A good day. I woke up feeling a little sick, like I was getting a sinus infection. I was feeling feverish (but who can tell in this heat) and a little weak. I decided to take a taxi to class today. I had some antibiotics that I had brought with me, so I started on them this morning. I got showered and dressed and had some cereal for breakfast and then left out for class. I arrived before 9am, so I reviewed stuff until Juan got there.
We had a good class today. Discussing lots of things in Spanish and then working on some idioms. Juan said that we would concentrate on the 400 verbs I’m learning this week as well as the 12 verb tenses that we have discussed over the last 2 weeks. I think that’s plenty for now. All the other stuff we have studied is pretty much in my brain. The verbs and verb tenses take more concentration and study. I’m glad we are going to work on them for a few days.
I got home (by taxi) for lunch. The taxi driver was helping me pronounce some Spanish words. He was trying to teach me to roll my rrrrr’s. I just can’t do it. I thought it was nice of him to try to help me. He was listening to a sermon on his cd player in the taxi. It’s nice to run into Christian people.
When I got home shortly after class, Leslie knew I hadn’t walked. She asked why and told me that she is feeling yucky, too, and had started some meds herself. Jaasiel has been on meds for bronchitis this past week. Maybe it’s something going around. Anyway, I’m hoping to feel ship-shape by week’s end.
The cook had not come this morning, so Sherry started lunch. Claudia got here a little before time to eat and said that she had had to take her mother to the hospital this morning. She finished cooking and we all had a great meal of grilled chicken, mashed potatoes, salad, quacamole, tortillas. Yummy. I went to my room to lay down for awhile and try to get rid of the sinus headache. I slept for about an hour. Mary red a book while Sherry and Manuel played in pool. Mike worked on his computer. Jaasiel came to have class time with Manuel this afternoon. He is doing well considering his challenges. He has been reading to me and wanting to do some math questions and stuff. I know that Jaasiel is making a difference with him.
I found out that we are just going to Las Quimeras earlier tomorrow instead of going out there today to talk with Pastor Sergio about which women to start working with on teaching sewing. I was glad that we were staying put for the afternoon.
Also, we are going to the Oriental Market in Managua on Saturday, instead of Thursday. I called Juan and told him that I wouldn’t have to miss Thursday’s class after all. He said to come on in early tomorrow (to finish making up 1 extra day) and come on Thursday. That way I will be ahead by 1 day in case something else comes up and I have to miss a day. Good thinking, because I think we’re going to Masaya one day next week.
Mike and German went to a used furniture/appliance store. They found a second refrigerator for the team house and some wooden tables. Also, a coffeemaker for Mary. Jaasiel said that she knows where that store is and maybe Mary and I can go check it out sometime.
Part of the tables were delivered this evening. They came by bicycle-taxi. It was funny to see them tied into and onto the contraptions. Alberto came to my room to see if I had 300 córdabas to pay the delivery guys. He couldn’t get a hold of German by phone. Luckily, I had exchanged some money this morning at the corner before class. The rest of the stuff is supposed to come tomorrow. I picked out which table I want in my room. I told Mike I would pay for it myself, to help the ministry out. They have to be treated for termites and then stained and then I can put it in my room. Yay!
I skipped my dip in the pool tonight, even though I was home since I didn’t go to the English class this afternoon. I want to get as much rest as I can to get over this head thing going on.
Mary used the sewing machine for a few minutes this evening and I took up a few skirts that were getting too big. Then I put all that away, ate some left overs, showered and settled down to study my verbs and verb tenses. I talk to myself a lot when memorizing things. People would find me rather funny if they could see inside my little room. ☺
I’m going to post this and then go to bed early tonight. Looking forward to a good night’s sleep and then an early morning, long Spanish class and then Women’s Bible study at Las Quimeras tomorrow. Going to need some good rest.
I’m thankful for all that God brings my way. So many little things during the day. He is so faithful. And I am so blessed.
Wednesday, November 9, 2011
Monday, November 7, 2011 NICARAGUA
Okay. 9:30pm and it’s time to write my blog and go to bed. Gotta get up early and go to Spanish class 1 hour earlier for the next 2 days so that I can skip class on Thursday to go to Managua with the VOH gang.
This weekend has flown by so fast! I guess because I went to the English school on Saturday morning, so Sunday and Monday were my ‘weekend’. Yesterday, I started sewing on aprons for Aracelys and Claudia and I finished them today. I also made a manly one for Manuel. I altered and hemmed a skirt for Coco and also make her 3 skirts. I hemmed a denim skirt for myself that I picked up at a used clothing store on my way home from Spanish class last week. I tweaked a shirt, took a swim, had leftover churrasco (steak) and mashed potatoes for dinner, studied Spanish verb tenses until I’m blue in the face. Speaking of blue, I’m admiring the navy pillow cases I made for my twin bed to make it look like a daybed. I like it.
