Got up and walked 4 miles. It feels so good when I get back to the team house and jump in the shower. I also love being outside. God makes me happy that way.
I took care of some emails, including sending info and a picture back to my home church (FBC Rogers AR) for the Missions Conference (GIC) that will be held in October.
Sherry shared with the team about the Children’s Home called House of Hope that VOH has in Honduras. Mary got to share a little bit, too, and the team prayed over them and the Home.
We had a baptism of one of our translators here in the pool and it was very special to the team. I posted some pics on facebook.
Mayela and I visited Noah’s Ark Feeding Center. I dropped her off to do her work and I was going to run to get minutes for both of our phones and to buy some Bibles at the Bible Book Store. There was road work going on in that vicinity, so I decided to just run to La Unión grocery store instead. Most of León is one way streets and when any are blocked off for various reasons, it is extremely frustrating to get around. It took a very long time to get to La Unión, but once there, I got my business done pretty quickly. I decided to put off the Bible Book Store visit until another day. I picked Mayela up and we stopped at the gas station on the way back to the team house since the needle was way past empty. We got back and had our lunch.
I was getting ready for sewing class and decided to try to do some laundry while the team was gone. (they were out for another afternoon and evening of ministry and crusade) It is wonderful that we have 2 washing machines and 2 dryers now (thanks to a generous team!) I started 2 loads and then set up for sewing class. Estefanie got here and we were ready in plenty of time. We only had 2 women in class, since a lot of the women have found some temporary jobs. I’m so happy for them to have income. But I do miss them! The ladies were making more skirts and matching headbands. Estefanie was learning how to make an apron. She is such a delight!
After the ladies left from class, I finished my other 2 loads of laundry and got everything put away. It always feels good to get it done. And it always reminds me how lucky I am that I can use a washing machine and dryer. Most people here wash clothes by hand and hang them up. Very few people have machines for that. I do not take my blessings lightly.
I settled into my room and waiting for the van to get back with the leftover food from dinner at the crusade. I got things put away in the kitchen, and then came back to my room for the night. It was peaceful and happy.
Saturday, July 28, 2012
Wednesday, July 25, 2012
Wednesday, July 25, 2012
I didn’t feel too sporty this morning, so I made this my day off from walking. My stomach has been yucky all day. I ate something last night that is taboo for me and I paid for it! I told Mary that if she ever saw me eating something terribly wrong for me to slap it out of my hand. She’s a brave soul, but I don’t know if even she is crazy enough to come between me and food. Haha
Anyway, I got a lot of computer work done this morning. I worked about 5 hours straight. I got everything ready and printed for Bible Study this afternoon and then I started in on emails and Feeding Center records. It was enjoyable, but I was getting cross-eyed!
I picked up Estefanie at Pacheco’s Engligh Academy to go to Bible Study at La Quimera. We had a wonderful class. The ladies are really getting into discussing the lessons. It makes my heart swell! For the next few weeks, we are talking about Living in God’s Word.
I told them the story of when I brought Bibles (donated by some wonderful VOH supporters) to the Bible Study class last year and gave them out. Everyone was appreciative. One person, in particular, held her Bible and just keep looking at it, caressing it and petting it. She truly treasured it. I’ll never forget that moment. And I pray that God gives me that same emotion when I pick up my Bible. In the States, we have access (and own) many Bibles of all shapes and sizes and translations. We take it for granted. I told the ladies that their excitement about receiving a Bible is the emotion that God wants from all of us when we think about His Word.
I told the ladies that I would be leaving in about 3 weeks and be gone for 2 months. They said that I did not have permission to leave. I truly will miss them. Angela said that I wouldn’t miss them at all when I got back to my house in the US. I told her that I don’t have a house (or a car or furniture). I stay with friends and family when I visit the states. She was surprised. In her eyes, why would anyone give up all the things that you can have in the US and chose to live here? It opened the door to discuss God leading and providing, and most importantly, God putting the correct desires in my heart to follow His plan. That is the only way to find true contentment.
Rafael, who is about 5 or 6, is a little boy at La Quimera. He has fallen in love with a few of the young ladies on teams. I took his picture today at Bible Study and asked if he wanted me to send it to his girlfriend. He said, Yes! Both of them! Haha
I got stopped by the police again today. We were on our way home from Bible Study at La Quimera. I was following the markings on the road, but the officer took issue with the way I turned the corner. He said I swerved, but that was the way the arrows were pointing on the road. Anyway, I’ve got this ‘dumb gringa’ thing down pretty good. I just pretend that I don’t know that they want a bribe and they finally give up and let me go. I don’t think it will work forever, but I’m thankful that God has kept me out of trouble so far! Today was the 4th time.
I got home this evening and the place is very quiet. Only me and Alberto (the guard) are here until the team gets back late tonight. I got my shower, had some leftovers for dinner and then started watching a movie on my computer. The van arrived about 8pm with the leftover dinner stuff from the Crusade site. I put the food away in the fridge and then returned to my room. It’s been very quiet and I love it. I truly love spending time by myself.
I’m going to bed early again tonight and hope to wake up early tomorrow for a good 4 miles walk and some errands. Then it will be time to set up for sewing class.
The team is having a blast doing Fiestas, School Visits, Conferences and the Crusade. They are working very hard and God is blessing in a tremendous way. There have been many, many salvations so far this week. God is good and faithful and provides divine appointments for us to follow up on. We are the tools and He is the Master.
I’m praying for a healthy body and lots of energy to do my part this week. He deserves my best. I give His blessings back to Him in Praise.
Anyway, I got a lot of computer work done this morning. I worked about 5 hours straight. I got everything ready and printed for Bible Study this afternoon and then I started in on emails and Feeding Center records. It was enjoyable, but I was getting cross-eyed!
