Woke up early this morning and read for a little while and then dozed off for just a little bit more. My bed is very comfy. It’s pretty quiet here, with just some traffic noise from the road along side our compound. Different from the old team house on the beach, where you could hear the waves and you were used to the different birds and the geckos and such.
Speaking of critter noises, there is some kind living being on the compound that makes a very loud screechy noise. At first, I thought it was my fan squeaking off and on. Then opened up the door and heard the varmit. I think it might be some kind of mutant frog or something. Haha I’ll have to ask Saturnino about it.
I got up and went for a quick walk this morning. I ended up forgetting my water bottle and was planning on a short walk to get used to the sun. I headed off west on the main road and was met by German and Joanna coming toward me in Chinchin. They picked me up and brought me back to the Misison House to get the internet cable. They can use it on their computers in the van. I grabbed my water bottle and headed back out to walk some more. I headed east into town this time. It was a rather short walk this morning (only about 40 minutes) but I enjoyed it very much. I’ll have to get these new neighbors used to seeing the Gringa walking for no apparent reason every morning!
I took a quick shower and dressed to leave with German and Joanna to run some errands and shop for a new air conditioner for my room. I love having the door and window open with fans on when possible, but sometimes these room get hot, and if I need privacy, I have to shut everything up. The little bitty A/C unit in the wall just can’t do the job. We checked at 3 stores and even though things cost 3 or 4 times as much here as they do in the States, we found a pretty good deal. Of course, German kept ‘negotiating’ with the salesman and the unit will be delivered today and installed tomorrow for free. ☺
I came home for a quick lunch. How fun to have tuna and crackers, cucumbers, grapes and ice cold water from my fridge! Joanna brought me a bowl of spaghetti, too, so I’m all set for the day!
I’ve been on the computer for a while and listening to some of my favorite Spanish praise songs. I’m so content! I believe that I will take a quick nap before German and Joanna pick me up this afternoon. German kept saying that he is coming at 2:40, which is funny to be so specific on time in this place and culture where time is relevant.
Later… time for a nap!
Nap was quick, but good. Woke up in time to leave with German to run some errands. We found a place that would sell me just one rocking chair (they usually sell them in a set of 4 with a little ‘coffee’ table). I had my choice of 3 styles and I sat in all of them just like Goldilocks. I chose the one that was ‘just right’. It’s a little more ornate that I would have chosen on looks alone, but it sits really well. I’ve already enjoyed it on my patio and in my room.
We went to La Unión so I could get some more bottled water. You go through it quickly when it’s what you drink, brush your teeth with, wash veggies with, etc. I grabbed a few other items, include a lightbulb for a clip-on lamp that I had brough with me. I’m using it on my table (desk) for now until I can get a bigger lamp. It’s doing the job!
I saw our little friend Ricardo at La Unión. He’s a sacker and carry-out guy. He’s always so nice. Mary always takes good care of him with tips. He greets us with a kiss on the cheek, which is customary for friends here. He always asks if I’m there by myself or not. I think he enjoyed it when the Interns shopped with me this summer. ☺
I also ran into my friend Vanessa at La Unión. Her family is here as missionaries from Virginia. What fun to get a hug from her!
I fixed a little dinner of soup (in my hot pot) and snack pack pudding. I think that should be considered a balanced meal since the good balances out the bad. But what do I know…
I listened to some Spanish praise music on my iPod and rocked in my new chair for a little while. Enjoying the peace and quiet on my first few days here. I gave Mary a call and she’ll be coming down the first of November. She will love fixing up her room.
I worked on a little Bible study, played around with Facebook a little and now I think I’ll read and go to bed kind of early.
I’m staying here at the house tomorrow to wait for the appliance guy to bring and install my new air conditioner. I have been blessed with love offerings from people, so I’m splurging and getting one that will make this hot room pleasant when I have to close my door and window for privacy.
I’ll probably work on my Women’s Bible Studies plans and study a little Spanish and call a few Nica friends. I can’t wait to get some of those hugs!!!
It’s been a good day. Surreal in some ways. I feel like I’m on a train and when I look out the window I can’t believe where I am. I’m trusting God to be the Conductor of this journey!!ß
Monday, October 3, 2011
Sunday, October 2, 2011
Sunday, Oct 2, 2011 NICARAGUA
Woke up this morning to the sounds of people gathering a few yards from my door. They were getting ready to have a worship service and baptism in our partly filled pool. It was the church of our Landlord, who is a Pastor. Wonderful way to start the day.
I got up and had a peanutbutter sandwich and a glass of ice cold milk (thanks to Freddie my new Frigidaire). I got ready for church and German and his son Ishmael picked me up. We went to German’s home and I got to see if for the first time since they have moved in. It’s not complete yet, but they are using the money that used to go to rent in another house to buy the materials for finish this home. It’s wonderful! I also got to meet Buster, Manuel Hulsey’s dog. How cute! German’s family is doggie-sitting for Buster. He’s tiny!!! A miniature Doberman and he’s still a teeny puppy.
We all went to church together at Rose of Sharon Country Club church, where we help with feedings sometimes and where I’ll be starting some weekly Women’s Bible Studies. I got to say hi and that I know that God is going to teach us all a lot as we study the Bible together. And that I was looking forward to helping cook for the feedings again if they will allow me to join them in the ‘kitchen’ again. Perhaps I will get proficient at open fire cooking!!
