that it’s been a good day, but I can’t help it! Being in the middles of God’s will is good. Even on those hard days!
I went for my walk and then did Bible study until Sherry got here to do Pilates with me. What torture! My goal is to get through the hour long work and not skip any of the steps! Hahaha Even Sherry said she was sore!
Lunch was yummy and then I worked a lot on the computer and getting some emails and other communication out. I need to work on the details of my new website, but I just have too much going on in my head at the same time for now. Kind of like feathers floating around. I’ll wait until they settle down a little bit.
Jorge and Jaasiel stayed after Manuel’s class time to work on his big test for Thursday. Then Jorge drove me to the Hulsey’s and Jaasiel home. I went to babysit for Manuel. He earned a babysitter by being good all day.
Manuel was fun and he expects the babysitter to spend every single second paying attention to him. That’s why he likes it so much. We played lots of pretend games. Then he got tired and we sat in rocking chairs side by side and held hands and talked until Mike and Sherry got home. They actually returned much earlier than I anticipated, but Sherry says ‘there’s only so much entertainment in León on a week night’. ☺ Jorge picked me up in his taxi for the drive home. Lesly and Bruno (their baby) came along and it was a fun ride.
We got to my side of town and the electricity was out all over this area. But right when we pulled up to our gate the lights came back on. Alberto said they had been out for about an hour. I was glad to have my fan working for my sleep.
Went to bed early to recoup from pilates! ha
I went for my walk and then did Bible study until Sherry got here to do Pilates with me. What torture! My goal is to get through the hour long work and not skip any of the steps! Hahaha Even Sherry said she was sore!
Lunch was yummy and then I worked a lot on the computer and getting some emails and other communication out. I need to work on the details of my new website, but I just have too much going on in my head at the same time for now. Kind of like feathers floating around. I’ll wait until they settle down a little bit.
Jorge and Jaasiel stayed after Manuel’s class time to work on his big test for Thursday. Then Jorge drove me to the Hulsey’s and Jaasiel home. I went to babysit for Manuel. He earned a babysitter by being good all day.
Manuel was fun and he expects the babysitter to spend every single second paying attention to him. That’s why he likes it so much. We played lots of pretend games. Then he got tired and we sat in rocking chairs side by side and held hands and talked until Mike and Sherry got home. They actually returned much earlier than I anticipated, but Sherry says ‘there’s only so much entertainment in León on a week night’. ☺ Jorge picked me up in his taxi for the drive home. Lesly and Bruno (their baby) came along and it was a fun ride.
We got to my side of town and the electricity was out all over this area. But right when we pulled up to our gate the lights came back on. Alberto said they had been out for about an hour. I was glad to have my fan working for my sleep.
Went to bed early to recoup from pilates! ha
Monday, March 5, 2012
Monday, March 5, 2012
Another beautiful day. All it has to do is be sunny and I’m in! I even like winter when the sun is shining! It was hot, of course, but the wind was back and we were thankful for the breeze. Yesterday was very stifling.
I went for my morning walk and then ate and showered. I spent the majority of the day on the computer sitting under the rancho. I worked on some communication and then a few hours on the Women’s Bible study prep. I’m excited about the study starting back up.
Manuel, Melissa & Nestor (Lydia’s kids) and Kenneth (Coco’s son) all played on the trampoline, played baseball and then swam most of the morning. After lunch, Melissa and Nestor leave for school. Manuel has school here at the Mission House with some tutors. Sherry worked on some house details and then got in the pool for an hour or so. I can’t take the sun like that, so I just sit in the shade at the table on my computer and talk with her in the pool.
There’s not really much to report on today. We’re all busy just taking care of our regular business. We’re getting the house ready for the teams coming on the 17th. Mike and German are working out the details of the schedule for that week and purchasing supplies. I’m working on the Women’s Ministry stuff. Sherry is getting the house details under control. Lesly is handling receipts, records, inventories, etc. Alberto, Saturnino and Juver are trying to figure out the best way to handle the low water pressure and the need to keep the grass growing (in these 6 months of no rain). Always something to be done. It’s great.