The Hulsey’s were here for most of the day. I played with Manuel a couple of times. He is interested in learning now (for small bits of time). I hope he has good school time with Jaasiel this week.
Mary did some sewing today on hemming curtains. She sat on the pool steps while I swam this evening and we had a nice chat. We went to our rooms when the mosquitoes came buzzing. Saturnino will need to spray again tomorrow. Yesterday, Mary and I left our doors and windows open past dusk while enjoying the pool. We both got nibbled on last night by the mosquitoes. We made sure to shut up our rooms before heading for our evening swim.
With the exception of hearing fireworks last night, I haven’t experienced anything different after the elections. Of course, I haven’t left our compound for the last 2 days, either. LOL I’ll walk to Spanish class tomorrow morning, but I doubt that anything will be different on the road. Today was supposed to be the biggest day of celebration and demonstration.
Manuel’s dog, Buster, (a miniature Doberman) is about the size of a medium cat. He is getting a belly on him now and looks so funny when he lays down. Sherry makes him scrambled eggs every morning for breakfast. And he refuses to eat dog food. Only people food for him. Even chips. He went for a couple of dips in the pool today. When he dog paddles, he looks like a motorboat. He really moves! He doesn’t like the water too much though.
I’m feeling very peaceful and content this evening. I hope I sleep well. I’ve been having weird dreams for about 2 weeks now. Not nightmares, just weird. Oh well, it could be worse.
According to facebook postings, there was another earthquake in OK which was felt in AR. That makes 2 in just a few days. And I’m missing them! Maybe we’ll have a volcano eruption here. Nothing major, just want to see one of the smoking volcanos spew a little bit. Knowing me, I won’t have my camera ready anyway…
This is short, but I’m heading to bed. I hope everyone has had a blessed day. I know I have.
This weekend has flown by so fast! I guess because I went to the English school on Saturday morning, so Sunday and Monday were my ‘weekend’. Yesterday, I started sewing on aprons for Aracelys and Claudia and I finished them today. I also made a manly one for Manuel. I altered and hemmed a skirt for Coco and also make her 3 skirts. I hemmed a denim skirt for myself that I picked up at a used clothing store on my way home from Spanish class last week. I tweaked a shirt, took a swim, had leftover churrasco (steak) and mashed potatoes for dinner, studied Spanish verb tenses until I’m blue in the face. Speaking of blue, I’m admiring the navy pillow cases I made for my twin bed to make it look like a daybed. I like it.
The Hulsey’s were here for most of the day. I played with Manuel a couple of times. He is interested in learning now (for small bits of time). I hope he has good school time with Jaasiel this week.
Mary did some sewing today on hemming curtains. She sat on the pool steps while I swam this evening and we had a nice chat. We went to our rooms when the mosquitoes came buzzing. Saturnino will need to spray again tomorrow. Yesterday, Mary and I left our doors and windows open past dusk while enjoying the pool. We both got nibbled on last night by the mosquitoes. We made sure to shut up our rooms before heading for our evening swim.
With the exception of hearing fireworks last night, I haven’t experienced anything different after the elections. Of course, I haven’t left our compound for the last 2 days, either. LOL I’ll walk to Spanish class tomorrow morning, but I doubt that anything will be different on the road. Today was supposed to be the biggest day of celebration and demonstration.
Manuel’s dog, Buster, (a miniature Doberman) is about the size of a medium cat. He is getting a belly on him now and looks so funny when he lays down. Sherry makes him scrambled eggs every morning for breakfast. And he refuses to eat dog food. Only people food for him. Even chips. He went for a couple of dips in the pool today. When he dog paddles, he looks like a motorboat. He really moves! He doesn’t like the water too much though.
I’m feeling very peaceful and content this evening. I hope I sleep well. I’ve been having weird dreams for about 2 weeks now. Not nightmares, just weird. Oh well, it could be worse.
According to facebook postings, there was another earthquake in OK which was felt in AR. That makes 2 in just a few days. And I’m missing them! Maybe we’ll have a volcano eruption here. Nothing major, just want to see one of the smoking volcanos spew a little bit. Knowing me, I won’t have my camera ready anyway…
This is short, but I’m heading to bed. I hope everyone has had a blessed day. I know I have.
