This will be short and sweet since it's midnight here and I have to be up at 5:30a to be ready to wake the team for 6am breakfast.
Mary and I had a last quiet day of preparing for the team. We also did some laundry, read, studied, rested and then left with Danilo in the van to pick up German and head to Managua to pick up the team.
When the team was boarding the plane in Houston, we were heading to the airport. We actually took about 45 minutes to stop at the big mall (I had not seen it before) and grabbed dinner at the food court. Then we scooted over to the airport. On the way, Danilo got pulled over for making a questionable lane change, but the policeman let us go when he found a bigger fish to fry...someone driving without lights. We did see a couple of accidents between motorcycles and cars. Regular big city driving. Although they drive crazy everywhere in Nicaragua, we don't see hardly any accidents in León and the surrounding areas. Anyway...
We made it to the airport and found that the plane had made it in about 15 minutes early. The team got through all of their checkpoints and gathered the 36 checked bags and headed out the door to meet us. We put all the luggage in one van and split the team up between 2 other vans. A quick stop at On the Run for drinks and snacks and trips to the bathrooms, and we were on our way for the 2 hour drive home. Unfortunately, it was in the dark and when the team goes back to the airport next Sat at 2am, it will be dark again. They won't get to see some of the scenery on the way. But they will get to see lots around León and the neighborhoods that we will be serving in.
We got the girls all settled in 2 rooms and 1 porch room downstairs and the guys in 1 room upstairs. Everyone has a clean bed and their own personal floor fan. We had a very quick meeting about things they need to know for tonight and early tomorrow. We'll fill them in tomorrow about the rest of the house rules. I think everyone is probably asleep by now. They were tired, but not exhausted. I hope they sleep well. I personally love sleeping with the fans, especially compared to A/C.
It is good to have everyone here and I look forward to serving with this bunch this week. I don't know everyone on the team very well, just some of them. It will be fun to get to know them on a mission trip. It's a special time and way to bond.
I'm calling it a night for now. I'm very content and think I'll sleep wonderfully! God is soooo good! Can't wait to tell people that tomorrow!
Saturday, March 19, 2011
Friday, March 18, 2011
Friday, 3/18 in Nicaragua
It's very much bedtime, but I'm just now getting a chance to post for the day. It's been another good day. :)
This morning we headed into town on the bus to meet German at El Callejon, one of my favorite restaurants. The taxi driver asked if we were North Americans. He said that he noticed that we checked the license plate on the taxis before choosing him. If they are a 'legal' taxi, they will have a red and white license plate. The gypsy taxis just have the regular vehicle plate. We made the mistake of riding in an unofficial taxi once. People were not happy. We respect the drivers who are legit. It costs a lot of money for that license plate and takes years to pay off. They deserve our business. Anyway, I was quite pleased to be able to have this discussion with him in Spanish. progress...
We had a yummy lunch. I love the steak with chimichurri sauce. We all got it, rice and beans, steamed veggies and a tortilla. Mary gave German part of her steak (it was a little tough, but I liked it) and some rice, the part of the veggies she doesn't care for (squash, etc) and her tortilla. His plate was full! He ate as much as he could and then got a to-go box. The people at the restaurant are very nice. I enjoy them.
Then we walked over to a music store. We each had our backpacks, German was also carrying his motorcycle helmet and to-go box, Mary ended up carrying some bags for groceries that I started out with and I ended up carrying a guitar that FBCR is donating to the ministry. We were quite the troupe of people walking single file down the narrow sidewalks (and in the street much of the time).
We then went to La Unión Supermercado for groceries for the team. Mary and I had discussed earlier what meals we would like to have and our cook, Yasmina, met us at the store and we filled up 3 carts with groceries. I filled up an additional cart with cookies that the team is buying for VBS next week. Mary's favorite sack boy was not there today, but he greeted her yesterday when we stopped in. We had two very hard working sack boys today. They were loading our groceries into boxes and giant bags. Then they took it straight out to our hired van, who had backed up to the front door of the store. It was hilarious. They've never allowed us to do that before. We got all the food packed away in the van and then Eduardo drove Mary and I home. Saturnino and Eduardo helped us unload everything. Then Mary and I put it all away. It took about an hour in the grocery store and another hour at the house. Grocery shopping for teams is a time consuming event. German will bring out the jugs of water, ice, and sweet bread tomorrow. We'll still have to go by the store mid-week for more groceries (we only have 2 regular size fridges), but we got most of it today.
Mary and I went through some suitcases and tubs to see what we had stored here for the team to use. I did some computer work and then we took off for our last sunset walk on the beach until the team leaves. It was a nice walk. The waves and current were very strong. We met 2 couples from Texas who were vacationing here. We came in and had a bite to eat. I had peanutbutter and apple, since I was still so full from lunch. I got a refreshing shower and Mary got on her computer. I did some bookkeeping chores and read ahead on my Bible Study.
It's the last quiet night here for a week. We're looking forward to the team getting here tomorrow. I've really enjoyed having these extra days to prepare instead of rushing to get ready in just a day or two. God has blessed us with some relaxing, but productive days.