I picked up Estefanie at Pacheco’s Engligh Academy to go to Bible Study at La Quimera. We had a wonderful class. The ladies are really getting into discussing the lessons. It makes my heart swell! For the next few weeks, we are talking about Living in God’s Word.
I told them the story of when I brought Bibles (donated by some wonderful VOH supporters) to the Bible Study class last year and gave them out. Everyone was appreciative. One person, in particular, held her Bible and just keep looking at it, caressing it and petting it. She truly treasured it. I’ll never forget that moment. And I pray that God gives me that same emotion when I pick up my Bible. In the States, we have access (and own) many Bibles of all shapes and sizes and translations. We take it for granted. I told the ladies that their excitement about receiving a Bible is the emotion that God wants from all of us when we think about His Word.
I told the ladies that I would be leaving in about 3 weeks and be gone for 2 months. They said that I did not have permission to leave. I truly will miss them. Angela said that I wouldn’t miss them at all when I got back to my house in the US. I told her that I don’t have a house (or a car or furniture). I stay with friends and family when I visit the states. She was surprised. In her eyes, why would anyone give up all the things that you can have in the US and chose to live here? It opened the door to discuss God leading and providing, and most importantly, God putting the correct desires in my heart to follow His plan. That is the only way to find true contentment.
Rafael, who is about 5 or 6, is a little boy at La Quimera. He has fallen in love with a few of the young ladies on teams. I took his picture today at Bible Study and asked if he wanted me to send it to his girlfriend. He said, Yes! Both of them! Haha
I got stopped by the police again today. We were on our way home from Bible Study at La Quimera. I was following the markings on the road, but the officer took issue with the way I turned the corner. He said I swerved, but that was the way the arrows were pointing on the road. Anyway, I’ve got this ‘dumb gringa’ thing down pretty good. I just pretend that I don’t know that they want a bribe and they finally give up and let me go. I don’t think it will work forever, but I’m thankful that God has kept me out of trouble so far! Today was the 4th time.
I got home this evening and the place is very quiet. Only me and Alberto (the guard) are here until the team gets back late tonight. I got my shower, had some leftovers for dinner and then started watching a movie on my computer. The van arrived about 8pm with the leftover dinner stuff from the Crusade site. I put the food away in the fridge and then returned to my room. It’s been very quiet and I love it. I truly love spending time by myself.
I’m going to bed early again tonight and hope to wake up early tomorrow for a good 4 miles walk and some errands. Then it will be time to set up for sewing class.
The team is having a blast doing Fiestas, School Visits, Conferences and the Crusade. They are working very hard and God is blessing in a tremendous way. There have been many, many salvations so far this week. God is good and faithful and provides divine appointments for us to follow up on. We are the tools and He is the Master.
I’m praying for a healthy body and lots of energy to do my part this week. He deserves my best. I give His blessings back to Him in Praise.
Tuesday, July 24, 2012
Newsletter June/July 2012
Buenas Nuevas de Nicaragua (Junio y Julio 2012)
It’s July 23, 2012. It’s been a tremendously busy summer!!! It’s been one of our busiest ones yet! Our weekly ministries are going strong and keeping us busy, even when we don’t have teams here. (And I’ve STILL been praying for better discipline of my time…)
I made my trip to Indiana May 24-31, to visit family and do paperwork to finalize my Dad’s estate. It was a good trip. It went very fast. Sandy had something on the schedule for every day. It was good to get to see everyone, too. I brought back lots of ministry supplies in my suitcases!
We’ve had many teams so far this year. 2 teams in March over Spring Break, 1 team in May, and starting on June 9, we’ve had 5 weeks of back to back teams. One comes in the day the other one leaves. It’s been crazy to get the rooms switched over with new linens and bathrooms cleaned and groceries bought and everything. But it’s a great challenge to meet!!! We had a one week break and now have our last team of the summer.
We are very thankful for each and every person who comes to serve with us. Our Nica support team and the workers from the churches we minister with have been awesome this summer, too. A lot of hard work goes into the weeks (and months) before a team gets here, especially when it’s a Crusade week. Hundreds of Nica people are involved on the front end, during the ministry week, and then in the weeks (and months) after doing follow up and discipleship.
The Women’s Bible studies at La Quimera Church have been better and better each week. The ladies are loving the study on “The Call to Follow Christ”. I have handouts ready for them in Spanish each week. We study the lessons in detail and have a lot of question and answer time. I’m thrilled with the feedback that I get from the women. They are really participating and are loving it.
The church at La Quimera is still going well. God is really blessing through Pastor Brian and his wife. There are a lot of lay people stepping up, also. The Feeding Center is doing great. The rain has held off most of the time during this ‘rainy season’ and the kids have been able to be fed every day. The kids have all received ID cards with their pictures and names on them to help keep things organized. They love having something with their picture on it.
We’ve started another Feeding Center at San Jacinto community. It’s awesome. It’s a smaller community, so there are only about 76 kids there, but the team of volunteer cooks are so appreciative and ready to work. It’s amazing and such an encouragement to us! Pastor Yader is doing a good work in that very poor and struggling community. He even has a soccer team put together that plays the soccer team from our other church plant, La Quimera. Both teams are going to have jerseys, courtesy of some generous teams that have come this summer. How fun! Mary is taking care of providing the jerserys for the team at San Jacinto. They have kind of adopted her as their mascot I think. ☺
Mary and I are both still teaching our Sewing Classes. We are winding down for the summer and will have a 2 month break while Mary and I are in the states. When we get back in October, we’ll concentrate more on making marketable items so the women can help to support their families.
The Feeding Center at Monte Horeb (Sewer Ponds) is going great. The kids there also received ID cards with their pictures and names. Those are a big hit. We’re still praying for donations to build a shelter for the kids to stand under and hopefully eat their meals on site. The kids love getting the wholesome meals each day. And we love providing them!