Sunday, November 6, 2011
Sunday, Nov 6, 2011 NICARAGUA
It’s late and I should be getting ready for bed soon. It’s been an interesting day, since we didn’t go out anywhere today. The elections were today and churches were closed. There are people out everywhere and the streets will be blocked by celebrations and demonstrations (depending on which party you are a member of) for the rest of tonight and tomorrow. There isn’t any big surprise expected with the results, but with a Third World Country, you never know. We stayed here at the Mission House today and the Hulsey’s came over for lunch and to swim for the afternoon. I haven’t talked to them since they left at late afternoon to drive home. German (and all our other friends here) say not to go out on Monday, because of all the chaos in traveling. We’re happy as little clams to hang out here at the house. All of our workers, except Alberto (who lives here) and Claudia (our cook who didn’t want to take the day off) are staying home tomorrow.
My Monday Spanish class was moved to last Friday, so I have the day free to study and sew and nap. Ahhhh. Pretty much what I did today, actually.
Manuel spent the night with Mary and me last night. He slept on a mattress in Mary’s room. We took turns keeping him occupied last night and today. He was in a very good mood this morning and we had fun together.
I cut out 8 full aprons for Aracelys and Claudia. I got 4 of them finished today. I was modeling one to show Mary and Sherry and Manuel saw it. He heard me say that my sister had made me some aprons when I was a stepmom and the boys called it my cooking dress. She also made them some (they were 4, 5, and 6 yrs old) for craft aprons. They called theirs cooking dresses, too. Manuel decided he needed one, too. He wanted to try on the one I had finished for the ladies. He looked like he was wearing a dress. He looked so cute. He told his dad to get him a pan because he needed to cook something. I had some plaid material with red, navy, green, etc in it and we decided it would make a good boy apron. So he commissioned me to make it for him. I got it done tonight, also.
I have lots of projects that I want to work on. It’s so much fun getting to do these things. Tomorrow will be another good day of sewing.
This evening, after the sun left the pool area, I went for a dip. Mary came out and sat on the pool steps and put her legs in. We chatted a while. It was very nice. Since Saturnino is spraying for mosquitoes twice a week now, they are not bad at all. Yay!! After my swim, I came back to my room and fixed a baked potato for dinner and had some pudding for dessert.
Mike left me the internet cord and I’ve been researching more craft projects for the ladies (who in the barrios where we minister) to make and sell to help support their families. I’m loving these projects.
I need to get some Bible study done, prepare for the Women’s Bible studies this week and practice my Spanish verbs. We’ll see how much of each I get done tomorrow.
Mary will start going to the Women’s Bible studies with me this week. Next week, she will start teaching how to share your testimony with the ladies during part of the time. Her class time should last about 6 weeks until she goes home on December 23. The weekly study of the 12 Extraordinary Women of the Bible will continue year round until we cover all 12 Women, then we will start a new study.
I have 10 more Bibles coming tomorrow afternoon for the ladies at Las Quimeras. I’ve got the next 6 Bible bags done for them. I need to buy their notebooks at the Librería on Tuesday or Wednesday morning when I walk to class.
I hope we are still going to the Oriental Market in Managua on Thursday. I can’t wait to get some things for my room and to also see what kind of supplies I can find for the projects. They say the market is huge and takes all day. We may need to take 2 vans to bring everything home in! ha
Time for bed for today. Time is marching on. So much to do and experience. Don’t want to miss a minute! Soooo blessed.
My Monday Spanish class was moved to last Friday, so I have the day free to study and sew and nap. Ahhhh. Pretty much what I did today, actually.
Manuel spent the night with Mary and me last night. He slept on a mattress in Mary’s room. We took turns keeping him occupied last night and today. He was in a very good mood this morning and we had fun together.
I cut out 8 full aprons for Aracelys and Claudia. I got 4 of them finished today. I was modeling one to show Mary and Sherry and Manuel saw it. He heard me say that my sister had made me some aprons when I was a stepmom and the boys called it my cooking dress. She also made them some (they were 4, 5, and 6 yrs old) for craft aprons. They called theirs cooking dresses, too. Manuel decided he needed one, too. He wanted to try on the one I had finished for the ladies. He looked like he was wearing a dress. He looked so cute. He told his dad to get him a pan because he needed to cook something. I had some plaid material with red, navy, green, etc in it and we decided it would make a good boy apron. So he commissioned me to make it for him. I got it done tonight, also.
I have lots of projects that I want to work on. It’s so much fun getting to do these things. Tomorrow will be another good day of sewing.
