Wow! Can’t believe it’s the end of April already. I look at the date every day for work purposes, but it doesn’t sink in that time is marching on. I’ve been back in Nica for 2 months now. It really is home for me so the time doesn’t register in my mind. I like living one day at a time. I hope to be better about making the best of each day.
Thursday was a busy day going to La Quimera to visit the Feeding Center. We got current pics and info on 35 of the kids who have been sponsored for the feeding program. It was great to talk with Darling, too.
It was after 1pm when we got back to the Mission House, so we had lunch and then worked on the computer more until time for the Sewing Class with the ladies from Rose of Sharon church. Those ladies were ready to get started and many came early. I’m letting them unpack the machines so that they can be confident in setting them up, so it’s not as hard for me to prepare for class now.
The ladies finished making their aprons and started cutting out fabric to make elastic waist skirts. They had a blast! They said they are ready to make some skirts with zippers now. I hate sewing in zippers. I’m going to let them have at it and enjoy themselves! Ha
I did more computer work until time for my shower and bedtime. So much to get done. I’m bad about keeping charging along and getting tired and stressed without making myself take breaks and do fun things. I’m working on rewiring my brain about that.
Mary has been going to different churches in the evenings to speak about Evangelism. She is having fun. The people are loving having her there. Jaasiel and Hixel have been translating for her. Friday night, she led the van driver to the Lord! Way to go Mary!!
Friday was a day of catch up for Mayela and me regarding the Feeding Centers. We had a quick meeting with Pastor Marvin and then he wanted to meet with German privately. We are going through some transitions with a couple of the Feeding Centers. Lots to talk about and pray about. Mayela and I did a lot of computer work for most of the day.
After lunch, we all rode over to take Lydia home so I could take pictures of her home that we have been doing construction on. It was great to see it. She is so thankful for all the work. She received the Lord while we were gone in January. She’s part of our VOH family in more ways than one!
After the stop at Lydia’s, we went to get ice cream. Since ice cream is not good for my liver, I opted to be a good girl and treat myself to a new pair of sandals from one of my favorite shops. They only cost $5 US, so I bought 2 pair. When I got back to the ice cream shop, they were not serving to anyone because of a water problem. So we all jumped back in the KIA and went back to the Mission House. It was sooooo hot and miserable. It’s a lot more humid now that we are getting closer to the rainy season (winter). I’m so thankful to have air conditioning in my room for sleeping!!
Today, I started sewing classes with Juana’s kids. Maria, who is 21, has learning disabilities and I was praying that she could understand my limited Spanish. Francisco, who is about 8 or so, was on hand to help explain things and he wanted to learn to sew, also. Maria had taken some classes using a treadle machine. She knew her way around making a skirt. She did a great job. We understood each other pretty well and she wasn’t shy for long. Francisco was a hoot! He made a denim bag to carry his books and balls and stuff in. He was so excited! Juana wants to learn to sew also, so she will start learning on Saturdays after she finishes her work. I like having the class on Saturdays, when it’s relatively quieter around here. Also, I don’t have to pay a translator for now, so it’s great!
It was so humid today that even though it was 9:30am and I was only standing still teaching sewing, I was soaked through to my skin from sweat. My hair was completely wet. It was crazy.
I got some laundry done and then got a shower so that Mary and I could go to Suyapa, one of our favorite restaurants out on the beach, for lunch. It was a beautiful day to drive out there. It was sooooo stifling hot, but we were thankful for the AC in the KIA for the drive. There was a nice breeze coming in from the ocean to cool us in the outdoor dining room. Very pleasant.
On the way back from the restaurant, we got stopped at a Police checkpoint. They just set up wherever they want to. Usually, they are just checking documents and looking for things wrong so they can extract bribes from people. I told him first thing that my Spanish was limited. He looked pleased (like I was an easy mark). This did allow me to play dumb about bribes. I showed him my drivers’ license and the documents for the car. He asked about the documents and I told him that the car belongs to the VOH ministry. I offered to have a co-worker who is Nica get on the phone to answer any of his questions. He didn’t want that. I think he saw the chance for his bribe going out the window. I asked if everything was okay and he wiggled his hand as if to say ‘maybe, maybe not’. When I still didn’t offer a bribe and did offer again to call my Nica friend, he stood there thinking. Finally, he asked me about the emergency triangle that you are supposed to have in your vehicle. Once I figured out what he was asking about, I say Oh Yes! It’s in the back. Do you want to see it? He looked disappointed and said no. He finally let us go on. As long as I can call German (or another VOH friend) I don’t worry too much about the authorities down here. Mary was mad at the policeman for his checkpoint and everything, but we did fine and drove on home for some relaxation. I emailed Mike to tell him about it and said we didn’t need any bail money – yet. Haha
We rested and messed around in our rooms for the rest of the afternoon. Alberto came to my door and was asking me something. He mumbles and runs all of his words together. I have the hardest time understanding him. If I don’t understand the first time, he keeps saying the same thing over and over again. I started guessing what he was trying to say. After about 10 guesses, he suggested I call Lesly and have her translate over the phone. She didn’t answer, so I called German and he took care of it for me. Alberto was telling me the ‘book’ version of a question that only need one sentence. Lesly called back to see what I needed. I told her and we both got big laugh out of it. At least I didn’t think he said ‘there’s a watermelon in the tank’ this time! Haha
I was thinking yesterday that I have driven more in the last month here in Nica than I do in 6 months in the states. I don’t even own a car any more. Sometimes it’s surprising to me to think that I’m driving through this crazy town with one way streets, no street signs, a few stop lights (that don’t work, by the way), crazy taxi drivers, crazier motorcyclist and bicycle riders, horse drawn carts, old buses and little truck buses, and it feels as natural as driving in the states now. I’m not getting lost much anymore, since I’m going mostly to the same places weekly. When I go somewhere different, I have Lesly or Mayela with me. Sometimes, I enjoy walking or riding in the taxi, though, so that I don’t have to think about traffic and parking. It’s all good.
Well, it’s time to call it a night. I’m looking forward to some good sleep tonight. I had to fight myself from taking a nap this afternoon because it was too late in the day. I think I’ll sleep like a baby. I’m looking forward to going to church at La Quimera tomorrow.
God is so good. The days aren’t easy, but they are blessed because they are a gift from Him!!
Saturday, April 28, 2012
Wednesday, April 25, 2012
Wednesday, April 25, 2012
It’s just a little past 8pm and I’m forcing myself to stay up. I know if I go to bed too early, I’ll be up at 3am and not be able to go back to sleep. I’m really tired today for some reason. Wednesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays are my busiest days, though.
Monday morning, Mayela and I worked on the Feeding Center stuff for Noah’s Ark. We went there for the feeding time and had another discussion with the Pastor. I think we will finally get it all straightened out, but who knows how long that will take. The kids are getting fed and that’s the most important thing.
I got a lot of computer work done on Monday afternoon. I like it when I get to check things off of my to-do list. I was also feeling a little better physically, too. The rest I got on Saturday and Sunday really helped.
Yesterday, Mayela and I went back to Noah’s Ark Feeding Center and had more discussions with the Pastor. We were all feeling better about the future of working relationship by then. After lunch, I ran some errands and got back on the computer for the rest of the evening. It was a pretty productive day.
Mary’s Sewing class went well. We always feel like we have run a race by the time the ladies leave our sewing classes. Trying to keep up with all the help needed for 10-12 machines at one time is crazy. The ladies are loving the classes, though. We’re glad to get to do them.
Today, Mayela and I each grabbed a table and spent hours working on the Feeding Center stuff until it was time to leave for Monte Horeb. We were busy little beavers. Lesly was busy in the office working on receipts and recordkeeping. Mary was studying her evangelism messages that she will be sharing next week in various churches. It was quiet and productive.
It was good to see Auxiliodoro at the Monte Horeb Feeding Center today. She is one of the sweetest women that I know. She is such a hard worker and has such a wonderful heart for the Lord. We talked with her and Aurora, the lead cook at there at the feeding center. There were over 80 kids fed there today. It was fun to see the kids, too.
We got back to the Mission House and had lunch. Then we got back on the computers for more work. At 3pm we left for the Women’s Bible Study at La Quimera. We got there a little early and relaxed a bit. I take a prize to raffle for the ladies who come on time. There were 10 ladies on time today. We gave away 2 packs of special cookies to the winners. We only had 11 women in the class today. We had 22 last week. Hope I’m not scaring them off by making them participate! 3 of the ladies have memorized their verse and recited it today. I also recited it in Spanish. They were impressed with me! Ha
After class, I drove Mayela to the Bus Terminal back in León. What a crazy place! I did my detour back to the main road and stopped at On the Run convenience store to buy more of the V8 Splash juice that I can only get there. I’m stocking up! I stop in there a couple of times a week now to buy 6-8 bottles each time. The clerk looks at me weird. Oh well! It’s good stuff and healthy!
I got home and said hi to Alberto’s son, Carlos, who I buy the Bibles from. I told him that after Friday’s class, I would know how many Bibles I need to purchase for now. I need to raise more money to buy more Bibles for the Women’s classes.
I put my juice away and had some left-overs for dinner. I did a little work on the computer, but I’m really tired. So I tried watching a movie, but it’s not all that interesting. I’m going to post this and then go to bed early.
Tomorrow is another busy day with La Quimera Feeding Center in the morning and then teaching Sewing Class in the afternoon, with computer work in between. I can’t wait for Saturday, when I can rest! Ha
I’m thankful for God’s call on my life. I’m also thankful that He doesn’t show me everything at once. I would probably run away screaming. He teaches me more every day to rely on Him alone. I’m so thankful to have Him in my life. Actually, He IS my life. ☺
Monday morning, Mayela and I worked on the Feeding Center stuff for Noah’s Ark. We went there for the feeding time and had another discussion with the Pastor. I think we will finally get it all straightened out, but who knows how long that will take. The kids are getting fed and that’s the most important thing.
I got a lot of computer work done on Monday afternoon. I like it when I get to check things off of my to-do list. I was also feeling a little better physically, too. The rest I got on Saturday and Sunday really helped.
Yesterday, Mayela and I went back to Noah’s Ark Feeding Center and had more discussions with the Pastor. We were all feeling better about the future of working relationship by then. After lunch, I ran some errands and got back on the computer for the rest of the evening. It was a pretty productive day.
Mary’s Sewing class went well. We always feel like we have run a race by the time the ladies leave our sewing classes. Trying to keep up with all the help needed for 10-12 machines at one time is crazy. The ladies are loving the classes, though. We’re glad to get to do them.
Today, Mayela and I each grabbed a table and spent hours working on the Feeding Center stuff until it was time to leave for Monte Horeb. We were busy little beavers. Lesly was busy in the office working on receipts and recordkeeping. Mary was studying her evangelism messages that she will be sharing next week in various churches. It was quiet and productive.
It was good to see Auxiliodoro at the Monte Horeb Feeding Center today. She is one of the sweetest women that I know. She is such a hard worker and has such a wonderful heart for the Lord. We talked with her and Aurora, the lead cook at there at the feeding center. There were over 80 kids fed there today. It was fun to see the kids, too.
We got back to the Mission House and had lunch. Then we got back on the computers for more work. At 3pm we left for the Women’s Bible Study at La Quimera. We got there a little early and relaxed a bit. I take a prize to raffle for the ladies who come on time. There were 10 ladies on time today. We gave away 2 packs of special cookies to the winners. We only had 11 women in the class today. We had 22 last week. Hope I’m not scaring them off by making them participate! 3 of the ladies have memorized their verse and recited it today. I also recited it in Spanish. They were impressed with me! Ha
After class, I drove Mayela to the Bus Terminal back in León. What a crazy place! I did my detour back to the main road and stopped at On the Run convenience store to buy more of the V8 Splash juice that I can only get there. I’m stocking up! I stop in there a couple of times a week now to buy 6-8 bottles each time. The clerk looks at me weird. Oh well! It’s good stuff and healthy!
I got home and said hi to Alberto’s son, Carlos, who I buy the Bibles from. I told him that after Friday’s class, I would know how many Bibles I need to purchase for now. I need to raise more money to buy more Bibles for the Women’s classes.
I put my juice away and had some left-overs for dinner. I did a little work on the computer, but I’m really tired. So I tried watching a movie, but it’s not all that interesting. I’m going to post this and then go to bed early.
Tomorrow is another busy day with La Quimera Feeding Center in the morning and then teaching Sewing Class in the afternoon, with computer work in between. I can’t wait for Saturday, when I can rest! Ha
I’m thankful for God’s call on my life. I’m also thankful that He doesn’t show me everything at once. I would probably run away screaming. He teaches me more every day to rely on Him alone. I’m so thankful to have Him in my life. Actually, He IS my life. ☺
Sunday, April 22, 2012
Sunday, April 22, 2012
Thursday and Friday were very difficult days for me. By the end of the week I’m very tired and stressed out. The heat zaps my strength, too. I really feel the prayers that others lift up for me. And I need them every day!