I’m still working on being disciplined with my health. I’ve been trying to walk most mornings now. I try to leave the team house about 6 or 6:30am and get back by 7 or 7:30am. Then I get my shower, have my oatmeal and then get to work. Discipline is such a hard thing for me to grasp. I surely need God’s strength for that!!!
I need to dedicate more time to my Spanish lessons each day. (another discipline problem) I’m working hard on listening to people, which is dificult sometimes with my hearing problem. But I’m determined to learn and become fluent. I know that God can give me divine abilities to learn and speak. I’m praying for that.
The summer has been so busy with back to back teams that I haven’t had much time to visit with friends. I see some of the translators when they are working with the teams, but since I have other ministry duties and don’t go out with them during the day, I miss spending time with them. But I love getting to live here most of the year, so I eventually get time to visit.
I’m still working on my website vickiecline.com. I’m going to make an appointment with my friend who is working on it for me. I’ll find out what all he needs for me to have ready for him and then we can get together one day when I’m back in the States and we’ll get it put together.
Speaking of websites… the VOH website has been updated and is great! Check it out at www.centralamericahope.org
My plans are to be in the States Aug 13 – Oct 16, then I’m back to Nica until Jan 28. I hope to spend the month of February in the States and then back here to Nica March – August 2013. I’m so blessed to get to be here serving and doing the things that God blesses my heart with. He has prepared me to do this work (teaching Bible Study, teaching sewing and crafts, organizing, and computer work, interacting with all types of people, etc). He places those desires on my heart. I ask Him to only let HIS desires touch me and not to let my own self get in the way. He is Faithful and Awesome!!!
I mentioned the great teams that we have had this summer. There have been 4 Crusades so far. These are city-wide events with services each night. There have been over 10,000 people accept Christ this summer alone. A lot of work goes into putting on these Crusades and a lot of follow up happens by the churches in that particular city. It’s been awesome!! God has prepared the way and the workers have been preparing themselves and coming to serve. The Harvest is truly Plentiful!!!
We give God all the Glory and Honor for everything that He allows us to accomplish in His Name here in Nicaragua. And we want to continue to make it possible for as many teams as possible to come to Nica to be a part of this great work. Be praying about whether God is calling you to come and join us. We’re here almost year round and there are souls to be saved all year long. Let God lead you in His plan for your participation.
God is moving in many ways here (as He is all over the world) and it’s so fun to be a part of it. I’m thankful that He has brought me where He wants me to be. I’m thankful for you, too, for being a supporter and prayer partner. Thank you for being obedient to God’s call to help me be here. I share the blessings with you!
Pictures can be seen on my Facebook page. (and soon on my website)
I can be reached at vickiejocline@yahoo.com, facebook, twitter, skype,
US cell 479-270-0727, personal mail: PO box 567, Rogers AR 72757
I can be supported through: (be sure to note the funds are for my support)
Voice of Hope Ministries FBC Rogers
PO Box 1780 3364 W Pleasant Grove Road
Rogers AR 72757 Rogers AR 72758
centralameriahope.org (donate button)
Praises:
* VOH team is growing (many workers are needed)
* Team from various churches served at the Ronnie Hill Crusade in Estelí
* Teams from Highridge Church, Ft Worth TX, Lifesong Baptist Church, Harrisonburg VA, and Temple Baptist Church, Searcy AR served at the Crusade in Posoltega
* Team from Crosslife Church, El Dorado AR served at the Crusade in La Paz Centro
* Team from Highland Baptist Church, New Iberia LA
* Team from Westside Baptist Church, Harrisonburg VA
* Team from Abba’s House, Hixon TN served in the Crusade in El Viejo
* Feeding Center at La Quimera community
* Feeding Center at Monte Horeb community
* Feeding Center at Noah’s Ark church
* Feeding Center at San Jacinto community
* Meeting new people all the time
* All of our health has been relatively good & teams have traveled safely
* Thankful that God has put the desires and passions in my life to prepare for His work
Prayers:
* Health and safety for me and the VOH staff
* More teams to answer the call to come and serve with us in Nica
* Financial support for the ministry
* Financial support for me personally
* Improved language skills
* Discernment and wisdom when teaching classes
* Safety (for everyone) when I’m driving in Nica
* Future VOH workers
* Discernment and Wisdom for the Hulseys as they lead the ministry
* That I not miss even one opportunity to share Christ
Romans 9:17
“I raised you up for this very purpose that I might display my power in you and that my name might be proclaimed in all the earth.”
I Timothy 1:12, 16
“How thankful I am to Christ Jesus our Lord for considering me trustworthy and appointing me to serve Him… so that He could use me as a prime example of His great patience with even the worst sinners. Then others will realize that they, too, can believe in Him and receive eternal life.”
Romans 10:15
“How can they preach unless they are sent? As it is written, “How beautiful are the feet of those who bring the good news”.”
Thank you for helping proclaim the Name of Jesus to all the earth!!
¡Bendiciones!
Following Him Always,
Vickie
It’s July 23, 2012. It’s been a tremendously busy summer!!! It’s been one of our busiest ones yet! Our weekly ministries are going strong and keeping us busy, even when we don’t have teams here. (And I’ve STILL been praying for better discipline of my time…)
I made my trip to Indiana May 24-31, to visit family and do paperwork to finalize my Dad’s estate. It was a good trip. It went very fast. Sandy had something on the schedule for every day. It was good to get to see everyone, too. I brought back lots of ministry supplies in my suitcases!
We’ve had many teams so far this year. 2 teams in March over Spring Break, 1 team in May, and starting on June 9, we’ve had 5 weeks of back to back teams. One comes in the day the other one leaves. It’s been crazy to get the rooms switched over with new linens and bathrooms cleaned and groceries bought and everything. But it’s a great challenge to meet!!! We had a one week break and now have our last team of the summer.
