I just realized that I didn't write anything on Monday. oops!
Busy day with the team on their first day of ministry.
Can't remember any specifics right now. :)
But I know that God was blessing the day!!!
Thursday, December 22, 2011
Monday, December 19, 2011
Monday, Dec 12 thru Sunday, Dec 18, 2011 NICARAGUA
This will be a quick list of things that have happened over the last week.
I needed some time to pray over some things. I felt that it was important enough to ‘fast and pray’, and since I can’t ‘fast’ meals due to health issues, I decided to ‘fast’ the computer and internet. It was a difficult week with many highs and lows. But I feel stronger in my commitment to follow where God leads me and feel secure in my relationship with Him. Many prayers for direction were answered during that time and I’m thankful for the experience, even though it was tough sometimes. Walking with the Lord is not always easy, as is life, but it’s so worth it to know you are in His will. These times of ‘recalibrating’ like a GPS are very beneficial.
I had my usual Monday thru Thursday Spanish classes and ended my semester (8 weeks) with Juan. I’ll return to classes with him when I return to Nica in mid-February. I see how much more of a mountain that I have to learn, but I do see great results from these past 2 months. It’s hard not to feel frustrated when I want to speak fluently right this minute, but Juan said that I did excellently and everyone who has studied Spanish in High School and College has told me that I have accomplished a lot thus far. So I’m thankful and even more determined to learn more while I’m in the states for the next 7 weeks. It will be fun to get back here and see how I’ve improved and then move forward in the spring. I still struggle with hearing loss and that hinders my learning experience, but God knows how much I want to be fluent and I know that He will help me accomplish it. Sometimes when we have to fight harder for something, it’s more precious to us. That’s how I feel about my Spanish learning. It’s precious to me.
Tuesday, we had our regular Sewing class. The ladies finished their drawstring backpack bags. They were a hoot watching them on the sewing machine. They were troopers and helped each other along. It will be so nice to have more machines in the spring. We will have our last class for this year on Tuesday. I picked up some pins, pin cushions, seam rippers and thread for them. A team supplied some scissors. This will make nice parting gifts for them to use while I’m gone.
Wednesday, we went to Las Quimeras for Women’s Bible study. Mary is finishing up her evangelism training, so I opted to let her have the whole hour. I spoke with Pastor Sergio about the list of Sunday School kids that we’re providing Christmas gifts for. I also used the time to read some scripture that was perfect for the ‘seeking’ mood that I was in. Mary went to babysit Manuel after Bible study, so I fixed dinner for me, Megan and Talon. Then Megan and I tried to match up kid’s names between the list that Pastor Sergio gave me and the file of kids from the feedings so that I could determine their ages. It was a difficult task. Everyone spells differently (usually because of lack of education) and everyone has 4 names. We did pretty good though.
Thursday, I spent a lot of time sewing on Bible bags. I’ll have them ready to give to the Women’s Bible study at ROSCC church this Friday. Sherry and I had a long talk and I really appreciated it. She told me how much she and Mike appreciate me being a part of the ministry and how I fit in with future growth of the ministry. I love doing what God has called me to do here. I’m thankful to be a part of Voice of Hope.
I’ve been very reflective this week as I have been praying about direction, words to express my calling and situation and the work that I need to do personally to communicate to my supporters and prayer partners what the needs and opportunities are to join me in this journey for the new year. I have lots of thoughts floating around in my head, but nothing to put on paper yet. It’s all okay, though.
Friday, I sewed some more and helped get ready for the team which arrived at the Mission House on Saturday. I caught up with my laundry and organized some stuff in my room.
Beth arrived on Friday night and we talked for about an hour to catch up on things. It was nice. She liked my new home.
Saturday, Megan and Talon left very early to go and meet the team in Managua (they had spent the night at the hotel there) and take them to do the Fun Day stuff. Since Megan and Talon neither one had went on a fun day before, it was quite the experience for them. First thing, the phone that Mike gave Megan to use had a low battery and died early morning. Chico was their translator. A school bus (belonging to a church here) was used to get the team and take them around. Unfortunately, the driver didn’t know where he was going and was constantly stopping to ask for directions. Chico was trying to explain things to them, but they ignored him. Then the bus overheated on the way up the mountain to look at the volcano. The team had to walk the rest of the way up. They weren’t happy about that. Since it takes a long time for a big team to get through the zip line tour, the team didn’t get to eat lunch until about 2:30pm. The service at our favorite restaurant is slow, but the food is good. Then they went shopping at Catarina and started for home. Unfortunately (again), the bus driver was having trouble getting out of Managua and finding his way around. Megan noticed that the fuel light was ‘on’ on the bus, but the driver assured her that it didn’t work right and that they had plenty of gas. They stopped at a gas station and had a debate over the situation. When the team finally arrived in León, the team leader wanted to go to Tip Top Chicken to eat, but it was way too late for that. The team was getting in about 4 hours later than expected. I think they ended up getting some food before getting to the Mission House. I was in bed when they arrived, as was Mary. Beth stayed up to greet them and get them squared away in their rooms. They had quite the adventure for that long day. Glad I was safe here in my room!
This morning, we all had breakfast and got ready for church. As we were preparing to leave, Sherry asked if I would stay back at the Mission House with her to help translate to the cooks and other workers. I said sure. I wasn’t looking forward to riding in the school bus anyway. I figured I would get car sick and had taken a couple of ginger pills. I was glad to help with getting lunch ready and icing some cakes for the social time. The team split into 2 groups and half went to Telica church and the other half went to Las Quimeras. They all loved it. Some people from both churches were going to get baptized here in our pool, so they and their families came to the Mission House via our vans. It was great to share the baptisms with them. Few Nicaraguans know how to swim and therefore are afraid of the water. A couple of the ladies were terrified, but they were obedient in following the Lord’s command of baptism. I got some pictures and was very proud of them all. We had cake and juice and then they all went home.