This week I was especially stressed about getting caught up with all the work for the Feeding Centers. The Pastor at Noah’s Ark is not an organized minded person at all. His son and daughter do a good job with the ledger to keep track of the kids. But the Pastor keeps adding more and more names and then removing them and adding them back with a different number… It’s very hard to keep the pictures and names sorted out for sponsorship communication. We are able to determine how many kids are getting fed each day, so that is the main thing. I think he is overwhelmed with it all. It’s good to have his 2 kids helping. Mayela and I are trying to get the process in place and have promised him that it works (doing just fine in 3 others Feeding Centers) and it will easy if he will just let it work and leave it alone. He promised that the revised list he gives us on Monday will be the last time he changes everything. We’ll see… But the kids are fed and are hearing the Gospel every day. That’s the most important thing.
Mayle and I have about 120 kids to get current pics and more personal info on so we can share with their sponsors. This covers many of the kids in the other 3 Feeding Centers. God is blessing these kids with meals and blessing us with sponsors to help to provide the food. Sometimes it’s like drinking from a firehose, though. ☺
The Bible study at La Quimera continues to encourage and bless me. We had some new ladies this week. They have homework to do for next week. (writing out how they know when God is calling them, telling if they have answered the call to accept Christ as their Savior, making strong efforts to spend time listening to His call and what He’s saying). Did I mention the Bible study is “The Call to Follow Christ”? It’s a study with reading for 5 days of the week for 7 weeks. But with our limited time (NOTHING here starts on time) and the extra time it takes say everything twice (translating my words to the class), we are covering 1 days lesson each week. This will take us through the summer, but it’s worth doing it this way. The ladies are enjoying it. We have memory verses and I told the ladies that not only do I expect them to memorize them, but that I will do so in Spanish. If I can do that, surely they can do it in their own language! I’m enjoying teaching the ladies. I learn so much myself and am blessed by the time we spend together.
Thursday was a crazy day. We stayed at the Mission House in the morning and didn’t visit a Feeding Center so that we could get some work done on the files for Noah’s Ark. I was cramming as much work as I could into the morning. I did get a lot done and felt good about that, but physically (and emotionally) I was spent.
I enjoyed teaching the Sewing class. The ladies finished up their draw-string backpacks and started cutting out the pieces for their apron project. Pastor Marvin had gotten a HUGE roll of fabric (2 men could barely carry it) and we cut pieces about 1.5 yards for each lady. They had a good time learning how to lay out the pattern pieces and cut the fabric out. Some are learning the hard way to be precise with those skills. They are doing very well. We laugh a lot and I use my limited Spanish and lots of sounds and hand signals to communicate when Mayela is busy with other ladies. The women think I’m funny, but they show their love and acceptance of me and I appreciate that.
Friday morning was hard for me emotionally. I know it’s just being tired and all. I was up at 4am and couldn’t get my mind to slow down. Being a woman, I was weepy. Sometimes I hate being a ‘silly girl’.
Anyway, Mayela and I went to Noah’s Ark and had a stressful time there trying to get the records straightened out. But we did have a good conversation with Pastor (as I mentioned above). We got back to the Mission House and I ate some lunch and then went to my room for a much needed nap.
Mayela and I went to the Rose of Sharon Women’s Bible study. We have started having a drawing for a prize (usually a package of cookies) for the ladies who arrive before 4pm. We had 12 ladies arrive early that day! We ended up giving out 2 prizes. I was so excited to get started relatively on time and we had plenty of time for prayer, study, discussion, more prayer and some fellowship. Their homework for this week is to write down their experience when God called them to accept Christ. For those who have not had that experience, they are to write down what they think it means for God to call them into a relationship with Him. We had more new ladies this week and I was excited. It’s so funny to me that they are amazed that I drive the vehicle. Another example of “crazy North Americans”.
After I dropped Mayela off at the Bus Terminal, I chose a different route to return home. I don’t really like cutting through the small streets across town. Too easy to get lot and it’s usually getting to be dusk about then. So I chose to make a few turns and return to the main road. I have to turn left onto the busy road, but it’s better than zigzagging across town. It also allows me to stop at Maxi Palí, a new grocery store that is Nica’s version of a Walmart (much, much smaller and less stuff). I was looking for some special fruit juice and grabbed some grocery items for my room. I like being able to stop in there so easily after the Bus Terminal.
Friday night, I got home and fixed a quick dinner in my room and chilled all evening long. I watched a movie and studied Spanish and read and went to bed relaxed. I loved knowing that I could sleep late on Saturday.
Mary and I had planned to go to Suyapa for lunch on Saturday, but my stomach was really messed up and we had to stay home. I babied my stomach, did laundry and rested all day. Oscar and Axel came by to bring us some movies to buy. I watched 2 movies on Saturday. It was nice.
Today we went to worship service at La Quimera. Pastor Brian and Marcela are doing a wonderful job there. They are building up the church body and bringing order to the church. Mary and I had packed some little bags to give out to the adults for coming (encouragement) and Pastor Brian chose to call each adult up by name and hand them the gift individually. It was just a baggie with toothpaste, toothbrush, floss, a comb and washcloth, but everyone treated it as a prized possession. We always enjoy our time with the La Quimera church.
On the way home from church, we stopped at On the Run to get sandwiches to bring home and I also loaded up on some juice that I have only found there. I made a baked potato to go with my sandwich and had a yummy lunch. My stomach accepted it pretty well, but I’m still kind of yucky. I’m super excited about finding the juice. It’s V8 Splash Orange/Carrot. I haven’t found anything like it here in Nica. I’m buying up all I can until they quit carrying it. You never know!
I had a nice nap this afternoon. I’m going to study some Spanish and probably watch another movie. I just have a little bit of computer work that needs to be done today. Then I’ll start another busy week tomorrow morning.
I’m so thankful that God is faithful in all circumstances. He’s my Rock and Shield. And I’m learning to grow closer to Him and to rely on Him more and myself less. I’m so glad that He has my back. ☺
This week I was especially stressed about getting caught up with all the work for the Feeding Centers. The Pastor at Noah’s Ark is not an organized minded person at all. His son and daughter do a good job with the ledger to keep track of the kids. But the Pastor keeps adding more and more names and then removing them and adding them back with a different number… It’s very hard to keep the pictures and names sorted out for sponsorship communication. We are able to determine how many kids are getting fed each day, so that is the main thing. I think he is overwhelmed with it all. It’s good to have his 2 kids helping. Mayela and I are trying to get the process in place and have promised him that it works (doing just fine in 3 others Feeding Centers) and it will easy if he will just let it work and leave it alone. He promised that the revised list he gives us on Monday will be the last time he changes everything. We’ll see… But the kids are fed and are hearing the Gospel every day. That’s the most important thing.
Mayle and I have about 120 kids to get current pics and more personal info on so we can share with their sponsors. This covers many of the kids in the other 3 Feeding Centers. God is blessing these kids with meals and blessing us with sponsors to help to provide the food. Sometimes it’s like drinking from a firehose, though. ☺
The Bible study at La Quimera continues to encourage and bless me. We had some new ladies this week. They have homework to do for next week. (writing out how they know when God is calling them, telling if they have answered the call to accept Christ as their Savior, making strong efforts to spend time listening to His call and what He’s saying). Did I mention the Bible study is “The Call to Follow Christ”? It’s a study with reading for 5 days of the week for 7 weeks. But with our limited time (NOTHING here starts on time) and the extra time it takes say everything twice (translating my words to the class), we are covering 1 days lesson each week. This will take us through the summer, but it’s worth doing it this way. The ladies are enjoying it. We have memory verses and I told the ladies that not only do I expect them to memorize them, but that I will do so in Spanish. If I can do that, surely they can do it in their own language! I’m enjoying teaching the ladies. I learn so much myself and am blessed by the time we spend together.
Thursday was a crazy day. We stayed at the Mission House in the morning and didn’t visit a Feeding Center so that we could get some work done on the files for Noah’s Ark. I was cramming as much work as I could into the morning. I did get a lot done and felt good about that, but physically (and emotionally) I was spent.
I enjoyed teaching the Sewing class. The ladies finished up their draw-string backpacks and started cutting out the pieces for their apron project. Pastor Marvin had gotten a HUGE roll of fabric (2 men could barely carry it) and we cut pieces about 1.5 yards for each lady. They had a good time learning how to lay out the pattern pieces and cut the fabric out. Some are learning the hard way to be precise with those skills. They are doing very well. We laugh a lot and I use my limited Spanish and lots of sounds and hand signals to communicate when Mayela is busy with other ladies. The women think I’m funny, but they show their love and acceptance of me and I appreciate that.
Friday morning was hard for me emotionally. I know it’s just being tired and all. I was up at 4am and couldn’t get my mind to slow down. Being a woman, I was weepy. Sometimes I hate being a ‘silly girl’.
Anyway, Mayela and I went to Noah’s Ark and had a stressful time there trying to get the records straightened out. But we did have a good conversation with Pastor (as I mentioned above). We got back to the Mission House and I ate some lunch and then went to my room for a much needed nap.
Mayela and I went to the Rose of Sharon Women’s Bible study. We have started having a drawing for a prize (usually a package of cookies) for the ladies who arrive before 4pm. We had 12 ladies arrive early that day! We ended up giving out 2 prizes. I was so excited to get started relatively on time and we had plenty of time for prayer, study, discussion, more prayer and some fellowship. Their homework for this week is to write down their experience when God called them to accept Christ. For those who have not had that experience, they are to write down what they think it means for God to call them into a relationship with Him. We had more new ladies this week and I was excited. It’s so funny to me that they are amazed that I drive the vehicle. Another example of “crazy North Americans”.
After I dropped Mayela off at the Bus Terminal, I chose a different route to return home. I don’t really like cutting through the small streets across town. Too easy to get lot and it’s usually getting to be dusk about then. So I chose to make a few turns and return to the main road. I have to turn left onto the busy road, but it’s better than zigzagging across town. It also allows me to stop at Maxi Palí, a new grocery store that is Nica’s version of a Walmart (much, much smaller and less stuff). I was looking for some special fruit juice and grabbed some grocery items for my room. I like being able to stop in there so easily after the Bus Terminal.
Friday night, I got home and fixed a quick dinner in my room and chilled all evening long. I watched a movie and studied Spanish and read and went to bed relaxed. I loved knowing that I could sleep late on Saturday.
Mary and I had planned to go to Suyapa for lunch on Saturday, but my stomach was really messed up and we had to stay home. I babied my stomach, did laundry and rested all day. Oscar and Axel came by to bring us some movies to buy. I watched 2 movies on Saturday. It was nice.
Today we went to worship service at La Quimera. Pastor Brian and Marcela are doing a wonderful job there. They are building up the church body and bringing order to the church. Mary and I had packed some little bags to give out to the adults for coming (encouragement) and Pastor Brian chose to call each adult up by name and hand them the gift individually. It was just a baggie with toothpaste, toothbrush, floss, a comb and washcloth, but everyone treated it as a prized possession. We always enjoy our time with the La Quimera church.
On the way home from church, we stopped at On the Run to get sandwiches to bring home and I also loaded up on some juice that I have only found there. I made a baked potato to go with my sandwich and had a yummy lunch. My stomach accepted it pretty well, but I’m still kind of yucky. I’m super excited about finding the juice. It’s V8 Splash Orange/Carrot. I haven’t found anything like it here in Nica. I’m buying up all I can until they quit carrying it. You never know!
I had a nice nap this afternoon. I’m going to study some Spanish and probably watch another movie. I just have a little bit of computer work that needs to be done today. Then I’ll start another busy week tomorrow morning.
I’m so thankful that God is faithful in all circumstances. He’s my Rock and Shield. And I’m learning to grow closer to Him and to rely on Him more and myself less. I’m so glad that He has my back. ☺
Wednesday, April 18, 2012
Wednesday, April 18, 2012
Tuesday was pretty much the usual… breakfast, shower, Bible study/Quiet time, work with Mayela to prepare for our trip to the Feeding Center next on our rotation.
We went to Noah’s Ark again to get more pics of kids and info. What a task this has turned out to be to get all the records in order. I wonder when we’ll get it all under control. Probably the day before the rapture! Ha I always feel like I’ve run a race by the time we get back home. But it was good.
We had lunch and then Lesly took me to get a haircut while Mary and Mayela taught the sewing class for the ladies from Las Quimeras. After my haircut, I dropped Lesly off downtown for some errands and I drove home. It started raining really hard with lightening and thunder. It was a gully-washer. There are no sewer/gutter systems here, so the roads flood (and some wash away) with each hard rain. It was interesting driving home. I stopped at my favorite Libreria (bookstore) to buy some folders and notebooks. I had to step in ankle deep water to get back to the car parked on the curb. When I got back to the Mission House, it was raining so hard that they guys couldn’t hear me honking the horn at our gate. I sat there for almost 15 minutes honking constantly. I scared off a horse that was grazing nearby. I don’t think he appreciated my noise on top of getting all wet. Poor thing.