We are very thankful for each and every person who comes to serve with us. Our Nica support team and the workers from the churches we minister with have been awesome this summer, too. A lot of hard work goes into the weeks (and months) before a team gets here, especially when it’s a Crusade week. Hundreds of Nica people are involved on the front end, during the ministry week, and then in the weeks (and months) after doing follow up and discipleship.
The Women’s Bible studies at La Quimera Church have been better and better each week. The ladies are loving the study on “The Call to Follow Christ”. I have handouts ready for them in Spanish each week. We study the lessons in detail and have a lot of question and answer time. I’m thrilled with the feedback that I get from the women. They are really participating and are loving it.
The church at La Quimera is still going well. God is really blessing through Pastor Brian and his wife. There are a lot of lay people stepping up, also. The Feeding Center is doing great. The rain has held off most of the time during this ‘rainy season’ and the kids have been able to be fed every day. The kids have all received ID cards with their pictures and names on them to help keep things organized. They love having something with their picture on it.
We’ve started another Feeding Center at San Jacinto community. It’s awesome. It’s a smaller community, so there are only about 76 kids there, but the team of volunteer cooks are so appreciative and ready to work. It’s amazing and such an encouragement to us! Pastor Yader is doing a good work in that very poor and struggling community. He even has a soccer team put together that plays the soccer team from our other church plant, La Quimera. Both teams are going to have jerseys, courtesy of some generous teams that have come this summer. How fun! Mary is taking care of providing the jerserys for the team at San Jacinto. They have kind of adopted her as their mascot I think. ☺
Mary and I are both still teaching our Sewing Classes. We are winding down for the summer and will have a 2 month break while Mary and I are in the states. When we get back in October, we’ll concentrate more on making marketable items so the women can help to support their families.
The Feeding Center at Monte Horeb (Sewer Ponds) is going great. The kids there also received ID cards with their pictures and names. Those are a big hit. We’re still praying for donations to build a shelter for the kids to stand under and hopefully eat their meals on site. The kids love getting the wholesome meals each day. And we love providing them!
I’m still working on being disciplined with my health. I’ve been trying to walk most mornings now. I try to leave the team house about 6 or 6:30am and get back by 7 or 7:30am. Then I get my shower, have my oatmeal and then get to work. Discipline is such a hard thing for me to grasp. I surely need God’s strength for that!!!
I need to dedicate more time to my Spanish lessons each day. (another discipline problem) I’m working hard on listening to people, which is dificult sometimes with my hearing problem. But I’m determined to learn and become fluent. I know that God can give me divine abilities to learn and speak. I’m praying for that.
The summer has been so busy with back to back teams that I haven’t had much time to visit with friends. I see some of the translators when they are working with the teams, but since I have other ministry duties and don’t go out with them during the day, I miss spending time with them. But I love getting to live here most of the year, so I eventually get time to visit.
I’m still working on my website vickiecline.com. I’m going to make an appointment with my friend who is working on it for me. I’ll find out what all he needs for me to have ready for him and then we can get together one day when I’m back in the States and we’ll get it put together.
Speaking of websites… the VOH website has been updated and is great! Check it out at www.centralamericahope.org
My plans are to be in the States Aug 13 – Oct 16, then I’m back to Nica until Jan 28. I hope to spend the month of February in the States and then back here to Nica March – August 2013. I’m so blessed to get to be here serving and doing the things that God blesses my heart with. He has prepared me to do this work (teaching Bible Study, teaching sewing and crafts, organizing, and computer work, interacting with all types of people, etc). He places those desires on my heart. I ask Him to only let HIS desires touch me and not to let my own self get in the way. He is Faithful and Awesome!!!
I mentioned the great teams that we have had this summer. There have been 4 Crusades so far. These are city-wide events with services each night. There have been over 10,000 people accept Christ this summer alone. A lot of work goes into putting on these Crusades and a lot of follow up happens by the churches in that particular city. It’s been awesome!! God has prepared the way and the workers have been preparing themselves and coming to serve. The Harvest is truly Plentiful!!!
We give God all the Glory and Honor for everything that He allows us to accomplish in His Name here in Nicaragua. And we want to continue to make it possible for as many teams as possible to come to Nica to be a part of this great work. Be praying about whether God is calling you to come and join us. We’re here almost year round and there are souls to be saved all year long. Let God lead you in His plan for your participation.
God is moving in many ways here (as He is all over the world) and it’s so fun to be a part of it. I’m thankful that He has brought me where He wants me to be. I’m thankful for you, too, for being a supporter and prayer partner. Thank you for being obedient to God’s call to help me be here. I share the blessings with you!
Pictures can be seen on my Facebook page. (and soon on my website)
I can be reached at vickiejocline@yahoo.com, facebook, twitter, skype,
US cell 479-270-0727, personal mail: PO box 567, Rogers AR 72757
I can be supported through: (be sure to note the funds are for my support)
Voice of Hope Ministries FBC Rogers
PO Box 1780 3364 W Pleasant Grove Road
Rogers AR 72757 Rogers AR 72758
centralameriahope.org (donate button)
Praises:
* VOH team is growing (many workers are needed)
* Team from various churches served at the Ronnie Hill Crusade in Estelí
* Teams from Highridge Church, Ft Worth TX, Lifesong Baptist Church, Harrisonburg VA, and Temple Baptist Church, Searcy AR served at the Crusade in Posoltega
* Team from Crosslife Church, El Dorado AR served at the Crusade in La Paz Centro
* Team from Highland Baptist Church, New Iberia LA
* Team from Westside Baptist Church, Harrisonburg VA
* Team from Abba’s House, Hixon TN served in the Crusade in El Viejo
* Feeding Center at La Quimera community
* Feeding Center at Monte Horeb community
* Feeding Center at Noah’s Ark church
* Feeding Center at San Jacinto community
* Meeting new people all the time
* All of our health has been relatively good & teams have traveled safely
* Thankful that God has put the desires and passions in my life to prepare for His work
Prayers:
* Health and safety for me and the VOH staff
* More teams to answer the call to come and serve with us in Nica
* Financial support for the ministry
* Financial support for me personally
* Improved language skills
* Discernment and wisdom when teaching classes
* Safety (for everyone) when I’m driving in Nica
* Future VOH workers
* Discernment and Wisdom for the Hulseys as they lead the ministry
* That I not miss even one opportunity to share Christ
Romans 9:17
“I raised you up for this very purpose that I might display my power in you and that my name might be proclaimed in all the earth.”