The team had grilled chicken, rice, tostones and veggies for lunch. Yum. Then we had a training time and Mike did a wonderful job of explaining the ministry and then some of the VOH staff demonstrated the Sinbox drama. I think everyone is ready for the ministry week. The team split into their work groups for the week and got stuff prepared for the Fiestas and VBS.
Part of the team will work on construction of the church at the Sewer Ponds, part on doing a VBS each morning, and the rest on doing 12 Fiestas. Beth will teach an English club on Mon, Tues and Wed afternoons at Las Quimeras. I’ll still teach my afternoon classes. There will be church services on 2 nights. It will be a busy week.
Tonight (Sunday) Talon and I stayed back from church to serve dinner to the team as they returned from church services. Sherry needed to get Manuel to bed and the cooks needed to get home. The first group returned for dinner at 7:30pm. We got them served and then the next group was here by 8pm. We started cleaning up the dishes and Mary and Talon finished cleaning up the kitchen. The cooks had the place all cleaned up. We just needed to wash up the plates, cups, silverwear, pans, etc. It wasn’t too bad.
A lot of the team chose to swim this afternoon and this evening. They like having the pool here. It’s lights out at 10pm and everyone complied this evening. They were having a really good time and then all of a sudden it got quiet. By the end of the week, they will be more tired and less loud. It’s always funny to see that happen. I think everyone had a good day and I hope it made up for yesterday’s crazy adventure.
I’m working on putting together 60 gift bags for the kids at Las Quimeras to be delivered by me and Beth on Christmas Day. I’m also getting some gift bags of sewing notions ready for the Sewing class on Tuesday. I’ll have the Bible bags, notebooks and pens ready for Friday’s Women’s Bible study at ROSCC. It will be a week of gift giving! I love it!
Tomorrow I should get some info back from a company about getting individual health insurance. I’m losing what I had through FBC Rogers at the end of January. I’ve had to wait until I heard from them what my support for 2012 will be so that I could determine if and what I can afford to get. I’ll need to get a lot of loose ends tied up in the next weeks. It will be easier to do in the states, so I’ll be busy the week I get back there. Lots of things to work out and figure out. Gotta get the ‘worldly’ stuff in order so I can concentrate on the ‘Kingdom’ work. ☺
I needed some time to pray over some things. I felt that it was important enough to ‘fast and pray’, and since I can’t ‘fast’ meals due to health issues, I decided to ‘fast’ the computer and internet. It was a difficult week with many highs and lows. But I feel stronger in my commitment to follow where God leads me and feel secure in my relationship with Him. Many prayers for direction were answered during that time and I’m thankful for the experience, even though it was tough sometimes. Walking with the Lord is not always easy, as is life, but it’s so worth it to know you are in His will. These times of ‘recalibrating’ like a GPS are very beneficial.
I had my usual Monday thru Thursday Spanish classes and ended my semester (8 weeks) with Juan. I’ll return to classes with him when I return to Nica in mid-February. I see how much more of a mountain that I have to learn, but I do see great results from these past 2 months. It’s hard not to feel frustrated when I want to speak fluently right this minute, but Juan said that I did excellently and everyone who has studied Spanish in High School and College has told me that I have accomplished a lot thus far. So I’m thankful and even more determined to learn more while I’m in the states for the next 7 weeks. It will be fun to get back here and see how I’ve improved and then move forward in the spring. I still struggle with hearing loss and that hinders my learning experience, but God knows how much I want to be fluent and I know that He will help me accomplish it. Sometimes when we have to fight harder for something, it’s more precious to us. That’s how I feel about my Spanish learning. It’s precious to me.
Tuesday, we had our regular Sewing class. The ladies finished their drawstring backpack bags. They were a hoot watching them on the sewing machine. They were troopers and helped each other along. It will be so nice to have more machines in the spring. We will have our last class for this year on Tuesday. I picked up some pins, pin cushions, seam rippers and thread for them. A team supplied some scissors. This will make nice parting gifts for them to use while I’m gone.
Wednesday, we went to Las Quimeras for Women’s Bible study. Mary is finishing up her evangelism training, so I opted to let her have the whole hour. I spoke with Pastor Sergio about the list of Sunday School kids that we’re providing Christmas gifts for. I also used the time to read some scripture that was perfect for the ‘seeking’ mood that I was in. Mary went to babysit Manuel after Bible study, so I fixed dinner for me, Megan and Talon. Then Megan and I tried to match up kid’s names between the list that Pastor Sergio gave me and the file of kids from the feedings so that I could determine their ages. It was a difficult task. Everyone spells differently (usually because of lack of education) and everyone has 4 names. We did pretty good though.
Thursday, I spent a lot of time sewing on Bible bags. I’ll have them ready to give to the Women’s Bible study at ROSCC church this Friday. Sherry and I had a long talk and I really appreciated it. She told me how much she and Mike appreciate me being a part of the ministry and how I fit in with future growth of the ministry. I love doing what God has called me to do here. I’m thankful to be a part of Voice of Hope.
I’ve been very reflective this week as I have been praying about direction, words to express my calling and situation and the work that I need to do personally to communicate to my supporters and prayer partners what the needs and opportunities are to join me in this journey for the new year. I have lots of thoughts floating around in my head, but nothing to put on paper yet. It’s all okay, though.
