Tuesday
Up at 5am, breakfast at 6am, Devotions at 6:30am. Left the house at 7am for 2 Fiestas and radio station.
I walked with Mary and prayed while she shared with a lady who accepted Christ. Then I helped with the Fiesta.
At the 2nd Fiesta, I walked with Mary for a time and then walked with Chris, Donna and Iris. I was blessed to lead Estaban to the Lord. It was definitely the Holy Spirit working.
We walked past a church being built and the workers had on the radio. We heard Buddy on the radio, sharing the Gospel and promoting the crusade that will take place this week. How awesome!!
I got to give a couple of little girls some of the plastic finger puppets that I had brought. I'm going to bring lots more of those on my next trip down.
Iris and Hixel were with me part of the time. Iris friended me on Facebook. I like getting to know the translators. They are all sweet kids (20s & 30s).
We came back for lunch and rest time. We'll shower and then leave for the crusade at 4:30pm. Hopefully, the ballfield won't be too mushy. Time to read and relax. I just shared info with Donna about Spanish studies. It's fun to have that in common.
I got a little bit of a nap and then showered and dressed for the Crusade. We stopped at Eskimo for icecream. Mary, Becky and I went to La Unión grocery store for ham, chips and eggs. Then we met up with everyone at Eskimo.
A big storm is rolling in with pouring rain, lightning and thunder. We stopped at On the Run for a bathroom break. It is raining soooo hard and the lightning is very scary.
We got a call that the crusade is cancelled because of the storm. We decided to go on out to the site to sit in the vans and pray over the area. Many people were there from churches to work the crusade. We got out and witnessed to some people under a metal shelter. (not smart in a lightning storm)
The rain kept coming, but the lightning eased up a little bit and stayed in the clouds. We just couldn't leave these people. The band played and Jessica gave her testimony and Buddy gave the message. There were some professions of faith, but I don't know how many.
Kids came over to the van and we had a great time talking to them. They sang some songs. One little boy sang to me in Engligh. They were a lot of fun. A man named Mariano came to the window and we discussed Christianity (in my limited Spanish). I told Mary that I had given him her number. heehee
We saw the Speigles (fulltime missionaries in Nic) at the crusade. It was so good to see them.
After the crusade, we stopped at On the Run for the usual potty break. (it's usually 30 minutes to an hour drive everywhere we go, so that bathroom break is vital!)
We came home to no electricity. Good thing dinner was sandwiches and chips. I had a peanut butter sandwich and some mixed nuts.
Mary, Beth and I chatted a little then we went to our rooms. The team had share time.
We all went to bed praying for electricity to power up our fans.
God is good. Even in heat. I pray for a good rest so I can be full of strength and energy for tomorrow.
I love you Lord.
Wednesday, August 11, 2010
Nicaragua July 12, 2010
Monday
5am wake up call. Quick showers and breakfast. Instant oatmeal with cold water, not bad. Eggs, fruit and pico bread for everyone else. Mickey did the devotions this morning.
We left the house at 7am for the first Fiesta. The riverbank was muddy and the 1st van got stuck. We had to get out of both vans and the guys pushed the stuck van out. Manuel gunned his van and made it across the ditch. It was determined that the vans could not make it out of the riverbed on the other side, so we all divvied up the supplies and took off walking about a half mile to the Fiesta site. Buddy played his guitar and some people sang along the way. We had to cross some streams and a barbed wire fence, passed a few cows, pigs and a snake, and made it to the site. We had a good Fiesta. We walked back to the vans and left for the 2nd Fiesta. We dropped Ralph and Seth off to catch a ride to the radio station. Their truck broke down and they had to walk about 1.5 miles each way. But they had a good experience being on the radio.
We packed as many people as possible on one van and sent them to El Zapote to help with the feeding (while the others waited on Ralph and Seth to get back). The 1st van stopped at On the Run for a potty break and the later van ended up beating them to the feeding. crazy. We joined in serving at the feeding and Buddy gave the plan of salvation to the people there. The community leader kept thanking us for everything. Pastor Calderon and his wife were there leading the food team. Their church does all the cooking. A very big job! They have such huge hearts.
We headed back to the Stop Light, dropping off the translators. We had to cram the majority of people into one van and send them on to the house, while some of us waited with our driver, Danilo for Beth to get back from going with German to get some phone issues taken care of.
We got to the house about 2pm for lunch. Rice, beans, lettuce, tomato, shredded meat and tortilla. Yum!
Some of the team frolicked in the ocean, some sang, some journaled, some rested. We have the afternoon off. I'm going to read now and maybe nap a little.
Ok - no nap. Everyone kept coming in and out of the room, but that's okay - I enjoy them. I did get to take a much needed shower.
I helped with packing kid's prize bags with Beth, Teresa and Connie. Later, the women on the team worked on packing the stuff for the women's conference.
