My last Tuesday here. (we fly out next Tuesday)
I got up early and washed my sheets (which took less than an hour to dry on the clothesline) and another load of laundry. I made a big pan of oatmeal for this week. I put the last of my walnuts and cranberries in it. I still have flaxseeds and sunflower seeds left. I'll have to figure out what to do with them.
I sat upstairs on the veranda (the upper room) and did some Bible Study in a rocking chair. My view was the ocean. beautiful. I've been reading through the New Testament again and marking special passages that speak to me while I'm here in Nic. I don't think I'll make it all the way through, but I'm making good progress. I love it.
We found out the that team coming in at noon, was delayed until 3pm. That meant that I had time for my last afternoon nap. I took my shower, put clean sheets on the bed, had tuna for lunch and laid down to sleep. I was so excited about my last nap that I couldn't go to sleep! I would read a little and get sleepy and then when I put the book down, I would start thinking of a million things. I rested for a while, but never did go to sleep. Which is just as well, since I need to go to sleep at a decent time tonight to get up early for the rest of our ministry days.
The team was delayed even longer and didn't make it here until after 6pm. We fed them sandwiches and chips and cookies. We discussed Fiestas a little about our schedule. They were very tired from a long travel day. Mandy and I worked on getting the prizes and candy ready for the Fiestas tomorrow. Everyone went to their rooms about 8pm.
We will be doing 7 Fiestas, 1 feeding and 5 church services over the next 6 days (Jan 1st will be the day off, since German says that Nicas all take New Years Day off, even the chickens don't lay eggs). We'll use that day to go into León and let everyone shop a little (hoping stores and the vendors at the park are open), get coffee from La Unión to take back home, eat out, etc. We'll be ending on Monday with a Fiesta and a feeding. It will be a nice week.
The beach is getting busy with people coming for the holidays. New Year's Eve is supposed to be a big day. Lots of partying on the beach. It's quite different from the usual quiet days that we experience here. There are already lots more noise as the houses near us have vacation renters and the beach stays busy even after dark. There are even a couple of four wheelers that go rip roaring back and forth. I hope they don't run over anyone. I'm sure we'll hear plenty of fireworks this week, especially on Friday and Saturday. They love their fireworks here.
I've been getting emails and facebook messages about things I need to take care of when I get back to AR. It will be nice to be busy with projects there, too. I'm praying about what my future transportation will be like. God knows where I need to be and when and how. I trust Him to show me interesting ways to meet with people and plan my schedule to His agenda.
The Caubbles made it to Dubai today. Very loooong flights. I don't like flying over 3 or 4 hours at a time, so I admire them for making it. I know they are so excited to be in there new Home country and starting their mission duties. I know the Phillips are very happy to have them there, too.
I guess I had better go to bed now. I'm so thankful for all God allows me to do and where He allows me to go. I pray that I glorify Him with my life and my heart.
Tuesday, December 28, 2010
Monday, December 27, 2010
December 27, 2010
Monday evening. Only one more week here in Nic. It doesn't seem possible. It feels strange to think about leaving. These last weeks have felt like we live here fulltime and have felt just right. This is the last night with just me and Mary here. Hmmm...
We got up this morning and headed to the bus stop just down the road. We always get there early, since we don't know exactly what time they will actually come by. They do a pretty good job of being on schedule - give or take 15-20 minutes... Anyway, we sit on the curb outside a tiny store and listen for the bus to come rumbling by. They usually blast their horn a few times as they are coming down our road. Then we stand by the road and they stop for us. We like to catch them as they are arriving, so that we can get a seat before too many people from Poneloya get on at the end of the road. But this morning, they didn't announce their arrival with the horn and the bus was quieter than some of the more run down ones, so we didn't get to the road in time to flag them down. So we just sat back down and waited about 30 minutes until they came back down the street.
As we were getting on the bus, which was full, there was a family of 5, who were spread out over 2 seats, one seat on the left of the bus, and one seat on the right. The man and 2 little kids jumped up from the left seat and moved them all over to squish into the seat on the right side with the rest of his family. We thanked him profusely, thinking that he was wanting to give us a place to sit down. As I was scooting into the seat, I noticed something semi-liquid running down the floor towards the back of the bus. It seems the little girl in the seat in front of us had just thrown up her pink candy. The mom, sick child and sister got off at the next stop, with the little girl still clutching the rest of her big wad of pink candy in her hand. And no one moved to sit in that seat, needless to say... Thank goodness that the windows were down on the bus! We just tried to keep our shoes out of it as much as possible. That was our excitement for the last bus trip going into town.
At the bus stop in León, we found a taxi right away (a legal one) and he took us to La Unión grocery store. We use that as a good dropping off place for taxis since it is well known and close to a lot of what we want to do downtown. Our first order of business was to go to the little shopping area next door, where Tip Top Chicken restaurant is located, to use the public restrooms. They aren't great, but better than most choices in town. They were locked up, but when one of the guys from Tip Top saw us (they recognize us from eating so much), he got the key and opened them up for us. When we were through, he locked them back up again, until the regular opening time. It's nice to have friends in the right places...
We walked around looking in stores, walked to the park and shopped a little at the vendors tents, and just had a nice time. Mary found a ring with the Lord's Prayers in Spanish on it that she had been looking for (I had gotten one back in March) to wear on a chain. I found some more of the woven little bags that I'm finding tons of uses for. There were a couple of murals on walls that I was wanting to get pictures of, so we walked around a few blocks.
We started to get hungry and decided to eat at Tip Top (of course) and headed that way. German was wanting to meet up with us to give us the printed copy of the team schedule, so he found us at Tip Top. We had him go to a little kiosk close by and pick up some churros like he had gotten before. They were yummy! That was our dessert! On the way to Tip Top, we stopped at La Unión grocery store to buy a package of crackers to eat with our salads at Tip Top. The guard at the door is very friendly to us and always tries to find us a table. We sat inside today, by a window. The waiter, who knows us by now, too, asked if the sun coming in the window was bothering us. There were no shades that he could pull, and we didn't see anything he could do about it, so we just said no. But then he moved one of their big floor signs (about 6' tall and 4' wide) to cover the window and shade us. How nice! We always try to tip him well. It pays off!
We enjoyed our lunch and then stopped at the kiosk and got more churros to bring home. Then we set out to find a taxi to take us to the bus stop. It's pretty easy to find a taxi in the busy areas. And sometimes we end up sharing one, because the drivers like to have all the seats of their tiny cars filled at all times. We rode with a lady who was getting out at a part of the market area that we had not been to before, so it was fun to see it. Then we made it to the bus stop. Actually, the driver whizzed past it and I think he was going to take us all the way to Poneloya instead to the bus. We had him turn around and drop us at the bus.
Our ride home on the bus was memorable, since we rode standing up the whole way. The best process for getting a seat on a bus going out of the town is to arrive at least 30 minutes early and sit on the bus as it fills up. Today, we rode standing and it seemed like a little longer than the usual 35 minute ride home. With all the starting and stopping and with all the people standing in the aisle, it was making me carsick. Luckily, we made it close to the house and we got off. It was a nice day for a ride and as always, the breeze coming in through the open windows was nice. Most importantly, we were on a totally different bus than the puke bus, which was probably still riding back and forth with nastiness baking in the sun. :)
We got home a little before 2pm and I laid down to read and take a nap, one of my last here. Mary read in her rocking chair. For dinner, Mary finished off her left over salad and I had some soup and crackers. We enjoyed our time of quiet this evening.
It's hard to believe that the team will be here late tomorrow afternoon. It's been just the 2 of us for about 5 weeks now. We'll feed the team sandwiches and chips for dinner, sort through the supplies they bring, get everything ready for Fiestas for the week, get to know them and help them get settled in. Jasmina (the cook) will be here bright and early (5am) starting on Wed to prepare our meals. We'll be back to the normal routine again. Then, way too quickly, it will be time to leave.
My friends, the Caubbles, left today for the long, long flight to Dubai, where they will be living and serving as Missionaries for the next 2 years. I'll be going over to work with them a little this next year. It will be great to see them. I know they are excited to finally be on their way. I pray for safe travel, healthy bodies, no jet lag and many, many blessings.
Some of my friends in NYC have posted pictures of the huge amounts of snow that they received over the last few days. My friend Jenny, made snow angels. How fun! I don't think I have ever been as cold as the winters in NYC. Probably because I was out on the streets as part of life there. I remember Jenny used to think my big puffy coat was funny. But it sure was warm! When I left there, I gave that coat to a friend who worked at one of the soup kitchen/shelters that I volunteered at. I hope it is still keeping her just as warm.
My friends, the Janes, made a cute little video for me and posted it on facebook. Elizabeth is playing the piano and Will is playing the violin. It is precious! I love that family soooo much! I can't wait to get back and see them. Phillip is crawling now. And there are 2 new pets in the family. What fun I will have visiting them!