While I was at the feeding center, Mike texted me to see if Mary and I would be available for Skyping. I told him I would be back to the Mission House at 1pm and then Mary’s class started at 2pm. We would both be available at 4pm. So we made a plan to Skype later.
After the ladies left, Mary and I Skyped with Mike, Sherry and Manuel. It was fun and was great to catch up on stuff. We miss them and they sure miss being down here. But Skyping was fun.
I worked on the feeding center records on the computer until 9:30pm and then turned in for the night.
Today, I got up and got ready and then spent extra time on my Bible study. I had some Spanish Christian Praise music playing and it was very nice. I sat in my rocking chair at my window and enjoyed the sounds of nature (and Buster barking) for a little while.
Mayela and I got our game plan together for visiting the Monte Horeb Feeding Center and Mary joined us. We left a little early and I ended up making a detour to buy gas on the way. We had a really good conversation with Auxiliodoro and getting info on menus, recipes, workers and such from the ladies at the feeding center.
We came home and Lydia had made fried chicken, potato salad and baked beans for lunch. I can’t eat fried foods and it was really hard to smell and see the chicken. But I enjoyed my tuna sandwich anyway. I was a good girl for today.
Mayela and I each worked on the computer for a while doing feeding center stuff and I was answering some emails and such. While we were working away Mary yelled at Buster the dog. He had gotten ahold of her waterbottle cover and was playing chase with everyone. We all got in on the action…Mary, Saturnino, Mauricio, Mayela and me. Mary grabbed the skimmer for the pool and ‘loosened’ Buster’s grip on the cover. Then we grabbed it and chased Buster away. He stopped to get a drink from the pool and the next thing I knew he was swimming to the steps. Hahaha
Mayela and I left for La Quimera for Bible study and were detained by a funeral. As the vehicle (usually a truck or a horse and cart) pulls the body down the road, all the family and friends spread out over the whole road and walk to the cemetery. Since we live between 2 cemeteries, we get detained often. Then there was traffic going out of town. We called Darlin to tell her we were on our way.
The ladies were forgiving that we were late. Since everyone made it there before me, I let them all get in on the raffle for the earlybird prize. It was fun.
The class went great and we had 19 ladies this week. I’m enjoying teaching them and I’m learning new things all the time as I study for the class and as they respond to questions. I really enjoyed it today.
After the class, I took Mayela to the Bus Terminal and then found my way back downtown. I missed a turn, but could figure out where I was anyway. There was a lot of traffic and I don’t enjoy driving near the Bus Terminal, but I made it home okay.
Mary and I had dinner of leftovers and then retired to our rooms. I gave myself permission to chill out tonight and not work on the computer late. I watched 2 movies (they were so-so) that I had bought for less than $1.50 each. Then I’m posting this and then going to bed.
It’s been a good day and the next 2 days will be very busy, too. I think God for strength to accomplish His will.
I had some good emails and facebook messages today from friends who say they are praying for me. God brought me to their minds. I’m so thankful that they let me know. I need to do that when He brings others to my mind to pray for.
I’m looking forward to a good night’s sleep. I hope to have happy dreams and no worries when I wake up multiple times during the night. God holds me in the palm of His hand.
We went to Noah’s Ark again to get more pics of kids and info. What a task this has turned out to be to get all the records in order. I wonder when we’ll get it all under control. Probably the day before the rapture! Ha I always feel like I’ve run a race by the time we get back home. But it was good.
We had lunch and then Lesly took me to get a haircut while Mary and Mayela taught the sewing class for the ladies from Las Quimeras. After my haircut, I dropped Lesly off downtown for some errands and I drove home. It started raining really hard with lightening and thunder. It was a gully-washer. There are no sewer/gutter systems here, so the roads flood (and some wash away) with each hard rain. It was interesting driving home. I stopped at my favorite Libreria (bookstore) to buy some folders and notebooks. I had to step in ankle deep water to get back to the car parked on the curb. When I got back to the Mission House, it was raining so hard that they guys couldn’t hear me honking the horn at our gate. I sat there for almost 15 minutes honking constantly. I scared off a horse that was grazing nearby. I don’t think he appreciated my noise on top of getting all wet. Poor thing.
While I was at the feeding center, Mike texted me to see if Mary and I would be available for Skyping. I told him I would be back to the Mission House at 1pm and then Mary’s class started at 2pm. We would both be available at 4pm. So we made a plan to Skype later.
After the ladies left, Mary and I Skyped with Mike, Sherry and Manuel. It was fun and was great to catch up on stuff. We miss them and they sure miss being down here. But Skyping was fun.
I worked on the feeding center records on the computer until 9:30pm and then turned in for the night.
Today, I got up and got ready and then spent extra time on my Bible study. I had some Spanish Christian Praise music playing and it was very nice. I sat in my rocking chair at my window and enjoyed the sounds of nature (and Buster barking) for a little while.
Mayela and I got our game plan together for visiting the Monte Horeb Feeding Center and Mary joined us. We left a little early and I ended up making a detour to buy gas on the way. We had a really good conversation with Auxiliodoro and getting info on menus, recipes, workers and such from the ladies at the feeding center.
We came home and Lydia had made fried chicken, potato salad and baked beans for lunch. I can’t eat fried foods and it was really hard to smell and see the chicken. But I enjoyed my tuna sandwich anyway. I was a good girl for today.
Mayela and I each worked on the computer for a while doing feeding center stuff and I was answering some emails and such. While we were working away Mary yelled at Buster the dog. He had gotten ahold of her waterbottle cover and was playing chase with everyone. We all got in on the action…Mary, Saturnino, Mauricio, Mayela and me. Mary grabbed the skimmer for the pool and ‘loosened’ Buster’s grip on the cover. Then we grabbed it and chased Buster away. He stopped to get a drink from the pool and the next thing I knew he was swimming to the steps. Hahaha
Mayela and I left for La Quimera for Bible study and were detained by a funeral. As the vehicle (usually a truck or a horse and cart) pulls the body down the road, all the family and friends spread out over the whole road and walk to the cemetery. Since we live between 2 cemeteries, we get detained often. Then there was traffic going out of town. We called Darlin to tell her we were on our way.
The ladies were forgiving that we were late. Since everyone made it there before me, I let them all get in on the raffle for the earlybird prize. It was fun.
The class went great and we had 19 ladies this week. I’m enjoying teaching them and I’m learning new things all the time as I study for the class and as they respond to questions. I really enjoyed it today.
After the class, I took Mayela to the Bus Terminal and then found my way back downtown. I missed a turn, but could figure out where I was anyway. There was a lot of traffic and I don’t enjoy driving near the Bus Terminal, but I made it home okay.
Mary and I had dinner of leftovers and then retired to our rooms. I gave myself permission to chill out tonight and not work on the computer late. I watched 2 movies (they were so-so) that I had bought for less than $1.50 each. Then I’m posting this and then going to bed.
It’s been a good day and the next 2 days will be very busy, too. I think God for strength to accomplish His will.
I had some good emails and facebook messages today from friends who say they are praying for me. God brought me to their minds. I’m so thankful that they let me know. I need to do that when He brings others to my mind to pray for.
I’m looking forward to a good night’s sleep. I hope to have happy dreams and no worries when I wake up multiple times during the night. God holds me in the palm of His hand.
Monday, April 16, 2012
Monday, April 16, 2012
Sunday was an interesting day. We got up and ready for church and found that the battery on the car was dead. German came and jumped it for us, but we were too late for church. We let the car run for awhile to charge the battery back up, then we went to Maxi Palí for grocery shopping and general looking around. Then we had a yummy lunch at On the Run. Lelsy thought us funny that we planned all week to have lunch at a convenience store, but they have good food!
We got back home and relaxed for the rest of the day. Both Mary and I took naps. When I woke up, I felt sluggish and sweaty, so I took a dip in the pool. The sun was almost setting, so it was nice. Then I came in to my room and watched a movie and did some hand sewing. It was a very nice evening.
I missed going to church and hearing Pastor Brian and encouraging the church body. I can’t wait to go next Sunday.
This morning I got up early to greet Jeremy, who was here to work with German. Jeremy is working with us fulltime now and I’m excited. He will work with German in setting up all the ministry stuff for teams and getting all the details worked out for crusades. He’ll be working closely with Pastors and he will be great. (especially since he’s an associate pastor himself!)
After jumping the car again this morning, Mary and I went to La Unión to meet Lesly for grocery shopping. When we were done, the car was dead again. We called Jorge, Lesly’s husband to come and help us out. While he was getting the car started, we ran to a store and bought me a second bookcase for my room. I was so excited to get to do that! Jorge told us to go straight back to the Mission House and he ended up racing us by going through the side streets that he knows so well as a cabdriver. We ended up in front of him at one of the major intersections and then he took off down another side street (which was very bumpy!!). He barely beat us back to the Hotel, but was proud of himself.
German and Jeremy had a meeting in La Paz Centro, so they took off as soon as Jorge was back. Us girls worked on our various projects and then had lunch. Jorge took the car to get a new battery. He got back and drove Mary and Mayela to Evangelism class at La Quimera. I worked more on the Feeding Center records and then met with German and Pastor Marvin in the mid afternoon.
Our meeting was good and we got a lot of things communicated. Things, especially ministry, run so much better when people communicate!! I’m excited about our working relationship and I know it can only get better!
Pastor Marvin took Bibles to his mother and aunt when he left. German and Jeremy worked a while on crusade stuff. Then everyone went home except me and Mary. We snacked for dinner and then went to our rooms.
I was so excited to get my new bookcase. It matches my other one and I have them on each side of my bed. It looks really nice and I have them both filled already. I love getting organized!! I also love getting the stacks of papers and files off of my work table so I can enjoy working on the computer or sewing or whatever. Ahhhh
Alberto left at 6am this morning for a week’s vacation with family. He saves up his days off until he can have a week at a time. Mauricio is working for us this week as a guard. Buster is trying to show him the ropes. We’ll see who wins!
My friend Carol from NYC has been messaging me off an on lately. She has been diagnosed with cancer and given 1 year to live. She is very depressed. I wish I could give her a big hug. Instead, I have to wait until she feels like communicating. Please be in prayer for her.
I have many friends who are fighting cancer right now. There is such a difference in their journey when they know the Lord. I pray that He is glorified and sought after during these trying times.
I bought my tickets to Indiana and back for next month. I have to make a quick trip up there to finalize the paperwork for my Dad’s estate. It will be hard on my sister Sandy. I’m glad that I can be there. This will give me the chance to be up there for this milestone as well as see my Mother near her birthday. And it gives me a chance to satisfy my Visa requirements and bring stuff back from the states. I got pretty good flights and the cost was not too bad. I’m thankful!
I think I’ll put the paperwork away for tonight and watch a video and go to bed. I plan to have sweet dreams in my organized room! I thank my God for all blessings, big and small. He knows what makes me happy and cares enough to give me the little things, too!
We got back home and relaxed for the rest of the day. Both Mary and I took naps. When I woke up, I felt sluggish and sweaty, so I took a dip in the pool. The sun was almost setting, so it was nice. Then I came in to my room and watched a movie and did some hand sewing. It was a very nice evening.
I missed going to church and hearing Pastor Brian and encouraging the church body. I can’t wait to go next Sunday.
This morning I got up early to greet Jeremy, who was here to work with German. Jeremy is working with us fulltime now and I’m excited. He will work with German in setting up all the ministry stuff for teams and getting all the details worked out for crusades. He’ll be working closely with Pastors and he will be great. (especially since he’s an associate pastor himself!)
After jumping the car again this morning, Mary and I went to La Unión to meet Lesly for grocery shopping. When we were done, the car was dead again. We called Jorge, Lesly’s husband to come and help us out. While he was getting the car started, we ran to a store and bought me a second bookcase for my room. I was so excited to get to do that! Jorge told us to go straight back to the Mission House and he ended up racing us by going through the side streets that he knows so well as a cabdriver. We ended up in front of him at one of the major intersections and then he took off down another side street (which was very bumpy!!). He barely beat us back to the Hotel, but was proud of himself.
German and Jeremy had a meeting in La Paz Centro, so they took off as soon as Jorge was back. Us girls worked on our various projects and then had lunch. Jorge took the car to get a new battery. He got back and drove Mary and Mayela to Evangelism class at La Quimera. I worked more on the Feeding Center records and then met with German and Pastor Marvin in the mid afternoon.
Our meeting was good and we got a lot of things communicated. Things, especially ministry, run so much better when people communicate!! I’m excited about our working relationship and I know it can only get better!
Pastor Marvin took Bibles to his mother and aunt when he left. German and Jeremy worked a while on crusade stuff. Then everyone went home except me and Mary. We snacked for dinner and then went to our rooms.
I was so excited to get my new bookcase. It matches my other one and I have them on each side of my bed. It looks really nice and I have them both filled already. I love getting organized!! I also love getting the stacks of papers and files off of my work table so I can enjoy working on the computer or sewing or whatever. Ahhhh
Alberto left at 6am this morning for a week’s vacation with family. He saves up his days off until he can have a week at a time. Mauricio is working for us this week as a guard. Buster is trying to show him the ropes. We’ll see who wins!