A big thunderstorm rolled in. We had dinner of 'tacos'(like giant taquitos), shredded cabbage. Stewart shared his M&Ms with Beth and me for dessert. I chatted with Mary a while and we listened to the rain and thunder.
Share time is early tonight (7:30p), but I stayed in my room with a rumbly tumbly. Going to put on my jammies and read in bed. Another wonderful day.
5am wake up call. Quick showers and breakfast. Instant oatmeal with cold water, not bad. Eggs, fruit and pico bread for everyone else. Mickey did the devotions this morning.
We left the house at 7am for the first Fiesta. The riverbank was muddy and the 1st van got stuck. We had to get out of both vans and the guys pushed the stuck van out. Manuel gunned his van and made it across the ditch. It was determined that the vans could not make it out of the riverbed on the other side, so we all divvied up the supplies and took off walking about a half mile to the Fiesta site. Buddy played his guitar and some people sang along the way. We had to cross some streams and a barbed wire fence, passed a few cows, pigs and a snake, and made it to the site. We had a good Fiesta. We walked back to the vans and left for the 2nd Fiesta. We dropped Ralph and Seth off to catch a ride to the radio station. Their truck broke down and they had to walk about 1.5 miles each way. But they had a good experience being on the radio.
We packed as many people as possible on one van and sent them to El Zapote to help with the feeding (while the others waited on Ralph and Seth to get back). The 1st van stopped at On the Run for a potty break and the later van ended up beating them to the feeding. crazy. We joined in serving at the feeding and Buddy gave the plan of salvation to the people there. The community leader kept thanking us for everything. Pastor Calderon and his wife were there leading the food team. Their church does all the cooking. A very big job! They have such huge hearts.
We headed back to the Stop Light, dropping off the translators. We had to cram the majority of people into one van and send them on to the house, while some of us waited with our driver, Danilo for Beth to get back from going with German to get some phone issues taken care of.
We got to the house about 2pm for lunch. Rice, beans, lettuce, tomato, shredded meat and tortilla. Yum!
Some of the team frolicked in the ocean, some sang, some journaled, some rested. We have the afternoon off. I'm going to read now and maybe nap a little.
Ok - no nap. Everyone kept coming in and out of the room, but that's okay - I enjoy them. I did get to take a much needed shower.
I helped with packing kid's prize bags with Beth, Teresa and Connie. Later, the women on the team worked on packing the stuff for the women's conference.
A big thunderstorm rolled in. We had dinner of 'tacos'(like giant taquitos), shredded cabbage. Stewart shared his M&Ms with Beth and me for dessert. I chatted with Mary a while and we listened to the rain and thunder.
Share time is early tonight (7:30p), but I stayed in my room with a rumbly tumbly. Going to put on my jammies and read in bed. Another wonderful day.
Nicaragua July 11, 2010
Sunday
I woke up to lovely sounds. Ocean waves, birds singing, fans humming, and the cooks in the kitchen. (I think someone fixed the squeak in the freezer lid)
I showered and kept digging through suitcases. What a mess. I'll be glad to get everything organized after lunch.
Breakfast was fruit, eggs, gallo pinto, pico bread and tang. I usually skip the tang and just have water.
I met more of the team members who were asleep when we got in last night. There's a lot of names to remember.
It is soooooo good to see Ms Mary. It will be fun to hang out with her for the next 4 weeks.
I had quiet time before church. Group devotions will be at 7:30am.
I have so many thoughts and feelings. God is awesome. I am humbled and privileged to get to serve here.
Holy Spirit, take over my entire self today. Have me be bold for You.
Church services were good. Our group of 20 split into 4 church services. Our group went out in the boonies (of course). It is amazing what you encounter driving down the road. Oxcarts, bicycles, horses walking down the middle of the road, buses, trucks filled to the brim, motorcycles...
At our church, we met Jefferson, the Pastor's son very young son, who plays drums on a very old, broken drum set. He plays with abandon and definitely makes a joyful noise. Teresa gave her testimony and Stewart preached. Christopher was our translator and Juan translated, too.
Interesting dynamics with in the 2 teams. Very serious to very laid back. Buddy and Mickey are very outgoing. Tim is very serious. Everyone is very pleasant to work with.
I'm getting to know Beth a little better. I'm looking forward to spending more time talking with her and Mary next week when it's just us ladies.
We worked on the donations - flipflops, baby clothes, toiletries, toys, prize bags, hats, clothes, etc. and tons of candy!!
I chatted with Mary a little, rested on my bed a little while and spent more time getting to know the team after lunch.
We stopped by El Zapote on our way to 4 churches in the evening. The well isn't deep enough (dug 130 feet by hand). More money is needed to bring in the drilling rig. The community leader and the engineer were there to talk to the group. There is a hand pump well that was supplied by 'living water' project. The community leader talked about the number of families and kids in the area. There is a plan to refurbish the old 2 room school building and to build a church.