I guess I should go to sleep now. How thankful I am that God allows me to be in this place at this time. I love the busy times and I love the quiet times. I've enjoyed getting to relax and study these past weeks. And also, so serve others a few days a week and to have time to fellowship with our VOH family. I've been so blessed. And I will fall asleep a happy woman. Thank You Lord.
We got up this morning and headed to the bus stop just down the road. We always get there early, since we don't know exactly what time they will actually come by. They do a pretty good job of being on schedule - give or take 15-20 minutes... Anyway, we sit on the curb outside a tiny store and listen for the bus to come rumbling by. They usually blast their horn a few times as they are coming down our road. Then we stand by the road and they stop for us. We like to catch them as they are arriving, so that we can get a seat before too many people from Poneloya get on at the end of the road. But this morning, they didn't announce their arrival with the horn and the bus was quieter than some of the more run down ones, so we didn't get to the road in time to flag them down. So we just sat back down and waited about 30 minutes until they came back down the street.
As we were getting on the bus, which was full, there was a family of 5, who were spread out over 2 seats, one seat on the left of the bus, and one seat on the right. The man and 2 little kids jumped up from the left seat and moved them all over to squish into the seat on the right side with the rest of his family. We thanked him profusely, thinking that he was wanting to give us a place to sit down. As I was scooting into the seat, I noticed something semi-liquid running down the floor towards the back of the bus. It seems the little girl in the seat in front of us had just thrown up her pink candy. The mom, sick child and sister got off at the next stop, with the little girl still clutching the rest of her big wad of pink candy in her hand. And no one moved to sit in that seat, needless to say... Thank goodness that the windows were down on the bus! We just tried to keep our shoes out of it as much as possible. That was our excitement for the last bus trip going into town.
At the bus stop in León, we found a taxi right away (a legal one) and he took us to La Unión grocery store. We use that as a good dropping off place for taxis since it is well known and close to a lot of what we want to do downtown. Our first order of business was to go to the little shopping area next door, where Tip Top Chicken restaurant is located, to use the public restrooms. They aren't great, but better than most choices in town. They were locked up, but when one of the guys from Tip Top saw us (they recognize us from eating so much), he got the key and opened them up for us. When we were through, he locked them back up again, until the regular opening time. It's nice to have friends in the right places...
We walked around looking in stores, walked to the park and shopped a little at the vendors tents, and just had a nice time. Mary found a ring with the Lord's Prayers in Spanish on it that she had been looking for (I had gotten one back in March) to wear on a chain. I found some more of the woven little bags that I'm finding tons of uses for. There were a couple of murals on walls that I was wanting to get pictures of, so we walked around a few blocks.
We started to get hungry and decided to eat at Tip Top (of course) and headed that way. German was wanting to meet up with us to give us the printed copy of the team schedule, so he found us at Tip Top. We had him go to a little kiosk close by and pick up some churros like he had gotten before. They were yummy! That was our dessert! On the way to Tip Top, we stopped at La Unión grocery store to buy a package of crackers to eat with our salads at Tip Top. The guard at the door is very friendly to us and always tries to find us a table. We sat inside today, by a window. The waiter, who knows us by now, too, asked if the sun coming in the window was bothering us. There were no shades that he could pull, and we didn't see anything he could do about it, so we just said no. But then he moved one of their big floor signs (about 6' tall and 4' wide) to cover the window and shade us. How nice! We always try to tip him well. It pays off!
We enjoyed our lunch and then stopped at the kiosk and got more churros to bring home. Then we set out to find a taxi to take us to the bus stop. It's pretty easy to find a taxi in the busy areas. And sometimes we end up sharing one, because the drivers like to have all the seats of their tiny cars filled at all times. We rode with a lady who was getting out at a part of the market area that we had not been to before, so it was fun to see it. Then we made it to the bus stop. Actually, the driver whizzed past it and I think he was going to take us all the way to Poneloya instead to the bus. We had him turn around and drop us at the bus.
Our ride home on the bus was memorable, since we rode standing up the whole way. The best process for getting a seat on a bus going out of the town is to arrive at least 30 minutes early and sit on the bus as it fills up. Today, we rode standing and it seemed like a little longer than the usual 35 minute ride home. With all the starting and stopping and with all the people standing in the aisle, it was making me carsick. Luckily, we made it close to the house and we got off. It was a nice day for a ride and as always, the breeze coming in through the open windows was nice. Most importantly, we were on a totally different bus than the puke bus, which was probably still riding back and forth with nastiness baking in the sun. :)
We got home a little before 2pm and I laid down to read and take a nap, one of my last here. Mary read in her rocking chair. For dinner, Mary finished off her left over salad and I had some soup and crackers. We enjoyed our time of quiet this evening.
It's hard to believe that the team will be here late tomorrow afternoon. It's been just the 2 of us for about 5 weeks now. We'll feed the team sandwiches and chips for dinner, sort through the supplies they bring, get everything ready for Fiestas for the week, get to know them and help them get settled in. Jasmina (the cook) will be here bright and early (5am) starting on Wed to prepare our meals. We'll be back to the normal routine again. Then, way too quickly, it will be time to leave.
My friends, the Caubbles, left today for the long, long flight to Dubai, where they will be living and serving as Missionaries for the next 2 years. I'll be going over to work with them a little this next year. It will be great to see them. I know they are excited to finally be on their way. I pray for safe travel, healthy bodies, no jet lag and many, many blessings.
Some of my friends in NYC have posted pictures of the huge amounts of snow that they received over the last few days. My friend Jenny, made snow angels. How fun! I don't think I have ever been as cold as the winters in NYC. Probably because I was out on the streets as part of life there. I remember Jenny used to think my big puffy coat was funny. But it sure was warm! When I left there, I gave that coat to a friend who worked at one of the soup kitchen/shelters that I volunteered at. I hope it is still keeping her just as warm.
My friends, the Janes, made a cute little video for me and posted it on facebook. Elizabeth is playing the piano and Will is playing the violin. It is precious! I love that family soooo much! I can't wait to get back and see them. Phillip is crawling now. And there are 2 new pets in the family. What fun I will have visiting them!
I guess I should go to sleep now. How thankful I am that God allows me to be in this place at this time. I love the busy times and I love the quiet times. I've enjoyed getting to relax and study these past weeks. And also, so serve others a few days a week and to have time to fellowship with our VOH family. I've been so blessed. And I will fall asleep a happy woman. Thank You Lord.
Sunday, December 26, 2010
December 26, 2010
Sunday night. So relaxed. Ready to fall asleep...
The day started quiet. I mention this a lot, because after Tuesday, we will be getting up at 5am-ish for the team to have breakfast.
I spent a lot of time reading in the New Testament this morning. I'm trying to reread as much of it as possible these last weeks here. I didn't even study Spanish or take a nap today. Just Bible reading.
We snacked for breakfast and lunch. Then we got ready for German to bring Jasmina (the cook) out to discuss the menu for next week and to check out our staples in the pantry. Then we all left about 3:30 and headed in to León to buy groceries for the first few days for the team. We took a cooler to put the meat in, since we were going to be going to church afterward.
It took about an hour at La Unión. We had a cart full. I picked out some things for myself to purchase, especially for the next few days. I was very saddened to see that they had run out of liquid fudge snack pack pudding. Oh my! I had to settle on vanilla. I hope it's worth it. I was really looking forward to the chocolate. It takes them a very long time to restock something - like weeks. They probably won't have any more chocolate until after we leave. (and I don't usually eat it at home when I'm trying to be healthy) Too bad. I also got some 'organic' cashews. The thing I like about them is that they don't have any salt on them. I also got some tuna, soup and crackers. I think I'm set until the team comes in. I've pretty much run out of my instant stuff that I brought from home. Which is good, because it all has preservatives and stuff in it that I shouldn't be eating anyway. :)
We had bought 2 round watermelons at the store and the boy who put the groceries in the van set them in the floor. As we were driving, they were rolling around the van. Mary was chasing them and it was hilarious! Every time I looked back there, she was in a different seat in the van. It was kind of like that game where animals pop up through these holes and you have to bonk them on the head. I never knew where she was going to pop up. We've tried putting a melon in German's motorcycle helmet before, if it fits. We had a nylon insulated bag that was big enough for one and it kept it from rolling around. The last time we bought one and it rolled around, it fell out of the van and cracked open on the road. Since it was in a bag, we just brought it on into the house and tried to salvage it. We may have to find something to rig up as a melon car seat from now on. :)
We had a great time at Jericho church tonight. Mary gave a testimony about our getting to be here for 2 months over the holidays. It's so nice to see her more comfortable talking in front of the congregations. During the service, German translated for her and I tried to just listen on my own so I could practice my listening skills. I can catch quite a bit of what is being said. Sometimes I have to hear 2 or 3 sentences to get the context and then I can follow along. Jericho church is one of our favorite churches to go to.