Friday, I sewed some more and helped get ready for the team which arrived at the Mission House on Saturday. I caught up with my laundry and organized some stuff in my room.
Beth arrived on Friday night and we talked for about an hour to catch up on things. It was nice. She liked my new home.
Saturday, Megan and Talon left very early to go and meet the team in Managua (they had spent the night at the hotel there) and take them to do the Fun Day stuff. Since Megan and Talon neither one had went on a fun day before, it was quite the experience for them. First thing, the phone that Mike gave Megan to use had a low battery and died early morning. Chico was their translator. A school bus (belonging to a church here) was used to get the team and take them around. Unfortunately, the driver didn’t know where he was going and was constantly stopping to ask for directions. Chico was trying to explain things to them, but they ignored him. Then the bus overheated on the way up the mountain to look at the volcano. The team had to walk the rest of the way up. They weren’t happy about that. Since it takes a long time for a big team to get through the zip line tour, the team didn’t get to eat lunch until about 2:30pm. The service at our favorite restaurant is slow, but the food is good. Then they went shopping at Catarina and started for home. Unfortunately (again), the bus driver was having trouble getting out of Managua and finding his way around. Megan noticed that the fuel light was ‘on’ on the bus, but the driver assured her that it didn’t work right and that they had plenty of gas. They stopped at a gas station and had a debate over the situation. When the team finally arrived in León, the team leader wanted to go to Tip Top Chicken to eat, but it was way too late for that. The team was getting in about 4 hours later than expected. I think they ended up getting some food before getting to the Mission House. I was in bed when they arrived, as was Mary. Beth stayed up to greet them and get them squared away in their rooms. They had quite the adventure for that long day. Glad I was safe here in my room!
This morning, we all had breakfast and got ready for church. As we were preparing to leave, Sherry asked if I would stay back at the Mission House with her to help translate to the cooks and other workers. I said sure. I wasn’t looking forward to riding in the school bus anyway. I figured I would get car sick and had taken a couple of ginger pills. I was glad to help with getting lunch ready and icing some cakes for the social time. The team split into 2 groups and half went to Telica church and the other half went to Las Quimeras. They all loved it. Some people from both churches were going to get baptized here in our pool, so they and their families came to the Mission House via our vans. It was great to share the baptisms with them. Few Nicaraguans know how to swim and therefore are afraid of the water. A couple of the ladies were terrified, but they were obedient in following the Lord’s command of baptism. I got some pictures and was very proud of them all. We had cake and juice and then they all went home.
The team had grilled chicken, rice, tostones and veggies for lunch. Yum. Then we had a training time and Mike did a wonderful job of explaining the ministry and then some of the VOH staff demonstrated the Sinbox drama. I think everyone is ready for the ministry week. The team split into their work groups for the week and got stuff prepared for the Fiestas and VBS.
Part of the team will work on construction of the church at the Sewer Ponds, part on doing a VBS each morning, and the rest on doing 12 Fiestas. Beth will teach an English club on Mon, Tues and Wed afternoons at Las Quimeras. I’ll still teach my afternoon classes. There will be church services on 2 nights. It will be a busy week.
Tonight (Sunday) Talon and I stayed back from church to serve dinner to the team as they returned from church services. Sherry needed to get Manuel to bed and the cooks needed to get home. The first group returned for dinner at 7:30pm. We got them served and then the next group was here by 8pm. We started cleaning up the dishes and Mary and Talon finished cleaning up the kitchen. The cooks had the place all cleaned up. We just needed to wash up the plates, cups, silverwear, pans, etc. It wasn’t too bad.
A lot of the team chose to swim this afternoon and this evening. They like having the pool here. It’s lights out at 10pm and everyone complied this evening. They were having a really good time and then all of a sudden it got quiet. By the end of the week, they will be more tired and less loud. It’s always funny to see that happen. I think everyone had a good day and I hope it made up for yesterday’s crazy adventure.
I’m working on putting together 60 gift bags for the kids at Las Quimeras to be delivered by me and Beth on Christmas Day. I’m also getting some gift bags of sewing notions ready for the Sewing class on Tuesday. I’ll have the Bible bags, notebooks and pens ready for Friday’s Women’s Bible study at ROSCC. It will be a week of gift giving! I love it!
Tomorrow I should get some info back from a company about getting individual health insurance. I’m losing what I had through FBC Rogers at the end of January. I’ve had to wait until I heard from them what my support for 2012 will be so that I could determine if and what I can afford to get. I’ll need to get a lot of loose ends tied up in the next weeks. It will be easier to do in the states, so I’ll be busy the week I get back there. Lots of things to work out and figure out. Gotta get the ‘worldly’ stuff in order so I can concentrate on the ‘Kingdom’ work. ☺
Sunday, December 11, 2011
Sunday, December 11, 2011 NICARAGUA
Let’s see, what has happened today…
I woke up hearing the birthday party people taking down the decorations from yesterday and moving tables and chairs around. I got up prepared for church. The Hulsey’s came to pick us up about 10:15 and we got to ROSCC church about 10:30. Surprise! No services there this morning! It was too late to get to any other church without being very late, so we came back to the Mission House. Alberto gave us a strange look and the people cleaning up after the party wondered who we were and what we were doing. Haha
I started some laundry and sewed some more Bible bags. Sherry heated up some left overs from the Christmas dinner and we had lunch. Coco and her kids and nieces and nephews over at 2pm for a nice afternoon swim. They had a blast. I didn’t get a nap today, but it was a very pleasant day.