I didn’t remember to find my fold up hand fan for church and it was sure missed. I was sweating tons and remembering how it’s always like this here. How spoiled I was to climate control in the states! Ha I loved the music and knew some of the songs today. I can’t wait until I know more and more of them. Even so, it’s exciting to worship along side brothers and sisters when our heart language is Jesus.
After the service, we went to a little hole in the wall restaurant and got some great pollo asada to go. They dropped me off at the Mission House with my lunch and Saturnino’s lunch. The church group was still here and I said a quick hi and retreated to my room to wolf down that great food!
It started raining really hard and the electric kept going on and off, but I still got some more unpacking, sorting and organizing of my stuff done in my room. Then I took a little nap, but kept waking up from the thunder.
After the rain stopped I noticed Saturnino sitting in a chair resting, so I took him some cookies and we discussed lots of stuff (all in Spanish, of course!) and laughed a lot. My Spanish is getting better, little by little, but I don’t mind that it’s entertaining to people when I mess up. Saturnino says that he and the other workers like this place and that there is lots of work to do, but it’s good!
I talked to Sherry Hulsey on my Nica phone today. So glad to have that phone, which is much cheaper to call the states on! We talked for over an hour. I told her how I was fixing up my room. They will be here on Wednesday. It will be fun to have them back and we can get busy! I know they have been working hard down here up till now and I’m excited to join in!
Mauricio and his brother Lorenzo are my guards for this evening (in Alberto’s absence). They are nice guys. I feel very safe with everyone who works with us.
I guess I’ll get off of here and get some of my own Bible study done and then settle in for bed. Tomorrow German is taking me shopping for a rocking chair for my room. And I need some lamps, light bulbs, mirrors, etc. So much fun. I’m so thankful for all the love offerings that people gave me before I came down. What a treat to fix up my room!!!
God has blessed me so much and I’m so thankful. I told Sherry that I was thinking today that I love being here and would love it when the rapture happens to be here and let Nica be my last glimpse of this life. It seems like Heaven is just a step away!
Going to bed very thankful to be a child of the King tonight.
I got up and had a peanutbutter sandwich and a glass of ice cold milk (thanks to Freddie my new Frigidaire). I got ready for church and German and his son Ishmael picked me up. We went to German’s home and I got to see if for the first time since they have moved in. It’s not complete yet, but they are using the money that used to go to rent in another house to buy the materials for finish this home. It’s wonderful! I also got to meet Buster, Manuel Hulsey’s dog. How cute! German’s family is doggie-sitting for Buster. He’s tiny!!! A miniature Doberman and he’s still a teeny puppy.
We all went to church together at Rose of Sharon Country Club church, where we help with feedings sometimes and where I’ll be starting some weekly Women’s Bible Studies. I got to say hi and that I know that God is going to teach us all a lot as we study the Bible together. And that I was looking forward to helping cook for the feedings again if they will allow me to join them in the ‘kitchen’ again. Perhaps I will get proficient at open fire cooking!!
I didn’t remember to find my fold up hand fan for church and it was sure missed. I was sweating tons and remembering how it’s always like this here. How spoiled I was to climate control in the states! Ha I loved the music and knew some of the songs today. I can’t wait until I know more and more of them. Even so, it’s exciting to worship along side brothers and sisters when our heart language is Jesus.
After the service, we went to a little hole in the wall restaurant and got some great pollo asada to go. They dropped me off at the Mission House with my lunch and Saturnino’s lunch. The church group was still here and I said a quick hi and retreated to my room to wolf down that great food!
It started raining really hard and the electric kept going on and off, but I still got some more unpacking, sorting and organizing of my stuff done in my room. Then I took a little nap, but kept waking up from the thunder.
After the rain stopped I noticed Saturnino sitting in a chair resting, so I took him some cookies and we discussed lots of stuff (all in Spanish, of course!) and laughed a lot. My Spanish is getting better, little by little, but I don’t mind that it’s entertaining to people when I mess up. Saturnino says that he and the other workers like this place and that there is lots of work to do, but it’s good!
I talked to Sherry Hulsey on my Nica phone today. So glad to have that phone, which is much cheaper to call the states on! We talked for over an hour. I told her how I was fixing up my room. They will be here on Wednesday. It will be fun to have them back and we can get busy! I know they have been working hard down here up till now and I’m excited to join in!
Mauricio and his brother Lorenzo are my guards for this evening (in Alberto’s absence). They are nice guys. I feel very safe with everyone who works with us.
I guess I’ll get off of here and get some of my own Bible study done and then settle in for bed. Tomorrow German is taking me shopping for a rocking chair for my room. And I need some lamps, light bulbs, mirrors, etc. So much fun. I’m so thankful for all the love offerings that people gave me before I came down. What a treat to fix up my room!!!
God has blessed me so much and I’m so thankful. I told Sherry that I was thinking today that I love being here and would love it when the rapture happens to be here and let Nica be my last glimpse of this life. It seems like Heaven is just a step away!
Going to bed very thankful to be a child of the King tonight.
Saturday, Oct 1, 2011 NICARAGUA
What a lovely day and what a lovely view from my window. Loving my room already!
I was going to start the day with Bible Study, but I haven’t found my Chronological Bible that is packed away in all this stuff. I settled on some prayer and just plain ole conversation with God. Sweet!