Tonight, when they announced that we were going to take up the offering, a little lady from across the aisle came over and asked for a gift of a little money so that she could put it in the offering. German had 2 one dollar bills in his hand, and I just had a 20 córdova bill in mine, so German gave her one of his one dollar bills. As they were taking up the offering I looked over to see what she actually put in the offering bag. And I felt a little guilty for looking. But I noticed that she put in a coin. I looked over at German and he was watching her, too and we both started laughing. She had kept the one dollar bill (about 20 córdovas) and put in a coin worth about 5 córdovas). Oh well, it's between her and God about keeping what she had asked us for to use as an offering. She had blessed me by kissing my shoulder for handing her the money. And, besides, it was German's dollar bill to begin with. :)
After church, we went to Tip Top Chicken restaurant to grab a late dinner. That took a while, as there were no tables for a little while and service was slow as usual. But it was yummy. German always makes me laugh and the three of us had a good time.
We went to German's inlaws' house and picked up his wife and 2 kids, who rode out to the team house to drop us off. Ishmael likes to sit on his papa's lap and help drive. His favorite thing is to beep the horn. He has to put his whole little body into it to push hard enough. Mariangel always sits quietly with her sweet little smile. It was good to see Joana. I thanked her for letting us borrow German to run us around. We've tried not to use him too much on the holidays, so that he can have time with the family.
Tomorrow we will ride the bus into town for the last time. We'll probably grab lunch somewhere (we are getting very full of chicken!) or maybe an icecream cone or maybe both! and walk around the park and take some more pics of town. We really don't have much of an agenda. The last day of our retreat. We start working with the team on Tuesday afternoon.
it's been so wonderful to be here these weeks. It will feel strange to be back in NW Arkansas, and then to visit my family in Indiana for a week. I'll be coming back here for about 10 days in March, when the youth from my home church comes down. Then I won't be back until mid-May, but I'll get to stay for 3 months. I sure love it here.
Well, it's time to go to sleep. We're going to try to catch the 9am bus, which means we try to be at the stop by 8:30, cuz you never know what timetable the bus is actually running on.
I'm going to sleep with a full stomach and a full heart. God is so gracious and loving. And I am so thankful.
The day started quiet. I mention this a lot, because after Tuesday, we will be getting up at 5am-ish for the team to have breakfast.
I spent a lot of time reading in the New Testament this morning. I'm trying to reread as much of it as possible these last weeks here. I didn't even study Spanish or take a nap today. Just Bible reading.
We snacked for breakfast and lunch. Then we got ready for German to bring Jasmina (the cook) out to discuss the menu for next week and to check out our staples in the pantry. Then we all left about 3:30 and headed in to León to buy groceries for the first few days for the team. We took a cooler to put the meat in, since we were going to be going to church afterward.
It took about an hour at La Unión. We had a cart full. I picked out some things for myself to purchase, especially for the next few days. I was very saddened to see that they had run out of liquid fudge snack pack pudding. Oh my! I had to settle on vanilla. I hope it's worth it. I was really looking forward to the chocolate. It takes them a very long time to restock something - like weeks. They probably won't have any more chocolate until after we leave. (and I don't usually eat it at home when I'm trying to be healthy) Too bad. I also got some 'organic' cashews. The thing I like about them is that they don't have any salt on them. I also got some tuna, soup and crackers. I think I'm set until the team comes in. I've pretty much run out of my instant stuff that I brought from home. Which is good, because it all has preservatives and stuff in it that I shouldn't be eating anyway. :)
We had bought 2 round watermelons at the store and the boy who put the groceries in the van set them in the floor. As we were driving, they were rolling around the van. Mary was chasing them and it was hilarious! Every time I looked back there, she was in a different seat in the van. It was kind of like that game where animals pop up through these holes and you have to bonk them on the head. I never knew where she was going to pop up. We've tried putting a melon in German's motorcycle helmet before, if it fits. We had a nylon insulated bag that was big enough for one and it kept it from rolling around. The last time we bought one and it rolled around, it fell out of the van and cracked open on the road. Since it was in a bag, we just brought it on into the house and tried to salvage it. We may have to find something to rig up as a melon car seat from now on. :)
We had a great time at Jericho church tonight. Mary gave a testimony about our getting to be here for 2 months over the holidays. It's so nice to see her more comfortable talking in front of the congregations. During the service, German translated for her and I tried to just listen on my own so I could practice my listening skills. I can catch quite a bit of what is being said. Sometimes I have to hear 2 or 3 sentences to get the context and then I can follow along. Jericho church is one of our favorite churches to go to.
Tonight, when they announced that we were going to take up the offering, a little lady from across the aisle came over and asked for a gift of a little money so that she could put it in the offering. German had 2 one dollar bills in his hand, and I just had a 20 córdova bill in mine, so German gave her one of his one dollar bills. As they were taking up the offering I looked over to see what she actually put in the offering bag. And I felt a little guilty for looking. But I noticed that she put in a coin. I looked over at German and he was watching her, too and we both started laughing. She had kept the one dollar bill (about 20 córdovas) and put in a coin worth about 5 córdovas). Oh well, it's between her and God about keeping what she had asked us for to use as an offering. She had blessed me by kissing my shoulder for handing her the money. And, besides, it was German's dollar bill to begin with. :)
After church, we went to Tip Top Chicken restaurant to grab a late dinner. That took a while, as there were no tables for a little while and service was slow as usual. But it was yummy. German always makes me laugh and the three of us had a good time.
We went to German's inlaws' house and picked up his wife and 2 kids, who rode out to the team house to drop us off. Ishmael likes to sit on his papa's lap and help drive. His favorite thing is to beep the horn. He has to put his whole little body into it to push hard enough. Mariangel always sits quietly with her sweet little smile. It was good to see Joana. I thanked her for letting us borrow German to run us around. We've tried not to use him too much on the holidays, so that he can have time with the family.
Tomorrow we will ride the bus into town for the last time. We'll probably grab lunch somewhere (we are getting very full of chicken!) or maybe an icecream cone or maybe both! and walk around the park and take some more pics of town. We really don't have much of an agenda. The last day of our retreat. We start working with the team on Tuesday afternoon.
it's been so wonderful to be here these weeks. It will feel strange to be back in NW Arkansas, and then to visit my family in Indiana for a week. I'll be coming back here for about 10 days in March, when the youth from my home church comes down. Then I won't be back until mid-May, but I'll get to stay for 3 months. I sure love it here.
Well, it's time to go to sleep. We're going to try to catch the 9am bus, which means we try to be at the stop by 8:30, cuz you never know what timetable the bus is actually running on.
I'm going to sleep with a full stomach and a full heart. God is so gracious and loving. And I am so thankful.
Saturday, December 25, 2010
December 25, 2010
Christmas Day!
Woke up early and had to think about it being Christmas Day before it actually sunk in.
The sun was shining beautifully, the waves were crashing, birds were singing, the fans were whirring, it was so pleasant to just lay in my bed and talk with Jesus.
Things are so much simpler here in Nic. The processes to get through each day are more difficult than the US, but there are fewer distractions and expectations here than in the US, too. Less pressure to have the 'perfect' Christmas with just the right decorations, a large variety and an over abundance of food, impressive gifts, fancy clothes... It has been so refreshing to just spend time with people. Giving them attention and caring. Celebrating our Lord and Savior together. I love it.
We had asked Araceliz (our cleaning lady) to come by today for a quick visit. We gave her a few gifts for the family and some groceries for Christmas. She is very quiet and shy and very sweet. We also gave Saturnino his Christmas goodies today. His family is sweet. We were blessed to have them join us for the dinner last Tuesday. I would love to get to know everyone's family better. It feels so natural to have them be part of our work down here. Part of the VOH extended family.
Mary and I had a very quiet day today. We made calls to our families in the states. We read, studied and rested. For dinner, we sent Saturnino (our guard) on his bike to a restaurant (Suyapa) in the next little town down the beach (Las Peñitas) to bring back some Christmas dinner takeout. We bought him a dinner, too. I think he enjoyed getting to chat with the workers at the restaurant while waiting on our dinners. He takes really good care of us here at the house. We enjoyed the food very much, grilled chicken and veggies, rice (of course) and a little pasta salad. So good! I enjoyed a little snack pack liquid fudge pudding for my dessert. I was all set!