My friend Carol from NYC has been messaging me off an on lately. She has been diagnosed with cancer and given 1 year to live. She is very depressed. I wish I could give her a big hug. Instead, I have to wait until she feels like communicating. Please be in prayer for her.
I have many friends who are fighting cancer right now. There is such a difference in their journey when they know the Lord. I pray that He is glorified and sought after during these trying times.
I bought my tickets to Indiana and back for next month. I have to make a quick trip up there to finalize the paperwork for my Dad’s estate. It will be hard on my sister Sandy. I’m glad that I can be there. This will give me the chance to be up there for this milestone as well as see my Mother near her birthday. And it gives me a chance to satisfy my Visa requirements and bring stuff back from the states. I got pretty good flights and the cost was not too bad. I’m thankful!
I think I’ll put the paperwork away for tonight and watch a video and go to bed. I plan to have sweet dreams in my organized room! I thank my God for all blessings, big and small. He knows what makes me happy and cares enough to give me the little things, too!
Saturday, April 14, 2012
Saturday, April 14, 2012
Friday was a busy day starting out with working on a list of things to take care of at Noah’s Ark Feeding Center. Mary went with Mayela and I, while Lesly stayed at the Mission House to work with the Lydia and Alberto on things that needed to be taken care of.
Things at the Feeding Center were better than we anticipated. It’s taking a few trips to help them get organized to do the feeding in a more organized way. There are still more kids that we needed to take pictures of and get their information. The Pastor’s son, Eliel is doing the recordkeeping and he will do a fine job of it. He writes very well and he is taking his role very seriously.
We took info for 31 kids, but only got 29 pictures. I didn’t realize this until after we were gone. We had been very careful to keep up, but it’s hard when the kids are like a bunch of kittens going this way and that way. We’ll get it all worked out on Monday, hopefully, and if not then, someday…
Anyway, the devotion and prayer time before the meals was more orderly, too. I think this process is beneficial to the whole Feeding Program there and will make the work of the Pastor and his helpers easier in the long run. The kids are so precious! I love being a part of helping them.
We got back to the Mission House and had lunch. Then the 4 of us gals took off for town at 2pm. We were wanting to get some videos at a little store we like. We thought it opened at 2pm, but they were closed. So we went for ice cream at Eskimo. Then we tried the store again, but it was still closed. So we headed back to the Mission House for about 45 minutes until time to leave for the Bible Study.
Lesly went on home and Mayela and I went over the Bible Study notes. Mary went with us to Rose of Sharon church for the Bible Study. We had a good class. We’re still in the process of getting the Bibles into the hands of the ladies who were faithful to the last study and the new ones for this time. I really enjoy the ladies. As we were leaving, one asked who was driving the vehicle (since there was no taxi for us). When told that it was me (one of us ladies) she looked up to heaven and said we needed to pray. Haha
We took Mayela to the Bus Terminal to catch her van to Chinandega. The area around the Bus Terminal is crazy!!! We dropped Mayela off and then tried to remember Lesly’s instructions to get back to our side of town. We followed the directions and at times wondered if we were correct, but we made it just fine. Mary was riding in the back seat, so I teased her that I was driving Miss Daisy.
When we got back near the video store, we swung around and it was open. We went in to do some shopping. We both found some good videos. They were about $1.50 US each. They had went up from last year, but they are still a good deal! Mary bought 10 and I got 19. The lady let me have one of them free as a gift. That was so nice. She and I had been chatting about me learning Spanish and her desire to learn English. She is really pleasant and I plan to visit her often. While in the store, someone walked up behind us and said ‘do I know you?’. It was our friend Juan Pacheco (translator and owner of the English Academy that I sometimes volunteer at). It was so good to see him. He ended up riding with us part of the way home. It was great to catch up a little. I have been too busy to go to the English classes lately. I miss it a lot.
Mary and I got home and ate some leftovers for dinner. Then we went to our rooms and watched our new movies. It was a very nice evening.
Today, Saturday, we both started our laundry to get it done for the week. I worked on my personal Bible study. Oscar called to see if he could come by to borrow my video camera for the weekend. He and his son Axel visited for a little while. Juana (our weekend cleaning lady) had brought her son Francisco with her and he and Axel got to jump on the trampoline together and play for a little while.
While visiting with Oscar, there was another knock on the small gate. It turned out to be 2 guys from the Saturday English class. Javier and Francisco had come to pick up a book that the Rogers AR team had left for him after spring break. It was great to see them. They both are Christians and love the Lord. Javier helped us with translating for the spring break teams. He’s still learning and was asking about getting together to practice English and study the Bible. I had brought him a bi-lingual Bible when I came this time. I told Francisco that I would bring him back one next month. I think we will try to set aside some time for Bible study for them. Mike and Mary have been talking about having some training classes for the new translators and that will be great. I’ll still get to have personal Bible study with these guys, too. I think I’ll invite Jonathan, Salvador, Estefanie and a few other of Pacheco’s advanced English students to join us. I will really enjoy that.
Mary and I finished up our laundry, had more leftovers for lunch and relaxed a while. We packed some ladies’ gift bags for the women who come to La Quimera church tomorrow. I had told them on Wednesday, that we would have a treat for all the women who showed up for worship time this week. I grabbed a nice nap in the late afternoon, then worked on the computer a little bit more.
This evening, I burned some cds for Mary and then we retired to our rooms for the night. I watched another movie (The Help) and had a small bag of popcorn as a treat. I tried to call Deanna and Nana Ruth, but didn’t get any answers at either place. I’ll have to try them again tomorrow.
It’s been a good week and very busy, but fun. I was needing some spiritual and emotional rest and it’s been nice. I’m so thankful to my wonderful God for all His provisions for me. Physical, mental, spiritual and emotional. He’s the best!
Things at the Feeding Center were better than we anticipated. It’s taking a few trips to help them get organized to do the feeding in a more organized way. There are still more kids that we needed to take pictures of and get their information. The Pastor’s son, Eliel is doing the recordkeeping and he will do a fine job of it. He writes very well and he is taking his role very seriously.
We took info for 31 kids, but only got 29 pictures. I didn’t realize this until after we were gone. We had been very careful to keep up, but it’s hard when the kids are like a bunch of kittens going this way and that way. We’ll get it all worked out on Monday, hopefully, and if not then, someday…
Anyway, the devotion and prayer time before the meals was more orderly, too. I think this process is beneficial to the whole Feeding Program there and will make the work of the Pastor and his helpers easier in the long run. The kids are so precious! I love being a part of helping them.
We got back to the Mission House and had lunch. Then the 4 of us gals took off for town at 2pm. We were wanting to get some videos at a little store we like. We thought it opened at 2pm, but they were closed. So we went for ice cream at Eskimo. Then we tried the store again, but it was still closed. So we headed back to the Mission House for about 45 minutes until time to leave for the Bible Study.
Lesly went on home and Mayela and I went over the Bible Study notes. Mary went with us to Rose of Sharon church for the Bible Study. We had a good class. We’re still in the process of getting the Bibles into the hands of the ladies who were faithful to the last study and the new ones for this time. I really enjoy the ladies. As we were leaving, one asked who was driving the vehicle (since there was no taxi for us). When told that it was me (one of us ladies) she looked up to heaven and said we needed to pray. Haha
We took Mayela to the Bus Terminal to catch her van to Chinandega. The area around the Bus Terminal is crazy!!! We dropped Mayela off and then tried to remember Lesly’s instructions to get back to our side of town. We followed the directions and at times wondered if we were correct, but we made it just fine. Mary was riding in the back seat, so I teased her that I was driving Miss Daisy.
When we got back near the video store, we swung around and it was open. We went in to do some shopping. We both found some good videos. They were about $1.50 US each. They had went up from last year, but they are still a good deal! Mary bought 10 and I got 19. The lady let me have one of them free as a gift. That was so nice. She and I had been chatting about me learning Spanish and her desire to learn English. She is really pleasant and I plan to visit her often. While in the store, someone walked up behind us and said ‘do I know you?’. It was our friend Juan Pacheco (translator and owner of the English Academy that I sometimes volunteer at). It was so good to see him. He ended up riding with us part of the way home. It was great to catch up a little. I have been too busy to go to the English classes lately. I miss it a lot.
Mary and I got home and ate some leftovers for dinner. Then we went to our rooms and watched our new movies. It was a very nice evening.
Today, Saturday, we both started our laundry to get it done for the week. I worked on my personal Bible study. Oscar called to see if he could come by to borrow my video camera for the weekend. He and his son Axel visited for a little while. Juana (our weekend cleaning lady) had brought her son Francisco with her and he and Axel got to jump on the trampoline together and play for a little while.
While visiting with Oscar, there was another knock on the small gate. It turned out to be 2 guys from the Saturday English class. Javier and Francisco had come to pick up a book that the Rogers AR team had left for him after spring break. It was great to see them. They both are Christians and love the Lord. Javier helped us with translating for the spring break teams. He’s still learning and was asking about getting together to practice English and study the Bible. I had brought him a bi-lingual Bible when I came this time. I told Francisco that I would bring him back one next month. I think we will try to set aside some time for Bible study for them. Mike and Mary have been talking about having some training classes for the new translators and that will be great. I’ll still get to have personal Bible study with these guys, too. I think I’ll invite Jonathan, Salvador, Estefanie and a few other of Pacheco’s advanced English students to join us. I will really enjoy that.
Mary and I finished up our laundry, had more leftovers for lunch and relaxed a while. We packed some ladies’ gift bags for the women who come to La Quimera church tomorrow. I had told them on Wednesday, that we would have a treat for all the women who showed up for worship time this week. I grabbed a nice nap in the late afternoon, then worked on the computer a little bit more.
This evening, I burned some cds for Mary and then we retired to our rooms for the night. I watched another movie (The Help) and had a small bag of popcorn as a treat. I tried to call Deanna and Nana Ruth, but didn’t get any answers at either place. I’ll have to try them again tomorrow.
It’s been a good week and very busy, but fun. I was needing some spiritual and emotional rest and it’s been nice. I’m so thankful to my wonderful God for all His provisions for me. Physical, mental, spiritual and emotional. He’s the best!
Thursday, April 12, 2012
Thursday, April 12, 2012
It’s been a busy week so far. I’ve been in a weird mood inside this week as I have really felt the enemy attacking my heart and mind. It’s hard to go through the attacks sometimes, but I always cling to my God for peace and strength. My relationship with Him is what matters more than anything. I will keep my eyes on the prize (eternal life with Him!).
The Hulsey’s found out Monday night that they had to go to the states on Wednesday for a few weeks to take care of some business. We all have our parts of the ministry to handle, so we’re in good shape on that end. We hope that they can be back before the next team in a couple of weeks. Until then, Mary and I will keep going with the weekly classes, Lesly will run the ‘house’ and all that entails, Mayela and I will continue our daily visits to the 4 Feeding Centers, and we will all have a busy time together.
I’m driving us everywhere we need to go, unless we have to split up, and then I drive part of us and the others take our favorite taxis. I’m learning more of the streets here. It’s not easy, since there aren’t street signs on the corners. Some of the buildings have a little plaque with the name of the street on it (1st ave, 2nd st, etc.) But those aren’t consistent and you use landmarks here a lot.
Last night I turned the wrong way on a street and Mary and I ended up sight-seeing for awhile, but we finally found a familiar street and made our way home. I can make it to all of the Feeding Centers and my Bible study classes fine. It’s the extra trips we make to places (like the Bus Depot, Lesly’s house, etc) that are adding to my list of directions in my head. I don’t get too worried though. Worst case scenario is that I pull over and have someone talk to Lesly or German on my phone to tell them where we are and then Lesly or German can tell me how to get out of there and on my way home.
Monday we went to Monte Horeb Feeding Center, Tuesday was Rose of Sharon Feeding Center, Wednesday was Noah’s Ark Feeding Center and today was La Quimera Feeding Center. Tomorrow we will go back to Noah’s Ark, since it’s the newest one and needs the most help getting organized for now.
Yesterday, Mary and Lesly joined Mayela and I for the trip out to La Quimera for my Bible studay. During the class time, Mary and Lesly walked down the road for a special visit that really blessed the recipient. It was a good time for them. We had fun getting the first class (since last December) going at La Quimera. The ladies are great and ready to get back to studying together.
Before heading out to the Bible study, we left a couple of hours early to go by a couple of stores to purchase ministry stuff and then to enjoy some ice cream! After returning to town, we dropped Mayela off at the Bus Depot to catch her ride to Chinandega and then too Lesly home. That’s when mine and Mary’s little excursion around town began. Once we got home, we had some leftovers for dinner and then retired to our rooms. It was a good day!