I got my shower and dressed and then opened up my large window and door so that I could get the fresh air inside. What a lovely view. I started in on putting my room together. It’s VERY bright blue (think tropical) with a beautiful wood plank ceiling. It makes the room feel kind of dark and the light coming in the window and door kind of blinding, but it’s great! I’m going to hand some mirrors up so that it will reflect the light around the room a little more.
I put my zip-up wardrobe things together (I don’t have a closet) and lined them up along one wall. They look great! I started putting clothes in them. I need to pick up some more hangers, but it will be grand. I don’t have a dresser, so I have some rolling, under the bed storage boxes to keep stuff in. My bed is high enough that I can store a few suitcases under there and use them as drawers, too. I grabbed a square plastic table and chair from the living area and put them in the corner for my desk. I had some plastic stacking bins that I assembled and started just throwing that stuff on. I need to organize that stuff, but that can wait.
I got to spend about an hour and a half working with Ervin (I think) on picking out some of my pics for our website. He is volunteering to spice it up and bring it up to modern standards for us. He’s making it bi-lingual, too. Yay! German was here to introduce us and then we were on our own with my limited Spanish and his great patience. But we made it through very well.
I worked on the room a little more, had some peanutbutter from the jar for lunch and then took a little nap. How wonderful! German called and said that he and the family were picking me up at 4:30 for some grocery shopping. It was so nice to see the kids! I just love his little family! We picked out a mini-fridge for my room. I had been saving for that and was thrilled with what we found. It’s a little bigger than I anticipated, but more perfect! It’s a Frigidaire 4.2cf with a nice little freezer compartment. We had went to 2 different stores and only one had a mini. And this was the only one in stock. MY blessing! German haggled with the owner over the price and I ended up paying $180 USD for it. A lot more than in the states, but that’s how it is down here. (while in the ‘appliance’ stores, I priced sewing machines. The most basic was over $200. Something we would pay about $70 for in the states. I’m glad I got a good one online and we are carrying it down here.)
We had dinner at Tip Top Chicken and then went grocery shopping at La Unión. We also stopped off at the Salmon store for a couple of mirrors for my room. After getting home and putting the fridge in it’s special spot saved just for it, I put my grub away and then got a much needed shower, turned my little A/C unit on to cut the heat a little and settled in for the night. My morning ‘coldish’ shower was not as appreciated as the evening one, but that’s only because I got too used to hot showers in the states. I’m acclimated now and love it!
I had written a huge blogpost, but it got lost in Nica cyberspace, so I’ve rewritten 3 days to post separately. Note to self: ALWAYS write blogposts in a Word document and then copy and paste to the web. I learned that lesson last year, but needed a reminder!
My room is about 90% done and I’m quite at home here. I just need to buy a wood and cane rocker, which I have saved up for, and maybe a lamp and I think I will be complete. Sherry is bringing me a microwave for my room and it will fit nicely upon Freddy, my Frigidaire!
I may have Saturnino build me a few shelves to hold all the Bible Study materials that I will be using weekly with the women. We’ll see how the room tells me it wants to be set up. ☺
I’m so thankful for my Precious Savior, who makes it possible to have this wonderful relationship with Our Father, and for the life that God is allowing me to live, especially here in Nica. He is awesome and has such wonderful plans for us, big and small, if we just ask Him to show us.
I was going to start the day with Bible Study, but I haven’t found my Chronological Bible that is packed away in all this stuff. I settled on some prayer and just plain ole conversation with God. Sweet!
I got my shower and dressed and then opened up my large window and door so that I could get the fresh air inside. What a lovely view. I started in on putting my room together. It’s VERY bright blue (think tropical) with a beautiful wood plank ceiling. It makes the room feel kind of dark and the light coming in the window and door kind of blinding, but it’s great! I’m going to hand some mirrors up so that it will reflect the light around the room a little more.
I put my zip-up wardrobe things together (I don’t have a closet) and lined them up along one wall. They look great! I started putting clothes in them. I need to pick up some more hangers, but it will be grand. I don’t have a dresser, so I have some rolling, under the bed storage boxes to keep stuff in. My bed is high enough that I can store a few suitcases under there and use them as drawers, too. I grabbed a square plastic table and chair from the living area and put them in the corner for my desk. I had some plastic stacking bins that I assembled and started just throwing that stuff on. I need to organize that stuff, but that can wait.
I got to spend about an hour and a half working with Ervin (I think) on picking out some of my pics for our website. He is volunteering to spice it up and bring it up to modern standards for us. He’s making it bi-lingual, too. Yay! German was here to introduce us and then we were on our own with my limited Spanish and his great patience. But we made it through very well.
I worked on the room a little more, had some peanutbutter from the jar for lunch and then took a little nap. How wonderful! German called and said that he and the family were picking me up at 4:30 for some grocery shopping. It was so nice to see the kids! I just love his little family! We picked out a mini-fridge for my room. I had been saving for that and was thrilled with what we found. It’s a little bigger than I anticipated, but more perfect! It’s a Frigidaire 4.2cf with a nice little freezer compartment. We had went to 2 different stores and only one had a mini. And this was the only one in stock. MY blessing! German haggled with the owner over the price and I ended up paying $180 USD for it. A lot more than in the states, but that’s how it is down here. (while in the ‘appliance’ stores, I priced sewing machines. The most basic was over $200. Something we would pay about $70 for in the states. I’m glad I got a good one online and we are carrying it down here.)