I've been working on Spanish verbs and grammar very diligently these last few days. Some of it is sticking. Some is slipping out my ears, I think. I pray each day for God to help it make sense in my little pea brain. It's coming along. It's times like these that I wish I would have paid more attention to grammar in English classes in school. Now I have to go back and figure out verb tenses, how to diagram a sentence and everything so that I can relate it to Spanish. Even though sentence structure is different in Spanish, I still need to understand participles and all that stuff and then build on it with the extra Spanish grammar. It's slowly making sense. I'll probably still talk like a little kid for a while, but I'm really trying hard. Mary said today that she is so hungry to learn more. She's working at it very hard. I'm proud of her. Maybe by the rapture, we'll have it figured out. :)
My jaw/tooth/earache has been coming and going. When it hits it seems to be stronger. I'm so thankful when it goes away. I'm definitely getting this thing checked out when I get back home. We were noticing that 99% of my mosquito bites are on my left leg. It's the left side of my face giving me trouble. Maybe there is something going on with half my body. hmmmm....
We're going to enjoy our last few days of solitude before the team comes on Tuesday. Tomorrow morning we get to sleep in since we are going to evening church. We'll also pick up some of the groceries for the team meals next week. Monday, we plan on taking the bus into town to enjoy the park and get an ice cream. Maybe we'll eat at Tip Top again. We're figuring out downtown pretty well. It will look a lot different without all the vendors for Christmas. There are a few things I would like to get pics of downtown. We'll probably just walk around a while. Then we'll take the bus back home for the last time. That has been fun.
The house next door is rented out for the weekend and probably for the next week. They have a small pool, which is good for swimming, since the ocean waves are so rough. It sounds like teenage kids playing in the pool. There is not really the concept of personal space and quietness here. It doesn't bother me and kind of reminds me of nyc. When you live where there are a lot of people in a small area, you get used to blocking out distractions. I got to where jackhammers didn't even phase me anymore. Here, you hear the neighbors' music and conversations and laughter and you don't mind it. Back in the suburbs I'll find myself irritated that I can hear the bass beating through the windows of someone's car at a stoplight. Silly.
I'm so thankful that my precious Lord was born to make the sacrifice for my salvation. I'm so thankful that He allowed me to accept Him as my Savior and Lord. I'm so thankful that He forgives me and claims me no matter what I do. I'm so thankful that He loves me just as I am and will never let me go. I'm so thankful that I will be allowed to spend eternity with Him. I'm so thankful to have Christmas Day to honor and celebrate Him. He is Worthy.
Woke up early and had to think about it being Christmas Day before it actually sunk in.
The sun was shining beautifully, the waves were crashing, birds were singing, the fans were whirring, it was so pleasant to just lay in my bed and talk with Jesus.
Things are so much simpler here in Nic. The processes to get through each day are more difficult than the US, but there are fewer distractions and expectations here than in the US, too. Less pressure to have the 'perfect' Christmas with just the right decorations, a large variety and an over abundance of food, impressive gifts, fancy clothes... It has been so refreshing to just spend time with people. Giving them attention and caring. Celebrating our Lord and Savior together. I love it.
We had asked Araceliz (our cleaning lady) to come by today for a quick visit. We gave her a few gifts for the family and some groceries for Christmas. She is very quiet and shy and very sweet. We also gave Saturnino his Christmas goodies today. His family is sweet. We were blessed to have them join us for the dinner last Tuesday. I would love to get to know everyone's family better. It feels so natural to have them be part of our work down here. Part of the VOH extended family.
Mary and I had a very quiet day today. We made calls to our families in the states. We read, studied and rested. For dinner, we sent Saturnino (our guard) on his bike to a restaurant (Suyapa) in the next little town down the beach (Las Peñitas) to bring back some Christmas dinner takeout. We bought him a dinner, too. I think he enjoyed getting to chat with the workers at the restaurant while waiting on our dinners. He takes really good care of us here at the house. We enjoyed the food very much, grilled chicken and veggies, rice (of course) and a little pasta salad. So good! I enjoyed a little snack pack liquid fudge pudding for my dessert. I was all set!
I've been working on Spanish verbs and grammar very diligently these last few days. Some of it is sticking. Some is slipping out my ears, I think. I pray each day for God to help it make sense in my little pea brain. It's coming along. It's times like these that I wish I would have paid more attention to grammar in English classes in school. Now I have to go back and figure out verb tenses, how to diagram a sentence and everything so that I can relate it to Spanish. Even though sentence structure is different in Spanish, I still need to understand participles and all that stuff and then build on it with the extra Spanish grammar. It's slowly making sense. I'll probably still talk like a little kid for a while, but I'm really trying hard. Mary said today that she is so hungry to learn more. She's working at it very hard. I'm proud of her. Maybe by the rapture, we'll have it figured out. :)
My jaw/tooth/earache has been coming and going. When it hits it seems to be stronger. I'm so thankful when it goes away. I'm definitely getting this thing checked out when I get back home. We were noticing that 99% of my mosquito bites are on my left leg. It's the left side of my face giving me trouble. Maybe there is something going on with half my body. hmmmm....
We're going to enjoy our last few days of solitude before the team comes on Tuesday. Tomorrow morning we get to sleep in since we are going to evening church. We'll also pick up some of the groceries for the team meals next week. Monday, we plan on taking the bus into town to enjoy the park and get an ice cream. Maybe we'll eat at Tip Top again. We're figuring out downtown pretty well. It will look a lot different without all the vendors for Christmas. There are a few things I would like to get pics of downtown. We'll probably just walk around a while. Then we'll take the bus back home for the last time. That has been fun.
The house next door is rented out for the weekend and probably for the next week. They have a small pool, which is good for swimming, since the ocean waves are so rough. It sounds like teenage kids playing in the pool. There is not really the concept of personal space and quietness here. It doesn't bother me and kind of reminds me of nyc. When you live where there are a lot of people in a small area, you get used to blocking out distractions. I got to where jackhammers didn't even phase me anymore. Here, you hear the neighbors' music and conversations and laughter and you don't mind it. Back in the suburbs I'll find myself irritated that I can hear the bass beating through the windows of someone's car at a stoplight. Silly.
I'm so thankful that my precious Lord was born to make the sacrifice for my salvation. I'm so thankful that He allowed me to accept Him as my Savior and Lord. I'm so thankful that He forgives me and claims me no matter what I do. I'm so thankful that He loves me just as I am and will never let me go. I'm so thankful that I will be allowed to spend eternity with Him. I'm so thankful to have Christmas Day to honor and celebrate Him. He is Worthy.
Friday, December 24, 2010
December 24, 2010
It's Christmas Eve. What a special day. And even more special to be in Nicaragua today. To be celebrating with friends and (Nica) family. Away from the US type of commercial holiday. Giving to others, enjoying fellowship, loving our Savior. I am truly blessed.
I started off the day with some reading, then Bible Study, then Spanish study, a large load of laundry (which dried on the clothesline in under 2 hours), beans and rice for brunch, shower and then ready to leave at 1:30pm. It was a really nice morning and early afternoon.
German picked us up and quickly asked for 2 water bottles. He was rambling about someone charging for something and I couldn't make out what he meant, but I grabbed 2 extra water bottles and put them in the van. Mary and I loaded up and we took off for León. What German was talking about is that the police checkpoint, which is usually unmanned except for holiday time, was stopping people and charging them to enter into the Poneloya (where the house is) and Las Peñitas areas (because they are beach areas). Even though he was picking up people who actually live here (us), they wanted to charge him. So he talked them into a 'payoff' of 2 water bottles. As we were driving through the checkpoint towards town, he slowed down and handed the officer the water bottles. Debt paid.
We made it into town and stopped at La Unión to pick up a couple of items that German needed and Mary grabbed some eggs and cookies to put in Saturnino and Araceliz's Christmas goody bags. I stayed in the van, which was parked right in front of the store. While they were inside, the parking lot guard came and told me to move the van. I explained in Spanish that I couldn't drive it (confidentially, I would try if it were an emergency, but I didn't see this as an emergency). He said that it was blocking the ramp for the carts of groceries to be wheeled out to the cars by the baggers. I told him that the driver was hurrying back out. He still wanted me to move the van, so I played like a dumb Gringa and told him I didn't understand Spanish. Shame on me, but I didn't want to move the van, and I knew German and Mary would be right out. Once they came and got in the van, we pulled out and the guard saw German was the driver (German knows half of the population of León) and waved hello to him really big. I guess he got over being mad...
We went to Pastor Miguel's little church in the countryside. They were starting their small service in the church building (which is a roof, metal support posts and a dirt floor). Looking up, you could see a Winnie the Pooh piñata hanging from the rafters. The kids were all sitting in their small plastic chairs in the front of the small congregation. We had some a cappella songs for the kids and then Pastor Miguel did a sweet message for them. After that, Mary spoke on our behalf, telling them that we were glad to be there for Christmas with them. Then it was time to let the games begin...