I'm signing off now to enjoy the quiet night. I know the team is excited as they are going to bed tonight in Rogers. God is so faithful and gracious and generous. I'm so thankful that He allows us to be a part of His work.
This morning we headed into town on the bus to meet German at El Callejon, one of my favorite restaurants. The taxi driver asked if we were North Americans. He said that he noticed that we checked the license plate on the taxis before choosing him. If they are a 'legal' taxi, they will have a red and white license plate. The gypsy taxis just have the regular vehicle plate. We made the mistake of riding in an unofficial taxi once. People were not happy. We respect the drivers who are legit. It costs a lot of money for that license plate and takes years to pay off. They deserve our business. Anyway, I was quite pleased to be able to have this discussion with him in Spanish. progress...
We had a yummy lunch. I love the steak with chimichurri sauce. We all got it, rice and beans, steamed veggies and a tortilla. Mary gave German part of her steak (it was a little tough, but I liked it) and some rice, the part of the veggies she doesn't care for (squash, etc) and her tortilla. His plate was full! He ate as much as he could and then got a to-go box. The people at the restaurant are very nice. I enjoy them.
Then we walked over to a music store. We each had our backpacks, German was also carrying his motorcycle helmet and to-go box, Mary ended up carrying some bags for groceries that I started out with and I ended up carrying a guitar that FBCR is donating to the ministry. We were quite the troupe of people walking single file down the narrow sidewalks (and in the street much of the time).
We then went to La Unión Supermercado for groceries for the team. Mary and I had discussed earlier what meals we would like to have and our cook, Yasmina, met us at the store and we filled up 3 carts with groceries. I filled up an additional cart with cookies that the team is buying for VBS next week. Mary's favorite sack boy was not there today, but he greeted her yesterday when we stopped in. We had two very hard working sack boys today. They were loading our groceries into boxes and giant bags. Then they took it straight out to our hired van, who had backed up to the front door of the store. It was hilarious. They've never allowed us to do that before. We got all the food packed away in the van and then Eduardo drove Mary and I home. Saturnino and Eduardo helped us unload everything. Then Mary and I put it all away. It took about an hour in the grocery store and another hour at the house. Grocery shopping for teams is a time consuming event. German will bring out the jugs of water, ice, and sweet bread tomorrow. We'll still have to go by the store mid-week for more groceries (we only have 2 regular size fridges), but we got most of it today.
Mary and I went through some suitcases and tubs to see what we had stored here for the team to use. I did some computer work and then we took off for our last sunset walk on the beach until the team leaves. It was a nice walk. The waves and current were very strong. We met 2 couples from Texas who were vacationing here. We came in and had a bite to eat. I had peanutbutter and apple, since I was still so full from lunch. I got a refreshing shower and Mary got on her computer. I did some bookkeeping chores and read ahead on my Bible Study.
It's the last quiet night here for a week. We're looking forward to the team getting here tomorrow. I've really enjoyed having these extra days to prepare instead of rushing to get ready in just a day or two. God has blessed us with some relaxing, but productive days.
I'm signing off now to enjoy the quiet night. I know the team is excited as they are going to bed tonight in Rogers. God is so faithful and gracious and generous. I'm so thankful that He allows us to be a part of His work.
Thursday, March 17, 2011
Wednesday & Thursday 3/16-17 in Nicaragua
Wednesday: Woke up to the sound of the ocean and the birds singing (squawking) in the trees. So wonderful. It starts getting warm early and the fans blowing across the bed felt great.
I started the day with Bible Study and then a poptart. Then it was time to unpack the clothes that I leave here at the team house and the stuff that I brought. It looks like I brought a grocery store, since I can't eat certain things and bring what I can from the states. I have oatmeal, craisins and walnuts (for the oatmeal), prunes, tropical trail mix, mixed nuts, granola bars, tuna, organic crackers, etc. But it sure helps to keep me somewhat healthy, so I don't mind bringing it. I also brought German 2 big boxes of instant oatmeal, which he discovered he liked from my last trip.
Mary and I worked all morning getting things moved around and unpacked at the house. Then I had a pb&j sandwich and took a nap. I got some computer work done (Dubai College team, Community Meal Project, etc) and then visited with Mary downstairs. We sent Saturnino to Suyapa restaurant on his bike for dinner. Grilled chicken and veggies. Yum!
I finished the night on the computer (so glad that God allows internet access here!) and then went to sleep. It was a very peaceful and lovely sleep! God is blessing me with some relaxation after weeks of running around like crazy trying to get many projects in line. It's good to have a little down time.
Thursday: Woke up to those lovely birds again. I enjoy them. Did my Bible study on the veranda upstairs. I love sitting there feeling the breeze and seeing the ocean and palm trees and reading God's word.