I got the chance to talk with Mike and Sherry a little bit about the future of the ministry and then later Mike and I got a chance to talk more about strategy. It was nice to have time to sit and talk and not be rushed.
Danilo came to get ChinChin (van) to drive to the border to pick up Mary and Megan after their overnight trip to Honduras. They said the kids there were doing pretty good. Mary took them to eat at Wendy’s (very expensive) and to a store to pick out their own Christmas presents. They had a blast. Mary and Megan got back to the house about 6pm. They were ready for a shower and relaxation. But they had a great trip.
I fixed a baked potato with cream of mushroom sauce on it for my dinner. I enjoyed it. I’m enjoying the cashews and trail mix that sweet Haley sent to me. And I’m enjoying my vitamins that she sent with Talon. I didn’t pack enough vitamins on this trip, so it’s great to have these.
I’ve still got some Bible bags to finish, but they are at the end stage and I’m not feeling stressed about it. I have some other things to be sewing this week, too. Then the team will be here and it will be busy. I better get my stuff done before Saturday!
I got a facebook message from John Caubble this morning. It’s funny that I was thinking about them and planning to send them a message today. God connected our minds, I guess.
I came to my room about 6:30 and started studying Spanish verb tenses while listening to Spanish Christmas songs. When I got frustrated with the verbs, I switched to Bible study and that did the trick to soothe my mind!
Right now I’m very relaxed and content. I know that tomorrow will be an intense class for Spanish and I’m ready for it. This will be my last week of classes until Feb, so I know we will push hard. I’m praying for a clear mind and a steel trap memory!
I only saw one spider in my room today. I blasted him with the lethal bug spray. At least it was more of a ‘wood’ spider and not the hairy black kind.
I guess I’ll go to bed now. I’m looking forward to tomorrow and the fresh week. Time is sure going by quickly!
I woke up hearing the birthday party people taking down the decorations from yesterday and moving tables and chairs around. I got up prepared for church. The Hulsey’s came to pick us up about 10:15 and we got to ROSCC church about 10:30. Surprise! No services there this morning! It was too late to get to any other church without being very late, so we came back to the Mission House. Alberto gave us a strange look and the people cleaning up after the party wondered who we were and what we were doing. Haha
I started some laundry and sewed some more Bible bags. Sherry heated up some left overs from the Christmas dinner and we had lunch. Coco and her kids and nieces and nephews over at 2pm for a nice afternoon swim. They had a blast. I didn’t get a nap today, but it was a very pleasant day.
I got the chance to talk with Mike and Sherry a little bit about the future of the ministry and then later Mike and I got a chance to talk more about strategy. It was nice to have time to sit and talk and not be rushed.
Danilo came to get ChinChin (van) to drive to the border to pick up Mary and Megan after their overnight trip to Honduras. They said the kids there were doing pretty good. Mary took them to eat at Wendy’s (very expensive) and to a store to pick out their own Christmas presents. They had a blast. Mary and Megan got back to the house about 6pm. They were ready for a shower and relaxation. But they had a great trip.
I fixed a baked potato with cream of mushroom sauce on it for my dinner. I enjoyed it. I’m enjoying the cashews and trail mix that sweet Haley sent to me. And I’m enjoying my vitamins that she sent with Talon. I didn’t pack enough vitamins on this trip, so it’s great to have these.
I’ve still got some Bible bags to finish, but they are at the end stage and I’m not feeling stressed about it. I have some other things to be sewing this week, too. Then the team will be here and it will be busy. I better get my stuff done before Saturday!
I got a facebook message from John Caubble this morning. It’s funny that I was thinking about them and planning to send them a message today. God connected our minds, I guess.
I came to my room about 6:30 and started studying Spanish verb tenses while listening to Spanish Christmas songs. When I got frustrated with the verbs, I switched to Bible study and that did the trick to soothe my mind!
Right now I’m very relaxed and content. I know that tomorrow will be an intense class for Spanish and I’m ready for it. This will be my last week of classes until Feb, so I know we will push hard. I’m praying for a clear mind and a steel trap memory!
I only saw one spider in my room today. I blasted him with the lethal bug spray. At least it was more of a ‘wood’ spider and not the hairy black kind.
I guess I’ll go to bed now. I’m looking forward to tomorrow and the fresh week. Time is sure going by quickly!
Saturday, December 10, 2011 NICARAGUA
Woke up to the sounds of people arranging tables and chairs for 300 and decorating for the Quinceaños (birthday party) that will be held here tonight. Mary and Megan left about 7am for Honduras to visit the VOH Children’s Home that raises 6 children. They will be back tomorrow night. Long trip for an overnight, but they will be very blessed. The kids will love getting some Christmas blessings and seeing Mary and meeting Megan. I’m so glad that they got to go.
Talon, Josselin and I got ready and walked to Pacheco’s English school to chat with the Saturday class. On the way there, Talon and Josselin were practicing their English/Spanish words. They are learning each other’s language. It was a fun walk.
I got to take a picture of the ‘viejos’, the sort of scarecrow old men that are made to celebrate the new year. I think it’s kind of like saying goodbye to the ‘old’ and welcoming the ‘new’. On New Year’s Eve, the viejos are burned and/or blown up with firecrackers in the streets. I was wanting to get some pictures of these guys and there is a place that makes them up to sell.
I also took a picture of Mundal Escolar Librería where I buy my notebooks and pens and such. I was getting ready to take a picture of my favorite second-hand clothing store when I heard someone calling to me. It was the owner getting ready to get into a taxi. She greeted me and I told her I was taking a picture of her store/house. What a nice surprise to see her. I also got a picture of the ‘studio’ of the artist whose paintings I like. I still need to grab a pic of Bazar Jerry, where I buy sewing notions and ribbons and stuff.