The chairs were all moved to the sides of the 'building' and the kids took turns hitting Pooh with a stick. Some bigger boys were pulling him up and down and swinging him around. It was not easy for the kids to get a good swing. I got some video of it on my camera. Finally, Pooh was beheaded, after losing and arm and a leg. The kids grabbed the candy. They all sat back down and refreshments were passed out to everyone. We were included. They have really yummy bread and rolls at the bakeries here (no preservatives or additives) and the sandwich was a fresh roll with a little mayo and mustard on it and a very thin slice of meat that looked like salami. It was so thin you could probably read through it. It was tasty, though. They also passed out cups of pepsi (Mary's favorite) and orange soda. I stuck with my usual bottled water that I carry with me at all times.
A little boy, named Alfredo, sat next to me and was so sweet. He let me take his picture and told me he is 5 years old. His mom was not there, but his 9 year old sister was. Alfredo offered me one of his pieces of candy. He didn't have much, but he insisted that I take it. He wanted very much to share with me. Then he gave me the last few bites of his sandwich, even though I had my own. What a sweet little boy!
After refreshments, it was time to line up and receive some toys. These were things that we had left from our toy distribution earlier in the week. It was great to see these kids get some stuff, too. They were appreciative and happy. Alfredo got a little baggie with a few McDonald's type toys. One was a motorcycle with a plastic figure riding it. He was very happy with it and proudly showed it to me. There were 2 other small toys in the bag. He was also handed a small baggy with about 6 pieces of candy in it. He opened it to get a piece out and then needed help in tie-ing the bag back. Mary handed me her empty styrofoam cup to put the candy in. But Alfredo wanted to give the perfectly useful cup to his sister. So I tied the baggie the best I could. He was happy.
It humbles me to see how people with so little are so thankful for whatever they get. They live with not enough of anything and they share what little they have. What wonderful attitudes. (not every place is like that) Today was special for me.
We loaded back up in the van and ran an errand with German to see some people for about 10 minutes. We gave some friends a ride back into León with us and then stopped at On the Run to get drinks and use the bathroom. German had asked us earlier if we wanted to stop and get a coke and that he would buy. But I had my water and Mary had her pepsi from the house. We told German to go ahead and stop and get himself something, but he didn't want to stop just for him. So when we stopped this time, German was happy to get his coke and had it safely nestled in the drink caddy on the dash of the van. When we stopped kind of quick, my backpack fell in the floor. I grabbed it and accidentally knocked German's coke can out of the holder and into the floor. He lost over half of the soda. I felt so bad. He had wanted that coke so much. He said maybe this was God telling him that he didn't need the whole can or he would get fat. ha We've had a good time laughing lately...
German took us to Joe's house and dropped us off. It was about 5pm, I think. We had met Joe's parents at church. Since Joe calls me Mami Vickie, the whole family does, too, even his real Mom and Dad. Shortly after we got there, a parade (the posada) came down the street. It was kids (with adults walking a long the sides) dressed in costumes to portray Joseph and Mary going to the Inn. They walk down the street to a designated house and then are offered refreshments. Kind of like our Christmas carolling for cookies and hot chocolate. Of course, I got some pics of this, too.
We sat around talking and then we heard some drums going. There was a Tall Lady group just around the block. We walked down there to see them. I got some video of them doing their routine. They posed for a picture for me, too. Then we went back to Joe's and sat in rockers outside on the front porch. His street is a busy one way street that heads downtown about 7 blocks away. He says that usually there are people with tables and chairs out on the sidewalks and street and music going and lots going on all the time. But since it is Christmas Eve, everyone goes downtown. We saw a lot of people walking by. You could hear music from many different houses. It was like the old days in Mayberry, but with a Latin beat. There were a couple more Tall Lady groups going by. One of the Tall Ladies danced with Mary. The short Nica man shook my hand (with his stuffed rubber gloved hand-eww) and they went on down the road.
Some of Joe's extended family came for dinner. Marcela came by taxi, which took a while to travel across town with all the goings on in downtown. Joe's pastor and his daughter joined us, too. We had quite a full table and I failed to get a picture of everyone. I think I was too interested in the food and forgot. It was probably about 8pm or so when we ate. They had asked if we wanted chicken from the factory or India chicken (raised in their backyard). Mary and I opted to try both. I personally loved the India chicken, it was very dark meat, even darker than turkey legs. Both kinds of chicken was prepared the typical Nica way for Christmas, with vegetables, green and black olives, prunes and a yummy mild-almost bbq flavored sauce. We also had rice and salad with a great vinegar and chunky onion/pepper dressing to spoon over it, and some great bakery bread. Mary didn't like her India chicken, so I got to eat both of the legs of India chicken, plus the small breast portion of factory chicken. Yummo! Despite the old commercial, we had no room for jello, when they asked if we wanted gelatin for our dessert. I was very content with the chicken. Throughout dinner, we could hear the neighbor's music. It was a mixture of American carols and Nicaraguan tunes, all in Spanish, of course. One of the children's songs almost sounded like the Chipmonks.
Joe and Marcela opened their gifts from us and then we looked at some pics of the family that were taken when Joe and Lizbeth were growing up. What fun! Joe's cousin, Carlos, was hilarious. While we were chatting with Joe outside at the beginning of the visit, Joe's Mom and sister were sitting with Carlos. He was pretending to translate what we were saying. Of course, he was making the whole thing up. Joe kept cracking up and then telling us what Carlos said. Mary told Carlos, through body language, that she was keeping her eyes on him and watching him. They kept doing that gesture to each other through out the evening.
We hated to eat and run, but it was about 9:30 and we were pretty tired. Joe's Mom looked pretty tired after cooking all day. Joe was going to take us home in his Dad's truck. Marcela was going with us. We were thinking that it would be a tight fit for the four of us in the cab of the little truck. Mary and I were telling everyone goodbye and then Joe said that the whole family was going with us. We were going to ride in the back of the truck (which had a tarp tied over a metal frame). We sat on benches on either side. The back end was open and the front part of the tarp was open a little above the cab of the truck. Joe's Mom, Dad and Marcela rode in the cab. 8 of us rode in the back. I took pics of us. We were having fun joking around and laughing. Joe said that this is how they go to church all the time. They have a lot of fun together.
We made it to the team house and they let us out. Everyone got out of the truck and we said our goodbyes again. Joe's Mom said in English "Mami Vickie, Good night". I gave her a thumbs up for her English. I really enjoyed being with them. Carlos said he was going to practice his English and he told me to keep practicing my Spanish. I look forward to seeing him again. He is quite the character!
It was fun to be in their home. Joe and his sister were both born there and have lived there all their lives. Joe is 26 and Lizbeth is 17. He loves the neighborhood and has such wonderful memories of being a kid there. I would love to live in a neighborhood like that, myself.
It's been a wonderful Christmas Eve. Now it's time to go to sleep. It's almost Christmas Day, actually. I'm quite content, both physically and emotionally. Spiritually, I'm overflowing with love for my Jesus. Happy Birthday to my Wonderful Savior.
I started off the day with some reading, then Bible Study, then Spanish study, a large load of laundry (which dried on the clothesline in under 2 hours), beans and rice for brunch, shower and then ready to leave at 1:30pm. It was a really nice morning and early afternoon.
German picked us up and quickly asked for 2 water bottles. He was rambling about someone charging for something and I couldn't make out what he meant, but I grabbed 2 extra water bottles and put them in the van. Mary and I loaded up and we took off for León. What German was talking about is that the police checkpoint, which is usually unmanned except for holiday time, was stopping people and charging them to enter into the Poneloya (where the house is) and Las Peñitas areas (because they are beach areas). Even though he was picking up people who actually live here (us), they wanted to charge him. So he talked them into a 'payoff' of 2 water bottles. As we were driving through the checkpoint towards town, he slowed down and handed the officer the water bottles. Debt paid.
We made it into town and stopped at La Unión to pick up a couple of items that German needed and Mary grabbed some eggs and cookies to put in Saturnino and Araceliz's Christmas goody bags. I stayed in the van, which was parked right in front of the store. While they were inside, the parking lot guard came and told me to move the van. I explained in Spanish that I couldn't drive it (confidentially, I would try if it were an emergency, but I didn't see this as an emergency). He said that it was blocking the ramp for the carts of groceries to be wheeled out to the cars by the baggers. I told him that the driver was hurrying back out. He still wanted me to move the van, so I played like a dumb Gringa and told him I didn't understand Spanish. Shame on me, but I didn't want to move the van, and I knew German and Mary would be right out. Once they came and got in the van, we pulled out and the guard saw German was the driver (German knows half of the population of León) and waved hello to him really big. I guess he got over being mad...
We went to Pastor Miguel's little church in the countryside. They were starting their small service in the church building (which is a roof, metal support posts and a dirt floor). Looking up, you could see a Winnie the Pooh piñata hanging from the rafters. The kids were all sitting in their small plastic chairs in the front of the small congregation. We had some a cappella songs for the kids and then Pastor Miguel did a sweet message for them. After that, Mary spoke on our behalf, telling them that we were glad to be there for Christmas with them. Then it was time to let the games begin...