Mary and I took the bus into León (about a 45-50 minute ride) and caught a taxi to La Unión grocery store (owned by Walmart). We picked up a couple of things and then met German at Tip Top Chicken restaurant (our favorite) for a lunch meeting. We went over schedules for the team for this coming week. Then we went to the corner to do some money exchanging. German went to teach his Spanish class for missionaries. Then Mary and I went walking around and visited the Central Park, where I bought a few more of the woven zippered bags that I love to use and give as gifts. We then walked over to Eskimo for our special treat of ice cream. Cono Jumbo is a double dip of ice cream on a waffle cone. Last year they raised the price to $1.50 US, but that still isn't bad. I have pictures of Mary and I enjoying our ice cream from two different trips where she is wearing a turquoise shirt. I looked at her funny today and mentioned that she was wearing a turquoise shirt again. Oh well, it was funny to us.
We grabbed another taxi (it costs us about 75 cents each) to the bus stop for Poneloya. We had the driver drop us off at the corner where the bus used to pick up. No bus, no people. hmmm. Then the money taker from the bus walked around the corner and told us the bus now stops just a little ways down the street and showed us the way. I guess someone noticed us and told him we were at the corner. We were glad that he came to get us. Who knows how long we would have stood there! We were lucky to get seats. When we boarded the bus, someone yelled "Mary!". It was a man named Victor from the Jericho church. Mary sat with him and I sat in front of them. I tried translating for them, but it was really hard for me to hear on the bus with the noise and with my hearing loss. We did okay, though. He wanted to know how long we are staying and if we can come to their church mission in Las Peñitas (near Poneloya). We gave him German's number. We don't have the words yet for that kind of conversation.
We got home and put our stuff away and rested a little. Mary got on her computer for a while. She even got news about Searcy AR. She says she can't get that back home. She has to come to Nica for it!
We took our first (for this trip) daily (when a team is not here) sunset walk on the beach. It was nice to walk in the water and look at sea shells. Oh my! How the waves have changed the beach! It was a lovely walk and we met a man from Canada who is here for 4-5 months waiting for the snow to melt back home. He was all tanned. We saw one of the blonde dogs from the area. He's the one we named Happy. We didn't see his brother with 3 legs, who we had named Hoppy. We did see a rather fat cat using the beach for her littler box. She had dug quite a large spot (maybe 3 feet wide). Very ambitious.
Mary ate the rest of her lunch salad for dinner and I fixed a tuna sandwich, organic crackers and a cucumber for dinner. Quite tasty. I grabbed a shower and jumped on the computer. Mary read for a while and now we are both tucked into our rooms for the night.
Tomorrow will be a big day of making up 18 beds, distributing towels, buying tons of groceries and getting ready for the team. Grocery buying day is always an adventure. Putting everything away comes in a close second. We'll take the bus into town to meet German, have lunch and then meet the cook at the grocery store. Then we'll hire a van to bring us and the grub home. We are finding many ways to cut costs, even here in Nica.
I stepped on a bee tonight in my room and my toe is killing me. That darn bee packed a wallop. I don't imagine that he was too happy with my big foot coming down on him, either. At least he is out of his misery. ha
Another wonderful day full of blessings from the Lord.
I started the day with Bible Study and then a poptart. Then it was time to unpack the clothes that I leave here at the team house and the stuff that I brought. It looks like I brought a grocery store, since I can't eat certain things and bring what I can from the states. I have oatmeal, craisins and walnuts (for the oatmeal), prunes, tropical trail mix, mixed nuts, granola bars, tuna, organic crackers, etc. But it sure helps to keep me somewhat healthy, so I don't mind bringing it. I also brought German 2 big boxes of instant oatmeal, which he discovered he liked from my last trip.
Mary and I worked all morning getting things moved around and unpacked at the house. Then I had a pb&j sandwich and took a nap. I got some computer work done (Dubai College team, Community Meal Project, etc) and then visited with Mary downstairs. We sent Saturnino to Suyapa restaurant on his bike for dinner. Grilled chicken and veggies. Yum!
I finished the night on the computer (so glad that God allows internet access here!) and then went to sleep. It was a very peaceful and lovely sleep! God is blessing me with some relaxation after weeks of running around like crazy trying to get many projects in line. It's good to have a little down time.
Thursday: Woke up to those lovely birds again. I enjoy them. Did my Bible study on the veranda upstairs. I love sitting there feeling the breeze and seeing the ocean and palm trees and reading God's word.
Mary and I took the bus into León (about a 45-50 minute ride) and caught a taxi to La Unión grocery store (owned by Walmart). We picked up a couple of things and then met German at Tip Top Chicken restaurant (our favorite) for a lunch meeting. We went over schedules for the team for this coming week. Then we went to the corner to do some money exchanging. German went to teach his Spanish class for missionaries. Then Mary and I went walking around and visited the Central Park, where I bought a few more of the woven zippered bags that I love to use and give as gifts. We then walked over to Eskimo for our special treat of ice cream. Cono Jumbo is a double dip of ice cream on a waffle cone. Last year they raised the price to $1.50 US, but that still isn't bad. I have pictures of Mary and I enjoying our ice cream from two different trips where she is wearing a turquoise shirt. I looked at her funny today and mentioned that she was wearing a turquoise shirt again. Oh well, it was funny to us.