We had dinner at Tip Top Chicken and then went grocery shopping at La Unión. We also stopped off at the Salmon store for a couple of mirrors for my room. After getting home and putting the fridge in it’s special spot saved just for it, I put my grub away and then got a much needed shower, turned my little A/C unit on to cut the heat a little and settled in for the night. My morning ‘coldish’ shower was not as appreciated as the evening one, but that’s only because I got too used to hot showers in the states. I’m acclimated now and love it!
I had written a huge blogpost, but it got lost in Nica cyberspace, so I’ve rewritten 3 days to post separately. Note to self: ALWAYS write blogposts in a Word document and then copy and paste to the web. I learned that lesson last year, but needed a reminder!
My room is about 90% done and I’m quite at home here. I just need to buy a wood and cane rocker, which I have saved up for, and maybe a lamp and I think I will be complete. Sherry is bringing me a microwave for my room and it will fit nicely upon Freddy, my Frigidaire!
I may have Saturnino build me a few shelves to hold all the Bible Study materials that I will be using weekly with the women. We’ll see how the room tells me it wants to be set up. ☺
I’m so thankful for my Precious Savior, who makes it possible to have this wonderful relationship with Our Father, and for the life that God is allowing me to live, especially here in Nica. He is awesome and has such wonderful plans for us, big and small, if we just ask Him to show us.
Friday, Sept 30, 2011 NICARAGUA
I woke up early and got my shower so I could throw the last of my dirty duds in the washer. I gave the bathroom a good last cleaning and packed up my personal stuff. I always like to leave my room and bathroom ready for Deanna’s grandkids to stay in if needed. I was ready early, so I sent some emails and made some phone calls while I waited for JP and Noemi to pick me up for the airport.
JP and I had had a conversation about going to the airport. I told him that Deanna likes to take me but the suitcases and tub are too heavy for us to maneuver into the airport so I asked for their help. I meant for them to take me to the airport, but JP thought I meant for them to just meet me there to carry the stuff in. When they called to see if I needed them to pick up my luggage, I said ‘I need you to pick up ME’. Ha ha.
At the airport, we got the tub and heavy suitcase inside and the lady didn’t even bother to look inside. I guess their xrays are pretty good. I don’t think that they even weighed them, I was too worried to look at the scale! Then I think that the fee for the second checked bag was waived. What a nice blessing! I got through security and then blew kisses to JP and Noemi back at the little waiting area. They were so sweet to take care of me. I had plenty of time, so I strolled down the new addition to the terminal. It’s very nice without being too fancy. I liked it very much. I had a quick snack and then watched TV (my last time for 3 months). Too bad that the station was covering the Michael Jackson doctor’s trial. But it felt good to sit there with my legs propped up on the carryon (which won’t happen much on travel day). The flight to Houston was uneventful and I enjoyed reading on my Kindle and dozing a little.
In Houston, I had a 4 hour layover, so I walked a bit and then decided to have lunch in a different terminal, just for some variety. I randomly picked a restaurant I had not seen before and got some good (but expensive) food. There were no tables for 2 people, so I had to sit at a 4 top. I saw a couple looking for a place to sit and offered for them to join me. We had a lovely conversation. They are from the Houston area and heading to Washington state to visit relatives. Their names were Steve and Jo (my middle name) and they are Christians and enjoy missions. I gave them my contact info and they prayed for me. What a delight! How awesome to see what little blessings God has in store of us if we just take the time to look around.
I was able to gate-check my carryon bag so I was able to put my stuffed backpack in the overhead compartment. I had to put it back a few rows, but it wouldn’t fit under my seat, since I was in an aisle seat (which has less underneath room for some reason). I grabbed my Kindle, glasses and water bottle and settled in. One blessing was that out of the totally sold out plane, the seat next to me was empty! Fearing that I would have to wait for the plane to empty to be able to walk back to get my backpack, I grabbed it and put it under the seat next to me. Yay! I enjoyed the flight and read a Max Lucado book (a short one) on my Kindle during my 2 flights. Nice was to spend the time. Note to self: DON’T eat airline food. Enough said.
When we landed in Managua, it had been raining very hard and the streets were flooding. Not unusual, but that meant that the runway was pretty wet. As we ‘touched down’ the we hydroplaned down the runway. The pilots used everything they had to slow the plane. It was rather noisy with the flaps at the ultimate position for stopping and we could feel that we were going too fast. Finally the wheels grabbed the pavement and we kind of jerked but kept straight. As we slowed everyone started clapping. Nice job guys!
I got through Immigration and got my bags. What a treat that there were luggage carts available (not always the case) for me and my 2 big checked items and 2 heavy carryons. I got through Customs quickly and found German and Joanna waiting by the outside door. It was so good to see them! We ran to the van (as much as you can with suitcases) in the rain and got settled into Chinchin, our little van.
It continued to rain hard and the streets were flooding. We had to start, stop, veer left and right, avoid stranded vehicles and deep water. It made me a little carsick and again I reminded myself not to eat airline food! But we finally made it out of Managua and onto the highway. The rain had quit by then and we just had the long drive ahead of us. We had talked non-stop while in town, but by the time we hit the open road, I settled back to nurse my queasy stomach and rest. I noticed that Joanna had scooted over to the middle and she and German were enjoying the rest of their date night without the kids. It’s so nice to see them happy!