The chairs were all moved to the sides of the 'building' and the kids took turns hitting Pooh with a stick. Some bigger boys were pulling him up and down and swinging him around. It was not easy for the kids to get a good swing. I got some video of it on my camera. Finally, Pooh was beheaded, after losing and arm and a leg. The kids grabbed the candy. They all sat back down and refreshments were passed out to everyone. We were included. They have really yummy bread and rolls at the bakeries here (no preservatives or additives) and the sandwich was a fresh roll with a little mayo and mustard on it and a very thin slice of meat that looked like salami. It was so thin you could probably read through it. It was tasty, though. They also passed out cups of pepsi (Mary's favorite) and orange soda. I stuck with my usual bottled water that I carry with me at all times.
A little boy, named Alfredo, sat next to me and was so sweet. He let me take his picture and told me he is 5 years old. His mom was not there, but his 9 year old sister was. Alfredo offered me one of his pieces of candy. He didn't have much, but he insisted that I take it. He wanted very much to share with me. Then he gave me the last few bites of his sandwich, even though I had my own. What a sweet little boy!
After refreshments, it was time to line up and receive some toys. These were things that we had left from our toy distribution earlier in the week. It was great to see these kids get some stuff, too. They were appreciative and happy. Alfredo got a little baggie with a few McDonald's type toys. One was a motorcycle with a plastic figure riding it. He was very happy with it and proudly showed it to me. There were 2 other small toys in the bag. He was also handed a small baggy with about 6 pieces of candy in it. He opened it to get a piece out and then needed help in tie-ing the bag back. Mary handed me her empty styrofoam cup to put the candy in. But Alfredo wanted to give the perfectly useful cup to his sister. So I tied the baggie the best I could. He was happy.
It humbles me to see how people with so little are so thankful for whatever they get. They live with not enough of anything and they share what little they have. What wonderful attitudes. (not every place is like that) Today was special for me.
We loaded back up in the van and ran an errand with German to see some people for about 10 minutes. We gave some friends a ride back into León with us and then stopped at On the Run to get drinks and use the bathroom. German had asked us earlier if we wanted to stop and get a coke and that he would buy. But I had my water and Mary had her pepsi from the house. We told German to go ahead and stop and get himself something, but he didn't want to stop just for him. So when we stopped this time, German was happy to get his coke and had it safely nestled in the drink caddy on the dash of the van. When we stopped kind of quick, my backpack fell in the floor. I grabbed it and accidentally knocked German's coke can out of the holder and into the floor. He lost over half of the soda. I felt so bad. He had wanted that coke so much. He said maybe this was God telling him that he didn't need the whole can or he would get fat. ha We've had a good time laughing lately...
German took us to Joe's house and dropped us off. It was about 5pm, I think. We had met Joe's parents at church. Since Joe calls me Mami Vickie, the whole family does, too, even his real Mom and Dad. Shortly after we got there, a parade (the posada) came down the street. It was kids (with adults walking a long the sides) dressed in costumes to portray Joseph and Mary going to the Inn. They walk down the street to a designated house and then are offered refreshments. Kind of like our Christmas carolling for cookies and hot chocolate. Of course, I got some pics of this, too.
We sat around talking and then we heard some drums going. There was a Tall Lady group just around the block. We walked down there to see them. I got some video of them doing their routine. They posed for a picture for me, too. Then we went back to Joe's and sat in rockers outside on the front porch. His street is a busy one way street that heads downtown about 7 blocks away. He says that usually there are people with tables and chairs out on the sidewalks and street and music going and lots going on all the time. But since it is Christmas Eve, everyone goes downtown. We saw a lot of people walking by. You could hear music from many different houses. It was like the old days in Mayberry, but with a Latin beat. There were a couple more Tall Lady groups going by. One of the Tall Ladies danced with Mary. The short Nica man shook my hand (with his stuffed rubber gloved hand-eww) and they went on down the road.
Some of Joe's extended family came for dinner. Marcela came by taxi, which took a while to travel across town with all the goings on in downtown. Joe's pastor and his daughter joined us, too. We had quite a full table and I failed to get a picture of everyone. I think I was too interested in the food and forgot. It was probably about 8pm or so when we ate. They had asked if we wanted chicken from the factory or India chicken (raised in their backyard). Mary and I opted to try both. I personally loved the India chicken, it was very dark meat, even darker than turkey legs. Both kinds of chicken was prepared the typical Nica way for Christmas, with vegetables, green and black olives, prunes and a yummy mild-almost bbq flavored sauce. We also had rice and salad with a great vinegar and chunky onion/pepper dressing to spoon over it, and some great bakery bread. Mary didn't like her India chicken, so I got to eat both of the legs of India chicken, plus the small breast portion of factory chicken. Yummo! Despite the old commercial, we had no room for jello, when they asked if we wanted gelatin for our dessert. I was very content with the chicken. Throughout dinner, we could hear the neighbor's music. It was a mixture of American carols and Nicaraguan tunes, all in Spanish, of course. One of the children's songs almost sounded like the Chipmonks.
Joe and Marcela opened their gifts from us and then we looked at some pics of the family that were taken when Joe and Lizbeth were growing up. What fun! Joe's cousin, Carlos, was hilarious. While we were chatting with Joe outside at the beginning of the visit, Joe's Mom and sister were sitting with Carlos. He was pretending to translate what we were saying. Of course, he was making the whole thing up. Joe kept cracking up and then telling us what Carlos said. Mary told Carlos, through body language, that she was keeping her eyes on him and watching him. They kept doing that gesture to each other through out the evening.
We hated to eat and run, but it was about 9:30 and we were pretty tired. Joe's Mom looked pretty tired after cooking all day. Joe was going to take us home in his Dad's truck. Marcela was going with us. We were thinking that it would be a tight fit for the four of us in the cab of the little truck. Mary and I were telling everyone goodbye and then Joe said that the whole family was going with us. We were going to ride in the back of the truck (which had a tarp tied over a metal frame). We sat on benches on either side. The back end was open and the front part of the tarp was open a little above the cab of the truck. Joe's Mom, Dad and Marcela rode in the cab. 8 of us rode in the back. I took pics of us. We were having fun joking around and laughing. Joe said that this is how they go to church all the time. They have a lot of fun together.
We made it to the team house and they let us out. Everyone got out of the truck and we said our goodbyes again. Joe's Mom said in English "Mami Vickie, Good night". I gave her a thumbs up for her English. I really enjoyed being with them. Carlos said he was going to practice his English and he told me to keep practicing my Spanish. I look forward to seeing him again. He is quite the character!
It was fun to be in their home. Joe and his sister were both born there and have lived there all their lives. Joe is 26 and Lizbeth is 17. He loves the neighborhood and has such wonderful memories of being a kid there. I would love to live in a neighborhood like that, myself.
It's been a wonderful Christmas Eve. Now it's time to go to sleep. It's almost Christmas Day, actually. I'm quite content, both physically and emotionally. Spiritually, I'm overflowing with love for my Jesus. Happy Birthday to my Wonderful Savior.
Thursday, December 23, 2010
Thursday, December 23, 2010
Christmas Eve Eve.
We've passed out all of our gifts, including the ones to the translators and voh staff.
We'll have a few things to do tomorrow and then we'll just relax here at the house for Christmas.
I love spending Christmas Eve and Christmas Day with just me and Jesus. It will be different being here with Mary this year. She is spending her first Christmas without her mother and brother and it is hard for her. Christmas music makes her sad, so I listen to my iPod in my room. We bought some funny blue sequined elf hats with lights, but I doubt that we are festive enough to enjoy them. I'll probably enjoy my quiet time with Jesus and celebrate in my own way.
Today, German picked us up about 9:30 and we went to Juan Pacheco's English school to have our class for the translators. We got started later than planned since we had to wait on some of them to get there. Mary taught part of it and I did the ending. They were appreciative of getting to hear what VOH believes as a ministry and to be discipled. I told them that I would send them the Spanish version of all 4 classes (we only did 101 today), so that they could strengthen their walk, and also be able to use the material in discipling others.
The translators are happy working with VOH. They said that we are different than other groups they translate for, even other ministries. They feel like a part of a family. I told them how much I love hearing them all laugh in the vans when we are working together. They always have a good time and they make the teams feel welcome, too. They do a good job for us.
After the class, we went to get diesel for the van. We had to go to 3 different stations before we found one that had any. That was strange. Then we went back to On the Run to use the bathroom and get sandwiches for lunch. We ate in the van as we drove to Pastor Miguel's house to drop off some extra toys for him to give out at the 2 churches he works with. He jumped in the van to ride out to the house to drop Mary and I off and then to keep German company on the ride back in to town.