We grabbed another taxi (it costs us about 75 cents each) to the bus stop for Poneloya. We had the driver drop us off at the corner where the bus used to pick up. No bus, no people. hmmm. Then the money taker from the bus walked around the corner and told us the bus now stops just a little ways down the street and showed us the way. I guess someone noticed us and told him we were at the corner. We were glad that he came to get us. Who knows how long we would have stood there! We were lucky to get seats. When we boarded the bus, someone yelled "Mary!". It was a man named Victor from the Jericho church. Mary sat with him and I sat in front of them. I tried translating for them, but it was really hard for me to hear on the bus with the noise and with my hearing loss. We did okay, though. He wanted to know how long we are staying and if we can come to their church mission in Las Peñitas (near Poneloya). We gave him German's number. We don't have the words yet for that kind of conversation.
We got home and put our stuff away and rested a little. Mary got on her computer for a while. She even got news about Searcy AR. She says she can't get that back home. She has to come to Nica for it!
We took our first (for this trip) daily (when a team is not here) sunset walk on the beach. It was nice to walk in the water and look at sea shells. Oh my! How the waves have changed the beach! It was a lovely walk and we met a man from Canada who is here for 4-5 months waiting for the snow to melt back home. He was all tanned. We saw one of the blonde dogs from the area. He's the one we named Happy. We didn't see his brother with 3 legs, who we had named Hoppy. We did see a rather fat cat using the beach for her littler box. She had dug quite a large spot (maybe 3 feet wide). Very ambitious.
Mary ate the rest of her lunch salad for dinner and I fixed a tuna sandwich, organic crackers and a cucumber for dinner. Quite tasty. I grabbed a shower and jumped on the computer. Mary read for a while and now we are both tucked into our rooms for the night.
Tomorrow will be a big day of making up 18 beds, distributing towels, buying tons of groceries and getting ready for the team. Grocery buying day is always an adventure. Putting everything away comes in a close second. We'll take the bus into town to meet German, have lunch and then meet the cook at the grocery store. Then we'll hire a van to bring us and the grub home. We are finding many ways to cut costs, even here in Nica.
I stepped on a bee tonight in my room and my toe is killing me. That darn bee packed a wallop. I don't imagine that he was too happy with my big foot coming down on him, either. At least he is out of his misery. ha
Another wonderful day full of blessings from the Lord.
coming Home to Nicaragua
On Tuesday I began my journey back to Nicaragua. I arrived at XNA airport (Rogers AR) the required 2 hours early for my international flight. As I was struggling with my bags at the back of Deanna's van, a nice gentleman who was waiting for his ride said he would help me if Deanna would watch his bags. He strolled right up to the counter for me. How nice! There was hardly anyone else in the airport. I zipped right through security. No pat downs this time! I grabbed a bagel (for emergencies) and a bottled water and settled in to a somewhat comfortable seat by the tv monitor to await my flight. I made a few phone calls and watched the news and started feeling a little drowsy.
Our flight from XNA to IAH (Houston) was less than half full. The flight attendant told us over the speaker to just sit wherever we wanted. I grabbed a double seat and got comfy. I read my Kindle and dozed off for a little while.
We reached IAH just a few minutes early, so I had the chance to visit the restroom and grab a sandwich to go before heading to my gate, where I met up with Mary (flying in from Little Rock). I had just enough time to get my passport and boarding pass checked and then boarded the plane. I had an aisle seat and the one next to me was empty, so it was nice to have both arm rests to my self. (funny how those little things can make a person happy).
When we arrived in Managua we scurried on to immigration and then to customs. The Ministry of Health was passing out forms asking where you were coming from, what cities you had visited and if you had any of a list of nasty symptoms. I wondered how thorough this process would be, but when I went through the immigration station, the guy took my health form and just set it aside and didn't even look at it. I guess I looked healthy enough. On to getting our baggage and then through customs, which is just a ride for the baggage through an x-ray machine and handing the paper to someone, who also doesn't look at it. Then we were free to traverse the doors of glass that connect to the wall of glass. It was good to see German. He's like a younger brother to me. I love to hear his voice and see his smile.
We made a quick stop at On the Run (convenience store) for water (Pepsi for Mary) and a few things for the morning. Then off for the long ride to the team house. It was the first time Mary and I got to chat and we also caught up with German on things going on down here. We made it to the team house about 11:30 Nica time (12:30 AR time). We unpacked a little and then went to bed. I have to say that I find it funny that the cleaning lady (Araceliz) always put the mattress cover OVER the fitted sheet and I end up remaking the bed. But it's all good. A great night of sleep listening to the ocean waves and the 2 fans blowing in my room. It's good to be back.
God blessed us with good flights, good weather, making our connection in Houston, safe travel from the airport and a safe home to sleep in. He is awesome.
Our flight from XNA to IAH (Houston) was less than half full. The flight attendant told us over the speaker to just sit wherever we wanted. I grabbed a double seat and got comfy. I read my Kindle and dozed off for a little while.
We reached IAH just a few minutes early, so I had the chance to visit the restroom and grab a sandwich to go before heading to my gate, where I met up with Mary (flying in from Little Rock). I had just enough time to get my passport and boarding pass checked and then boarded the plane. I had an aisle seat and the one next to me was empty, so it was nice to have both arm rests to my self. (funny how those little things can make a person happy).