I Timothy 1:12, 16
“How thankful I am to Christ Jesus our Lord for considering me trustworthy and appointing me to serve Him… so that He could use me as a prime example of His great patience with even the worst sinners. Then others will realize that they, too, can believe in Him and receive eternal life.”
Romans 10:15
“How can they preach unless they are sent? As it is written, “How beautiful are the feet of those who bring the good news”.”
Thank you for helping proclaim the Name of Jesus to all the earth!!
¡Bendiciones!
Following Him Always,
Vickie
Tuesday, July 24, 2012
4 mile walk this morning. I left at 6:30am, so there was a little more traffic than usual. I need to get myself up and leave by 6am to get some good real estate availability. ☺
The team had the morning off, since they are working all afternoon and evening in El Viejo where the Crusade is. They didn’t quite know what to do with themselves. Mike arranged for them to go to the Monte Horeb Feeding Center just before noon.
I worked on computer stuff until Mike loaded up a van with some of the team to visit a future site for a Feeding Center and Church Plant. It’s where the old dump was. It’s cleaned up pretty much and there are small plots of land that people are putting up one room ‘houses’ made of tree limbs and plastic sheeting. There are probably 600-800 families in this area. There is one little church. We have been asked to come and provide a church and feeding center. It’s high on our priority list. We’re looking for churches to help sponsor the building and personal costs. God is opening this door wide open. We know that He will provide.
When I visited the Monte Horeb Feeding Center, I was asked by a lot of the women when I would be coming again. They said that they miss me. Mayela and I are busy at some of the other Feeding Centers that have occasional ‘issues’ to deal with. We’ll have to make it a point to visit MH soon to see everyone. Mayela checks in with the Feeding Center Supervisor, Auxiliodoro daily, so we’re not out of touch. We’ve just not been real visible to the community. We need to fix that!
I got to see baby Dariela, just turned 2 on April 20. I first met her and her parents in July of 2010, when she was just a few months old. It’s been so fun to see her growing up.
Lesly brought back the edited copy of the Spanish version of my Bible Study notes. I got the corrections made and printed some copies for me and Estefanie. I also printed a copy of the English and Spanish versions for Pastor Brian because he likes to use them, also. I need to copy the pages for tomorrow’s class.
I’m also still working on my Memory Verse project for the Ladies to do while I’m in the states. I think they will like having the packet of memory verses to work on.
We had a scrumptious lunch of grilled chicken, rice, beans, fried plantains, cabbage slaw. It was soooo good! I found out that there was some left over for dinner and I enjoyed it a second time!
I worked a lot on the computer this afternoon and then drove Mary, Lesly and Pastor Yader (from San Jacinto) to meet with Pastor Brian at the business where we’re getting soccer uniforms for the San Jacinto team. Mary is heading up this project and she was thrilled to be able to do this. Pastor Yader is very happy, too. He said that the soccer team came to church last week. He encouraged them to keep coming and not just for the uniforms. He said that they listened pretty well to his message. The jerseys should be ready next Tuesday and Pastor Yader wants us out there next Thursday for a service and to give the jerseys out. Mary had the workers at the sewing place laughing with her antics. We got some good pictures of the Pastors and Mary working on the order.
Mary and I are back to the team house alone and it’s very nice and peaceful. Just like when there are no teams. Alberto is doing his own thing, waiting for the team to get back late tonight. Mary and I are both on the computer doing facebook and such.
I think I may even try and study some Spanish tonight before I do my reading and get ready for bed. Maybe even a movie. Who knows? I’m pretty wild. Haha
I still have a huge amount of work to catch up on and get a handle on before I leave Aug 13, but God is giving me a peace about it and helping me to check off large chunks from my to-do list.
I think I’ll get off of here for now and post this. I want to take advantage of this wonderfully quiet evening! I am blessed
The team had the morning off, since they are working all afternoon and evening in El Viejo where the Crusade is. They didn’t quite know what to do with themselves. Mike arranged for them to go to the Monte Horeb Feeding Center just before noon.
I worked on computer stuff until Mike loaded up a van with some of the team to visit a future site for a Feeding Center and Church Plant. It’s where the old dump was. It’s cleaned up pretty much and there are small plots of land that people are putting up one room ‘houses’ made of tree limbs and plastic sheeting. There are probably 600-800 families in this area. There is one little church. We have been asked to come and provide a church and feeding center. It’s high on our priority list. We’re looking for churches to help sponsor the building and personal costs. God is opening this door wide open. We know that He will provide.
When I visited the Monte Horeb Feeding Center, I was asked by a lot of the women when I would be coming again. They said that they miss me. Mayela and I are busy at some of the other Feeding Centers that have occasional ‘issues’ to deal with. We’ll have to make it a point to visit MH soon to see everyone. Mayela checks in with the Feeding Center Supervisor, Auxiliodoro daily, so we’re not out of touch. We’ve just not been real visible to the community. We need to fix that!
I got to see baby Dariela, just turned 2 on April 20. I first met her and her parents in July of 2010, when she was just a few months old. It’s been so fun to see her growing up.
Lesly brought back the edited copy of the Spanish version of my Bible Study notes. I got the corrections made and printed some copies for me and Estefanie. I also printed a copy of the English and Spanish versions for Pastor Brian because he likes to use them, also. I need to copy the pages for tomorrow’s class.