After a quick stop for some bottled water for me, we made it to the Mission House. How wonderful to be in MY room! All my stuff was in it, still packed up, but my bed was ready for me to fall into! I slept very well. Although I kept thinking about all the things I wanted get unpacked and put away. I woke up early and was pleasantly surprised to see that I was really here. ☺
All in all, a great travel day with many little blessings from God to treat me along the way.
JP and I had had a conversation about going to the airport. I told him that Deanna likes to take me but the suitcases and tub are too heavy for us to maneuver into the airport so I asked for their help. I meant for them to take me to the airport, but JP thought I meant for them to just meet me there to carry the stuff in. When they called to see if I needed them to pick up my luggage, I said ‘I need you to pick up ME’. Ha ha.
At the airport, we got the tub and heavy suitcase inside and the lady didn’t even bother to look inside. I guess their xrays are pretty good. I don’t think that they even weighed them, I was too worried to look at the scale! Then I think that the fee for the second checked bag was waived. What a nice blessing! I got through security and then blew kisses to JP and Noemi back at the little waiting area. They were so sweet to take care of me. I had plenty of time, so I strolled down the new addition to the terminal. It’s very nice without being too fancy. I liked it very much. I had a quick snack and then watched TV (my last time for 3 months). Too bad that the station was covering the Michael Jackson doctor’s trial. But it felt good to sit there with my legs propped up on the carryon (which won’t happen much on travel day). The flight to Houston was uneventful and I enjoyed reading on my Kindle and dozing a little.
In Houston, I had a 4 hour layover, so I walked a bit and then decided to have lunch in a different terminal, just for some variety. I randomly picked a restaurant I had not seen before and got some good (but expensive) food. There were no tables for 2 people, so I had to sit at a 4 top. I saw a couple looking for a place to sit and offered for them to join me. We had a lovely conversation. They are from the Houston area and heading to Washington state to visit relatives. Their names were Steve and Jo (my middle name) and they are Christians and enjoy missions. I gave them my contact info and they prayed for me. What a delight! How awesome to see what little blessings God has in store of us if we just take the time to look around.
I was able to gate-check my carryon bag so I was able to put my stuffed backpack in the overhead compartment. I had to put it back a few rows, but it wouldn’t fit under my seat, since I was in an aisle seat (which has less underneath room for some reason). I grabbed my Kindle, glasses and water bottle and settled in. One blessing was that out of the totally sold out plane, the seat next to me was empty! Fearing that I would have to wait for the plane to empty to be able to walk back to get my backpack, I grabbed it and put it under the seat next to me. Yay! I enjoyed the flight and read a Max Lucado book (a short one) on my Kindle during my 2 flights. Nice was to spend the time. Note to self: DON’T eat airline food. Enough said.
When we landed in Managua, it had been raining very hard and the streets were flooding. Not unusual, but that meant that the runway was pretty wet. As we ‘touched down’ the we hydroplaned down the runway. The pilots used everything they had to slow the plane. It was rather noisy with the flaps at the ultimate position for stopping and we could feel that we were going too fast. Finally the wheels grabbed the pavement and we kind of jerked but kept straight. As we slowed everyone started clapping. Nice job guys!
I got through Immigration and got my bags. What a treat that there were luggage carts available (not always the case) for me and my 2 big checked items and 2 heavy carryons. I got through Customs quickly and found German and Joanna waiting by the outside door. It was so good to see them! We ran to the van (as much as you can with suitcases) in the rain and got settled into Chinchin, our little van.
It continued to rain hard and the streets were flooding. We had to start, stop, veer left and right, avoid stranded vehicles and deep water. It made me a little carsick and again I reminded myself not to eat airline food! But we finally made it out of Managua and onto the highway. The rain had quit by then and we just had the long drive ahead of us. We had talked non-stop while in town, but by the time we hit the open road, I settled back to nurse my queasy stomach and rest. I noticed that Joanna had scooted over to the middle and she and German were enjoying the rest of their date night without the kids. It’s so nice to see them happy!
After a quick stop for some bottled water for me, we made it to the Mission House. How wonderful to be in MY room! All my stuff was in it, still packed up, but my bed was ready for me to fall into! I slept very well. Although I kept thinking about all the things I wanted get unpacked and put away. I woke up early and was pleasantly surprised to see that I was really here. ☺
All in all, a great travel day with many little blessings from God to treat me along the way.
Thursday, Sept 29, 2011 NICARAGUA
Thursday was sooo busy. I borrowed my friend Donna's car again for a couple of errands and the day just kept getting busier. What a blessing to have wheels for the day! Before I left the house, I stripped the bed and got all the sheets and towels washed up. check that off the list...
I ran by the post office to check for mail in my new po box. no mail. ok. I also needed to mail out some more 'thank you' letters and the line was non-existent. I got waited on right away!
Then I headed over to Carolyn's to get my hair trimmed and thinned out for the trip to Nica. I sweat so much here that the less hair the better! It was good to see Carolyn and she blessed me with a free touchup! How great!