Once we got back home, I came to my room and took a good long nap. My tooth, ear and jaw are killing me this afternoon and evening. Sleeping is a catch 22 situation. If I can escape into sleep, I don't notice it. But while sleeping, I clench my jaw and that makes the pain horrible when I wake up. I am thankful that it didn't hurt much today, until we got home. It's been bad all evening and I hope that I can sleep tonight. I'm so thankful for when it doesn't hurt.
Joe called German to make plans for Mary and I for tomorrow. He's one of my Nica sons. He and Marcela couldn't make it to the dinner on Tuesday, since Marcela just had surgery a few weeks ago. Joe was not able to come to the class today and I missed a couple of calls from him (crazy cell phone), so he called German to work out the details. We get to go have dinner with their family tomorrow night! I'm so excited!
German will pick us up about 1:30 tomorrow to attend a special Christmas event with Pastor Miguel's church from 2-4pm. Then German will drop us off at Joe's family's house and we'll hang out with them until dinner about 6:30p. Joe will get us a taxi to bring us home tomorrow night. It will be so fun. I'm looking forward to spending Christmas Eve with them. How special that they would invite us. Christmas Eve is the big celebration with family here, even more so than Christmas Day.
I'm growing weary of the drama of some of the personalities of these past weeks. I am very much comfortable being alone. I think that's way I do so well being single. Dealing with caustic personalities can wear me down to a nub. I don't think it helps that I'm not feeling well. It's probably, also, why I clench my teeth so much in my sleep lately. I read a lot of scripture that spoke volumes to me last night and this morning. I wrote some of it down and carried it with me today to pull out and read when necessary. It was like taking a dose of medicine when needed. I cling to the grace that God allows for when I am weak, both physically and emotionally. Sometimes I have to separate myself from a situation and recharge in that grace of His. I especially look forward to Christmas Day with my Lord.
I got a message from a friend back home telling me that Miss Juanita fell and broke her back. I called Kenneta's cell phone and found her in Miss Juanitas room yesterday. I got the chance to tell Miss Juanita hello and to be careful! I told her that she doesn't bounce as well as she used to. I look forward to visiting her when I get back to Rogers. She's such a sweet lady.
My sister Pam said that the surgeon had good news for her. There was NO cancer in the lymph nodes! Praise God!!! She will see the oncologist next and will be put on anti-hormones for awhile, to try to keep the cancer from coming back. She will also see her radiologist to check the skin around where they will be doing the radiation treatments, then another visit to make the preparations for the treatments. Then she will have 33 radiation treatments over about 7 weeks. Hopefully, and prayerfully, that will take care of everything. She sounds very good. I can tell in her voice that she is feeling better and she says that after the doctor's report, she can sleep better, too. She is so thankful. I'm thankful for all the prayers that have been raised in her behalf. Keep them coming!!
I seem to be going to sleep earlier and earlier these nights. It gets dark by 6:30. If I sit downstairs with Mary, I get bug bit. So I come to my room and close the door to try to keep the bugs away from my light (we keep the 'hallway' light on to attract them and for security). Also, I can listen to my Christmas music in my room at night. Sitting here on the bed makes it very convenient to lay down and read and fall asleep. We'll be getting up early with the team starting on Wednesday, so I might as well get used to going to be early now. We all know that I can use some 'beauty sleep'.
I'm thankful to my God for all His love, provision, direction, protection, forgiveness, grace and mercy. Some days I need it more than others and I know where to go for it. He is my One and Only.
We've passed out all of our gifts, including the ones to the translators and voh staff.
We'll have a few things to do tomorrow and then we'll just relax here at the house for Christmas.
I love spending Christmas Eve and Christmas Day with just me and Jesus. It will be different being here with Mary this year. She is spending her first Christmas without her mother and brother and it is hard for her. Christmas music makes her sad, so I listen to my iPod in my room. We bought some funny blue sequined elf hats with lights, but I doubt that we are festive enough to enjoy them. I'll probably enjoy my quiet time with Jesus and celebrate in my own way.
Today, German picked us up about 9:30 and we went to Juan Pacheco's English school to have our class for the translators. We got started later than planned since we had to wait on some of them to get there. Mary taught part of it and I did the ending. They were appreciative of getting to hear what VOH believes as a ministry and to be discipled. I told them that I would send them the Spanish version of all 4 classes (we only did 101 today), so that they could strengthen their walk, and also be able to use the material in discipling others.
The translators are happy working with VOH. They said that we are different than other groups they translate for, even other ministries. They feel like a part of a family. I told them how much I love hearing them all laugh in the vans when we are working together. They always have a good time and they make the teams feel welcome, too. They do a good job for us.
After the class, we went to get diesel for the van. We had to go to 3 different stations before we found one that had any. That was strange. Then we went back to On the Run to use the bathroom and get sandwiches for lunch. We ate in the van as we drove to Pastor Miguel's house to drop off some extra toys for him to give out at the 2 churches he works with. He jumped in the van to ride out to the house to drop Mary and I off and then to keep German company on the ride back in to town.
Once we got back home, I came to my room and took a good long nap. My tooth, ear and jaw are killing me this afternoon and evening. Sleeping is a catch 22 situation. If I can escape into sleep, I don't notice it. But while sleeping, I clench my jaw and that makes the pain horrible when I wake up. I am thankful that it didn't hurt much today, until we got home. It's been bad all evening and I hope that I can sleep tonight. I'm so thankful for when it doesn't hurt.
Joe called German to make plans for Mary and I for tomorrow. He's one of my Nica sons. He and Marcela couldn't make it to the dinner on Tuesday, since Marcela just had surgery a few weeks ago. Joe was not able to come to the class today and I missed a couple of calls from him (crazy cell phone), so he called German to work out the details. We get to go have dinner with their family tomorrow night! I'm so excited!
German will pick us up about 1:30 tomorrow to attend a special Christmas event with Pastor Miguel's church from 2-4pm. Then German will drop us off at Joe's family's house and we'll hang out with them until dinner about 6:30p. Joe will get us a taxi to bring us home tomorrow night. It will be so fun. I'm looking forward to spending Christmas Eve with them. How special that they would invite us. Christmas Eve is the big celebration with family here, even more so than Christmas Day.
I'm growing weary of the drama of some of the personalities of these past weeks. I am very much comfortable being alone. I think that's way I do so well being single. Dealing with caustic personalities can wear me down to a nub. I don't think it helps that I'm not feeling well. It's probably, also, why I clench my teeth so much in my sleep lately. I read a lot of scripture that spoke volumes to me last night and this morning. I wrote some of it down and carried it with me today to pull out and read when necessary. It was like taking a dose of medicine when needed. I cling to the grace that God allows for when I am weak, both physically and emotionally. Sometimes I have to separate myself from a situation and recharge in that grace of His. I especially look forward to Christmas Day with my Lord.
I got a message from a friend back home telling me that Miss Juanita fell and broke her back. I called Kenneta's cell phone and found her in Miss Juanitas room yesterday. I got the chance to tell Miss Juanita hello and to be careful! I told her that she doesn't bounce as well as she used to. I look forward to visiting her when I get back to Rogers. She's such a sweet lady.
My sister Pam said that the surgeon had good news for her. There was NO cancer in the lymph nodes! Praise God!!! She will see the oncologist next and will be put on anti-hormones for awhile, to try to keep the cancer from coming back. She will also see her radiologist to check the skin around where they will be doing the radiation treatments, then another visit to make the preparations for the treatments. Then she will have 33 radiation treatments over about 7 weeks. Hopefully, and prayerfully, that will take care of everything. She sounds very good. I can tell in her voice that she is feeling better and she says that after the doctor's report, she can sleep better, too. She is so thankful. I'm thankful for all the prayers that have been raised in her behalf. Keep them coming!!
I seem to be going to sleep earlier and earlier these nights. It gets dark by 6:30. If I sit downstairs with Mary, I get bug bit. So I come to my room and close the door to try to keep the bugs away from my light (we keep the 'hallway' light on to attract them and for security). Also, I can listen to my Christmas music in my room at night. Sitting here on the bed makes it very convenient to lay down and read and fall asleep. We'll be getting up early with the team starting on Wednesday, so I might as well get used to going to be early now. We all know that I can use some 'beauty sleep'.
I'm thankful to my God for all His love, provision, direction, protection, forgiveness, grace and mercy. Some days I need it more than others and I know where to go for it. He is my One and Only.
Wednesday, December 22, 2010
Wednesday, December 22, 2010
Got up this morning early to get ready for the toy/gift distribution. Had cold grilled leftover chicken from last night for my breakfast. Yum!!
German picked us up about 8:30 and we met a few of the translators and Pastor Miguel at the stoplight. Joe (one of my Nica sons) brought me, Mary and German each a set of little houses that can be used as bookends or whatever. He said they were made in La Paz Centro and he had to ride his bike to get them and hurry to get back to the stoplight in time. I love mine because Joe gave them to me. Mary loves hers because she has other little houses to go with them. German shared some tearful thoughts and revelations with us and said that the little houses represent his house that he is building and a bright new year. We had some awesome moments and a few tears in the van this morning. We are a family that supports and loves each other. I'm humbled to know them all.