I’m also still working on my Memory Verse project for the Ladies to do while I’m in the states. I think they will like having the packet of memory verses to work on.
We had a scrumptious lunch of grilled chicken, rice, beans, fried plantains, cabbage slaw. It was soooo good! I found out that there was some left over for dinner and I enjoyed it a second time!
I worked a lot on the computer this afternoon and then drove Mary, Lesly and Pastor Yader (from San Jacinto) to meet with Pastor Brian at the business where we’re getting soccer uniforms for the San Jacinto team. Mary is heading up this project and she was thrilled to be able to do this. Pastor Yader is very happy, too. He said that the soccer team came to church last week. He encouraged them to keep coming and not just for the uniforms. He said that they listened pretty well to his message. The jerseys should be ready next Tuesday and Pastor Yader wants us out there next Thursday for a service and to give the jerseys out. Mary had the workers at the sewing place laughing with her antics. We got some good pictures of the Pastors and Mary working on the order.
Mary and I are back to the team house alone and it’s very nice and peaceful. Just like when there are no teams. Alberto is doing his own thing, waiting for the team to get back late tonight. Mary and I are both on the computer doing facebook and such.
I think I may even try and study some Spanish tonight before I do my reading and get ready for bed. Maybe even a movie. Who knows? I’m pretty wild. Haha
I still have a huge amount of work to catch up on and get a handle on before I leave Aug 13, but God is giving me a peace about it and helping me to check off large chunks from my to-do list.
I think I’ll get off of here for now and post this. I want to take advantage of this wonderfully quiet evening! I am blessed
Monday, July 23, 2012
Monday, July 23, 2012
It’s been a good day. I walked 4 miles this morning. I tried going faster to improve my time. It’s mostly an incline, sometimes more than others, and the pavement/sidewalks are treacherous, but I still make good time. I love my walk. Once I get myself out the door!
After my shower, I helped Leana in the kitchen, since Erika is sick today. Leana is so much fun! She trusted me to cut up grapes, clean the celery and dry the dishes. Not much, but it was helpful.
I ran over to the Hulsey’s house to pick up Sherry and bring her over to the team house. Then I got on the computer for awhile.
The team left at 7:30am to do some Fiestas and street ministry. Their lunch was delivered to them in the field and then they did more Fiestas in the afternoon. They finally got back to the team house about 4:30. They were very tired and hot and sweaty. I think some were a little bit dehydrated. It’s hard to make yourself drink enough water when there aren’t sufficient bathrooms in some of the places we serve. They got refreshed and rested while they listened to Sherry tell Manuel’s story. Only one person on the team had been here before, so it was new to them all. While we had dinner (spaghetti and cheese biscuits) Manuel preached and led some singing. He loves to have an audience.
I finally got my Newsletter out via email. I got a lot of other computer stuff done, too. Mayela had some work on the computer to do, so we didn’t venture out to a Feeding Center today. The office printer went haywire, so she’ll need to stay here tomorrow to get a picture book printed for the team. We’ll make it to a couple of Feeding Centers later in the week. They are doing pretty well. We just like to check in and also get updated pics and info.
My shoulders and upper back were bothering me, so I asked Mayela for a shoulder and neck massage. She is a masseuse, so she loves doing that. She carries her oil with her. She ended up having me come to my room and giving me a full back, shoulder and neck massage. It was wonderful! She said that I’m so tight in my back and shoulders that I need another massage on Wednesday. OK!!
I met with Pastor Brian for a short meeting this morning about the Children’s Ministry at La Quimera Church. Sherry and Mike have given me the go-ahead to follow up on God’s nudging me to help organize the Children’s Ministry for La Quimera and San Jacinto churches. I’ll also help the Monte Horeb church when the time’s right. I’m excited about it. I’ll be sharing more info later about how it will work, what is needed and how donors can help. I’ll be bringing supplies and materials back from the states with me in October.
I drove Leana home tonight after dinner. She brings a 5 gallon bucket to fill up with leftovers and scraps to feed their pig. She had a big load and the wait for the bus was going to be long. Then she has to walk quite a ways to her house. Sherry asked me to drive her home. I’ve only been there once before, but Leana was happy that I could remember the way. She introduced me to her 4 sons. They are precious!
I got back to the team house and the group is worshiping and I’m enjoying it. Now time to post this, get my book out and retire for the night.
God is so good and I am truly thankful for ALL His blessings!
After my shower, I helped Leana in the kitchen, since Erika is sick today. Leana is so much fun! She trusted me to cut up grapes, clean the celery and dry the dishes. Not much, but it was helpful.
I ran over to the Hulsey’s house to pick up Sherry and bring her over to the team house. Then I got on the computer for awhile.
The team left at 7:30am to do some Fiestas and street ministry. Their lunch was delivered to them in the field and then they did more Fiestas in the afternoon. They finally got back to the team house about 4:30. They were very tired and hot and sweaty. I think some were a little bit dehydrated. It’s hard to make yourself drink enough water when there aren’t sufficient bathrooms in some of the places we serve. They got refreshed and rested while they listened to Sherry tell Manuel’s story. Only one person on the team had been here before, so it was new to them all. While we had dinner (spaghetti and cheese biscuits) Manuel preached and led some singing. He loves to have an audience.
I finally got my Newsletter out via email. I got a lot of other computer stuff done, too. Mayela had some work on the computer to do, so we didn’t venture out to a Feeding Center today. The office printer went haywire, so she’ll need to stay here tomorrow to get a picture book printed for the team. We’ll make it to a couple of Feeding Centers later in the week. They are doing pretty well. We just like to check in and also get updated pics and info.