When we arrived in Managua we scurried on to immigration and then to customs. The Ministry of Health was passing out forms asking where you were coming from, what cities you had visited and if you had any of a list of nasty symptoms. I wondered how thorough this process would be, but when I went through the immigration station, the guy took my health form and just set it aside and didn't even look at it. I guess I looked healthy enough. On to getting our baggage and then through customs, which is just a ride for the baggage through an x-ray machine and handing the paper to someone, who also doesn't look at it. Then we were free to traverse the doors of glass that connect to the wall of glass. It was good to see German. He's like a younger brother to me. I love to hear his voice and see his smile.
We made a quick stop at On the Run (convenience store) for water (Pepsi for Mary) and a few things for the morning. Then off for the long ride to the team house. It was the first time Mary and I got to chat and we also caught up with German on things going on down here. We made it to the team house about 11:30 Nica time (12:30 AR time). We unpacked a little and then went to bed. I have to say that I find it funny that the cleaning lady (Araceliz) always put the mattress cover OVER the fitted sheet and I end up remaking the bed. But it's all good. A great night of sleep listening to the ocean waves and the 2 fans blowing in my room. It's good to be back.
God blessed us with good flights, good weather, making our connection in Houston, safe travel from the airport and a safe home to sleep in. He is awesome.
Wednesday, March 16, 2011
March 16, 2011
I'm sitting here in my room at the team house in Nicaragua posting on my blog. How wonderful! (as I'm typing this, I'm chatting on facebook with Kearsten, one of the team members coming down from FBCR on Saturday!)
Sunday, I watched FBCR on tv and then went to worship with Cuerpo Vivo. We took advantage of moving the clocks forward and also moved the starting time for church to an hour earlier. We were down a little bit in numbers, but it was a great worship service. It was nice to get out about 12:30 instead of 1:30. The Brock family from FBCR and Kayla attended the service. Unfortunately, the website had not been updated with the time change yet, so they missed the music, but were there for the sermon. It was nice to see their smiling faces.
I was blessed to have lunch with the Treviños. Mark bought my lunch and was happy when they gave me a senior discount. :) It was good company and great food.
I went home and worked some more on getting packed for Nicaragua. I made some turkey meatballs and enjoyed those for dinner. I also worked on my Bible study for Monday morning, since I had an early ear doctor appointment.
Monday, Angela took me to my hearing test. It was nice to catch up with her. The test revealed what we thought, significant hearing loss in my right ear. All the mechanics of the ear are fine and healthy. No fluid or swelling or anything. So the problem seems to be neurological. A problem with the nerves between the ear and the brain. I suspect that there may not be a brain to receive the impulses, but I'm no doctor. :) I have an appointment with Dr Black on April 6. We'll see what he says. I just hope it doesn't cost a lot of money! I'm very thankful that no pain is involved. It is a little frustrating that I'm trying to learn a new language and can't hear very well. But I'm not giving up!!!
Angela dropped me off at the church after my appointment and I got some last minute stuff done for the Nicaragua trip and the Dubai College trip. Kellie took me to the post office to get some boxes to ship training materials to the College team. Then we went to the bank and then had lunch at Rolando's. It was sooo good.
Back to the church for staff meeting. Jaime presented the vision and status of Cuerpo Vivo church. It was very informative and encouraging. I hope it was enlightening for the people who seem to have a problem with God working through this wonderful church. God is blessing the Hispanic ministry tremendously and I'm very humbled and proud to be a part of it.
Monday night I got home and made some roasted chicken breast and some real mashed potatoes. I was craving them! They were pretty good. Then I worked until 11:30 finishing up my packing. I slept pretty well finally.
Tuesday morning, I was blessed to get to share with the Ladies Bible study group about what God has been doing in my life. I'm always excited to brag on God. He is so awesome and uses even a worthless creature like me to shine His glory. Our large group lecture (by Lisa) was wonderful, as always, and our small group discussion time was equally great. I will only miss one session while I'm in Nica, but I know I'll be missing a blessing even from that one week. Great study of God's wonderful Word!
Deanna and Amy and Barbara took me to lunch at Chick-Fil-A. (Thanks Barbara for the meal!) Then Deanna dropped me off at the airport for my trip to Nica.
I'll share more about the trip in the next post. I'm too sleepy now to remember everything.
My God is so wonderful, loving, gracious and generous. He is making my life so happy right now. No matter the circumstances, I am always ecstatic to be serving Him! (remind me of this the next time I whine!)
I love You my Lord.
Sunday, I watched FBCR on tv and then went to worship with Cuerpo Vivo. We took advantage of moving the clocks forward and also moved the starting time for church to an hour earlier. We were down a little bit in numbers, but it was a great worship service. It was nice to get out about 12:30 instead of 1:30. The Brock family from FBCR and Kayla attended the service. Unfortunately, the website had not been updated with the time change yet, so they missed the music, but were there for the sermon. It was nice to see their smiling faces.
I was blessed to have lunch with the Treviños. Mark bought my lunch and was happy when they gave me a senior discount. :) It was good company and great food.