Today, Lesly and Mary joined Mayela and me for the trip to La Quimera Feeding Center. We also took a new friend with us. Her name is Kathy Kiely and her husband is working here for a few years and she is joining him this year. She enjoyed going to the Feeding Center and will come with us to some Bible studies and Sewing classes, too. It will be fun to get to know her better.
This afternoon was my Sewing class for the ladies of Rose of Sharon church. It was the first time on a machine for them and they did great! We had 9 today and it was fun. Mary and I are so thankful for the donations that made it possible to buy these machines. It’s such a blessing for these ladies to have the opportunity to make things for their families and to make things we can market to teams and churches in the states so that the money can help to support these families. It’s great!
I have tons of computer work to do as I follow up with kids at the Feeding Centers who have been sponsored by folks back in the states. It’s a big job right now and I feel like I’m drinking from a fire hose, but I’m enjoying it and I can’t wait for the people back in the states to get new pics of their sponsored child and find out more info about them.
I’ve also got a lot of work to do to get the Women’s Bible Study Pen Pal thing going. I’ve been taking lots of ladies’ pictures and getting their info. I just need to get more organized and get the stuff sent out.
There are 9 new ladies at the La Quimera Bible study, so I’ll be sewing 9 more Bible bags in the next couple of weeks. Lots to do here and I love it!
I guess I should go to bed soon. I’m very tired today. Lots of blessings can do that to a person. I’ve asked for prayer cover as I feel the enemy attacking me a lot lately, and I continue to ask for your prayers. I’m thankful for getting to serve here and I know that it comes along with more risks of spiritual attacks. But my God is strong and faithful and I know I can rest in Him.
The Hulsey’s found out Monday night that they had to go to the states on Wednesday for a few weeks to take care of some business. We all have our parts of the ministry to handle, so we’re in good shape on that end. We hope that they can be back before the next team in a couple of weeks. Until then, Mary and I will keep going with the weekly classes, Lesly will run the ‘house’ and all that entails, Mayela and I will continue our daily visits to the 4 Feeding Centers, and we will all have a busy time together.
I’m driving us everywhere we need to go, unless we have to split up, and then I drive part of us and the others take our favorite taxis. I’m learning more of the streets here. It’s not easy, since there aren’t street signs on the corners. Some of the buildings have a little plaque with the name of the street on it (1st ave, 2nd st, etc.) But those aren’t consistent and you use landmarks here a lot.
Last night I turned the wrong way on a street and Mary and I ended up sight-seeing for awhile, but we finally found a familiar street and made our way home. I can make it to all of the Feeding Centers and my Bible study classes fine. It’s the extra trips we make to places (like the Bus Depot, Lesly’s house, etc) that are adding to my list of directions in my head. I don’t get too worried though. Worst case scenario is that I pull over and have someone talk to Lesly or German on my phone to tell them where we are and then Lesly or German can tell me how to get out of there and on my way home.
Monday we went to Monte Horeb Feeding Center, Tuesday was Rose of Sharon Feeding Center, Wednesday was Noah’s Ark Feeding Center and today was La Quimera Feeding Center. Tomorrow we will go back to Noah’s Ark, since it’s the newest one and needs the most help getting organized for now.
Yesterday, Mary and Lesly joined Mayela and I for the trip out to La Quimera for my Bible studay. During the class time, Mary and Lesly walked down the road for a special visit that really blessed the recipient. It was a good time for them. We had fun getting the first class (since last December) going at La Quimera. The ladies are great and ready to get back to studying together.
Before heading out to the Bible study, we left a couple of hours early to go by a couple of stores to purchase ministry stuff and then to enjoy some ice cream! After returning to town, we dropped Mayela off at the Bus Depot to catch her ride to Chinandega and then too Lesly home. That’s when mine and Mary’s little excursion around town began. Once we got home, we had some leftovers for dinner and then retired to our rooms. It was a good day!
Today, Lesly and Mary joined Mayela and me for the trip to La Quimera Feeding Center. We also took a new friend with us. Her name is Kathy Kiely and her husband is working here for a few years and she is joining him this year. She enjoyed going to the Feeding Center and will come with us to some Bible studies and Sewing classes, too. It will be fun to get to know her better.
This afternoon was my Sewing class for the ladies of Rose of Sharon church. It was the first time on a machine for them and they did great! We had 9 today and it was fun. Mary and I are so thankful for the donations that made it possible to buy these machines. It’s such a blessing for these ladies to have the opportunity to make things for their families and to make things we can market to teams and churches in the states so that the money can help to support these families. It’s great!
I have tons of computer work to do as I follow up with kids at the Feeding Centers who have been sponsored by folks back in the states. It’s a big job right now and I feel like I’m drinking from a fire hose, but I’m enjoying it and I can’t wait for the people back in the states to get new pics of their sponsored child and find out more info about them.
I’ve also got a lot of work to do to get the Women’s Bible Study Pen Pal thing going. I’ve been taking lots of ladies’ pictures and getting their info. I just need to get more organized and get the stuff sent out.
There are 9 new ladies at the La Quimera Bible study, so I’ll be sewing 9 more Bible bags in the next couple of weeks. Lots to do here and I love it!
I guess I should go to bed soon. I’m very tired today. Lots of blessings can do that to a person. I’ve asked for prayer cover as I feel the enemy attacking me a lot lately, and I continue to ask for your prayers. I’m thankful for getting to serve here and I know that it comes along with more risks of spiritual attacks. But my God is strong and faithful and I know I can rest in Him.
Sunday, April 8, 2012
Easter Weekend 2012
Saturday I slept in until about 7am. Even though we had all the kids staying here and I could hear them moving around, having breakfast, meeting for music and announcements, I still dozed off an on. I think living in NYC, where you don’t have remedy if your neighbors are loud, helped to desensitize me to noise. I would even tune out jackhammers. LOL Here, I tune out whatever noise is going on. It may wake me, but I can go back to sleep. Now, if I was in the states and heard just a cricket chirping, it would bother me. I guess it all has to do with frame of mind.
Anyway, I got my shower and got dressed and was ready to head out with Mary and the Hulsey’s to go to Chinandega for the day. I really don’t like road trips at all, due to motion sickness and the vibration makes my bad ear roar for hours. I like ‘being’ in other places, just not ‘getting to them’. I had been wrestling with the idea of just staying here at the Mission House (which I really wanted to do) or going with everyone so that I wouldn’t rock the boat. I’m a ‘pleaser’ type of personality and often do things that I think others expect, even if I don’t want to. I finally gave in to myself and said I was staying here. Sherry thought something was wrong and wanted to know what so she could fix it. (she’s a fixer personality type) They all left for the day and I was happy to be here in my room where I read, studied my Bible, Spanish lessons and took a very luxurious nap. When they got back in the early evening, Sherry apologized for getting irritated with me about not telling her what was wrong. She finally understood that there is nothing to ‘fix’. I also feel liberated to say no when I don’t want to go on a road trip (or other things that are fun for others, but not my cup of tea). Anyway, it was a good day for all.
The group left about 4pm and it sure got quiet. They were a good group and I hope that they had a very good time.
Mary and the Hulsey’s went to the movies for the evening. I can’t hear in a movie theater because of my ear problem, so I was happy to stay home and watch videos on my computer.
I found myself thinking about a lot of my friends all over the country who are going through various hard times right now. I wish I could do more for them. But I know that God has them in His hands.
Sunday morning I awoke and enjoyed reading the Resurrection story. How glorious a day it was when Jesus arose from the grave to prove He has power over death and all things of this earth.
We went to service at La Quimera church. Mostly it was kids, with a few adults. It’s growing back up to a good congregation. Marcela said it is encouraging to them to have us come, even though we don’t have a translator with us. I enjoy hearing Pastor Brian preach and sing, as well as Marcela sing and tell Bible stories. It’s such good practice for me to hear them. They did a feeding after the service, which was nice.
We stopped at Tip Top Chicken for lunch and then popped into La Unión to get some phone minutes for Mike and Sherry’s phones. Then we came back to the Mission House and relaxed.
I took a very nice nap, while Sherry, Mike and Manuel swam a little bit. They left in the late afternoon. I worked on the computer a little bit, ate some left overs for dinner and made a few phone calls to the states. I did some hand sewing on a skirt and watched the movie Inception. It was kind of strange, but good.
Now I’m ready to watch my nightly installment of Castle (tv show) that I brought down the first 3 seasons. I enjoy it and will miss it when I finish these dvds. I’ll have to purchase more when I’m in the states.
Tomorrow I think Mayella and I are going to Monte Horeb for the Feeding there so that I can get some more pics and we can get more info on each child. Then I’ll be forwarding that info to the sponsors. It’s a lot of work and will keep up busy 5 days a week just to catch up and keep up, but it’s a fun job.
It’s been strange to be here for Easter Sunday and not be with my church family at Cuerpo Vivo. I miss them. But it was nice to be here supporting Pastor Brian and the church at La Quimera.
I’m so glad that Jesus sacrificed Himself for us to have eternal life. What an awesome act of love. I want to honor Him everyday for it. He’s my life now and for eternity.
Anyway, I got my shower and got dressed and was ready to head out with Mary and the Hulsey’s to go to Chinandega for the day. I really don’t like road trips at all, due to motion sickness and the vibration makes my bad ear roar for hours. I like ‘being’ in other places, just not ‘getting to them’. I had been wrestling with the idea of just staying here at the Mission House (which I really wanted to do) or going with everyone so that I wouldn’t rock the boat. I’m a ‘pleaser’ type of personality and often do things that I think others expect, even if I don’t want to. I finally gave in to myself and said I was staying here. Sherry thought something was wrong and wanted to know what so she could fix it. (she’s a fixer personality type) They all left for the day and I was happy to be here in my room where I read, studied my Bible, Spanish lessons and took a very luxurious nap. When they got back in the early evening, Sherry apologized for getting irritated with me about not telling her what was wrong. She finally understood that there is nothing to ‘fix’. I also feel liberated to say no when I don’t want to go on a road trip (or other things that are fun for others, but not my cup of tea). Anyway, it was a good day for all.
The group left about 4pm and it sure got quiet. They were a good group and I hope that they had a very good time.
Mary and the Hulsey’s went to the movies for the evening. I can’t hear in a movie theater because of my ear problem, so I was happy to stay home and watch videos on my computer.
I found myself thinking about a lot of my friends all over the country who are going through various hard times right now. I wish I could do more for them. But I know that God has them in His hands.
Sunday morning I awoke and enjoyed reading the Resurrection story. How glorious a day it was when Jesus arose from the grave to prove He has power over death and all things of this earth.
We went to service at La Quimera church. Mostly it was kids, with a few adults. It’s growing back up to a good congregation. Marcela said it is encouraging to them to have us come, even though we don’t have a translator with us. I enjoy hearing Pastor Brian preach and sing, as well as Marcela sing and tell Bible stories. It’s such good practice for me to hear them. They did a feeding after the service, which was nice.
We stopped at Tip Top Chicken for lunch and then popped into La Unión to get some phone minutes for Mike and Sherry’s phones. Then we came back to the Mission House and relaxed.
I took a very nice nap, while Sherry, Mike and Manuel swam a little bit. They left in the late afternoon. I worked on the computer a little bit, ate some left overs for dinner and made a few phone calls to the states. I did some hand sewing on a skirt and watched the movie Inception. It was kind of strange, but good.
Now I’m ready to watch my nightly installment of Castle (tv show) that I brought down the first 3 seasons. I enjoy it and will miss it when I finish these dvds. I’ll have to purchase more when I’m in the states.
Tomorrow I think Mayella and I are going to Monte Horeb for the Feeding there so that I can get some more pics and we can get more info on each child. Then I’ll be forwarding that info to the sponsors. It’s a lot of work and will keep up busy 5 days a week just to catch up and keep up, but it’s a fun job.
It’s been strange to be here for Easter Sunday and not be with my church family at Cuerpo Vivo. I miss them. But it was nice to be here supporting Pastor Brian and the church at La Quimera.
I’m so glad that Jesus sacrificed Himself for us to have eternal life. What an awesome act of love. I want to honor Him everyday for it. He’s my life now and for eternity.
Friday, April 6, 2012
It’s Good Friday. It’s been interesting spending it here in Nica. Most everything shuts down today. People are preparing for celebrations. There have been parades and parties in the streets for the last few days. Also, for today, people will block off streets and draw with chalk & paint or they will use stuff to make mosaic pictures on the streets. The scenes depict the Triumphal Entry of Christ, His death and burial and His resurrection. I didn’t get any pictures of these things today, but I did see some of the streets being worked on as the taxi drove by.
Speaking of the streets, there were a lot of detours necessary today to get anywhere. I went to have lunch with Oscar and Josselin, so I called Jorge and had him take us and bring us home. He knows where he’s going. And besides, I like to tease him. Right now, he, his wife Lesly and I have been teasing each other about who’s new cell phone is the best. It’s been funny.
I chose to wear a skirt today because it is so hot in long shorts and capris. I’ll probably wear a dress tomorrow, too, just because it’s more comfortable. It’s been so humid the last couple of days from the rains. But it was a good treat for the land to get the unexpected showers!