This evening, after the sun left the pool area, I went for a dip. Mary came out and sat on the pool steps and put her legs in. We chatted a while. It was very nice. Since Saturnino is spraying for mosquitoes twice a week now, they are not bad at all. Yay!! After my swim, I came back to my room and fixed a baked potato for dinner and had some pudding for dessert.
Mike left me the internet cord and I’ve been researching more craft projects for the ladies (who in the barrios where we minister) to make and sell to help support their families. I’m loving these projects.
I need to get some Bible study done, prepare for the Women’s Bible studies this week and practice my Spanish verbs. We’ll see how much of each I get done tomorrow.
Mary will start going to the Women’s Bible studies with me this week. Next week, she will start teaching how to share your testimony with the ladies during part of the time. Her class time should last about 6 weeks until she goes home on December 23. The weekly study of the 12 Extraordinary Women of the Bible will continue year round until we cover all 12 Women, then we will start a new study.
I have 10 more Bibles coming tomorrow afternoon for the ladies at Las Quimeras. I’ve got the next 6 Bible bags done for them. I need to buy their notebooks at the Librería on Tuesday or Wednesday morning when I walk to class.
I hope we are still going to the Oriental Market in Managua on Thursday. I can’t wait to get some things for my room and to also see what kind of supplies I can find for the projects. They say the market is huge and takes all day. We may need to take 2 vans to bring everything home in! ha
Time for bed for today. Time is marching on. So much to do and experience. Don’t want to miss a minute! Soooo blessed.
Saturday, November 5, 2011
Saturday, Nov 5, 2011 NICARAGUA
Woke up early and headed off to Pacheco’s school to visit with the Saturday English class. Got there about 9am and stayed until 10:30. It was a wonderful class full of very dedicated students. It still amazes me that these kids can speak such good English in so short of a time. They are very hungry to learn the language, since it will help them get better jobs someday. If only others were as dedicated to learning as they are. We had a fun time. I shared my testimony with them and we talked about a lot of things. It was great. Later in the day, I saw one of the girls in the shopping area. I noticed someone looking at me and smiling. Then I realized it was she. How fun to run into her!
Jeremy called me during the class and I had to call him back. We ended up getting together at the Mission House for about an hour. Kelly had made some rice pudding for me and Mary and Sherry. I got to practice my improving Spanish skills on them and they were very pleased. I still have a long way to go, but I was encouraged by their comments on my progress. I love those two kids very much.
After they left, I grabbed a quick shower and got ready for Sherry, Mary and I to go to lunch to celebrate Sherry’s birthday. We ate at Al Carbón. It was very good. Then we walked around and did a little bit of shopping. Mostly looking. I picked up a few things at the sewing notions store and some groceries at La Unión and then we headed back to the house. I was thinking of spending some time alone just looking around, but was getting a sinus headache, so I opted to come back and rest.
The Hulsey’s went home and got cleaned up and then Mike dropped Manuel off to spend the night here with Mary and I. While waiting of them to get here, I started cutting out some of the pattern paper pieces for some projects. I don’t like that part of the process, but I put on some Spanish praise music and got busy cutting them out.
Manuel got here and ate his dinner. Mary and I listened to him preach and then he used his new little computer to send us pretend emails. We popped some popcorn and were ready to watch a movie, but Manuel decided he wanted to play instead. Finally, Mary talked him into watching a little bit of a movie and then they went to bed. I came to my room to do some research on the computer for some patterns to make friendship bracelets. That is one thing that gets bought a lot when teams come down. We are wanting to have some of the people in the areas we are ministering to, learn to make things to sell to the teams. It will take a while to get everything going, but it will be a big difference in the lives of these people if they can help to support their families by making handcrafts. The teams are always wanting to buy souvenirs, so we think this might be a good way to help support the families.
I finally received some money that I had wired down here, so I called Juan to tell him that I could pay him for my Spanish classes. Since it takes about a week between the check from the church being cut to me actually getting the money (my bank to VOH bank to wiring the money here), I went ahead and paid him for next month, too. He was quite happy!
There is so much I want to get accomplished in the next week or two, and the rest of my stay, actually. I need to confer with my Boss upstairs and see what He has planned for my agenda. I’m loving everything that I get to do and there just isn’t enough time to do it all.
Mary will start coming to the Women’s Bible studies and using part of the time to teach the ladies how to share their testimony. This will be a great addition to our time with the ladies.
We are planning on a trip to Managua on Thursday, so I’ll need to reschedule that day’s Spanish class. I think we are going back to Managua or Masaya the next week, too. I might just have to have 3 days of class those 2 weeks. Or maybe we can add an extra hour on 2 of the days to make up the time. I’m fine with either one.