I’m starting to feel the pull of my departure date in a few weeks. I need to get some pics and info put together to share in reports to my supporters, churches and also the Homeschool group that I will share with at the end of January.
Anyway, when we got to the English school, Juan’s wife Ana told me that Juan could not be there and that the regular teacher could not be there. So they asked if I could lead the class, at least for a couple of hours. No problem. Talon and I talked with them and asked questions and answered questions. Oscar videoed a little of the conversations. It was a fun time. We were allowed to finish early and we got pics with the class. There were some great questions, including some God questions. Some good seeds planted. I hope I can go back there next Sat.
Josselin had left with Oscar and would meet up with us downtown. Talon and I walked to the park and on the way we stopped in to see Linda at the House of Bible. I thought Talon would like to see the Bible store. Linda took my phone number because German told her I would be the person in charge of buying Bibles. I do want to get some Bible story posters for the Sunday School classes that have started at ROSCC and Las Quimeras. I like to get the Bibles for the Women’s Bible study groups from the other House of the Bible where Carlos works. But I always love to stop in at the Bible store.
We met up with Oscar and took possession of Josselin. ☺ The three of us headed over to Tip Top Chicken and had lunch. Then we took a taxi home and rested in our rooms for the afternoon. I sewed and got on the computer a little bit.
There were many tables and chairs all over the place and we had to ask to have one moved a little so I could get to my door. The decorating for the party took all day and the crew worked very hard. It was beautiful. I got some pics of it about half way done.
We each went to our rooms and rested or whatever we wanted to do. Mike called about 4:30 and said that they would come to pick us up for dinner a little after 5pm. I let the others know and we waited outside the gate. The guests were arriving for the party, so we walked down the street a little bit and met the van. We went to Suyapa for dinner and it was delicious. Talon had not gotten to eat there on his trip last year. He loved being outside and watching the sunset from our table. He went and took some pics. The food was good. I had grilled shrimp for a change and it was yummy.
We got back home about 7:30 and the party was in full swing. So beautiful. Like a wedding. The live band was awesome and played many Christian songs that I have on my Spanish Praise cds. Josselin came to my room to hang out and we sang along. I was on the computer a little bit and then let her use it for facebook. I worked on the Bible bags a little more. Then it was time to retire, so I watched a movie and stayed up way too late. But it was a great evening.
The party ended promptly at 9pm and all the guests left. The decorators started taking down their stuff and worked until very late in the night. They have a big job ahead of them. They worked very hard. I hope they got paid a lot of money. ☺
It’s been a very blessed day. I’m thankful for every minute here.
Talon, Josselin and I got ready and walked to Pacheco’s English school to chat with the Saturday class. On the way there, Talon and Josselin were practicing their English/Spanish words. They are learning each other’s language. It was a fun walk.
I got to take a picture of the ‘viejos’, the sort of scarecrow old men that are made to celebrate the new year. I think it’s kind of like saying goodbye to the ‘old’ and welcoming the ‘new’. On New Year’s Eve, the viejos are burned and/or blown up with firecrackers in the streets. I was wanting to get some pictures of these guys and there is a place that makes them up to sell.
I also took a picture of Mundal Escolar Librería where I buy my notebooks and pens and such. I was getting ready to take a picture of my favorite second-hand clothing store when I heard someone calling to me. It was the owner getting ready to get into a taxi. She greeted me and I told her I was taking a picture of her store/house. What a nice surprise to see her. I also got a picture of the ‘studio’ of the artist whose paintings I like. I still need to grab a pic of Bazar Jerry, where I buy sewing notions and ribbons and stuff.
I’m starting to feel the pull of my departure date in a few weeks. I need to get some pics and info put together to share in reports to my supporters, churches and also the Homeschool group that I will share with at the end of January.
Anyway, when we got to the English school, Juan’s wife Ana told me that Juan could not be there and that the regular teacher could not be there. So they asked if I could lead the class, at least for a couple of hours. No problem. Talon and I talked with them and asked questions and answered questions. Oscar videoed a little of the conversations. It was a fun time. We were allowed to finish early and we got pics with the class. There were some great questions, including some God questions. Some good seeds planted. I hope I can go back there next Sat.
Josselin had left with Oscar and would meet up with us downtown. Talon and I walked to the park and on the way we stopped in to see Linda at the House of Bible. I thought Talon would like to see the Bible store. Linda took my phone number because German told her I would be the person in charge of buying Bibles. I do want to get some Bible story posters for the Sunday School classes that have started at ROSCC and Las Quimeras. I like to get the Bibles for the Women’s Bible study groups from the other House of the Bible where Carlos works. But I always love to stop in at the Bible store.
We met up with Oscar and took possession of Josselin. ☺ The three of us headed over to Tip Top Chicken and had lunch. Then we took a taxi home and rested in our rooms for the afternoon. I sewed and got on the computer a little bit.
There were many tables and chairs all over the place and we had to ask to have one moved a little so I could get to my door. The decorating for the party took all day and the crew worked very hard. It was beautiful. I got some pics of it about half way done.
We each went to our rooms and rested or whatever we wanted to do. Mike called about 4:30 and said that they would come to pick us up for dinner a little after 5pm. I let the others know and we waited outside the gate. The guests were arriving for the party, so we walked down the street a little bit and met the van. We went to Suyapa for dinner and it was delicious. Talon had not gotten to eat there on his trip last year. He loved being outside and watching the sunset from our table. He went and took some pics. The food was good. I had grilled shrimp for a change and it was yummy.