Buster spent last night and tonight at the Hulsey’s house. Since he wasn’t here to patrol the grounds, the big, fat frog was up around the pool (which is right outside our doors) ribbetting all night long. I had forgotten how annoying he could be. ☺
Buster came for a visit today and was doing his usual barking and chasing of the dragonflies that like to hover over the pool. He goes crazy chasing them. When he get frustrated with stuff he goes and attacks plants. He has pulled many up by the roots. He’s such a weird dog…
This evening I watched a silly movie while sorting and organizing some stuff in my room. (will I ever finish doing that??) The group that is here (70 people) having a retreat are all actually going to bed before 9pm. I can’t believe how quiet it is! I was expecting music and cajoling and squeals from the swimming pool until at least 11pm. What a treat to be able to go to bed early myself!
Our internet has been very sketchy all day and evening. I’m thankful that I can use my phone to check my emails for anything important. For tonight, I think I’ll just watch a video and read and go to bed.
I spent most of the morning in my room doing Bible study and praying over friends and their various needs right now. There are so many hurting people. I know that God has them all in His hands. I pray for them to feel that assurance and peace. He is doing miracles in many lives and I pray that He is praised for all of those things. Mostly, I pray that He is honored and glorified for WHO He is. He is awesome!!!
Speaking of the streets, there were a lot of detours necessary today to get anywhere. I went to have lunch with Oscar and Josselin, so I called Jorge and had him take us and bring us home. He knows where he’s going. And besides, I like to tease him. Right now, he, his wife Lesly and I have been teasing each other about who’s new cell phone is the best. It’s been funny.
I chose to wear a skirt today because it is so hot in long shorts and capris. I’ll probably wear a dress tomorrow, too, just because it’s more comfortable. It’s been so humid the last couple of days from the rains. But it was a good treat for the land to get the unexpected showers!
Buster spent last night and tonight at the Hulsey’s house. Since he wasn’t here to patrol the grounds, the big, fat frog was up around the pool (which is right outside our doors) ribbetting all night long. I had forgotten how annoying he could be. ☺
Buster came for a visit today and was doing his usual barking and chasing of the dragonflies that like to hover over the pool. He goes crazy chasing them. When he get frustrated with stuff he goes and attacks plants. He has pulled many up by the roots. He’s such a weird dog…
This evening I watched a silly movie while sorting and organizing some stuff in my room. (will I ever finish doing that??) The group that is here (70 people) having a retreat are all actually going to bed before 9pm. I can’t believe how quiet it is! I was expecting music and cajoling and squeals from the swimming pool until at least 11pm. What a treat to be able to go to bed early myself!
Our internet has been very sketchy all day and evening. I’m thankful that I can use my phone to check my emails for anything important. For tonight, I think I’ll just watch a video and read and go to bed.
I spent most of the morning in my room doing Bible study and praying over friends and their various needs right now. There are so many hurting people. I know that God has them all in His hands. I pray for them to feel that assurance and peace. He is doing miracles in many lives and I pray that He is praised for all of those things. Mostly, I pray that He is honored and glorified for WHO He is. He is awesome!!!
Thursday, April 5, 2012
Thursday, April 5, 2012
Today was overcast from the storm coming through last night. So weird for this time of year. I knew Sherry wouldn’t like the clouds today because she likes to get her time in the sun in as often as she can. She opted for cooking and baking this morning instead. So we had a really great lunch. We even had chocolate cake!
Mayela and her two kids came to spend the day and night with us. Jaasiel brought her son Matthew over for a while. Mayela and the kids swam for a while and had great fun playing.
I worked on the master database for the Feeding Centers. I started it yesterday afternoon and finished it today. It took about 8 hours to get everything put together, but I like doing that sort of thing, so it was all good. Right now, we are feeding 395 kids regularly and have 90+ sponsors who pay $45 per year to feed 1 child. There are about another 100 sponsors that have chosen a child, but I don’t have all the details yet, so I’ll be adding them to the list in the next week or so.
I also got some emails sent and visited with Mayela, Jaasiel, Mary and the Hulseys. I was hoping for a nap, but that didn’t happen. I did get 2 loads of laundry done, though. And I hemmed 2 pairs of capris that I had made from cut off jeans. I watched a Marcos Witt DVD while sewing. I love his songs. It’s a great DVD that I got for only $1 here. What a bargain! Oh, and I sewed some new elastic into the waist of a dress for Mayela. I’m itching to sew a project soon, so maybe tomorrow will be the day!!
Manuel came over to have us babysit tonight. Mary did most of the entertaining for him. Alberto played baseball with him and then Mary heated him up some dinner just like Albertos. Manuel sat with Alberto and ate dinner. They converse even though they speak different languages. That’s never stopped Manuel before!
Mayela and her 2 kids went to the movies to see The Lorax. They liked it. They got home shortly before Manuel left for the evening. Mary and I retired to our rooms and left Mayela and the kids with a laptop and a couple of Veggietale movies. I’m going to watch a movie tonight myself, I think. It feels like a Saturday night since it’s Holy Week and everyone is celebrating. I usually stay messed up on days of the week, anyway.
I’m hoping that the storms are over for another few months. I like the rain, especially in the dry season, but I don’t like storms here at all. They are too dangerous. There are no lightning rods on buildings like in the states. Everything is fair game for the lightning. I’ll settle for plain rain. But if there is no rain tonight, I will get to sleep really well. Here’s hoping…
Even though I didn’t leave the Mission House today, I got a lot of work done, so I’m feeling very pleased. Tomorrow I’m going to have a fun day of sewing and messing around in my room. There will be 70 people sleeping here starting at 2pm tomorrow through Saturday evening. It’s some kind of event for Holy Week. I’ll be in my room early in the evening, so I’ll have plenty of time to do some stuff.
Tomorrow for lunch, I’m going to meet Oscar and Josselin for lunch. I’m treating them as a belated wedding present. I can’t wait to see them! After lunch I’ll probably just come back to the Mission House. I expect it to be hard to get around much in town and most of the stores (and probably restaurants) will be closed. It will be a good day for rest! Due to the craziness on the streets, I decided to turn down the offer of my friend Estephanie to get together tomorrow evening. I want to spend time with her, but I don’t want to be out in the crowd.
I love being here for Easter because of the effect that Holy Week has on everyone. It makes you more aware of the holiday. Unfortunately, it’s mostly Catholic events and services and they leave Jesus pretty much on the cross and don’t really celebrate His life afterward. I’m praying that every year there are more and more Nicas who know and celebrate Christ’s resurrection and eternal life by having a relationship with Him.
I pray the same thing for people all over the world. I pray that there will be many messages shared about Christ this weekend beyond the benign things that just ‘go with the season’. (by the way, have you ever tried to explain the Easter Bunny to another culture???) It’s so much more important to explain Christ and His power of Salvation and Redemption. Lord, please find me faithful in this…
Mayela and her two kids came to spend the day and night with us. Jaasiel brought her son Matthew over for a while. Mayela and the kids swam for a while and had great fun playing.
I worked on the master database for the Feeding Centers. I started it yesterday afternoon and finished it today. It took about 8 hours to get everything put together, but I like doing that sort of thing, so it was all good. Right now, we are feeding 395 kids regularly and have 90+ sponsors who pay $45 per year to feed 1 child. There are about another 100 sponsors that have chosen a child, but I don’t have all the details yet, so I’ll be adding them to the list in the next week or so.
I also got some emails sent and visited with Mayela, Jaasiel, Mary and the Hulseys. I was hoping for a nap, but that didn’t happen. I did get 2 loads of laundry done, though. And I hemmed 2 pairs of capris that I had made from cut off jeans. I watched a Marcos Witt DVD while sewing. I love his songs. It’s a great DVD that I got for only $1 here. What a bargain! Oh, and I sewed some new elastic into the waist of a dress for Mayela. I’m itching to sew a project soon, so maybe tomorrow will be the day!!
Manuel came over to have us babysit tonight. Mary did most of the entertaining for him. Alberto played baseball with him and then Mary heated him up some dinner just like Albertos. Manuel sat with Alberto and ate dinner. They converse even though they speak different languages. That’s never stopped Manuel before!
Mayela and her 2 kids went to the movies to see The Lorax. They liked it. They got home shortly before Manuel left for the evening. Mary and I retired to our rooms and left Mayela and the kids with a laptop and a couple of Veggietale movies. I’m going to watch a movie tonight myself, I think. It feels like a Saturday night since it’s Holy Week and everyone is celebrating. I usually stay messed up on days of the week, anyway.
I’m hoping that the storms are over for another few months. I like the rain, especially in the dry season, but I don’t like storms here at all. They are too dangerous. There are no lightning rods on buildings like in the states. Everything is fair game for the lightning. I’ll settle for plain rain. But if there is no rain tonight, I will get to sleep really well. Here’s hoping…
Even though I didn’t leave the Mission House today, I got a lot of work done, so I’m feeling very pleased. Tomorrow I’m going to have a fun day of sewing and messing around in my room. There will be 70 people sleeping here starting at 2pm tomorrow through Saturday evening. It’s some kind of event for Holy Week. I’ll be in my room early in the evening, so I’ll have plenty of time to do some stuff.
Tomorrow for lunch, I’m going to meet Oscar and Josselin for lunch. I’m treating them as a belated wedding present. I can’t wait to see them! After lunch I’ll probably just come back to the Mission House. I expect it to be hard to get around much in town and most of the stores (and probably restaurants) will be closed. It will be a good day for rest! Due to the craziness on the streets, I decided to turn down the offer of my friend Estephanie to get together tomorrow evening. I want to spend time with her, but I don’t want to be out in the crowd.
I love being here for Easter because of the effect that Holy Week has on everyone. It makes you more aware of the holiday. Unfortunately, it’s mostly Catholic events and services and they leave Jesus pretty much on the cross and don’t really celebrate His life afterward. I’m praying that every year there are more and more Nicas who know and celebrate Christ’s resurrection and eternal life by having a relationship with Him.
I pray the same thing for people all over the world. I pray that there will be many messages shared about Christ this weekend beyond the benign things that just ‘go with the season’. (by the way, have you ever tried to explain the Easter Bunny to another culture???) It’s so much more important to explain Christ and His power of Salvation and Redemption. Lord, please find me faithful in this…
Wednesday, April 4, 2012
We actually had rain last night! First time in MONTHS! It was a storm actually, which kept knocking out the electricity all night long. This morning it was hot and sunny and HUMID!! The ground had soaked up all the rain. If not for the humidity, you would not know that there was any moisture around. As I’m sitting here this evening typing this, I hear some thunder coming this way. We’ll see how things go…
I got up and started preparing for the day. Mayela got here early and we started working on our own parts of the Feeding Centers projects. Lesly got here, then the Hulsey’s and everyone was working away. Since we had an event here last night, we had an extra cleaning lady today to help Aracelys. Saturnino had to go to the Husley’s house for little bit to work on a bathroom. Everyone was very busy.
The Coke guys came early this morning to deliver our weekly order (bottled water, sodas), so I had to pay them, since the Hulsey’s weren’t here yet. The bill came to 1,495.95 córdabas and I happened to have 1500 in my wallet. We spend US dollars a lot, but sometimes the people would rather have cords. It was about $65 US. Considering we have to buy all our drinkable water, it’s a good deal.
Mayela and I headed out to Monte Horeb to visit the Feeding Center today. It turns out that they weren’t feeding today. We knew that all the Feeding Centers weren’t feeding on Thursday and Friday because of Holy Week, but we weren’t aware about today. I think there may have been a problem with finding enough of the cooks still in town. This week is when many people travel to near by towns (and farther cities) to visit family. A lot of the town just closes down. I think we will be finding ways to make sure the Feeding Centers are open on holiday weeks.
After a yummy lunch, we were all working on our projects again for a while. Mary has been studying for her Evangelism class that she is starting to teach on Monday at 2 churches. She’s also been sewing and mending some things for Mayela. She enjoys that.
Lesly and I went to town to buy a new microwave for my room. My ‘possessed’ one acted up with the 77:77 and beeping again. We found a Frigidaire brand that I liked, so I grabbed it. I’m getting used to driving in León now. So far so good!
I got back to the Mission House and put my new microwave in my room. It’s looks nice and I like it even better than the possessed one that I had borrowed from the Hulseys.
I worked a few more hours on the Feeding Center project. I’ll be working on my part of it (documentation, tracking, communication) for the rest of the week to get files set up and databases completed. Then we’ll be ready to get update pictures and info from the kids starting next week as we visit a different Feeding Center each day.
Mayela worked on printing and cutting out the kids pics and putting the next sponsor book together for the Noah’s Ark Feeding Center. She got quite a bit done today. We work well together and I enjoy her.
Manuel had a hard time with school today. He was having some behavior problems, so the Hulsey’s went home a little early. Mary and I were each on a computer working and it was nice and quiet. We kept at it until the mosquitoes started bothering us. Then we went inside our rooms for the night.