My shoulders and upper back were bothering me, so I asked Mayela for a shoulder and neck massage. She is a masseuse, so she loves doing that. She carries her oil with her. She ended up having me come to my room and giving me a full back, shoulder and neck massage. It was wonderful! She said that I’m so tight in my back and shoulders that I need another massage on Wednesday. OK!!
I met with Pastor Brian for a short meeting this morning about the Children’s Ministry at La Quimera Church. Sherry and Mike have given me the go-ahead to follow up on God’s nudging me to help organize the Children’s Ministry for La Quimera and San Jacinto churches. I’ll also help the Monte Horeb church when the time’s right. I’m excited about it. I’ll be sharing more info later about how it will work, what is needed and how donors can help. I’ll be bringing supplies and materials back from the states with me in October.
I drove Leana home tonight after dinner. She brings a 5 gallon bucket to fill up with leftovers and scraps to feed their pig. She had a big load and the wait for the bus was going to be long. Then she has to walk quite a ways to her house. Sherry asked me to drive her home. I’ve only been there once before, but Leana was happy that I could remember the way. She introduced me to her 4 sons. They are precious!
I got back to the team house and the group is worshiping and I’m enjoying it. Now time to post this, get my book out and retire for the night.
God is so good and I am truly thankful for ALL His blessings!
Sunday, July 22, 2012
Sunday night and finally done for the day. The team split up and went to 8 different churches this morning and 8 different churches this evening. Many testimonies and messages shared. And lots of time on the road!
I didn’t walk this morning and enjoyed spending time getting ready for church and talking with some of the team. Mike was here this morning and had a short meeting with them. I went to La Quimera church this morning and enjoyed Pastor Brian. The kids are starting to talk to me and all call my by name. The ladies are always so sweet. I love being in the La Quimera community.
We had meatloaf, mashed potatoes and corn for lunch. It was very good. After lunch, there was Fiesta training for the team. Manuel pitched in and led the team in some singing before Mike spoke. I guess he was the opening act.
Later in the afternoon, I played with Manuel. He loves to pretend stuff. I was his wife and we were going to the airport to pick up a team. We walked around with our arms out behind us like we were pulling luggage along. We missed our flight, of course, so we found a place to sit and got a pretend snack at the airport. He has it all figured out. He had a good day today.
I stayed at the team house when the teams went out to church this evening. I worked on the computer some and I also looked up some Bible verses to share with my Ladies Bible Study class. I’m making them some Scripture Memory cards to use while I’m gone for 2 months. It’s hard to pick out just a handful of scripture. It’s all so good!
The teams got back really late from church tonight. I sent the cook home and finished up serving the groups as they came in. It didn’t take long to get it done and the dishes washed up. I was glad to pitch in and let her go home. She has to be back about 5am tomorrow, so she deserves to go home by 8pm!! The rest of the week won’t be so late, because the team will take their dinner with them to the crusade area and have picnic dinners each night. Leana will be able to go home about 5pm each night. That will be much better.
Erika, one of the cooks is sick, so if Leana can’t find a helper for tomorrow, I volunteered my services. This will be fun! I love Leana. She is so funny!
I’m reading a book called “Conversation Peace” and really enjoying it. I try to read a chapter or two every day. I need to add in an hour or two of Spanish study to my schedule, too. That plus Bible study and quiet time, walking and working will pretty much fill in my day to overflowing! I hope I can find time to take a quick nap! Haha
I was working on my quarterly wall calendar today. I’m putting the team dates for Oct, Nov, Dec and Jan on it. Plus scheduling my Bible Study lesson plan for those 4 months. Next I need to plan my sewing class projects. Then we’ll watch it all change on a weekly basis! Never a dull moment around here!
It’s been a very dry ‘rainy season’ so far. I hope we get some rain in the next months. But I have to say that I hope it only rains at night while we are sleeping. That would be perfect!
I guess I should head to bed now. Weeks with teams means getting up between 5 and 6am. I need my beauty sleep and to be rested enough to get my early morning walks in. Pray for discipline for me!!
Can’t wait to see what all God is going to do this week! Crusade Weeks are the best!! May His will be done and may He receive all the Glory!!
I didn’t walk this morning and enjoyed spending time getting ready for church and talking with some of the team. Mike was here this morning and had a short meeting with them. I went to La Quimera church this morning and enjoyed Pastor Brian. The kids are starting to talk to me and all call my by name. The ladies are always so sweet. I love being in the La Quimera community.
We had meatloaf, mashed potatoes and corn for lunch. It was very good. After lunch, there was Fiesta training for the team. Manuel pitched in and led the team in some singing before Mike spoke. I guess he was the opening act.
Later in the afternoon, I played with Manuel. He loves to pretend stuff. I was his wife and we were going to the airport to pick up a team. We walked around with our arms out behind us like we were pulling luggage along. We missed our flight, of course, so we found a place to sit and got a pretend snack at the airport. He has it all figured out. He had a good day today.
I stayed at the team house when the teams went out to church this evening. I worked on the computer some and I also looked up some Bible verses to share with my Ladies Bible Study class. I’m making them some Scripture Memory cards to use while I’m gone for 2 months. It’s hard to pick out just a handful of scripture. It’s all so good!
The teams got back really late from church tonight. I sent the cook home and finished up serving the groups as they came in. It didn’t take long to get it done and the dishes washed up. I was glad to pitch in and let her go home. She has to be back about 5am tomorrow, so she deserves to go home by 8pm!! The rest of the week won’t be so late, because the team will take their dinner with them to the crusade area and have picnic dinners each night. Leana will be able to go home about 5pm each night. That will be much better.
Erika, one of the cooks is sick, so if Leana can’t find a helper for tomorrow, I volunteered my services. This will be fun! I love Leana. She is so funny!