It was beginning to storm and God provided an awesome lightning show. It was scary and humbling.
We went to Prince of Peace church and it was great. Rachel gave her testimony and Chris preached. The girls signed to a praise song. There were many people of the church who sang specials.
I had the chance to pray with Philipa who rededicated her life to Christ. She has a 2 year old daughter named Kimberly.
We stopped at On The Run for a much needed bathroom break. We dropped off the translators at the Stop Light. I had some coaching on trying to master trilling my rrrrrs. I'm think I'm a lost cause.
Back to the House for hamburgers and share time and bed.
It's been a good day.
I woke up to lovely sounds. Ocean waves, birds singing, fans humming, and the cooks in the kitchen. (I think someone fixed the squeak in the freezer lid)
I showered and kept digging through suitcases. What a mess. I'll be glad to get everything organized after lunch.
Breakfast was fruit, eggs, gallo pinto, pico bread and tang. I usually skip the tang and just have water.
I met more of the team members who were asleep when we got in last night. There's a lot of names to remember.
It is soooooo good to see Ms Mary. It will be fun to hang out with her for the next 4 weeks.
I had quiet time before church. Group devotions will be at 7:30am.
I have so many thoughts and feelings. God is awesome. I am humbled and privileged to get to serve here.
Holy Spirit, take over my entire self today. Have me be bold for You.
Church services were good. Our group of 20 split into 4 church services. Our group went out in the boonies (of course). It is amazing what you encounter driving down the road. Oxcarts, bicycles, horses walking down the middle of the road, buses, trucks filled to the brim, motorcycles...
At our church, we met Jefferson, the Pastor's son very young son, who plays drums on a very old, broken drum set. He plays with abandon and definitely makes a joyful noise. Teresa gave her testimony and Stewart preached. Christopher was our translator and Juan translated, too.
Interesting dynamics with in the 2 teams. Very serious to very laid back. Buddy and Mickey are very outgoing. Tim is very serious. Everyone is very pleasant to work with.
I'm getting to know Beth a little better. I'm looking forward to spending more time talking with her and Mary next week when it's just us ladies.
We worked on the donations - flipflops, baby clothes, toiletries, toys, prize bags, hats, clothes, etc. and tons of candy!!
I chatted with Mary a little, rested on my bed a little while and spent more time getting to know the team after lunch.
We stopped by El Zapote on our way to 4 churches in the evening. The well isn't deep enough (dug 130 feet by hand). More money is needed to bring in the drilling rig. The community leader and the engineer were there to talk to the group. There is a hand pump well that was supplied by 'living water' project. The community leader talked about the number of families and kids in the area. There is a plan to refurbish the old 2 room school building and to build a church.
It was beginning to storm and God provided an awesome lightning show. It was scary and humbling.
We went to Prince of Peace church and it was great. Rachel gave her testimony and Chris preached. The girls signed to a praise song. There were many people of the church who sang specials.
I had the chance to pray with Philipa who rededicated her life to Christ. She has a 2 year old daughter named Kimberly.
We stopped at On The Run for a much needed bathroom break. We dropped off the translators at the Stop Light. I had some coaching on trying to master trilling my rrrrrs. I'm think I'm a lost cause.
Back to the House for hamburgers and share time and bed.
It's been a good day.
Nicaragua July 10, 2010
Saturday, travel day.
Up early and enjoyed the feel of my comfy bed & ceiling fan.
Finished packing last minute stuff. Re-weighed my suitcases. The big ones came in at 49 pounds each. I took my 2 packages of individually wrapped prunes & dumped them in my backpack. I'm glad that I splurged for wrapped ones! My 2 suitcases, carry-on bag and backpack are bulging, but they are on the way to the airport!
The attendant at the Continental check-in desk remembered me from the spring break trip. We had a great conversation about the missions in Nic. Another check-in person said that I could bump up to first class on the flight to Managua for $69 and not have to pay the $30 charge for the 2nd bag. I opted to pay the $39 difference because it would insure that my bags would get priority treatment and I wouldn't have to worry about them getting lost since I had a lot of clothes and ministry supplies inside. Of course, a bigger, comfy seat, more leg room and a meal is nice too! I was praying over my bags on the way to the airport. God blessed me extra when He took care of the bag security. Isn't that just like Him?
When going through the security check, there were very few people. I noticed a couple of the TSA people pointing to me. They had me go through a pat-down process. Apparently, a roll of fat around your middle could be paraphernalia in hiding. The security lady was a plus size gal, too, and was very sweet about it. I told her that was the most attention my middle has received in a long time. I'm glad I could make her laugh. I've come to accept myself as I am, but it is a good incentive for some ab crunches!
I'm enjoying this quiet time at the airport. Good time to make last phone calls, journal, pray and study Spanish. I'm having an orange juice and counting my blessings.