Juver and his kinfolk had made some bunkbeds for the ministry. They are really nice and sturdy. There were some issues with due dates and such (normal for Nica), but the end product was very good and Mike was very pleased with them.
It is really pouring down rain and thundering a lot. I believe it’s a gulley washer!! Unfortunately, it will wipe out some roads. I hope it passes by quickly.
Buster was scratching on my door last night, but I wouldn’t let him in. He can sleep in Alberto’s little house, and I knew that he would keep me up and down all night, so I left him outside. Tonight, he made a pounding noise on my door and I thought it might be Mary or Alberto, so I opened the door. Buster ran in and promptly hid under my bed behind some tubs. I can’t get him out, so I guess he will join me for the night. That little bugger better not keep me up! Ha
I talked with my sister Sandy today and we’ve decided not to take the chance of trying to handle the paperwork for Dad’s estate down here. It’s just too complicated and ‘iffy’ to get legal documents taken care of that will be accepted in the states. So I’m going to fly to Indiana on May 24 for a few days to sign papers and help finalize stuff. It will be nice to be up there with family during that time. I had some money come to me that I was not expecting, so I’m using it to cover most of my airfare. Going at that time will also satisfy my Visa requirements so that I can stay until Aug 13 as planned without having to get an extension. I’m actually starting to look forward to going. I’m going to put my clothes in my carryon and put the carryon in my big suitcase since I can take one checked bag for free. Then when I come back I can have my carryon with clothes in it and use my big suitcase to bring stuff back that I buy in the states. There are so many things on our wishlist that I can’t wait to bring it back!
I called Nana Ruth this evening and she is doing pretty well. I love being able to call on my iPhone using Skype for just pennies a minute. It sure makes communication a lot better.
I’m so spoiled to technology, but I’m very grateful for it. Being able to keep in touch with people helps with relationships, as well as communicating with teams coming down and sharing with my supporters and prayer partners about what God is doing here and how blessed I am to be serving here.
I guess I’ll go for now and see if the lightning and thunder quit soon so I can watch my nightly video. I’m spoiled to that, too! I don’t miss TV much at all and I’m enjoying watching my little videos most every night. Then I read until sleepy. It’s a nice quiet life most of the time.
I have many friends who are going through physical problems, deaths in the family, breakups of marriages, etc. My heart goes out to all of them. I find that I have more time to pray for them when I’m here. Actually, it’s just that there is less distraction and I can concentrate more on prayer time here. But I could always improve my time management!! Especially when it comes to prayer and Bible study!!
I got up and started preparing for the day. Mayela got here early and we started working on our own parts of the Feeding Centers projects. Lesly got here, then the Hulsey’s and everyone was working away. Since we had an event here last night, we had an extra cleaning lady today to help Aracelys. Saturnino had to go to the Husley’s house for little bit to work on a bathroom. Everyone was very busy.
The Coke guys came early this morning to deliver our weekly order (bottled water, sodas), so I had to pay them, since the Hulsey’s weren’t here yet. The bill came to 1,495.95 córdabas and I happened to have 1500 in my wallet. We spend US dollars a lot, but sometimes the people would rather have cords. It was about $65 US. Considering we have to buy all our drinkable water, it’s a good deal.
Mayela and I headed out to Monte Horeb to visit the Feeding Center today. It turns out that they weren’t feeding today. We knew that all the Feeding Centers weren’t feeding on Thursday and Friday because of Holy Week, but we weren’t aware about today. I think there may have been a problem with finding enough of the cooks still in town. This week is when many people travel to near by towns (and farther cities) to visit family. A lot of the town just closes down. I think we will be finding ways to make sure the Feeding Centers are open on holiday weeks.
After a yummy lunch, we were all working on our projects again for a while. Mary has been studying for her Evangelism class that she is starting to teach on Monday at 2 churches. She’s also been sewing and mending some things for Mayela. She enjoys that.
Lesly and I went to town to buy a new microwave for my room. My ‘possessed’ one acted up with the 77:77 and beeping again. We found a Frigidaire brand that I liked, so I grabbed it. I’m getting used to driving in León now. So far so good!
I got back to the Mission House and put my new microwave in my room. It’s looks nice and I like it even better than the possessed one that I had borrowed from the Hulseys.
I worked a few more hours on the Feeding Center project. I’ll be working on my part of it (documentation, tracking, communication) for the rest of the week to get files set up and databases completed. Then we’ll be ready to get update pictures and info from the kids starting next week as we visit a different Feeding Center each day.
Mayela worked on printing and cutting out the kids pics and putting the next sponsor book together for the Noah’s Ark Feeding Center. She got quite a bit done today. We work well together and I enjoy her.
Manuel had a hard time with school today. He was having some behavior problems, so the Hulsey’s went home a little early. Mary and I were each on a computer working and it was nice and quiet. We kept at it until the mosquitoes started bothering us. Then we went inside our rooms for the night.
Juver and his kinfolk had made some bunkbeds for the ministry. They are really nice and sturdy. There were some issues with due dates and such (normal for Nica), but the end product was very good and Mike was very pleased with them.
It is really pouring down rain and thundering a lot. I believe it’s a gulley washer!! Unfortunately, it will wipe out some roads. I hope it passes by quickly.
Buster was scratching on my door last night, but I wouldn’t let him in. He can sleep in Alberto’s little house, and I knew that he would keep me up and down all night, so I left him outside. Tonight, he made a pounding noise on my door and I thought it might be Mary or Alberto, so I opened the door. Buster ran in and promptly hid under my bed behind some tubs. I can’t get him out, so I guess he will join me for the night. That little bugger better not keep me up! Ha
I talked with my sister Sandy today and we’ve decided not to take the chance of trying to handle the paperwork for Dad’s estate down here. It’s just too complicated and ‘iffy’ to get legal documents taken care of that will be accepted in the states. So I’m going to fly to Indiana on May 24 for a few days to sign papers and help finalize stuff. It will be nice to be up there with family during that time. I had some money come to me that I was not expecting, so I’m using it to cover most of my airfare. Going at that time will also satisfy my Visa requirements so that I can stay until Aug 13 as planned without having to get an extension. I’m actually starting to look forward to going. I’m going to put my clothes in my carryon and put the carryon in my big suitcase since I can take one checked bag for free. Then when I come back I can have my carryon with clothes in it and use my big suitcase to bring stuff back that I buy in the states. There are so many things on our wishlist that I can’t wait to bring it back!
I called Nana Ruth this evening and she is doing pretty well. I love being able to call on my iPhone using Skype for just pennies a minute. It sure makes communication a lot better.
I’m so spoiled to technology, but I’m very grateful for it. Being able to keep in touch with people helps with relationships, as well as communicating with teams coming down and sharing with my supporters and prayer partners about what God is doing here and how blessed I am to be serving here.
I guess I’ll go for now and see if the lightning and thunder quit soon so I can watch my nightly video. I’m spoiled to that, too! I don’t miss TV much at all and I’m enjoying watching my little videos most every night. Then I read until sleepy. It’s a nice quiet life most of the time.
I have many friends who are going through physical problems, deaths in the family, breakups of marriages, etc. My heart goes out to all of them. I find that I have more time to pray for them when I’m here. Actually, it’s just that there is less distraction and I can concentrate more on prayer time here. But I could always improve my time management!! Especially when it comes to prayer and Bible study!!
Tuesday, April 3, 2012
Tuesday, April 3, 2012
The weirdest thing happened last night. My microwave went bonkers while I was asleep. I awoke to it’s beeping. Usually, I hear a beep only when the electric has went out and come back on. Then the clock just show a blank screen. This time, the electricity was on, the microwave was constantly beeping and the clock screen said 77:77. How weird! I couldn’t get it to clear or reset or anything, so I just unplugged it. This morning, I plugged it back in and it’s a happy camper again. Hum…
Mayela and I worked on the Feeding Center files this morning and then we headed off to the La Quimera Feeding Center to take some pics of kids who have been sponsored. There were 7 kids on my list. 2 didn’t come today, 2 have moved away and I got pics of three of them. Pastor Brian was at the center helping cook and serve the kids’ meals. I really like him. I’m so glad that God brought him to La Quimera church.
Mayela and I got back to the Mission House just before 1pm. We had lunch and then Lesly, Mary and I went to town to do some ministry shopping. Mayela stayed here and finished putting the file together for the Noah’s Ark Feeding Center sponsor book.
We were lucky enough to park at La Unión and walk to each store that we needed to visit. Lesly needed to pick up another bathing suit for Sherry, we stopped at the movie theater to get a flyer of the movies now showing, but they were out of the flyers, I bought a new Nica phone that holds 2 chips, so that I can use both the cell phone companies here and save money on calls, we stopped at the sewing notions store and Mary picked out some items for her sewing class and I got myself some new thread, then we went to the bookstore next door and I got 2 packets of school supplies, one for primary grades and one for secondary grades. We put our stuff in the SUV and headed to La Carasau to pick up 2 more sewing machines with money donated for the sewing classes. Mary and I got tickled talking about our funny ‘watermelon’ story from yesterday and I think Lesly was embarrassed to be seen with us! We dropped Lesly off to pay the ministry phone bill and Mary and I headed back to the Mission House about 4pm.
Manuel did a great job at school this afternoon and actually finished early. So, at 4:30, we all packed into the SUV and headed to Suyapa for dinner. Saturnino lives in Las Peñitas, where the restaurant is located, so we gave him a ride home instead of him having to take the bus.
There is already lots of traffic and stuff going on at Las Peñitas and Poneloya beaches for Holy Week. It will be so crazy trying to get around places this week. I’m so glad that we live here at the Hotel in town now. I can’t say that enough. What a blessing!
Mary and I got back to the Mission House about 6:30 and went to our rooms. The place had been rented by the big Rose of Sharon church for a youth event for the evening. The music coming through our rooms was great and it was even greater to have quiet after they left. There are some girls still here swimming in the pool. I’m ready for them to go home, too, so we can get ready for bed. I’m sure Mary is ready for them to leave, too. ☺
It’s been a great day. Lots to keep up with and even more to do tomorrow and the days that follow. It will be tough starting next week, when we have all our classes back up and running and Mayela and I will be going to Feeding Centers every morning. I definitely need to manage my time well!
I heard that there were some bad tornadoes and bad weather across Texas and Arkansas (and probably other states, too, but we don’t get much news here). I’m praying for all of the people affected by those storms.
I’m thankful for another great day. I’m so thankful to be here serving my Lord.
Mayela and I worked on the Feeding Center files this morning and then we headed off to the La Quimera Feeding Center to take some pics of kids who have been sponsored. There were 7 kids on my list. 2 didn’t come today, 2 have moved away and I got pics of three of them. Pastor Brian was at the center helping cook and serve the kids’ meals. I really like him. I’m so glad that God brought him to La Quimera church.
Mayela and I got back to the Mission House just before 1pm. We had lunch and then Lesly, Mary and I went to town to do some ministry shopping. Mayela stayed here and finished putting the file together for the Noah’s Ark Feeding Center sponsor book.
We were lucky enough to park at La Unión and walk to each store that we needed to visit. Lesly needed to pick up another bathing suit for Sherry, we stopped at the movie theater to get a flyer of the movies now showing, but they were out of the flyers, I bought a new Nica phone that holds 2 chips, so that I can use both the cell phone companies here and save money on calls, we stopped at the sewing notions store and Mary picked out some items for her sewing class and I got myself some new thread, then we went to the bookstore next door and I got 2 packets of school supplies, one for primary grades and one for secondary grades. We put our stuff in the SUV and headed to La Carasau to pick up 2 more sewing machines with money donated for the sewing classes. Mary and I got tickled talking about our funny ‘watermelon’ story from yesterday and I think Lesly was embarrassed to be seen with us! We dropped Lesly off to pay the ministry phone bill and Mary and I headed back to the Mission House about 4pm.
Manuel did a great job at school this afternoon and actually finished early. So, at 4:30, we all packed into the SUV and headed to Suyapa for dinner. Saturnino lives in Las Peñitas, where the restaurant is located, so we gave him a ride home instead of him having to take the bus.
There is already lots of traffic and stuff going on at Las Peñitas and Poneloya beaches for Holy Week. It will be so crazy trying to get around places this week. I’m so glad that we live here at the Hotel in town now. I can’t say that enough. What a blessing!
Mary and I got back to the Mission House about 6:30 and went to our rooms. The place had been rented by the big Rose of Sharon church for a youth event for the evening. The music coming through our rooms was great and it was even greater to have quiet after they left. There are some girls still here swimming in the pool. I’m ready for them to go home, too, so we can get ready for bed. I’m sure Mary is ready for them to leave, too. ☺
It’s been a great day. Lots to keep up with and even more to do tomorrow and the days that follow. It will be tough starting next week, when we have all our classes back up and running and Mayela and I will be going to Feeding Centers every morning. I definitely need to manage my time well!
I heard that there were some bad tornadoes and bad weather across Texas and Arkansas (and probably other states, too, but we don’t get much news here). I’m praying for all of the people affected by those storms.