The team will be here on the 19th. It won’t be long. It will be fun to have them here and see how they like the new place. I’m ready to get some high-impact ministry done, too, along with our on-going feedings and Bible studies.
Tomorrow I will get some laundry done, sew a few projects and do some Bible study of my own, as well as prepared for this coming week’s lesson. All good stuff!!
Time for bed now. I’m so thankful to have the internet cord tonight to do this time-consuming-but fun research on things for us to make. What an awesome job I have!
And what an even more wonderful God I serve!
Jeremy called me during the class and I had to call him back. We ended up getting together at the Mission House for about an hour. Kelly had made some rice pudding for me and Mary and Sherry. I got to practice my improving Spanish skills on them and they were very pleased. I still have a long way to go, but I was encouraged by their comments on my progress. I love those two kids very much.
After they left, I grabbed a quick shower and got ready for Sherry, Mary and I to go to lunch to celebrate Sherry’s birthday. We ate at Al Carbón. It was very good. Then we walked around and did a little bit of shopping. Mostly looking. I picked up a few things at the sewing notions store and some groceries at La Unión and then we headed back to the house. I was thinking of spending some time alone just looking around, but was getting a sinus headache, so I opted to come back and rest.
The Hulsey’s went home and got cleaned up and then Mike dropped Manuel off to spend the night here with Mary and I. While waiting of them to get here, I started cutting out some of the pattern paper pieces for some projects. I don’t like that part of the process, but I put on some Spanish praise music and got busy cutting them out.
Manuel got here and ate his dinner. Mary and I listened to him preach and then he used his new little computer to send us pretend emails. We popped some popcorn and were ready to watch a movie, but Manuel decided he wanted to play instead. Finally, Mary talked him into watching a little bit of a movie and then they went to bed. I came to my room to do some research on the computer for some patterns to make friendship bracelets. That is one thing that gets bought a lot when teams come down. We are wanting to have some of the people in the areas we are ministering to, learn to make things to sell to the teams. It will take a while to get everything going, but it will be a big difference in the lives of these people if they can help to support their families by making handcrafts. The teams are always wanting to buy souvenirs, so we think this might be a good way to help support the families.
I finally received some money that I had wired down here, so I called Juan to tell him that I could pay him for my Spanish classes. Since it takes about a week between the check from the church being cut to me actually getting the money (my bank to VOH bank to wiring the money here), I went ahead and paid him for next month, too. He was quite happy!
There is so much I want to get accomplished in the next week or two, and the rest of my stay, actually. I need to confer with my Boss upstairs and see what He has planned for my agenda. I’m loving everything that I get to do and there just isn’t enough time to do it all.
Mary will start coming to the Women’s Bible studies and using part of the time to teach the ladies how to share their testimony. This will be a great addition to our time with the ladies.
We are planning on a trip to Managua on Thursday, so I’ll need to reschedule that day’s Spanish class. I think we are going back to Managua or Masaya the next week, too. I might just have to have 3 days of class those 2 weeks. Or maybe we can add an extra hour on 2 of the days to make up the time. I’m fine with either one.
The team will be here on the 19th. It won’t be long. It will be fun to have them here and see how they like the new place. I’m ready to get some high-impact ministry done, too, along with our on-going feedings and Bible studies.
Tomorrow I will get some laundry done, sew a few projects and do some Bible study of my own, as well as prepared for this coming week’s lesson. All good stuff!!
Time for bed now. I’m so thankful to have the internet cord tonight to do this time-consuming-but fun research on things for us to make. What an awesome job I have!
And what an even more wonderful God I serve!
Friday, November 4, 2011
Friday, November 4, 2011 NICARAGUA
In my room, showered and ready for bed by 7:20pm. Looking forward to a quiet night.
Last night I didn’t get much sleep and I had a big day today. God gave me the physical strength and the peaceful heart to enjoy this day.
I visited with Mary for a while this morning and then headed off to walk to Spanish class. I stopped on the way at Bazar Jerry to buy some safety pins. Then I stopped at the corner by the bank to exchange some money with the guy who sits on a stool at the corner for just that purpose.
Got to class at 9:59am and started reviewing my notes from this week. Juan was pleased with all my charts for the verbs and other parts of grammar that we have been studying. He wants me to email him the files for him to use. We had a good class of practicing the verbs. I need to spend a lot of time on that this weekend.
I walked home after class and enjoyed a yummy lunch of hamburger patty, beans, rice, cabbage salad and tortilla. It was very good. I relaxed under the rancho with Leslie, Mary and the Hulsey’s for a while. Then I got ready for the Women’s Bible study at Rose of Sharon CC church.