I feel very peaceful about the trip. I had been a little anxious about being gone for 6 weeks and forgetting something that needed to be done here. But I think God reminded me of what I needed to attend to. He's ultimately the one in charge anyway, isn't He?
I know the weeks are going to fly by. Each one will be a little different than the next. I absolutely love meeting the different people that God has busy going about His Kingdom work. It's fun when our paths cross. It's like meeting long-lost cousins. You may have never met them before, but you have a bond in common. Being a part of God's huge family is so wonderful.
Time to go sit at my gate for awhile and listen for my plane to be called. This flight is to Houston, so it won't be long. Just enough time between bathroom breaks. HA
The flight was uneventful. I listed to the Spanish Bible on my iPod while reading in my bi-lingual Bible. Very productive.
The layover in Houston was nice. I met a traveler who works for the government. He was very secretive about his job, although, he's the one who brought it up. Interesting... I walked around a lot and people-watched. I had a good early dinner from a health food place and topped it off with some chocolate chip cookies. heehee
I called Deanna one last time. She said that our neighbor, Mundo, brought over some watches and had a special one picked out for me for my mission trips. How nice.
My flight to Managua was nice. I felt guilty sitting in first class. Especially when people from other mission groups were getting on. I felt the need to explain that I was in first class for the security of my bags, but thought it best to keep quiet. My seat mate was a standby passenger who works for the airline. We talked alot. Dinner was good. It was a pleasant flight.
We arrived a few minutes late in the rain. My bags were first off of the plane. yay! German picked me up at the door and we met the other team members at On the Run (a convenience store with hot food). I got to see Manuel, one of my favorite drivers from the March trip. The road to the team house is newly paved, but it was still a sickly drive for my travel weary stomach.
We arrived at the team house about 11:30pm. Everyone was asleep. I met Beth. My favorite bed was reserved for me. :) I slept pretty well. I'm so thankful to be here.
Up early and enjoyed the feel of my comfy bed & ceiling fan.
Finished packing last minute stuff. Re-weighed my suitcases. The big ones came in at 49 pounds each. I took my 2 packages of individually wrapped prunes & dumped them in my backpack. I'm glad that I splurged for wrapped ones! My 2 suitcases, carry-on bag and backpack are bulging, but they are on the way to the airport!
The attendant at the Continental check-in desk remembered me from the spring break trip. We had a great conversation about the missions in Nic. Another check-in person said that I could bump up to first class on the flight to Managua for $69 and not have to pay the $30 charge for the 2nd bag. I opted to pay the $39 difference because it would insure that my bags would get priority treatment and I wouldn't have to worry about them getting lost since I had a lot of clothes and ministry supplies inside. Of course, a bigger, comfy seat, more leg room and a meal is nice too! I was praying over my bags on the way to the airport. God blessed me extra when He took care of the bag security. Isn't that just like Him?
When going through the security check, there were very few people. I noticed a couple of the TSA people pointing to me. They had me go through a pat-down process. Apparently, a roll of fat around your middle could be paraphernalia in hiding. The security lady was a plus size gal, too, and was very sweet about it. I told her that was the most attention my middle has received in a long time. I'm glad I could make her laugh. I've come to accept myself as I am, but it is a good incentive for some ab crunches!
I'm enjoying this quiet time at the airport. Good time to make last phone calls, journal, pray and study Spanish. I'm having an orange juice and counting my blessings.
I feel very peaceful about the trip. I had been a little anxious about being gone for 6 weeks and forgetting something that needed to be done here. But I think God reminded me of what I needed to attend to. He's ultimately the one in charge anyway, isn't He?
I know the weeks are going to fly by. Each one will be a little different than the next. I absolutely love meeting the different people that God has busy going about His Kingdom work. It's fun when our paths cross. It's like meeting long-lost cousins. You may have never met them before, but you have a bond in common. Being a part of God's huge family is so wonderful.
Time to go sit at my gate for awhile and listen for my plane to be called. This flight is to Houston, so it won't be long. Just enough time between bathroom breaks. HA
The flight was uneventful. I listed to the Spanish Bible on my iPod while reading in my bi-lingual Bible. Very productive.
The layover in Houston was nice. I met a traveler who works for the government. He was very secretive about his job, although, he's the one who brought it up. Interesting... I walked around a lot and people-watched. I had a good early dinner from a health food place and topped it off with some chocolate chip cookies. heehee
I called Deanna one last time. She said that our neighbor, Mundo, brought over some watches and had a special one picked out for me for my mission trips. How nice.
My flight to Managua was nice. I felt guilty sitting in first class. Especially when people from other mission groups were getting on. I felt the need to explain that I was in first class for the security of my bags, but thought it best to keep quiet. My seat mate was a standby passenger who works for the airline. We talked alot. Dinner was good. It was a pleasant flight.
We arrived a few minutes late in the rain. My bags were first off of the plane. yay! German picked me up at the door and we met the other team members at On the Run (a convenience store with hot food). I got to see Manuel, one of my favorite drivers from the March trip. The road to the team house is newly paved, but it was still a sickly drive for my travel weary stomach.