We got back home about 7:30 and the party was in full swing. So beautiful. Like a wedding. The live band was awesome and played many Christian songs that I have on my Spanish Praise cds. Josselin came to my room to hang out and we sang along. I was on the computer a little bit and then let her use it for facebook. I worked on the Bible bags a little more. Then it was time to retire, so I watched a movie and stayed up way too late. But it was a great evening.
The party ended promptly at 9pm and all the guests left. The decorators started taking down their stuff and worked until very late in the night. They have a big job ahead of them. They worked very hard. I hope they got paid a lot of money. ☺
It’s been a very blessed day. I’m thankful for every minute here.
Saturday, December 10, 2011
Friday, December 9, 2011 NICARAGUA
Fun morning. NOT. Woke up and started moving things around that I had sat on the floor last night when I cleared off my bed to go to sleep. While moving the items, a sort of big, very hairy, black spider scampered across the floor. I didn’t shriek, but I did do a Nica two-step. It found refuge under my mini fridge. It was decided that our rooms would be sprayed this morning, since we saw a rather huge, very hairy, black spider outside on the wall and one near the kitchen already. As I was moving stuff out of my room, another sort of big, very hairy, black spider was spotted and scared Josselin very much. My room was pretty much emptied, sprayed by Alberto and then I sprayed again with an aerosol can of bug spray that seems to kill very quickly. Hopefully, (and prayerfully) the hairy things will be long gone. I love God’s creatures, but that doesn’t mean that I want to room with them…
I had some oatmeal for breakfast and then pinned some sewing pieces outside under the rancho while talking with Megan and Josselin. Mary and Sherry and Talon went to the grocery store to buy food for tonight’s Christmas meals for the staff. I hemmed some pants for Josselin and finished the handwork on a dress for Sherry. I was trying to find the things that I could do away from my room for a little bit.
I worked on sewing Bible bags when I could get back into my room. I’m making good progress on them. I’m not feeling stressed (yet) on getting them done by the time the team gets here.
We got the place ready for the dinner. Juver and Leslie put up balloons. Josselin and Megan helped blow them up. Since I can’t stand balloons, I didn’t offer to help. Mike and German met with Pastor Marvin for a while. Mike also spoke with the leader of next week’s team about the construction on the church.
We had a great lunch of grilled chicken, rice, beans and cucumber/tomato salad, and tortillas. I worked more on sewing and everyone had their own things to do. Sherry was cooking all afternoon, which is her love. Talon made some Hello Dollies (bar cookies) and needed shredded cocoanut. Alberto and Juver got a couple of cocoanuts from our trees. It was a pleasant afternoon.
We got ready for Bible study and left about 3:40pm. Megan went with us and was going to talk a little bit about Priscilla. Mary decided to wait until next week to present her next part of Evangelism training, but she did have 3 ladies share their testimonies and it was great. I didn’t have to do anything but enjoy the moment. It was a nice break from teaching for me. Since it’s the holiday month and also the day of many graduations, there were few ladies at the study. It started out with very few and then about 12 showed up in total. It was good to see them. I’ll be glad when our numbers get back up to near 30 again.
We got back to the Mission House about 5pm and helped get everything ready for our guests. People arrived slowly. We had 40+ people for dinner, which included our workers and their many kids. It was fun.
Sherry had made spaghetti with meat sauce, chicken alfredo, 7 layer salad, garlic cheese biscuits and brownies. We also had Talon’s Hello Dollies and ice cream. Everyone got full and had a great time.
Sherry had bought gifts for all the kids. The adults got their Christmas bonuses. (it’s called the 13th month and everyone gets an extra month’s salary in December). Lydia’s son and daughter (around 10 and 11 years old, I think) dressed up and danced to a Nica folk song. It was nice. I tried to video it on my camera, but it may be a little dark. They were precious and the dance was their gift to Sherry and Mike.
The North Americans served the Nicas and it was fun. Lydia and Aracelys kept trying to help and we wouldn’t let them. Lydia even came in the kitchen after the meal and tried to take over washing the dishes. We had to throw her out of the kitchen! I think they finally got used to being served, even though it was a strange position for them to be in.
Everyone went home, mostly by Mike taking them in the van. It took 3 trips to get everyone delivered, including the Hulsey’s. Juver and Alberto tore down the plastic tables and locked them and the chairs up so that the people setting up for the birthday party tomorrow would have open access to the place. Juver, Megan, Josselin and I talked for a while (in Spanish) under the rancho. I was keeping up really well. I guess I’m improving afterall! I did say something very funny, though. I mean to ask Juver how old his parents are and was using the word for ‘couple’ which in Spanish closely sounds like the word for ‘birds’. Yep, I asked how old his birds are. Which was very funny, because in the context of the conversation, everyone knew I meant parents. We all laughed a lot. It was fun talking, though.
I went to my room and ended up talking with Megan until after 11pm. Then it was time to go to sleep.
It’s been a good day. Many blessings. Can’t believe we’ll be leaving in a few weeks. I hope our Nica workers know how much we consider them as family. I especially do.
I had some oatmeal for breakfast and then pinned some sewing pieces outside under the rancho while talking with Megan and Josselin. Mary and Sherry and Talon went to the grocery store to buy food for tonight’s Christmas meals for the staff. I hemmed some pants for Josselin and finished the handwork on a dress for Sherry. I was trying to find the things that I could do away from my room for a little bit.
I worked on sewing Bible bags when I could get back into my room. I’m making good progress on them. I’m not feeling stressed (yet) on getting them done by the time the team gets here.