I’m reading a book called “Conversation Peace” and really enjoying it. I try to read a chapter or two every day. I need to add in an hour or two of Spanish study to my schedule, too. That plus Bible study and quiet time, walking and working will pretty much fill in my day to overflowing! I hope I can find time to take a quick nap! Haha
I was working on my quarterly wall calendar today. I’m putting the team dates for Oct, Nov, Dec and Jan on it. Plus scheduling my Bible Study lesson plan for those 4 months. Next I need to plan my sewing class projects. Then we’ll watch it all change on a weekly basis! Never a dull moment around here!
It’s been a very dry ‘rainy season’ so far. I hope we get some rain in the next months. But I have to say that I hope it only rains at night while we are sleeping. That would be perfect!
I guess I should head to bed now. Weeks with teams means getting up between 5 and 6am. I need my beauty sleep and to be rested enough to get my early morning walks in. Pray for discipline for me!!
Can’t wait to see what all God is going to do this week! Crusade Weeks are the best!! May His will be done and may He receive all the Glory!!
Saturday, July 21, 2012
Saturday, July 21, 2012
I got up and walked 4 miles this morning. Since I went to bed so early last night, I was wide awake at 5am and read until 6. Then I decided I wasn’t going to be able to fall back asleep, so I got up and walked earlier than usual. The weather was not so hot and the streets not so crowded, so it was a good change.
I got back to the team house and showered and fixed my oatmeal and then joined the team for a brief meeting. They all took off about 10am for downtown for sightseeing and shopping. They also had lunch at Tip Top Chicken and did more shopping before returning to the team house at 3:30pm.
Mary and I ran into town for some printer ink and a few things at the grocery store. It was nice to just run around a little bit. We got back to the team house and messed around a bit until the pizzas came for lunch. I love the veggie pizza.
I worked on typing up the Bible study notes in Spanish (thanks to Estefanie’s translating them for me) and printed off a copy for Lesly to edit/correct. Then I made a few phone calls to family in IN until the internet messed up my Skype calls on my phone.
I laid down to rest and play scrabble on my Kindle and then napped for about an hour. It felt so nice!
The team got back and we loaded up about 4pm and headed to the beach. We went to Suyapa restaurant for everyone to order their food. The team went walking along the beach for a while. Mary and I sat at the restaurant with the drivers and chatted. It takes a long time to get your food when in a large group, so we were there a while. As the sun was beginning to lower it started bearing down on our table, so we moved. One of the drivers was holding his cap up in the air to shield me from the sun. How sweet. Once we moved it was much better.
Our food came in shifts. Mary was served and started in on the veggies and potatoes. Then a little while later, the waiter brought over her real order and we discovered that she had MY plate! It was so funny! She gave me a few of the veggies and pieces of potato from her plate to make up for what she ate of mine. Everyone gets a small bowl of rice with their dinner. Mary had mine and hers both in front of her. I was teasing her about taking all of my food! Our dinners were really yummy, as always. We were still stuffed from the pizza from lunch, but we did a good job on our meals anyway.
Now I’m back in my room, showered and eating dark chocolate mint m&ms while working on the computer. In a little while I’ll be in bed early again, reading until I fall to sleep. It’s been a wonderful and relaxing day.
Tomorrow we start the ministry work week. I’ll be going to La Quimera as usual. The team will be splitting into 8 groups to go to churches who are involved with the Crusade this coming week. They will go to 8 more churches tomorrow night. It’s going to be a great Sunday!!
I’m so thankful for the blessings that God has given me this day (and always). It’s so wonderful to get to live here in Nica and serve my sweet Lord. I love all the opportunities He brings my way to interact with so many people. I love being a piece to His big puzzle.
I got back to the team house and showered and fixed my oatmeal and then joined the team for a brief meeting. They all took off about 10am for downtown for sightseeing and shopping. They also had lunch at Tip Top Chicken and did more shopping before returning to the team house at 3:30pm.
Mary and I ran into town for some printer ink and a few things at the grocery store. It was nice to just run around a little bit. We got back to the team house and messed around a bit until the pizzas came for lunch. I love the veggie pizza.
I worked on typing up the Bible study notes in Spanish (thanks to Estefanie’s translating them for me) and printed off a copy for Lesly to edit/correct. Then I made a few phone calls to family in IN until the internet messed up my Skype calls on my phone.
I laid down to rest and play scrabble on my Kindle and then napped for about an hour. It felt so nice!
The team got back and we loaded up about 4pm and headed to the beach. We went to Suyapa restaurant for everyone to order their food. The team went walking along the beach for a while. Mary and I sat at the restaurant with the drivers and chatted. It takes a long time to get your food when in a large group, so we were there a while. As the sun was beginning to lower it started bearing down on our table, so we moved. One of the drivers was holding his cap up in the air to shield me from the sun. How sweet. Once we moved it was much better.
Our food came in shifts. Mary was served and started in on the veggies and potatoes. Then a little while later, the waiter brought over her real order and we discovered that she had MY plate! It was so funny! She gave me a few of the veggies and pieces of potato from her plate to make up for what she ate of mine. Everyone gets a small bowl of rice with their dinner. Mary had mine and hers both in front of her. I was teasing her about taking all of my food! Our dinners were really yummy, as always. We were still stuffed from the pizza from lunch, but we did a good job on our meals anyway.
Now I’m back in my room, showered and eating dark chocolate mint m&ms while working on the computer. In a little while I’ll be in bed early again, reading until I fall to sleep. It’s been a wonderful and relaxing day.
Tomorrow we start the ministry work week. I’ll be going to La Quimera as usual. The team will be splitting into 8 groups to go to churches who are involved with the Crusade this coming week. They will go to 8 more churches tomorrow night. It’s going to be a great Sunday!!
I’m so thankful for the blessings that God has given me this day (and always). It’s so wonderful to get to live here in Nica and serve my sweet Lord. I love all the opportunities He brings my way to interact with so many people. I love being a piece to His big puzzle.
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