We arrived at the team house about 11:30pm. Everyone was asleep. I met Beth. My favorite bed was reserved for me. :) I slept pretty well. I'm so thankful to be here.
Friday, July 9, 2010
Friday, July 9, 2010
It's Friday night and I'm getting ready to go to sleep in my own bed for the last time in 4 weeks. I leave for Nicaragua tomorrow. woohoo!!! I can't believe that the time is finally here. I can't wait to get there. I'll leave NWA at noon tomorrow and arrive in Managua a little after 8pm their time (7pm NWA time). By the time we get to the team house it will be about 11pm. It will be a long day, but I don't have to get up too early and I have enough of a layover in Houston to help with a late arrival and to allow for the International flight stuff and get a nice late lunch/early dinner before getting on the plane for Managua.
We had a team meeting last night with Mike and Sherry Husley (Directors of Voice of Hope Ministries), the 3 girls coming down for 2 weeks as interns and their parents. One of the girls, Kaylee, was on the March trip, so she knows what to expect on the flights and when they arrive at the airport in Managua. I'll be there to welcome them to Nic. I can't wait to see their beautiful faces!
We were all so excited talking about the ministry there and everything we will get to do with teams and also when it's just us. It's going to be a full and fun time of service. The parents decided that they want to go, too, since we were so excited. It's just a great ministry there and really humbling and a blessing to us to be able to be a part of it.
Deanna said my face was glowing when I got home from the meeting. I think the Holy Spirit was touching us all.
I finally got my 2 suitcases packed and my carryon bag and my personal item (large backpack) ready. It took a lot of squishing and swapping, but I finally got the items distributed appropriately. I'm taking enough clothes for about 2 weeks and I'll wash them while there. I've also got a suitcase mostly filled with giveaway stuff and some healthy snacks for me.
I'm taking my camera as well as my little video camera since I'm going to be there so long. I hope to record some good views of the ministry so that I can share with people back home. I'm not very good at it, but I will do my best to hold the camera steady!
I will not be able to email much, but Facebook seems to update well on my phone while in Nic. I won't be blogging until I get back. I'll journal with an old fashioned pen and paper, then spend hours typing it all onto my blog after I return. I'm looking forward to keeping a nice journal while there. So much happens every day, that it is sometimes hard to remember it all if you don't stop a few times during the day to jot stuff down.
I'm ready to battle those pesky mosquitoes. We have to use 100% deet, so I'm sure my nose will be numb from smelling it for 6 weeks. We have some other tricks up our sleeves, so we'll see what suggestions for mosquito repellant really work.
I was tired from all the last minute stuff today, and still had more to do, so I didn't want to cook anything for dinner. I decided to just open up a can of something in the pantry. I was half through my 'dinner' and was thinking that this is my last 'home cooked' dinner before eating beans and rice 3 times a day for 6 weeks, when I realized I was eating BEANS out of the can for dinner! How ironic! I ended up having to run back to Walmart for something, so I picked up a rotisserie chicken and also boiled some ears of corn, so I did get to have some variety tonight after all.
I can't wait to get down there and work with Miss Mary and the weekly teams. I'll be there almost a week when the 3 girls from here arrive. We'll work together for 2 weeks and then they will return home. After that, another team will come down for a week.
I ask that my friends cover us in prayer as we work with the Nica people. Pray for health and safety, strength and energy, boldness and readiness to share, openness to hear the Good News, and for God to be glorified no matter what comes our way.
I was blessed to have a chance to be prayed over twice by the family at Cuerpo Vivo church. I will miss them very much. I hope they will be able to tell a difference in my Spanish when I get back.
I was blessed to be treated to lunch on Wednesday by the McGimpseys. It was fun to catch up and the food was fantastic (Olive Garden). Thursday, my friend Elizabeth cooked lunch for me. She was rolling out the fresh tortillas when I walked in the door. Oh man, was that food good! We sat and chatted for an hour in Spanish. She is very encouraging with my Spanish practicing. I really enjoyed my time with her. She is a very special lady.
Well, time for me to sign off and head to bed. It will be a while before I blog again. If you're on Facebook, 'friend' me and follow the quick posts from Nic.
Thank you for your prayers. I can't wait to share with you all that God does and allows us to see over the next 6 weeks in Nic.
Dios te bendigas
We had a team meeting last night with Mike and Sherry Husley (Directors of Voice of Hope Ministries), the 3 girls coming down for 2 weeks as interns and their parents. One of the girls, Kaylee, was on the March trip, so she knows what to expect on the flights and when they arrive at the airport in Managua. I'll be there to welcome them to Nic. I can't wait to see their beautiful faces!
We were all so excited talking about the ministry there and everything we will get to do with teams and also when it's just us. It's going to be a full and fun time of service. The parents decided that they want to go, too, since we were so excited. It's just a great ministry there and really humbling and a blessing to us to be able to be a part of it.