I went home and worked some more on getting packed for Nicaragua. I made some turkey meatballs and enjoyed those for dinner. I also worked on my Bible study for Monday morning, since I had an early ear doctor appointment.
Monday, Angela took me to my hearing test. It was nice to catch up with her. The test revealed what we thought, significant hearing loss in my right ear. All the mechanics of the ear are fine and healthy. No fluid or swelling or anything. So the problem seems to be neurological. A problem with the nerves between the ear and the brain. I suspect that there may not be a brain to receive the impulses, but I'm no doctor. :) I have an appointment with Dr Black on April 6. We'll see what he says. I just hope it doesn't cost a lot of money! I'm very thankful that no pain is involved. It is a little frustrating that I'm trying to learn a new language and can't hear very well. But I'm not giving up!!!
Angela dropped me off at the church after my appointment and I got some last minute stuff done for the Nicaragua trip and the Dubai College trip. Kellie took me to the post office to get some boxes to ship training materials to the College team. Then we went to the bank and then had lunch at Rolando's. It was sooo good.
Back to the church for staff meeting. Jaime presented the vision and status of Cuerpo Vivo church. It was very informative and encouraging. I hope it was enlightening for the people who seem to have a problem with God working through this wonderful church. God is blessing the Hispanic ministry tremendously and I'm very humbled and proud to be a part of it.
Monday night I got home and made some roasted chicken breast and some real mashed potatoes. I was craving them! They were pretty good. Then I worked until 11:30 finishing up my packing. I slept pretty well finally.
Tuesday morning, I was blessed to get to share with the Ladies Bible study group about what God has been doing in my life. I'm always excited to brag on God. He is so awesome and uses even a worthless creature like me to shine His glory. Our large group lecture (by Lisa) was wonderful, as always, and our small group discussion time was equally great. I will only miss one session while I'm in Nica, but I know I'll be missing a blessing even from that one week. Great study of God's wonderful Word!
Deanna and Amy and Barbara took me to lunch at Chick-Fil-A. (Thanks Barbara for the meal!) Then Deanna dropped me off at the airport for my trip to Nica.
I'll share more about the trip in the next post. I'm too sleepy now to remember everything.
My God is so wonderful, loving, gracious and generous. He is making my life so happy right now. No matter the circumstances, I am always ecstatic to be serving Him! (remind me of this the next time I whine!)
I love You my Lord.
Saturday, March 12, 2011
March 12, 2011
Saturday evening. Trying to convince my body that it's an hour later, so that I can go to sleep and wake up at the 'right' time tomorrow.
Thursday was a great day of getting things done at home on the computer and some chores around the house. I got things all ready to hit it hard on Friday. There were 3 interpreters at the medical clinic, so I didn't need to go. I'm not a whole lot of help (quality help, anyway), but I can communicate in a pinch. And I enjoy it.
Friday morning I was up early doing my Bible study so that I could catch a ride with Deanna to the Olive street church offices. She was fussing at me for not wearing my 'green' for St Patrick's Day, until I told her she was a week early. LOL
Once I got to the church with my plastic tub of various items to deal with, I started right in. I made info packets for the parents of the Nicaragua team. Made copies of a corrected flyer for the Friday lunch project, so that the Food Pantry could pass them out. The Food Pantry was in good hands and didn't need my help, so I went over to the kitchen to start some of the food for the lunches. Kaye was there in the kitchen preparing for a banquet for that night. I got to chat with her for a little while, which was nice.
Heidi and Melanie came with their little volunteers and started setting up for the lunches. Melanie ran me to pick up sandwich makings, fruit and cookies. We set up for the lunches in the gym this week, since the Fellowship Hall was set up for the banquet. We didn't have any new people, but we had some new volunteers and it was nice to introduce them to each other. More discussion was shared about plans and procedures and we've made great progress. Now we just need to get the word out more and get ready for lots of guests in the coming weeks.
After the lunch, I went upstairs and started packing suitcases and tubs with ministry supplies to take to Nicaragua. I want to have everything ready so that the team can just grab an extra tub/suitcase on the day they leave for the airport. It will be great to get lots of stuff down there.
When I got home about 3:30, I laid down on the sofa just to rest a minute and I fell into a very deep sleep. Deanna said I was snoring up a storm. It felt good to have that nap.
Today, I did a few more chores around the house and then borrowed Deanna's van to run to some stores to pick up items that I need to take to Nica with me. I spent forever in Walmart getting stuff on my list and using some coupons. I brought everything home and started packing my extra bags with supplies. I have most of my stuff packed now, so it won't be too hard to finish up in the next few days.
I plan on enjoying worship tomorrow and being with friends. Monday will be a doctor's appointment for a hearing test, staff meeting, then a final meeting with Brian S about the Nica team. Tuesday morning will be Bible study, lunch with Deanna and then heading for the airport. It will go by fast.
I have enjoyed so much the Chronological Bible Study. I was excited to realize that my flight is late enough in the afternoon that I could still attend Bible Study that morning. That means I will only miss 1 day while I'm in Nica. I'll be doing my daily study, but I will miss the large group lecture and small group discussion on the last Tuesday of this month.