There is a field along my walking route (down the little highway a bit) that has some interesting irrigation equipment. I may have mentioned it before. The stakes in the ground (all lined up and spaced evenly, well, sort of) with 2 liter plastic bottles tied upside down on each stake. The lids are loose enough to let the water dribble out onto the ground. Today, I saw some men walking through the field with buckets adding water to the bottles. It’s a hot job out in that sun. They work very hard here!
One of the mango trees is near the pool and one of the falling mangoes fell into the water and sank. Sherry asked Manuel to dive in and retrieve it. He was proud to do so. He stayed on ‘mango patrol’ for a while, then told his mom to just call him when another fell into the pool in the future. He’s our hero!
I’m going to finish up here on the computer and then watch a video. I’ve done my evening exercises and took my shower. I’m trying to get into a good routine. I still stay up too late reading. I need someone to make me accountable!
Tomorrow after my walk, Sherry and I will start Pilates on Tuesdays and Thursdays. We’re trying to talk Lesly into joining us. She’s a little shy. I also brought down some workout videos with Christian music. I haven’t watched them yet, but I hope they are good. I really need to get healthy and strong. I seem to be more determined down here. I guess there are less creature comforts to distract me.
Another day to be thankful to the Father for His provision and His plan.
I went for my morning walk and then ate and showered. I spent the majority of the day on the computer sitting under the rancho. I worked on some communication and then a few hours on the Women’s Bible study prep. I’m excited about the study starting back up.
Manuel, Melissa & Nestor (Lydia’s kids) and Kenneth (Coco’s son) all played on the trampoline, played baseball and then swam most of the morning. After lunch, Melissa and Nestor leave for school. Manuel has school here at the Mission House with some tutors. Sherry worked on some house details and then got in the pool for an hour or so. I can’t take the sun like that, so I just sit in the shade at the table on my computer and talk with her in the pool.
There’s not really much to report on today. We’re all busy just taking care of our regular business. We’re getting the house ready for the teams coming on the 17th. Mike and German are working out the details of the schedule for that week and purchasing supplies. I’m working on the Women’s Ministry stuff. Sherry is getting the house details under control. Lesly is handling receipts, records, inventories, etc. Alberto, Saturnino and Juver are trying to figure out the best way to handle the low water pressure and the need to keep the grass growing (in these 6 months of no rain). Always something to be done. It’s great.
There is a field along my walking route (down the little highway a bit) that has some interesting irrigation equipment. I may have mentioned it before. The stakes in the ground (all lined up and spaced evenly, well, sort of) with 2 liter plastic bottles tied upside down on each stake. The lids are loose enough to let the water dribble out onto the ground. Today, I saw some men walking through the field with buckets adding water to the bottles. It’s a hot job out in that sun. They work very hard here!
One of the mango trees is near the pool and one of the falling mangoes fell into the water and sank. Sherry asked Manuel to dive in and retrieve it. He was proud to do so. He stayed on ‘mango patrol’ for a while, then told his mom to just call him when another fell into the pool in the future. He’s our hero!
I’m going to finish up here on the computer and then watch a video. I’ve done my evening exercises and took my shower. I’m trying to get into a good routine. I still stay up too late reading. I need someone to make me accountable!
Tomorrow after my walk, Sherry and I will start Pilates on Tuesdays and Thursdays. We’re trying to talk Lesly into joining us. She’s a little shy. I also brought down some workout videos with Christian music. I haven’t watched them yet, but I hope they are good. I really need to get healthy and strong. I seem to be more determined down here. I guess there are less creature comforts to distract me.
Another day to be thankful to the Father for His provision and His plan.
Sunday, March 4, 2012
A beautiful day. We stayed at the Mission House and had fellowship with Pastor Marvin’s family. Rose of Sharon church was doing a feeding in the late morning/noon. They were having services at night, so the family came over to the Mission House during the day.
Sherry made spaghetti and garlic cheese biscuits and cake. Pastor Marvin’s family made chicken, yucca salad. It was a good feast.