We arrived at the Sewer Ponds and gathered all the families around. Pastor Miguel had made a list of families, including the ages of their kids ages 7 and under, when we were there a few weeks ago teaching classes. It was a little chaotic, but everyone got gifts and we had fun giving them out. Joe, Hixel, Oscar, Chico, Gilda, Miguel, Mary, German and I were on hand to take care of everyone. We took lots of pictures and even got a group shot of everyone.
I made sure to get a picture of Dariela and her father. I have a pic from the summer where I'm holding her as a little baby. She is growing up into a bigger baby girl. Her dad had seen me on the street one day after I got off the bus and he stopped to talk to me. I mentioned that in an earlier post. It was fun to see him again. And Dariela is sooo cute!
When we first got out of the van, some of the ladies called out hello and some of the kids came up to give me hugs. It was so nice to start building little relationships with them. They are always so happy for us to come.
After leaving the Sewer Ponds, we stopped at On the Run to use the bathroom and get some drinks. Then we headed over to the Concrete Pit to distribute toys/gifts there. We finally got everyone gathered and Miguel started going through his list with the lady who seems to be the head of the neighborhood. It was total chaos there and we finally got a gift for everyone. We took lots of pics there, too.
It was 12:30 when we finished, so we went to one of my favorite restaurants, Callejon, and I treated us all to lunch. It is a treat to me to get to eat there and I was blessed for us to all go together. I had my favorite, churrasco, a steak with a chimichurri sauce. Yum!
Then we dropped everyone off so they could go home to their families. German ran Mary and I over to Radio Shack to see if they had one of those photo card readers for the computer. They didn't, but I did get a flash drive so that I can save Mary's pics on it for her. We then stopped at the bookstore/office supply store that we had visited a week or so ago, to pick up another notebook for Mary and I wanted a couple of smaller ones. Then we stopped by the stoplight to get a watermelon from a nice fruit stand. As German was walking back across the street to the van with our melon, he popped into a store on the corner. He found one of those card readers for me. Yay! I had just been thinking to myself that I shouldn't be too disappointed that I couldn't download my pics right away (I had left my camera USB cord at home), since it hasn't been too many years ago that you had to wait a week for your film to develop and print. After that talk with myself, God blessed me with a card reader after all! Thank You Lord!!!
As we were driving home, German said he was getting sleepy. I was in the mood for a nap myself, but refrained once we got home. I got on the computer to download the pics. Mary went over the pages that she is going to teach tomorrow. German pulled the van up to an angle and he and Saturnino worked on checking out the brakes on the van. None of us got our nap, but that was okay.
I worked on sorting some leftover toys so that we can take them to Miguel tomorrow to give as Christmas gifts to the 2 churches that he works with. Mary and I also finished filling the bags for the translators and their families with gifts. We'll take them with us tomorrow to the class and give them out. Then our Christmas duties will be done.
I had some of the great cabbage slaw from last night and a piece of grilled chicken for dinner. Yummy! I've had way over my portion of protein for today! I came up to my room about 6:30 and took a shower and turned on some Christmas music, opened up my Spanish verb workbook, uploaded pics to facebook, and enjoyed my evening.
I'm actually ready to read and go to sleep early. We had an early start and busy day. It feels good to be tired and clean and ready for bed. I hope I can sleep through the night tonight. Last night I was grinding my teeth in my sleep and woke up about midnight with such pain in my left jaw from my teeth all the way up through my ear to my temple. Oh man, did it hurt! I got up and took some aspirins, put stuff on my tooth to numb it and held back tears as I laid still on my pillow and held back the tears as I prayed for my Father and Healer to take the pain away. It hasn't bothered me too much today and I hope that it will leave me alone tonight. If not, I know that God will get me through it. I am definitely going to the dentist and doctor to fix my teeth and my ear when I get back home. Hope it doesn't cost too much, or I'll have pain in my wallet! ha
God takes care of me in many ways. Some I don't even realize. I know He is always there for me. I am so thankful to Him. I don't deserve His attention at all. I pray that I live each day in the way He has planned and that I can bless someone in His name.
German picked us up about 8:30 and we met a few of the translators and Pastor Miguel at the stoplight. Joe (one of my Nica sons) brought me, Mary and German each a set of little houses that can be used as bookends or whatever. He said they were made in La Paz Centro and he had to ride his bike to get them and hurry to get back to the stoplight in time. I love mine because Joe gave them to me. Mary loves hers because she has other little houses to go with them. German shared some tearful thoughts and revelations with us and said that the little houses represent his house that he is building and a bright new year. We had some awesome moments and a few tears in the van this morning. We are a family that supports and loves each other. I'm humbled to know them all.
We arrived at the Sewer Ponds and gathered all the families around. Pastor Miguel had made a list of families, including the ages of their kids ages 7 and under, when we were there a few weeks ago teaching classes. It was a little chaotic, but everyone got gifts and we had fun giving them out. Joe, Hixel, Oscar, Chico, Gilda, Miguel, Mary, German and I were on hand to take care of everyone. We took lots of pictures and even got a group shot of everyone.
I made sure to get a picture of Dariela and her father. I have a pic from the summer where I'm holding her as a little baby. She is growing up into a bigger baby girl. Her dad had seen me on the street one day after I got off the bus and he stopped to talk to me. I mentioned that in an earlier post. It was fun to see him again. And Dariela is sooo cute!
When we first got out of the van, some of the ladies called out hello and some of the kids came up to give me hugs. It was so nice to start building little relationships with them. They are always so happy for us to come.
After leaving the Sewer Ponds, we stopped at On the Run to use the bathroom and get some drinks. Then we headed over to the Concrete Pit to distribute toys/gifts there. We finally got everyone gathered and Miguel started going through his list with the lady who seems to be the head of the neighborhood. It was total chaos there and we finally got a gift for everyone. We took lots of pics there, too.
It was 12:30 when we finished, so we went to one of my favorite restaurants, Callejon, and I treated us all to lunch. It is a treat to me to get to eat there and I was blessed for us to all go together. I had my favorite, churrasco, a steak with a chimichurri sauce. Yum!
Then we dropped everyone off so they could go home to their families. German ran Mary and I over to Radio Shack to see if they had one of those photo card readers for the computer. They didn't, but I did get a flash drive so that I can save Mary's pics on it for her. We then stopped at the bookstore/office supply store that we had visited a week or so ago, to pick up another notebook for Mary and I wanted a couple of smaller ones. Then we stopped by the stoplight to get a watermelon from a nice fruit stand. As German was walking back across the street to the van with our melon, he popped into a store on the corner. He found one of those card readers for me. Yay! I had just been thinking to myself that I shouldn't be too disappointed that I couldn't download my pics right away (I had left my camera USB cord at home), since it hasn't been too many years ago that you had to wait a week for your film to develop and print. After that talk with myself, God blessed me with a card reader after all! Thank You Lord!!!
As we were driving home, German said he was getting sleepy. I was in the mood for a nap myself, but refrained once we got home. I got on the computer to download the pics. Mary went over the pages that she is going to teach tomorrow. German pulled the van up to an angle and he and Saturnino worked on checking out the brakes on the van. None of us got our nap, but that was okay.
I worked on sorting some leftover toys so that we can take them to Miguel tomorrow to give as Christmas gifts to the 2 churches that he works with. Mary and I also finished filling the bags for the translators and their families with gifts. We'll take them with us tomorrow to the class and give them out. Then our Christmas duties will be done.
I had some of the great cabbage slaw from last night and a piece of grilled chicken for dinner. Yummy! I've had way over my portion of protein for today! I came up to my room about 6:30 and took a shower and turned on some Christmas music, opened up my Spanish verb workbook, uploaded pics to facebook, and enjoyed my evening.
I'm actually ready to read and go to sleep early. We had an early start and busy day. It feels good to be tired and clean and ready for bed. I hope I can sleep through the night tonight. Last night I was grinding my teeth in my sleep and woke up about midnight with such pain in my left jaw from my teeth all the way up through my ear to my temple. Oh man, did it hurt! I got up and took some aspirins, put stuff on my tooth to numb it and held back tears as I laid still on my pillow and held back the tears as I prayed for my Father and Healer to take the pain away. It hasn't bothered me too much today and I hope that it will leave me alone tonight. If not, I know that God will get me through it. I am definitely going to the dentist and doctor to fix my teeth and my ear when I get back home. Hope it doesn't cost too much, or I'll have pain in my wallet! ha
God takes care of me in many ways. Some I don't even realize. I know He is always there for me. I am so thankful to Him. I don't deserve His attention at all. I pray that I live each day in the way He has planned and that I can bless someone in His name.
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