I’m thankful for another great day. I’m so thankful to be here serving my Lord.
Monday, April 2, 2012
Monday, April 2, 2012
Today has flown by really fast.
I got up and got ready, work on my Bible study until Mayela got here, then she and I worked on the new Feeding Center project on the computer. I chatted with German a little while and then I started some computer work of my own and then it was time to head to ROSCC Feeding Center for some pics and info on some kids that have been sponsored.
As we were getting in the SUV to leave, Manuel said “are YOU driving?” I’ll never live down backing into that tree… even from a 10 year old! Ha
Mayela got to meet one of the cooks and the Edi (not sure how to spell his name) at ROSCC. We also helped serve the food to the kids. As we were leaving, Teresa (one of the ladies in my Bible study and Sewing class) came to show me that she had made a pair of shorts for her grandbaby. She didn’t have a pattern, but whipped them up out of her pieces of fabric that we sent home with the class on Thursday. I think she is definitely ready to start making stuff on the machine now! Unfortunately, the shorts are too small for her grandbaby, but they sure were cute! It was good to get to see her today.
Mayela and I returned to the Mission House at almost 1pm. We had our lunch that was saved for us. Then we started working on our computer stuff some more. It is so wonderful to have the computer that was donated by Rusty Branson and brought down by the FBC Rogers team. We sure needed it!
It was a little overcast, so Sherry didn’t want to swim (she only likes the very sunny days), so she and Mary, Lesly and Mayela went shopping. I stayed at the Mission House and worked awhile. I was getting so many items marked off of my to-do list! It was great. Mike was working on his laptop nearby, so I could ask him questions and get answers right away! It was great!
I had planned to go to Pacheco’s English school this afternoon, but the streets were starting to be blocked off for the Holy Week celebrations. It’s hard enough to get a taxi I trust at dusk on normal nights. I didn’t want to have to go through crowds of people to find a taxi, so I opted to stay at the Mission House tonight.
Manuel did a good job at his ‘school’, so he was allowed to babysit Mary and me. He and I swam for a little bit, then Mary fixed them some leftovers while I had some soup. It was a nice evening.
Manuel decided to sing to us and we always have a concert when he sings. Alberto came to listen, too. Manuel gets us clapping and waving our arms just like a real concert. He came down into the ‘audience’ and sang to each of us. He gave me a kiss on the eyelid. He was so funny!
His taxi (our friend Jorge) picked him up and took him home about 7:15pm. After that, Mary and I washed some dishes and had a laughing fit over a conversation that I had with Alberto earlier. It was a ‘you had to be there’ moment and no one would find it funny but us. I still giggle when I think about it. Then Alberto came into the kitchen and I’m trying to explain in my bad Spanish what we are laughing at. It’s been a good night of belly laughs.
I came to my room to do some more work on the Feeding Center Kids’ Sponsorships. There’s lot to keep up with, but it’s such a wonderful thing, that it really doesn’t feel like work. I’m blessed to get to do it.
I got a message from my niece that they are expecting. I’m ready to have a GIRL in the family, so I told her that I’m praying for twin girls! Her mother-in-law concurred on facebook that should happen. ☺
My sister Sandy called after speaking with the lawyer taking care of Dad’s estate. There will be papers for me to sign while I’m here in Nica. They can email them to me and I can have a ‘lawyer’ notarize my signature and then we can scan them and email them back. We’ll see how complicated that will get and also how much it will cost. Not much I don’t think. I’m hoping to be able to do it all here in León. If not, I may have to go to the American Consulate in Managua or something. I’m always ready for an adventure!
Now I’m going to watch a video and read and go to bed early. There’s much to do tomorrow and I want to have plenty of energy for it! God is good!
I got up and got ready, work on my Bible study until Mayela got here, then she and I worked on the new Feeding Center project on the computer. I chatted with German a little while and then I started some computer work of my own and then it was time to head to ROSCC Feeding Center for some pics and info on some kids that have been sponsored.
As we were getting in the SUV to leave, Manuel said “are YOU driving?” I’ll never live down backing into that tree… even from a 10 year old! Ha
Mayela got to meet one of the cooks and the Edi (not sure how to spell his name) at ROSCC. We also helped serve the food to the kids. As we were leaving, Teresa (one of the ladies in my Bible study and Sewing class) came to show me that she had made a pair of shorts for her grandbaby. She didn’t have a pattern, but whipped them up out of her pieces of fabric that we sent home with the class on Thursday. I think she is definitely ready to start making stuff on the machine now! Unfortunately, the shorts are too small for her grandbaby, but they sure were cute! It was good to get to see her today.
Mayela and I returned to the Mission House at almost 1pm. We had our lunch that was saved for us. Then we started working on our computer stuff some more. It is so wonderful to have the computer that was donated by Rusty Branson and brought down by the FBC Rogers team. We sure needed it!
It was a little overcast, so Sherry didn’t want to swim (she only likes the very sunny days), so she and Mary, Lesly and Mayela went shopping. I stayed at the Mission House and worked awhile. I was getting so many items marked off of my to-do list! It was great. Mike was working on his laptop nearby, so I could ask him questions and get answers right away! It was great!
I had planned to go to Pacheco’s English school this afternoon, but the streets were starting to be blocked off for the Holy Week celebrations. It’s hard enough to get a taxi I trust at dusk on normal nights. I didn’t want to have to go through crowds of people to find a taxi, so I opted to stay at the Mission House tonight.
Manuel did a good job at his ‘school’, so he was allowed to babysit Mary and me. He and I swam for a little bit, then Mary fixed them some leftovers while I had some soup. It was a nice evening.
Manuel decided to sing to us and we always have a concert when he sings. Alberto came to listen, too. Manuel gets us clapping and waving our arms just like a real concert. He came down into the ‘audience’ and sang to each of us. He gave me a kiss on the eyelid. He was so funny!
His taxi (our friend Jorge) picked him up and took him home about 7:15pm. After that, Mary and I washed some dishes and had a laughing fit over a conversation that I had with Alberto earlier. It was a ‘you had to be there’ moment and no one would find it funny but us. I still giggle when I think about it. Then Alberto came into the kitchen and I’m trying to explain in my bad Spanish what we are laughing at. It’s been a good night of belly laughs.
I came to my room to do some more work on the Feeding Center Kids’ Sponsorships. There’s lot to keep up with, but it’s such a wonderful thing, that it really doesn’t feel like work. I’m blessed to get to do it.
I got a message from my niece that they are expecting. I’m ready to have a GIRL in the family, so I told her that I’m praying for twin girls! Her mother-in-law concurred on facebook that should happen. ☺
My sister Sandy called after speaking with the lawyer taking care of Dad’s estate. There will be papers for me to sign while I’m here in Nica. They can email them to me and I can have a ‘lawyer’ notarize my signature and then we can scan them and email them back. We’ll see how complicated that will get and also how much it will cost. Not much I don’t think. I’m hoping to be able to do it all here in León. If not, I may have to go to the American Consulate in Managua or something. I’m always ready for an adventure!
Now I’m going to watch a video and read and go to bed early. There’s much to do tomorrow and I want to have plenty of energy for it! God is good!
Sunday, April 1, 2012
Sunday, April 1, 2012
What an awesome Sunday this has been. It started with going to La Quimera church for the first Worship Service with the new Pastor, Brian. I got to meet him and his wife, Marcela and their kids. Mike, Sherry and Mary all know them from years back and they think very highly of them. I enjoyed meeting them and I think I’m going to really like working with them. Marcela is learning English and she and I promised to help each other practice our second languages.
Marcela led the worship time and got everyone singing. She did a good job talking between songs and seems to feel very comfortable there. I think the community is going to love having them as Pastors. Brian gave a good message and then they had a special guest for this special Sunday. A clown (I can’t remember his name) was there and got the kids all singing and participating in the telling of the story of Noah’s Ark. He was fun and I enjoyed him a lot. He also got the kids doing the Sapo Sapo song (toad) that we do a lot at the Fiestas. Mary and Manuel even got up there to do the motions. The clown carried off the ones who didn’t get the most applause and it was funny. He even carried Manuel off. Manuel was looking at him like he was crazy. I got some video of it and put it on my facebook page.
During church, Manuel was ‘reading’ his Daddy’s Bible and wearing his Daddy’s glasses. I got some pics of that. He looked so studious. It was cute.
We left before the clown was finished and as I was waving goodbye to Marcela, the clown noticed and started waving to me. Then he pantomimed that his heart was beating huge for me. He was funny. As we left the building we ran into a boy on a horse who had been riding by and stopped to see what was going on. I got his picture and it included the little colt that was following the mama horse. The boy’s name was Pedro. I hope he starts coming to church next week.
We got back to the Mission House and had a yummy lunch of roast chicken with potatoes, onions and carrots. We also had green beans and corn. It was really good. It was a little bit overcast, not much, but enough that Sherry didn’t want to bother getting in the pool, so the Hulsey’s went home for a nap and Mary and I went to our rooms to relax.
I took a sweet nap and then worked on cleaning and organizing a little bit more in my room. I downloaded the pics and videos from this morning. I had popcorn for dinner and then worked a little on the computer and then played on it some. Now it’s time for a video and bed.
This is Holy Week here and school is out and some businesses are closed. A lot of people go to the beach, even though it’s too rough to really swim. But it’s something different to do. I’m glad we don’t live at the beach anymore. It’s much nicer to be here on the edge of town.
As we were leaving town this morning for La Quimera, we had to take a detour because one of the main roads was blocked by crowds re-enacting the ‘Triumphal Entry’ of Jesus. There will be lots of parades and festivities this week. It will be an unusual week for business and such.
We are not having any classes this week so the ladies can do their family holiday stuff. Mayela and I will still got to visit the Feeding Centers on Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday. Mary and I hope to go to town and run around a little bit one day. We want to purchase more sewing stuff and just look at what’s available here. It will be fun. I’m sure there will be a stop at the ice cream store, too!!!
I’ve really felt blessed today. I love worshipping my God and especially here. All my correspondence on facebook and emails today has been upbeat and happy. I probably should have made some phone calls to the states today, but it just skips my mind when I’m enjoying my tasks. I’ll have to remember to do so tomorrow.
Time for a video and reading and bed. Ahhhhh, what a life!
Marcela led the worship time and got everyone singing. She did a good job talking between songs and seems to feel very comfortable there. I think the community is going to love having them as Pastors. Brian gave a good message and then they had a special guest for this special Sunday. A clown (I can’t remember his name) was there and got the kids all singing and participating in the telling of the story of Noah’s Ark. He was fun and I enjoyed him a lot. He also got the kids doing the Sapo Sapo song (toad) that we do a lot at the Fiestas. Mary and Manuel even got up there to do the motions. The clown carried off the ones who didn’t get the most applause and it was funny. He even carried Manuel off. Manuel was looking at him like he was crazy. I got some video of it and put it on my facebook page.
During church, Manuel was ‘reading’ his Daddy’s Bible and wearing his Daddy’s glasses. I got some pics of that. He looked so studious. It was cute.
We left before the clown was finished and as I was waving goodbye to Marcela, the clown noticed and started waving to me. Then he pantomimed that his heart was beating huge for me. He was funny. As we left the building we ran into a boy on a horse who had been riding by and stopped to see what was going on. I got his picture and it included the little colt that was following the mama horse. The boy’s name was Pedro. I hope he starts coming to church next week.
We got back to the Mission House and had a yummy lunch of roast chicken with potatoes, onions and carrots. We also had green beans and corn. It was really good. It was a little bit overcast, not much, but enough that Sherry didn’t want to bother getting in the pool, so the Hulsey’s went home for a nap and Mary and I went to our rooms to relax.
I took a sweet nap and then worked on cleaning and organizing a little bit more in my room. I downloaded the pics and videos from this morning. I had popcorn for dinner and then worked a little on the computer and then played on it some. Now it’s time for a video and bed.
This is Holy Week here and school is out and some businesses are closed. A lot of people go to the beach, even though it’s too rough to really swim. But it’s something different to do. I’m glad we don’t live at the beach anymore. It’s much nicer to be here on the edge of town.
As we were leaving town this morning for La Quimera, we had to take a detour because one of the main roads was blocked by crowds re-enacting the ‘Triumphal Entry’ of Jesus. There will be lots of parades and festivities this week. It will be an unusual week for business and such.
We are not having any classes this week so the ladies can do their family holiday stuff. Mayela and I will still got to visit the Feeding Centers on Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday. Mary and I hope to go to town and run around a little bit one day. We want to purchase more sewing stuff and just look at what’s available here. It will be fun. I’m sure there will be a stop at the ice cream store, too!!!
I’ve really felt blessed today. I love worshipping my God and especially here. All my correspondence on facebook and emails today has been upbeat and happy. I probably should have made some phone calls to the states today, but it just skips my mind when I’m enjoying my tasks. I’ll have to remember to do so tomorrow.
Time for a video and reading and bed. Ahhhhh, what a life!
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