Deanna said my face was glowing when I got home from the meeting. I think the Holy Spirit was touching us all.
I finally got my 2 suitcases packed and my carryon bag and my personal item (large backpack) ready. It took a lot of squishing and swapping, but I finally got the items distributed appropriately. I'm taking enough clothes for about 2 weeks and I'll wash them while there. I've also got a suitcase mostly filled with giveaway stuff and some healthy snacks for me.
I'm taking my camera as well as my little video camera since I'm going to be there so long. I hope to record some good views of the ministry so that I can share with people back home. I'm not very good at it, but I will do my best to hold the camera steady!
I will not be able to email much, but Facebook seems to update well on my phone while in Nic. I won't be blogging until I get back. I'll journal with an old fashioned pen and paper, then spend hours typing it all onto my blog after I return. I'm looking forward to keeping a nice journal while there. So much happens every day, that it is sometimes hard to remember it all if you don't stop a few times during the day to jot stuff down.
I'm ready to battle those pesky mosquitoes. We have to use 100% deet, so I'm sure my nose will be numb from smelling it for 6 weeks. We have some other tricks up our sleeves, so we'll see what suggestions for mosquito repellant really work.
I was tired from all the last minute stuff today, and still had more to do, so I didn't want to cook anything for dinner. I decided to just open up a can of something in the pantry. I was half through my 'dinner' and was thinking that this is my last 'home cooked' dinner before eating beans and rice 3 times a day for 6 weeks, when I realized I was eating BEANS out of the can for dinner! How ironic! I ended up having to run back to Walmart for something, so I picked up a rotisserie chicken and also boiled some ears of corn, so I did get to have some variety tonight after all.
I can't wait to get down there and work with Miss Mary and the weekly teams. I'll be there almost a week when the 3 girls from here arrive. We'll work together for 2 weeks and then they will return home. After that, another team will come down for a week.
I ask that my friends cover us in prayer as we work with the Nica people. Pray for health and safety, strength and energy, boldness and readiness to share, openness to hear the Good News, and for God to be glorified no matter what comes our way.
I was blessed to have a chance to be prayed over twice by the family at Cuerpo Vivo church. I will miss them very much. I hope they will be able to tell a difference in my Spanish when I get back.
I was blessed to be treated to lunch on Wednesday by the McGimpseys. It was fun to catch up and the food was fantastic (Olive Garden). Thursday, my friend Elizabeth cooked lunch for me. She was rolling out the fresh tortillas when I walked in the door. Oh man, was that food good! We sat and chatted for an hour in Spanish. She is very encouraging with my Spanish practicing. I really enjoyed my time with her. She is a very special lady.
Well, time for me to sign off and head to bed. It will be a while before I blog again. If you're on Facebook, 'friend' me and follow the quick posts from Nic.
Thank you for your prayers. I can't wait to share with you all that God does and allows us to see over the next 6 weeks in Nic.
Dios te bendigas
Monday, July 5, 2010
Monday, July 5, 2010
What a relaxing day! I woke up when I felt like it, sat outside with Jet (the dog) in the beautiful morning air, sorted clothes to start packing for Nic, ran to the store for some groceries, visited with Miss Juanita a couple of times (fell asleep in her comfy sun room) and now back home for a quiet evening with Deanna.
Yesterday was nice at church. I love seeing my FBCR family in the halls between services. While worshipping with Cuerpo Vivo, I was reminded of how much I feel a part of that church family. I will miss them so much while I'm in Nic, but I know they will welcome me back with open arms and the customary kisses on the cheek. (I love that culture) They prayed over me and commissioned me as a missionary to Nic for these next 6 weeks. There are a couple of families from our congregation who are from Nic, and it's special to them to know that someone is going to be loving on the people of their country. I can't wait to get back to serve with Cuerpo Vivo.
Last night I stayed home with Jet, who is terrified of fireworks. I was finishing up a couple of summer dresses for Nic, and while in my chair with my hands busy with needle and thread, I was petting Jet with my foot. It was quite funny. Jet and I share an aversion to the loud noises of fireworks. Although, I've never went so far as to dig my way out of the yard like he did yesterday. It was so crazy to see that he expended that much energy, after all, he lays down to eat! I hope I was a comfort to him. He's such a good boy.
I'm sooooo looking forward to serving in Nic. Sometimes it feels a little strange to think I'll be gone for 6 weeks, but I know it will fly by while I'm there. A lot will have changed here when I get back on the 21st of August. FBCR will be meeting for worship in the new building on Bellview Rd. Cuerpo Vivo will be meeting in the sanctuary and nursery wing of the Olive St building. Kids will be back in school. It will be time to gear up for planning the fall missions opportunities. I feel like God is putting my life on fast-forward for 2 months.