I ran by Hobby Lobby to get some Christmas ornaments for presents so that I could get the packages ready to mail. Deanna will send them for me the first part of December. I had a blast at Hobby Lobby. Since we are starting a sewing ministry here in Nica, I wanted some patterns for us to play around with. They just happened to have Simplicity patterns for $.99 each. (regular $12-15). What a find! I so enjoyed just looking through the pattern books. That's always a treat for me!
I stopped in at the house off and on during the day to switch laundry between washer and dryer. My neighbors must have thought I was crazy. But when I get the use of ‘wheels’ I take advantage of it! So many things to do !!
I met JP and Noemi at Schlotzkis for lunch. It was their first time and we enjoyed the food very much. It was nice to get some time to sit and visit. Then it was time for them to pick up Genesis from school and I headed over to Rogers High School to pick up a friend’s daughter. Rachel was fun to chat with and I think she and her mother may be coming to Nica on Spring Break. Yay!
I dropped off Rachel and then ran across town to pick up some meds and then stopped at Lifeway Christian store to use some coupons and gift cards. What a haul I made! The stuff (on sale) was around $60 and I only spent $6. Thank You Jesus!!!
I got a call from Oliver from Cuerpo Vivo Church and he and Jaime had a check for me to take to Nica for mission expenses. I ran back across town and had a lovely chat with them. I love those guys and their families so much! I miss them so when I’m gone to Nica, but I feel like we’re related since I’m speaking Spanish in both places! I dropped the check off at the bank and then back home to finish laundry and do some more chores. Deanna and I got to chat for just a few minutes before she took off to an ABF class party.
I took one last trip in the car to pick up Donna and return her car. I only had a couple of last minute things to purchase at Walmart (where she works) and I fought the urge to walk the aisles looking for clearance bargains. Donna gave me some much needed lens cleaner wipes in individual packets for Nica. Love it! Then I went home for the last time. I was tired but still wired and still moving things around in the suitcases and tubs and reweighing them. Ugh!
I went to bed for the last time in my cozy US bed. I slept fairly well, except for waking up and wondering how much my suitcases weigh. Haha
God has blessed me so much! I love Him so!!
I ran by the post office to check for mail in my new po box. no mail. ok. I also needed to mail out some more 'thank you' letters and the line was non-existent. I got waited on right away!
Then I headed over to Carolyn's to get my hair trimmed and thinned out for the trip to Nica. I sweat so much here that the less hair the better! It was good to see Carolyn and she blessed me with a free touchup! How great!
I ran by Hobby Lobby to get some Christmas ornaments for presents so that I could get the packages ready to mail. Deanna will send them for me the first part of December. I had a blast at Hobby Lobby. Since we are starting a sewing ministry here in Nica, I wanted some patterns for us to play around with. They just happened to have Simplicity patterns for $.99 each. (regular $12-15). What a find! I so enjoyed just looking through the pattern books. That's always a treat for me!
I stopped in at the house off and on during the day to switch laundry between washer and dryer. My neighbors must have thought I was crazy. But when I get the use of ‘wheels’ I take advantage of it! So many things to do !!
I met JP and Noemi at Schlotzkis for lunch. It was their first time and we enjoyed the food very much. It was nice to get some time to sit and visit. Then it was time for them to pick up Genesis from school and I headed over to Rogers High School to pick up a friend’s daughter. Rachel was fun to chat with and I think she and her mother may be coming to Nica on Spring Break. Yay!
I dropped off Rachel and then ran across town to pick up some meds and then stopped at Lifeway Christian store to use some coupons and gift cards. What a haul I made! The stuff (on sale) was around $60 and I only spent $6. Thank You Jesus!!!
I got a call from Oliver from Cuerpo Vivo Church and he and Jaime had a check for me to take to Nica for mission expenses. I ran back across town and had a lovely chat with them. I love those guys and their families so much! I miss them so when I’m gone to Nica, but I feel like we’re related since I’m speaking Spanish in both places! I dropped the check off at the bank and then back home to finish laundry and do some more chores. Deanna and I got to chat for just a few minutes before she took off to an ABF class party.
I took one last trip in the car to pick up Donna and return her car. I only had a couple of last minute things to purchase at Walmart (where she works) and I fought the urge to walk the aisles looking for clearance bargains. Donna gave me some much needed lens cleaner wipes in individual packets for Nica. Love it! Then I went home for the last time. I was tired but still wired and still moving things around in the suitcases and tubs and reweighing them. Ugh!
I went to bed for the last time in my cozy US bed. I slept fairly well, except for waking up and wondering how much my suitcases weigh. Haha
God has blessed me so much! I love Him so!!
Wednesday, September 28, 2011
Wednesday, September 28, 2011
Tuesday was a good day. I got to help with the Ladies' Bible Study Ministry Day. I stayed back at the church and helped clean the kitchen and get the lunch ready for the other workers. Some of the ladies went to Saving Grace, Northside Elementary School, Samaritan Community Thrift Store, and Resurrection Village. Then everyone met back at the Olive street church building for lunch, a speaker and reports from the work teams.
I was happy to join Edie in a quick ride back to Resurrection Village in the early afternoon to see the final results of the room re-do. It looked so nice and the word everyone kept using was 'calm'. I'm excited to know that some woman with her child(ren) will get to call that room home for as long as necessary to rebuild their lives after leaving an abusive home. I pray that they will know the love of Christ and His strength in living a peaceful and loving 'rest of their lives'. Natalie, from Resurrection Village spoke to the ladies at the lunch and it was very interesting, funny and heart wrenching to hear her story about how her family started the ministry. I know that FBCR groups will be refurbishing more rooms in the future.