Sherry had made 4 cakes to take to the church for the ladies. One was for Pastor Marvin’s mother, who had asked for a cake just for her. We split the rest of the cake between the group of 30+ people including some kids and a couple of Pastors. It was appreciated by all. (they don’t usually have ovens here and they don’t ever bake cakes. They buy them from the bakery.)
Pastor Marvin was afraid that I was ending the Bible study since we were serving cake. I assured him the weekly Bible study would continue every week. The cake was just a special treat and that there would be more to come. He reminded the ladies about the special event on Monday, Nov 21, when the team is here. We are going to have a special time with the ladies at 8am and then about 10am we will help cook the food for that day’s feeding of the children. It will be great fun.
I have told all the ladies of the ROSCC women’s group that whoever brings a guest will receive a special treat and that guest will, too. They asked if they would get 2 treats if they bring 2 guests. I said of course. This is a perfect time for them to invited non-churched ladies in the area to come for some fun and to get to know the church ladies a little bit. It will make it easier for them to come and join our Bible study in the future. I’m going to make little drawstring bags (with my leftover fabric from other projects) and fill them with candy for the prizes. This way I can make a lot of prizes for little money and it will be a treat for them!
Today’s Bible study was on the consequences of sin in the Garden of Eden. When discussing the part about the curse of pain and sorrow in childbearing, I told them that when they get to heaven, to look up Eve and ask her “What were you thinking????” They all thought that was funny. We have a nice time together in the Bible studies.
After I got home this evening, I hung out at Mary’s window and chatted for a while. We were entertained by an amorous pair of frogs. Very interesting…. After chatting a while, I got a shower and fixed some soup for dinner. I’m going to use the internet cable that Mike generously left for me to use, maybe sew a little bit, study a little Spanish and then go to bed early.
Juan asked me to come by his Saturday morning English class to meet the students so that they will be acquainted with me when I come and help with the class in the future. The class is from 8-10am, so I’ll walk there first thing in the morning and then walk back before it gets too hot.
After the English class, I’ll get ready to go with Sherry and Mary to lunch to celebrate Sherry’s birthday. This will be fun. We’re going to Al Carbón, which Sherry and I like, and Mary will be going to for the first time. It will be fun to together.
We also need to get some supplies to Pastor Sergio at Las Quimeras church for them to start a Sunday School class for the kids. We’ll need to deliver that tomorrow.
Jeremy, one of my Nica sons, called this morning asking what my plans are. He is wanting for me to get together with him and his wife Kelly. Today was very busy, so we decided that maybe tomorrow we could get together. I think I’ll see if they want to come over for a visit here at the Mission House. I don’t if Kelly will need to be working in her little store or not. Anyway, I’m looking forward to seeing them.
Other than laundry, I will be having a quiet few days here at the Mission House. Because of elections, we will not be going out for church on Sunday (that’s election day and most churches are closed), and Monday will be like a holiday while they are counting the votes. Most schools and businesses are closed and there are celebrations and demonstrations in the streets, so travel is difficult. There’s no violence expected, but disruption in travel and such. It will be nice to have a few days of staying home for a change.
I guess I’ll get off of here for now.
I’m very blessed and very thankful today.
Last night I didn’t get much sleep and I had a big day today. God gave me the physical strength and the peaceful heart to enjoy this day.
I visited with Mary for a while this morning and then headed off to walk to Spanish class. I stopped on the way at Bazar Jerry to buy some safety pins. Then I stopped at the corner by the bank to exchange some money with the guy who sits on a stool at the corner for just that purpose.
Got to class at 9:59am and started reviewing my notes from this week. Juan was pleased with all my charts for the verbs and other parts of grammar that we have been studying. He wants me to email him the files for him to use. We had a good class of practicing the verbs. I need to spend a lot of time on that this weekend.
I walked home after class and enjoyed a yummy lunch of hamburger patty, beans, rice, cabbage salad and tortilla. It was very good. I relaxed under the rancho with Leslie, Mary and the Hulsey’s for a while. Then I got ready for the Women’s Bible study at Rose of Sharon CC church.
Sherry had made 4 cakes to take to the church for the ladies. One was for Pastor Marvin’s mother, who had asked for a cake just for her. We split the rest of the cake between the group of 30+ people including some kids and a couple of Pastors. It was appreciated by all. (they don’t usually have ovens here and they don’t ever bake cakes. They buy them from the bakery.)