The earthquake and tsunami in Japan has been quite something. Now there is danger from the nuclear plant there. Life here can change in a heartbeat. I'm so thankful that I know my Savior and Father and have the promise and hope of Heaven. This life is temporary and we need to keep that in mind. I pray that I will keep my eyes on what is lasting and that I can glorify God by sharing that with others.
I'm so thankful for my friends and kingdom family. Being on facebook reminds me of many people who I have been blessed to meet and to know on many different levels. God has been so good to me. I am truly honored to be a Child of the King and to have wonderful brothers and sisters in Christ.
Thursday was a great day of getting things done at home on the computer and some chores around the house. I got things all ready to hit it hard on Friday. There were 3 interpreters at the medical clinic, so I didn't need to go. I'm not a whole lot of help (quality help, anyway), but I can communicate in a pinch. And I enjoy it.
Friday morning I was up early doing my Bible study so that I could catch a ride with Deanna to the Olive street church offices. She was fussing at me for not wearing my 'green' for St Patrick's Day, until I told her she was a week early. LOL
Once I got to the church with my plastic tub of various items to deal with, I started right in. I made info packets for the parents of the Nicaragua team. Made copies of a corrected flyer for the Friday lunch project, so that the Food Pantry could pass them out. The Food Pantry was in good hands and didn't need my help, so I went over to the kitchen to start some of the food for the lunches. Kaye was there in the kitchen preparing for a banquet for that night. I got to chat with her for a little while, which was nice.
Heidi and Melanie came with their little volunteers and started setting up for the lunches. Melanie ran me to pick up sandwich makings, fruit and cookies. We set up for the lunches in the gym this week, since the Fellowship Hall was set up for the banquet. We didn't have any new people, but we had some new volunteers and it was nice to introduce them to each other. More discussion was shared about plans and procedures and we've made great progress. Now we just need to get the word out more and get ready for lots of guests in the coming weeks.
After the lunch, I went upstairs and started packing suitcases and tubs with ministry supplies to take to Nicaragua. I want to have everything ready so that the team can just grab an extra tub/suitcase on the day they leave for the airport. It will be great to get lots of stuff down there.
When I got home about 3:30, I laid down on the sofa just to rest a minute and I fell into a very deep sleep. Deanna said I was snoring up a storm. It felt good to have that nap.
Today, I did a few more chores around the house and then borrowed Deanna's van to run to some stores to pick up items that I need to take to Nica with me. I spent forever in Walmart getting stuff on my list and using some coupons. I brought everything home and started packing my extra bags with supplies. I have most of my stuff packed now, so it won't be too hard to finish up in the next few days.
I plan on enjoying worship tomorrow and being with friends. Monday will be a doctor's appointment for a hearing test, staff meeting, then a final meeting with Brian S about the Nica team. Tuesday morning will be Bible study, lunch with Deanna and then heading for the airport. It will go by fast.
I have enjoyed so much the Chronological Bible Study. I was excited to realize that my flight is late enough in the afternoon that I could still attend Bible Study that morning. That means I will only miss 1 day while I'm in Nica. I'll be doing my daily study, but I will miss the large group lecture and small group discussion on the last Tuesday of this month.
The earthquake and tsunami in Japan has been quite something. Now there is danger from the nuclear plant there. Life here can change in a heartbeat. I'm so thankful that I know my Savior and Father and have the promise and hope of Heaven. This life is temporary and we need to keep that in mind. I pray that I will keep my eyes on what is lasting and that I can glorify God by sharing that with others.
I'm so thankful for my friends and kingdom family. Being on facebook reminds me of many people who I have been blessed to meet and to know on many different levels. God has been so good to me. I am truly honored to be a Child of the King and to have wonderful brothers and sisters in Christ.
Wednesday, March 9, 2011
my birthday 2011
Birthdays have taken on a new feeling since I started in my 50s. It seems absurd to be 50, so every year it seems funny to add a higher digit to my age. This year makes 54. So weird!
After Bible study yesterday, many of the ladies ended up at Chick-Fil-A for lunch. As the 4 of us in our group ordered, someone told the manager that it was going to be my birthday today. While we were eating, he brought a balloon tied to a little stuffed cow (their mascot) to my table. Someone started singing Happy Birthday and when the ladies from Bible study (who were spread all over the restaurant) joined in, the other people in the restaurant looked surprised that so many people were singing. It was funny. and a little embarrassing. :) But it made me feel loved... I tried giving my balloon away to some moms when we were leaving, but no takers. So before we got in the car, I made a birthday wish and let the balloon go. We watched it fly way up in the air. It was kind of fun.
Deanna and her grand-daughter, Melanie, took me out to eat last night at Smokin' Joes. It was very tasty! We had fun talking about things that happened when Melanie was little. Deanna always has wonderful stories. I gave my little Chick-Fil-A cow to Melanie for her black and white bedroom.
I started the day with the usual... Wonderful Bible study. Check emails. Super Oatmeal for breakfast. Laundry. Trying to organize my bedroom. Sorting out items to be given away. Lunch. Nap. More emails and work. Dinner at Red Lobster with Nana Ruth. Home. More emails. A little more work before bedtime.