I've noticed how God is preparing my mind and heart for these next weeks. I feel I'm getting in "Nic mode". Preparing for no-frills living, basic concerns, shutting out the prosperous world and focusing on ministering to the most needy people. The culture is lacking compared to US standards, but the relationships take on more importance. Miss Mary (who works with Voice of Hope in Nic) told me that she likes the changes that come over her when serving in Nic. It reminds me of the answer I finally came up with (after much prayer) when people asked what I would miss most about leaving NYC - I realized I would miss the "me" that God allowed my life to become while on the 'misson field'. I know I will feel that again when in Nic. It's basic, minus creature comforts, but full of pure love coming from God thru us to the people who live there. I can't wait.
This coming week will be chock-full of meetings and errands to tie up loose ends for the ministries here and with prep for the trip. I think I've got my clothes figured out, gifts for the Nic people ready to pack, and I think it will all fit in the suitcases! I still need to buy 2 months of my prescriptions, stock up on vitamins & supplements to make up for the limited diet, some special food items to try to be liver-healthy, a few toiletries and bug repellent, etc. I'm stretching my budget tight this month, but I know that God will provide. He always does.
There are a few flies in the house that seem to have taken on the mission of preparing me for bugs flying around my face in Nic. ha It reminds me of 10 years ago when I went to Honduras on a mission trip. I don't like bugs much and I prayed that God would help me to ignore them and not be bothered by them while serving in Honduras that week. The prayer worked really well and I didn't freak out even when a lizard fell on my face while sleeping one night. The week after I got back home, I was walking to church and jumped when a bug landed on my shirt. It was just a lady-bug. I had to laugh. I had asked God to cover me while in Honduras, which He did. I hadn't asked for it after I got back home. How precious are His blessings. How much we take them for granted.
I won't be able to blog while in Nic, but I should be able to post on Facebook through my phone. I'll journal the good old fashioned way writing in a notebook. Then I'll transfer that to my blog after I get back. I know there will be lots to say. God is really busy and I can't wait to see what all He does in the next few months. He is mighty. I am humbled to belong to Him.
Yesterday was nice at church. I love seeing my FBCR family in the halls between services. While worshipping with Cuerpo Vivo, I was reminded of how much I feel a part of that church family. I will miss them so much while I'm in Nic, but I know they will welcome me back with open arms and the customary kisses on the cheek. (I love that culture) They prayed over me and commissioned me as a missionary to Nic for these next 6 weeks. There are a couple of families from our congregation who are from Nic, and it's special to them to know that someone is going to be loving on the people of their country. I can't wait to get back to serve with Cuerpo Vivo.
Last night I stayed home with Jet, who is terrified of fireworks. I was finishing up a couple of summer dresses for Nic, and while in my chair with my hands busy with needle and thread, I was petting Jet with my foot. It was quite funny. Jet and I share an aversion to the loud noises of fireworks. Although, I've never went so far as to dig my way out of the yard like he did yesterday. It was so crazy to see that he expended that much energy, after all, he lays down to eat! I hope I was a comfort to him. He's such a good boy.
I'm sooooo looking forward to serving in Nic. Sometimes it feels a little strange to think I'll be gone for 6 weeks, but I know it will fly by while I'm there. A lot will have changed here when I get back on the 21st of August. FBCR will be meeting for worship in the new building on Bellview Rd. Cuerpo Vivo will be meeting in the sanctuary and nursery wing of the Olive St building. Kids will be back in school. It will be time to gear up for planning the fall missions opportunities. I feel like God is putting my life on fast-forward for 2 months.
I've noticed how God is preparing my mind and heart for these next weeks. I feel I'm getting in "Nic mode". Preparing for no-frills living, basic concerns, shutting out the prosperous world and focusing on ministering to the most needy people. The culture is lacking compared to US standards, but the relationships take on more importance. Miss Mary (who works with Voice of Hope in Nic) told me that she likes the changes that come over her when serving in Nic. It reminds me of the answer I finally came up with (after much prayer) when people asked what I would miss most about leaving NYC - I realized I would miss the "me" that God allowed my life to become while on the 'misson field'. I know I will feel that again when in Nic. It's basic, minus creature comforts, but full of pure love coming from God thru us to the people who live there. I can't wait.
This coming week will be chock-full of meetings and errands to tie up loose ends for the ministries here and with prep for the trip. I think I've got my clothes figured out, gifts for the Nic people ready to pack, and I think it will all fit in the suitcases! I still need to buy 2 months of my prescriptions, stock up on vitamins & supplements to make up for the limited diet, some special food items to try to be liver-healthy, a few toiletries and bug repellent, etc. I'm stretching my budget tight this month, but I know that God will provide. He always does.