We got the place ready for the dinner. Juver and Leslie put up balloons. Josselin and Megan helped blow them up. Since I can’t stand balloons, I didn’t offer to help. Mike and German met with Pastor Marvin for a while. Mike also spoke with the leader of next week’s team about the construction on the church.
We had a great lunch of grilled chicken, rice, beans and cucumber/tomato salad, and tortillas. I worked more on sewing and everyone had their own things to do. Sherry was cooking all afternoon, which is her love. Talon made some Hello Dollies (bar cookies) and needed shredded cocoanut. Alberto and Juver got a couple of cocoanuts from our trees. It was a pleasant afternoon.
We got ready for Bible study and left about 3:40pm. Megan went with us and was going to talk a little bit about Priscilla. Mary decided to wait until next week to present her next part of Evangelism training, but she did have 3 ladies share their testimonies and it was great. I didn’t have to do anything but enjoy the moment. It was a nice break from teaching for me. Since it’s the holiday month and also the day of many graduations, there were few ladies at the study. It started out with very few and then about 12 showed up in total. It was good to see them. I’ll be glad when our numbers get back up to near 30 again.
We got back to the Mission House about 5pm and helped get everything ready for our guests. People arrived slowly. We had 40+ people for dinner, which included our workers and their many kids. It was fun.
Sherry had made spaghetti with meat sauce, chicken alfredo, 7 layer salad, garlic cheese biscuits and brownies. We also had Talon’s Hello Dollies and ice cream. Everyone got full and had a great time.
Sherry had bought gifts for all the kids. The adults got their Christmas bonuses. (it’s called the 13th month and everyone gets an extra month’s salary in December). Lydia’s son and daughter (around 10 and 11 years old, I think) dressed up and danced to a Nica folk song. It was nice. I tried to video it on my camera, but it may be a little dark. They were precious and the dance was their gift to Sherry and Mike.
The North Americans served the Nicas and it was fun. Lydia and Aracelys kept trying to help and we wouldn’t let them. Lydia even came in the kitchen after the meal and tried to take over washing the dishes. We had to throw her out of the kitchen! I think they finally got used to being served, even though it was a strange position for them to be in.
Everyone went home, mostly by Mike taking them in the van. It took 3 trips to get everyone delivered, including the Hulsey’s. Juver and Alberto tore down the plastic tables and locked them and the chairs up so that the people setting up for the birthday party tomorrow would have open access to the place. Juver, Megan, Josselin and I talked for a while (in Spanish) under the rancho. I was keeping up really well. I guess I’m improving afterall! I did say something very funny, though. I mean to ask Juver how old his parents are and was using the word for ‘couple’ which in Spanish closely sounds like the word for ‘birds’. Yep, I asked how old his birds are. Which was very funny, because in the context of the conversation, everyone knew I meant parents. We all laughed a lot. It was fun talking, though.
I went to my room and ended up talking with Megan until after 11pm. Then it was time to go to sleep.
It’s been a good day. Many blessings. Can’t believe we’ll be leaving in a few weeks. I hope our Nica workers know how much we consider them as family. I especially do.
Thursday, December 8, 2011 NICARAGUA
It’s a holiday here in Nica. The Day of Mary. Last night was a huge celebration all over the country. We stayed safely at home. Today, town was pretty quiet while everyone stayed home to recover.
The Youth, who had a retreat here overnight, got up and started swimming at 5:30am. So much for sleeping in. I got up about 6:30am and started sewing.
The Hulsey’s and Mary went to Managua with German to pick up Talon, an intern from El Dorado AR. Megan and Joceline went with Oscar to paint at his church. I wanted to go and paint also, but decided that I needed to spend the time sewing instead.
After the painting excursion ended, Megan and Joceline picked me up in a taxi and we went by to get Oscar and his son Axel to go to lunch. We ate at a Chinese restaurant, which was pretty good for Nica. Then we walked around the park and looked around inside the Cathedral. Then we caught one of the few taxis running today and dropped Oscar off at a meeting and we came to the Mission House.
When we got here, everyone was back from Managua and was cleaning up after the group left. With everyone pitching in, it didn’t take too long. Then pizzas were ordered for dinner and I had a can of tuna.
I came on to my room to sew some more. I put in another $1 movie and sewed quite a bit. Then I watched the remainder of episodes for season 4 of Army Wives. It’s late now and I’m ready to go to bed.
I’ll get up early tomorrow and sew like a crazy woman again. But I feel good about the progress that was made today.
Talon brought me a care package from Haley and I appreciate all the goodies!! She’s such a sweet girl! She sent me some vitamins that I was running out of, some crossword puzzle books, trail mix and cashews and some earrings. She sent Mary some ritz peanutbutter crackers. Yum for all of us!
Signing off now. I can’t believe how quickly time is passing by. I’m starting to get in my reflective mood that always comes a few weeks before leaving Nica. I’m cherishing every minute of ministry and relationships here. I’m so thankful for everything.
The Youth, who had a retreat here overnight, got up and started swimming at 5:30am. So much for sleeping in. I got up about 6:30am and started sewing.
The Hulsey’s and Mary went to Managua with German to pick up Talon, an intern from El Dorado AR. Megan and Joceline went with Oscar to paint at his church. I wanted to go and paint also, but decided that I needed to spend the time sewing instead.
After the painting excursion ended, Megan and Joceline picked me up in a taxi and we went by to get Oscar and his son Axel to go to lunch. We ate at a Chinese restaurant, which was pretty good for Nica. Then we walked around the park and looked around inside the Cathedral. Then we caught one of the few taxis running today and dropped Oscar off at a meeting and we came to the Mission House.