Pastor Marvin was afraid that I was ending the Bible study since we were serving cake. I assured him the weekly Bible study would continue every week. The cake was just a special treat and that there would be more to come. He reminded the ladies about the special event on Monday, Nov 21, when the team is here. We are going to have a special time with the ladies at 8am and then about 10am we will help cook the food for that day’s feeding of the children. It will be great fun.
I have told all the ladies of the ROSCC women’s group that whoever brings a guest will receive a special treat and that guest will, too. They asked if they would get 2 treats if they bring 2 guests. I said of course. This is a perfect time for them to invited non-churched ladies in the area to come for some fun and to get to know the church ladies a little bit. It will make it easier for them to come and join our Bible study in the future. I’m going to make little drawstring bags (with my leftover fabric from other projects) and fill them with candy for the prizes. This way I can make a lot of prizes for little money and it will be a treat for them!
Today’s Bible study was on the consequences of sin in the Garden of Eden. When discussing the part about the curse of pain and sorrow in childbearing, I told them that when they get to heaven, to look up Eve and ask her “What were you thinking????” They all thought that was funny. We have a nice time together in the Bible studies.
After I got home this evening, I hung out at Mary’s window and chatted for a while. We were entertained by an amorous pair of frogs. Very interesting…. After chatting a while, I got a shower and fixed some soup for dinner. I’m going to use the internet cable that Mike generously left for me to use, maybe sew a little bit, study a little Spanish and then go to bed early.
Juan asked me to come by his Saturday morning English class to meet the students so that they will be acquainted with me when I come and help with the class in the future. The class is from 8-10am, so I’ll walk there first thing in the morning and then walk back before it gets too hot.
After the English class, I’ll get ready to go with Sherry and Mary to lunch to celebrate Sherry’s birthday. This will be fun. We’re going to Al Carbón, which Sherry and I like, and Mary will be going to for the first time. It will be fun to together.
We also need to get some supplies to Pastor Sergio at Las Quimeras church for them to start a Sunday School class for the kids. We’ll need to deliver that tomorrow.
Jeremy, one of my Nica sons, called this morning asking what my plans are. He is wanting for me to get together with him and his wife Kelly. Today was very busy, so we decided that maybe tomorrow we could get together. I think I’ll see if they want to come over for a visit here at the Mission House. I don’t if Kelly will need to be working in her little store or not. Anyway, I’m looking forward to seeing them.
Other than laundry, I will be having a quiet few days here at the Mission House. Because of elections, we will not be going out for church on Sunday (that’s election day and most churches are closed), and Monday will be like a holiday while they are counting the votes. Most schools and businesses are closed and there are celebrations and demonstrations in the streets, so travel is difficult. There’s no violence expected, but disruption in travel and such. It will be nice to have a few days of staying home for a change.
I guess I’ll get off of here for now.
I’m very blessed and very thankful today.
Thursday, November 3, 2011 NICARAGUA
Another great day.
I was wide awake for a few hours last night and ended up falling back asleep and waking up at 9:03am! I haven’t slept that late since I’ve been here in Nica! I jumped up and grabbed my shower and dressed, ate some cereal and headed out the door to Spanish class. I was just a couple of minutes late, but still beat Juan there. I had time to review some stuff before we got started.
On my way walking there, I ran into Claudia (our new cook) and Jassiel (one of our translators and current part time teacher for Manuel) as they got off the bus at the end of our street. It was so nice to see them.
I checked facebook and emails on my phone this morning and saw that a very generous supporter of VOH had donated $250 for Bibles for the Women’s classes. How wonderful! I need to buy a lot of them and he is going to bless many women with his wonderful donation. I’m so thankful!
I also saw the Hulsey’s driving in the van to the Mission House while I was on my way to class. Sherry noticed that I was late. ☺
After class, I walked home and had some delicious shrimp for lunch. Alberto’s family live in Chinandega, which is about an hour or so north of here. They had lots of fresh seafood there. His cousin brought us some very fresh shrimp for an unbelievable price. We ended up getting about 8 pounds or so for only around $3 something a pound. Woohoo! Claudia had made the shrimp 2 ways. We had fried shrimp (of which I tried one just to see how yummy it was) and some boiled shrimp in a fantastic white sauce. Rice, plantains and a tortilla rounded out our meal. Soooo good!
After lunch, I played with Manuel for a little bit and we watched Saturnino climb up the palm trees to knock down the cocoanuts so they won’t fall on anyone’s heads. Juvel was trying to tell me to have Manuel stay back so he wouldn’t get hurt, but I couldn’t understand what he wanted. I thought he was asking if they could have the cocoanuts. So funny! Anyway, Saturnino is like a monkey climbing those trees. So fun to watch.