I've had over a hundred birthday wishes on facebook today. I feel so blessed! It was been fun to hear from friends from all over the world and around the country. It makes my heart warm to remember how I've met these people. God has blessed my life so much with these wonderful encounters. God has given me wonderful memories. I enjoyed answering each post.
I received a little birthday money and I'm putting it into my airline account. I'm going to keep a savings account going for plane tickets to travel and work with other missionaries around the world. My next trip (besides serving in Nicaragua, of course!) is a joint trip to India/Dubai. I hope to be able to go in late August through Sept and maybe into October. God is blessing me with opportunities and the desire to go, and I know He will provide the way if it's His will to do it.
I was also blessed with a laptop backpack to give to a friend in Nic. That was a wonderful gift for me! I love being able to bless other people.
I've got a few major projects to accomplish by weeks' end, and it gives me a little anxiety not to have a vehicle to come and go and get things done, but it will all work out okay. I want to get my bags packed for Nic by Sunday. I have lots of tubs and bags to get packed for the team to take. I want to get them done this Friday. I leave on Tuesday and Monday is already filled with a doctor's appointment and staff meeting. I'd like to keep Sunday a day of rest and worship and not packing. :)
My sister Pam is through with her radiation treatments for breast cancer. She is feeling pretty good, considering. Her blood sugar (she has diabetes) has been more stable during the radiation treatments. She's interested to find out how it goes now that her treatments are done. She'll be seeing her doctors in the next weeks to see what the next steps are. I'm glad to hear her feeling better.
My sister Sandy called today after picking up her grandson Conner from preschool, thinking that he would want to join her in singing happy birthday to me. He felt that she could handle the singing by herself. He is funny.
I guess I'll go to bed for now. Getting older makes a person sleepy. I'm very blessed and thankful to my Lord. I hope that He is glorified through my life. He deserves so much more than I can give. My birthday is a celebration of His Love.
After Bible study yesterday, many of the ladies ended up at Chick-Fil-A for lunch. As the 4 of us in our group ordered, someone told the manager that it was going to be my birthday today. While we were eating, he brought a balloon tied to a little stuffed cow (their mascot) to my table. Someone started singing Happy Birthday and when the ladies from Bible study (who were spread all over the restaurant) joined in, the other people in the restaurant looked surprised that so many people were singing. It was funny. and a little embarrassing. :) But it made me feel loved... I tried giving my balloon away to some moms when we were leaving, but no takers. So before we got in the car, I made a birthday wish and let the balloon go. We watched it fly way up in the air. It was kind of fun.
Deanna and her grand-daughter, Melanie, took me out to eat last night at Smokin' Joes. It was very tasty! We had fun talking about things that happened when Melanie was little. Deanna always has wonderful stories. I gave my little Chick-Fil-A cow to Melanie for her black and white bedroom.
I started the day with the usual... Wonderful Bible study. Check emails. Super Oatmeal for breakfast. Laundry. Trying to organize my bedroom. Sorting out items to be given away. Lunch. Nap. More emails and work. Dinner at Red Lobster with Nana Ruth. Home. More emails. A little more work before bedtime.
I've had over a hundred birthday wishes on facebook today. I feel so blessed! It was been fun to hear from friends from all over the world and around the country. It makes my heart warm to remember how I've met these people. God has blessed my life so much with these wonderful encounters. God has given me wonderful memories. I enjoyed answering each post.
I received a little birthday money and I'm putting it into my airline account. I'm going to keep a savings account going for plane tickets to travel and work with other missionaries around the world. My next trip (besides serving in Nicaragua, of course!) is a joint trip to India/Dubai. I hope to be able to go in late August through Sept and maybe into October. God is blessing me with opportunities and the desire to go, and I know He will provide the way if it's His will to do it.
I was also blessed with a laptop backpack to give to a friend in Nic. That was a wonderful gift for me! I love being able to bless other people.
I've got a few major projects to accomplish by weeks' end, and it gives me a little anxiety not to have a vehicle to come and go and get things done, but it will all work out okay. I want to get my bags packed for Nic by Sunday. I have lots of tubs and bags to get packed for the team to take. I want to get them done this Friday. I leave on Tuesday and Monday is already filled with a doctor's appointment and staff meeting. I'd like to keep Sunday a day of rest and worship and not packing. :)
My sister Pam is through with her radiation treatments for breast cancer. She is feeling pretty good, considering. Her blood sugar (she has diabetes) has been more stable during the radiation treatments. She's interested to find out how it goes now that her treatments are done. She'll be seeing her doctors in the next weeks to see what the next steps are. I'm glad to hear her feeling better.
My sister Sandy called today after picking up her grandson Conner from preschool, thinking that he would want to join her in singing happy birthday to me. He felt that she could handle the singing by herself. He is funny.
I guess I'll go to bed for now. Getting older makes a person sleepy. I'm very blessed and thankful to my Lord. I hope that He is glorified through my life. He deserves so much more than I can give. My birthday is a celebration of His Love.
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