When we got here, everyone was back from Managua and was cleaning up after the group left. With everyone pitching in, it didn’t take too long. Then pizzas were ordered for dinner and I had a can of tuna.
I came on to my room to sew some more. I put in another $1 movie and sewed quite a bit. Then I watched the remainder of episodes for season 4 of Army Wives. It’s late now and I’m ready to go to bed.
I’ll get up early tomorrow and sew like a crazy woman again. But I feel good about the progress that was made today.
Talon brought me a care package from Haley and I appreciate all the goodies!! She’s such a sweet girl! She sent me some vitamins that I was running out of, some crossword puzzle books, trail mix and cashews and some earrings. She sent Mary some ritz peanutbutter crackers. Yum for all of us!
Signing off now. I can’t believe how quickly time is passing by. I’m starting to get in my reflective mood that always comes a few weeks before leaving Nica. I’m cherishing every minute of ministry and relationships here. I’m so thankful for everything.
Wednesday, December 7, 2011
Wednesday, December 7, 2011 NICARAGUA
It’s been a good day. I slept better last night than I have for about a week. Hope that trend continues!
Megan went with me this morning to Spanish class. We left a little early so we could walk and stop in at the little stores that I frequent on the way. It was fun. She liked Juan and we had fun in class. She was impressed with how much he has taught me these 2 months. He’s a good teacher. I just wish that it all made more sense to me than it does right now, but I know it will soon. I just need to have patience and keep practicing!! Megan is speaking Spanish to me most of the time and that helps a lot.
We had meatloaf and mashed potatoes for lunch. It was good. We all kind of hung out and visited a little this afternoon. We made some plans for the ministry, but mostly chatted. It was nice.
I spoke with Brian Sander at FBC Rogers today about the team he’s bringing down in March. It will be a good team and I can’t wait for spring break to get here! We’re going to plan at least one training meeting for the team while I’m in Rogers in January. Can’t wait to get them acquainted with the ministry and praying about what God is going to accomplish through them.
Because of all of the traffic and craziness of the Day of Mary celebration tonight, we decided not to have the Women’s Bible study at Las Quimeras. It felt funny to have the afternoon off.
A youth group from a local church is having an overnight retreat here this evening, so it’s been interesting to have commotion going on outside. But it’s nice to hear them having fun.
Since tomorrow is a holiday, everyone has the day off (except the guard). The Hulsey’s, Mary and Manuel are going to Managua to pick up Talon, an intern coming from El Dorado AR. Megan and I are going to go help paint at Oscar’s church. Joceline is deciding what she wants to do, but I think she may end up going with Oscar and us to paint. Tomorrow late afternoon, we may swim a little bit. Depending on if the group leaves at 4pm like they are scheduled. I’m betting they won’t actually get out of here until more like 6pm, but we’ll see.
I spent this evening in my room sewing on Bible bags. I’m making good headway. Mary sewed straps together for about half of the bags. That is a help.
I watched a movie on my computer. We can buy movies here for $1. I had it playing while I was pinning the pieces to be sewn. I enjoyed it.
I got on facebook for a little while and now I’m ready to head to bed to read and go to sleep. We are leaving at 8am in the morning to paint, so I want to get some good sleep.
I’m thankful for all the blessings of today. No matter how hard or uncomfortable life can be down here, it’s exactly where God wants me and I’m so thankful to be here
Megan went with me this morning to Spanish class. We left a little early so we could walk and stop in at the little stores that I frequent on the way. It was fun. She liked Juan and we had fun in class. She was impressed with how much he has taught me these 2 months. He’s a good teacher. I just wish that it all made more sense to me than it does right now, but I know it will soon. I just need to have patience and keep practicing!! Megan is speaking Spanish to me most of the time and that helps a lot.
We had meatloaf and mashed potatoes for lunch. It was good. We all kind of hung out and visited a little this afternoon. We made some plans for the ministry, but mostly chatted. It was nice.
I spoke with Brian Sander at FBC Rogers today about the team he’s bringing down in March. It will be a good team and I can’t wait for spring break to get here! We’re going to plan at least one training meeting for the team while I’m in Rogers in January. Can’t wait to get them acquainted with the ministry and praying about what God is going to accomplish through them.
Because of all of the traffic and craziness of the Day of Mary celebration tonight, we decided not to have the Women’s Bible study at Las Quimeras. It felt funny to have the afternoon off.
A youth group from a local church is having an overnight retreat here this evening, so it’s been interesting to have commotion going on outside. But it’s nice to hear them having fun.
Since tomorrow is a holiday, everyone has the day off (except the guard). The Hulsey’s, Mary and Manuel are going to Managua to pick up Talon, an intern coming from El Dorado AR. Megan and I are going to go help paint at Oscar’s church. Joceline is deciding what she wants to do, but I think she may end up going with Oscar and us to paint. Tomorrow late afternoon, we may swim a little bit. Depending on if the group leaves at 4pm like they are scheduled. I’m betting they won’t actually get out of here until more like 6pm, but we’ll see.
I spent this evening in my room sewing on Bible bags. I’m making good headway. Mary sewed straps together for about half of the bags. That is a help.
I watched a movie on my computer. We can buy movies here for $1. I had it playing while I was pinning the pieces to be sewn. I enjoyed it.
I got on facebook for a little while and now I’m ready to head to bed to read and go to sleep. We are leaving at 8am in the morning to paint, so I want to get some good sleep.
I’m thankful for all the blessings of today. No matter how hard or uncomfortable life can be down here, it’s exactly where God wants me and I’m so thankful to be here
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