I really enjoyed visiting with Pastor Marvin and then with his fiancé Ingrid for most of the afternoon. We spoke entirely in Spanish and it was nice. I haven’t really studied much in months, but I’m happy that a lot of what I learned with Juan last fall is still in my brain and comes out in pieces when needed. It makes me even more anxious to study more. I have a long way to go still, but people tell me I’m doing really well. I give the glory to God, because my little pea brain can only handle so much. I’m praying for a clear mind and a strong desire, oh and discipline to learn fast.
I fixed a nice dinner of left-overs from the last few days. I love left overs, especially cold. ☺
I chose to watch a movie for the evening and decided on Courageous. I hadn’t seen it yet, since it came to the theaters the day I flew out of AR last October. I purchased it before coming back to Nica. I had heard that it was a really good movie and that I would need Kleenex. So I saved it for a special time when I was ready for a message. I truly enjoyed it. It did make me cry in many scenes. So heartfelt. After watching the main movie, I watched the special features, like the videos of how they made the movie and shot the scenes. That was very interesting. Then I watched the deleted scenes. Then I really enjoyed the bloopers and out-takes. I ended the evening laughing with the actors and characters. A fine evening.
I love my little quiet-time corner of my room with my bookcase and rocking chair. I spend a lot of time in my room, especially in the evenings when the sun starts going down and the bugs come out. It’s nice to have a comfy space to relax and read my Bible and study. It makes my room feel less like a closet and more like my special place.
It wasn’t as windy today, which made the dust problem less annoying, but it sure was hot! I’m so thankful for the rancho to sit under. I can read, study, work (electrical outlets), visit, eat and rest in the shade. We have large trees, some of them mango trees, that provide shade. The mangoes fall off of the trees, so we have to make sure that the vehicles don’t park under them. One mango fell so hard that it made a hole in the roof of the men’s bathroom of the little pool house. Everyone is loving taking mangoes home with them, though.
The water pressure is still an issue this time of year. I finished washing the dishes with the garden hose. But we do what we must do to get by. And we’re thankful for everything we have. God provides what we need. We are blessed.
Sherry made spaghetti and garlic cheese biscuits and cake. Pastor Marvin’s family made chicken, yucca salad. It was a good feast.
I really enjoyed visiting with Pastor Marvin and then with his fiancé Ingrid for most of the afternoon. We spoke entirely in Spanish and it was nice. I haven’t really studied much in months, but I’m happy that a lot of what I learned with Juan last fall is still in my brain and comes out in pieces when needed. It makes me even more anxious to study more. I have a long way to go still, but people tell me I’m doing really well. I give the glory to God, because my little pea brain can only handle so much. I’m praying for a clear mind and a strong desire, oh and discipline to learn fast.
I fixed a nice dinner of left-overs from the last few days. I love left overs, especially cold. ☺
I chose to watch a movie for the evening and decided on Courageous. I hadn’t seen it yet, since it came to the theaters the day I flew out of AR last October. I purchased it before coming back to Nica. I had heard that it was a really good movie and that I would need Kleenex. So I saved it for a special time when I was ready for a message. I truly enjoyed it. It did make me cry in many scenes. So heartfelt. After watching the main movie, I watched the special features, like the videos of how they made the movie and shot the scenes. That was very interesting. Then I watched the deleted scenes. Then I really enjoyed the bloopers and out-takes. I ended the evening laughing with the actors and characters. A fine evening.
I love my little quiet-time corner of my room with my bookcase and rocking chair. I spend a lot of time in my room, especially in the evenings when the sun starts going down and the bugs come out. It’s nice to have a comfy space to relax and read my Bible and study. It makes my room feel less like a closet and more like my special place.
It wasn’t as windy today, which made the dust problem less annoying, but it sure was hot! I’m so thankful for the rancho to sit under. I can read, study, work (electrical outlets), visit, eat and rest in the shade. We have large trees, some of them mango trees, that provide shade. The mangoes fall off of the trees, so we have to make sure that the vehicles don’t park under them. One mango fell so hard that it made a hole in the roof of the men’s bathroom of the little pool house. Everyone is loving taking mangoes home with them, though.
The water pressure is still an issue this time of year. I finished washing the dishes with the garden hose. But we do what we must do to get by. And we’re thankful for everything we have. God provides what we need. We are blessed.
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