There are a few flies in the house that seem to have taken on the mission of preparing me for bugs flying around my face in Nic. ha It reminds me of 10 years ago when I went to Honduras on a mission trip. I don't like bugs much and I prayed that God would help me to ignore them and not be bothered by them while serving in Honduras that week. The prayer worked really well and I didn't freak out even when a lizard fell on my face while sleeping one night. The week after I got back home, I was walking to church and jumped when a bug landed on my shirt. It was just a lady-bug. I had to laugh. I had asked God to cover me while in Honduras, which He did. I hadn't asked for it after I got back home. How precious are His blessings. How much we take them for granted.
I won't be able to blog while in Nic, but I should be able to post on Facebook through my phone. I'll journal the good old fashioned way writing in a notebook. Then I'll transfer that to my blog after I get back. I know there will be lots to say. God is really busy and I can't wait to see what all He does in the next few months. He is mighty. I am humbled to belong to Him.
Friday, July 2, 2010
Friday, July 2, 2010
Friday evening and I'm sitting in the recliner with my feet up and reflecting on the past week. It has been really good week. Working with the Youth for Mission Rogers week has been great. The kids were hard workers and had great attitudes. They did everything asked of them. They didn't complain. They were upbeat. They worked well together. They prayed for each other and for the people we served this week. It was a true pleasure to serve with them.
We really made an impact on the church building. We cleaned places that don't get much attention, but we sure could see the difference. They kids actually asked to continue cleaning the stairwells today to complete the job themselves. They were using their own toothbrushes to get into the grooves. They spent hours this week digging deep to get that dirt out. They took special pride in a job well done for their church building. Hopefully, they will remember how to clean this well when they are at home! ha. I can use the pictures I took of them working as blackmail to show their parents that they really do know how to get the job done. :)
I received a letter and a few emails and phone calls from agencies where we worked thanking us and telling us what a positive experience it was for our Youth to be there. That is music to my ears! We don't do this work for our own satisfaction or to receive praise. We do it to shine Christ's light and be an example to others. Getting responses from the people we touch just shows us that we were being obedient and sharing Him. What a privilege for us to serve in His name.
Now that Mission Rogers is over, I will spend the next week getting ready to spend 6 weeks in Nicaragua. It's sinking in that I will actually be gone for a month and a half. I have much to do in the next 7 days. Besides getting all my clothes and meds and necesities together, I need to get my room ready for guests if needed and also clean up the car so I can return it to the wonderful familiy who have loaned it to me this past year. I know this week will fly by. I'm excited about getting to be in Nic for so long. It will be hot, humid, rainy, dirty, buggy and... AWESOME!!! I can't wait to see the interpreters again and Miss Mary and the Spiegels and the Pastors that Voice of Hope works with. I can't wait to see who God leads to Himself through our sharing. I can't wait to see God at work in this special place.
It's just Deanna and me (and Jet the dog and Lucy the cat) tonight, since the grandkids are at their other grandparents' house. It's quiet and we're back to our normal evening of watching tv together, me with the laptop and Deanna with her book. Jet in his favorite spot beside Deanna's chair and who knows where the cat is hanging out... It's a restful evening to recoup from a busy week. Thank you Lord for all the blessings you shower on me.
We really made an impact on the church building. We cleaned places that don't get much attention, but we sure could see the difference. They kids actually asked to continue cleaning the stairwells today to complete the job themselves. They were using their own toothbrushes to get into the grooves. They spent hours this week digging deep to get that dirt out. They took special pride in a job well done for their church building. Hopefully, they will remember how to clean this well when they are at home! ha. I can use the pictures I took of them working as blackmail to show their parents that they really do know how to get the job done. :)
I received a letter and a few emails and phone calls from agencies where we worked thanking us and telling us what a positive experience it was for our Youth to be there. That is music to my ears! We don't do this work for our own satisfaction or to receive praise. We do it to shine Christ's light and be an example to others. Getting responses from the people we touch just shows us that we were being obedient and sharing Him. What a privilege for us to serve in His name.
Now that Mission Rogers is over, I will spend the next week getting ready to spend 6 weeks in Nicaragua. It's sinking in that I will actually be gone for a month and a half. I have much to do in the next 7 days. Besides getting all my clothes and meds and necesities together, I need to get my room ready for guests if needed and also clean up the car so I can return it to the wonderful familiy who have loaned it to me this past year. I know this week will fly by. I'm excited about getting to be in Nic for so long. It will be hot, humid, rainy, dirty, buggy and... AWESOME!!! I can't wait to see the interpreters again and Miss Mary and the Spiegels and the Pastors that Voice of Hope works with. I can't wait to see who God leads to Himself through our sharing. I can't wait to see God at work in this special place.
It's just Deanna and me (and Jet the dog and Lucy the cat) tonight, since the grandkids are at their other grandparents' house. It's quiet and we're back to our normal evening of watching tv together, me with the laptop and Deanna with her book. Jet in his favorite spot beside Deanna's chair and who knows where the cat is hanging out... It's a restful evening to recoup from a busy week. Thank you Lord for all the blessings you shower on me.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)