I spent the rest of the afternoon and evening at home, finishing up chores to prep for leaving on Friday. Britnee brought Allie over to visit Deanna. I hadn't seen Allie for months and she sure has grown! She was fun.
Today, I had intentions to walk early, do laundry, set out in the sun a little bit and then have dinner with Nana Ruth. I didn't feel real great when I woke up, so I skipped my walk (which makes me sad). I did get some laundry done and then had lunch with Janalyn at Maria's Mexican Restaurant. I got home and did more laundry, met with the Hulsey's (who came by to pick up a printer and sewing machine that I had bought for Nica), took a nap and then had dinner with Nana Ruth as planned. Pretty good day.
My pharmacy delivered 4 months of meds for me to take to Nica. It cost me $470, but I won't have any payments through the rest of the year. I'm getting another prescription filled tomorrow for the beginning of a sinus infection. I have tons of vitamins and supplements to last me the next 3 months. My backpack will look like a drug dealer on the plane! Until they see that nothing is dangerous, unless you want to overdose on vitamin C. :)
Tomorrow is my last full day in Rogers, so I've got a list of 'last day' chores to do... washing sheets and towels, cleaning the bathroom, etc. I try to leave my room ready for any guests that Deanna might have while I'm gone. I put my stuff in tubs and stack them around the room. Sounds like what my life will be like from now on. But I like the idea of living 'mobile'.
I was blessed yesterday to talk with my friend Carol from NYC. She is a composer and played for me the latest hymn that she has written. She is very talented.
I also got to talk to my friend Mary Lu, who is going into fulltime missions. We have not met in person, but correspond on the phone, via facebook and email. It's always nice to talk with her.
I can tell that people are praying for me as I prepare to head out, because I'm not feeling as anxious and stressed. I can't wait to get to Nica and get busy with all our new ministries. I usually get anxious that I'm forgetting to take something with me. It's just difficult to get things down there, and I want to take full advantage of what I need to take. But God knows what I really NEED, so I'll leave it to Him to guide me in that and not to be worrying about such things.
Time to head to bed for today. I"m so thankful for this life that God has allowed me to live. He is so good to me!
I was happy to join Edie in a quick ride back to Resurrection Village in the early afternoon to see the final results of the room re-do. It looked so nice and the word everyone kept using was 'calm'. I'm excited to know that some woman with her child(ren) will get to call that room home for as long as necessary to rebuild their lives after leaving an abusive home. I pray that they will know the love of Christ and His strength in living a peaceful and loving 'rest of their lives'. Natalie, from Resurrection Village spoke to the ladies at the lunch and it was very interesting, funny and heart wrenching to hear her story about how her family started the ministry. I know that FBCR groups will be refurbishing more rooms in the future.
I spent the rest of the afternoon and evening at home, finishing up chores to prep for leaving on Friday. Britnee brought Allie over to visit Deanna. I hadn't seen Allie for months and she sure has grown! She was fun.
Today, I had intentions to walk early, do laundry, set out in the sun a little bit and then have dinner with Nana Ruth. I didn't feel real great when I woke up, so I skipped my walk (which makes me sad). I did get some laundry done and then had lunch with Janalyn at Maria's Mexican Restaurant. I got home and did more laundry, met with the Hulsey's (who came by to pick up a printer and sewing machine that I had bought for Nica), took a nap and then had dinner with Nana Ruth as planned. Pretty good day.
My pharmacy delivered 4 months of meds for me to take to Nica. It cost me $470, but I won't have any payments through the rest of the year. I'm getting another prescription filled tomorrow for the beginning of a sinus infection. I have tons of vitamins and supplements to last me the next 3 months. My backpack will look like a drug dealer on the plane! Until they see that nothing is dangerous, unless you want to overdose on vitamin C. :)
Tomorrow is my last full day in Rogers, so I've got a list of 'last day' chores to do... washing sheets and towels, cleaning the bathroom, etc. I try to leave my room ready for any guests that Deanna might have while I'm gone. I put my stuff in tubs and stack them around the room. Sounds like what my life will be like from now on. But I like the idea of living 'mobile'.
I was blessed yesterday to talk with my friend Carol from NYC. She is a composer and played for me the latest hymn that she has written. She is very talented.
I also got to talk to my friend Mary Lu, who is going into fulltime missions. We have not met in person, but correspond on the phone, via facebook and email. It's always nice to talk with her.
I can tell that people are praying for me as I prepare to head out, because I'm not feeling as anxious and stressed. I can't wait to get to Nica and get busy with all our new ministries. I usually get anxious that I'm forgetting to take something with me. It's just difficult to get things down there, and I want to take full advantage of what I need to take. But God knows what I really NEED, so I'll leave it to Him to guide me in that and not to be worrying about such things.
Time to head to bed for today. I"m so thankful for this life that God has allowed me to live. He is so good to me!
Monday, September 26, 2011
Monday, September 26, 2011
A beautiful, crisp, sunny fall morning.
I got the chance to take a long walk for the first time in almost a week. I'm missing my daily walks!
Friday morning I woke up at 3am feeling very sick. I was pretty bad all day and had to cancel all my activities, much to my disappointment. I think it was effects of painting with strong primer in a closed up room on Thursday. I was sick on Saturday, also, and didn't get to go back and finish painting. I love to paint, so I was very disappointed. It has taken me until now to feel almost normal again. Note to self - ALWAYS ventilate!
While hanging out at the house while sick, I did get some more packing done, some mending/alterations done on some clothing for Nica, some Bible study, Spanish study and reading done. I still have a lot of things on my to-do list before I leave, but it was nice to catch up a little.
I was so blessed at worship with Cuerpo Vivo church yesterday. Many times I shed tears of reverence and thanksgiving for my Lord. I love being a part of that church family. It brings me back face-to-face with God, with no distractions. Pure love and worship. It makes me yearn to be in the church services in Nica. This Sunday I will be...
Yesterday afternoon was the informational meeting for the Nica Spring Break trip for FBCR. A whole new crop of Youth and families are interested in coming next year. It's so fun to get to know new people when you are serving together. I'm looking forward to bonding with this team as we prepare for the trip.
Donna Undernehr and her daughter, Celina, picked me up for the meeting. Donna and I sat together for church and then went to dinner while Celina was in a late Bible Study. I always enjoy time with Donna. She is such a special friend. I feel so totally at ease with her. I'm thankful for the blessing of her.
It was nice to get hugs from some special people last night at FBCR. God has blessed me with many wonderful people in my life. It's like a giant garden of different kinds of plants and flowers. Each unique and lovely in their own way. I hope they find me to be a lovely plant in their life gardens, too, and not a weed!
In the worship service yesterday at Cuerpo Vivo, besides the wonderful praise music, we had 5 baptisms, prayed over the men of our chruch, heard a wonderful sermon message and then I was blessed to have them all pray for me to send me out to Nicaragua. I love the support of love and prayers from this special church family. I carry them in my heart.
I'm trying not to get anxious over the things I still need to accomplish this week. It will be time to go so soon. I'm very ready to be there. It takes some time to get my heart and mind in place for living there. I need to shed the 'spoiled North American' character that envelopes me when I'm here and get ready to live simply, somewhat uncomfortably, and truly trusting in the Lord for everything. I love it!
Better get off of here for now and get busy. Lots to do today and this week. My friend JP is helping me to set up a webpage for me, so that I can share this journal/blog as well as links, pictures, interviews, musings, etc from Nica. Hope I can handle the technical aspects of everything! I'm looking forward to being able to share even more of what God is doing in my life. He is so faithful and gracious! I can't honor Him enough. But I'll give it my best!!! For HE is worthy!
I got the chance to take a long walk for the first time in almost a week. I'm missing my daily walks!
Friday morning I woke up at 3am feeling very sick. I was pretty bad all day and had to cancel all my activities, much to my disappointment. I think it was effects of painting with strong primer in a closed up room on Thursday. I was sick on Saturday, also, and didn't get to go back and finish painting. I love to paint, so I was very disappointed. It has taken me until now to feel almost normal again. Note to self - ALWAYS ventilate!
While hanging out at the house while sick, I did get some more packing done, some mending/alterations done on some clothing for Nica, some Bible study, Spanish study and reading done. I still have a lot of things on my to-do list before I leave, but it was nice to catch up a little.
I was so blessed at worship with Cuerpo Vivo church yesterday. Many times I shed tears of reverence and thanksgiving for my Lord. I love being a part of that church family. It brings me back face-to-face with God, with no distractions. Pure love and worship. It makes me yearn to be in the church services in Nica. This Sunday I will be...
Yesterday afternoon was the informational meeting for the Nica Spring Break trip for FBCR. A whole new crop of Youth and families are interested in coming next year. It's so fun to get to know new people when you are serving together. I'm looking forward to bonding with this team as we prepare for the trip.
Donna Undernehr and her daughter, Celina, picked me up for the meeting. Donna and I sat together for church and then went to dinner while Celina was in a late Bible Study. I always enjoy time with Donna. She is such a special friend. I feel so totally at ease with her. I'm thankful for the blessing of her.
It was nice to get hugs from some special people last night at FBCR. God has blessed me with many wonderful people in my life. It's like a giant garden of different kinds of plants and flowers. Each unique and lovely in their own way. I hope they find me to be a lovely plant in their life gardens, too, and not a weed!
In the worship service yesterday at Cuerpo Vivo, besides the wonderful praise music, we had 5 baptisms, prayed over the men of our chruch, heard a wonderful sermon message and then I was blessed to have them all pray for me to send me out to Nicaragua. I love the support of love and prayers from this special church family. I carry them in my heart.
I'm trying not to get anxious over the things I still need to accomplish this week. It will be time to go so soon. I'm very ready to be there. It takes some time to get my heart and mind in place for living there. I need to shed the 'spoiled North American' character that envelopes me when I'm here and get ready to live simply, somewhat uncomfortably, and truly trusting in the Lord for everything. I love it!
Better get off of here for now and get busy. Lots to do today and this week. My friend JP is helping me to set up a webpage for me, so that I can share this journal/blog as well as links, pictures, interviews, musings, etc from Nica. Hope I can handle the technical aspects of everything! I'm looking forward to being able to share even more of what God is doing in my life. He is so faithful and gracious! I can't honor Him enough. But I'll give it my best!!! For HE is worthy!
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