Sherry and Manuel were heading to their house about 4pm, so I caught a ride in the taxi with them. They dropped me off at the English class. I was the first one there as usual. It was a lot of fun today. Jonathan and Salvador took turns translating the lessons that I use for the Women’s Bible study. Juan likes for me to use Christian material when I work with them. So glad to share Jesus in every circumstance!! We had a great time and Juan videoed us and then he took his turn translating and they videoed him. I talked faster and used longer sentences with him, since he’s a seasoned pro. They guys enjoyed listening and trying to keep up and figure out ahead of him what to say. I always enjoy my time with those guys. I’m so proud of them and the progress they are making. It blows my mind. They are through with their college studies, so English class is their priority and they are drinking in all they can get of English. It’s fun to see their progress.
The guys helped me catch a taxi for home and I told the driver Hotel Berlín, which is the name of the place that we are renting as our Mission House. He already had a fare in the back, so he dropped him off first. After that guy got out, he looked at me and asked which street and why wasn’t I getting out. I said Hotel Berlín again, and he reacted as if a light came on in his brain. Turns out that the neighborhood that we were dropping the other guy off at is called Berlín. LOL. The driver said he understood now and knew where the place is. He got me home safe and sound. I always call Alberto when I’m getting close, so he can meet me at the door. He watches over me very well.
After a quick pb&j sandwich and some pudding I settled in to review some Spanish notes. I typed up some charts and lists and printed them off for tomorrow’s class. I didn’t intend on spending so much time on it, but before I knew it, German was pulling into the property with Mary from the airport. I gave her a quick tour, got her some cups and showed her where the water dispenser is. I introduced her to Alberto and made sure that he would have coffee ready in the morning. Mary used to always make the coffee at the old place. She will have to get used to people doing things for her here. I think she’ll like it.
Mary and I talked a little bit and got her settled in for the night. I’m wide awake and hyper from yakking. I need to go to bed and sleep well so that I’m prepared for class tomorrow and also, so I’ll wake up on time. Can’t believe I slept so late today.
I don’t usually have class on Fridays, but because of the chaos that follows elections, most of the businesses and stuff shut down on Monday. Juan moved all his Monday classes to tomorrow. It will make a very full week for my brain, but next week will be like having a holiday! I plan to sew!!!
Going to bed now and thanking God for the opportunity to live and serve here. I’m very happy and blessed.
I was wide awake for a few hours last night and ended up falling back asleep and waking up at 9:03am! I haven’t slept that late since I’ve been here in Nica! I jumped up and grabbed my shower and dressed, ate some cereal and headed out the door to Spanish class. I was just a couple of minutes late, but still beat Juan there. I had time to review some stuff before we got started.
On my way walking there, I ran into Claudia (our new cook) and Jassiel (one of our translators and current part time teacher for Manuel) as they got off the bus at the end of our street. It was so nice to see them.
I checked facebook and emails on my phone this morning and saw that a very generous supporter of VOH had donated $250 for Bibles for the Women’s classes. How wonderful! I need to buy a lot of them and he is going to bless many women with his wonderful donation. I’m so thankful!
I also saw the Hulsey’s driving in the van to the Mission House while I was on my way to class. Sherry noticed that I was late. ☺
After class, I walked home and had some delicious shrimp for lunch. Alberto’s family live in Chinandega, which is about an hour or so north of here. They had lots of fresh seafood there. His cousin brought us some very fresh shrimp for an unbelievable price. We ended up getting about 8 pounds or so for only around $3 something a pound. Woohoo! Claudia had made the shrimp 2 ways. We had fried shrimp (of which I tried one just to see how yummy it was) and some boiled shrimp in a fantastic white sauce. Rice, plantains and a tortilla rounded out our meal. Soooo good!
After lunch, I played with Manuel for a little bit and we watched Saturnino climb up the palm trees to knock down the cocoanuts so they won’t fall on anyone’s heads. Juvel was trying to tell me to have Manuel stay back so he wouldn’t get hurt, but I couldn’t understand what he wanted. I thought he was asking if they could have the cocoanuts. So funny! Anyway, Saturnino is like a monkey climbing those trees. So fun to watch.
Sherry and Manuel were heading to their house about 4pm, so I caught a ride in the taxi with them. They dropped me off at the English class. I was the first one there as usual. It was a lot of fun today. Jonathan and Salvador took turns translating the lessons that I use for the Women’s Bible study. Juan likes for me to use Christian material when I work with them. So glad to share Jesus in every circumstance!! We had a great time and Juan videoed us and then he took his turn translating and they videoed him. I talked faster and used longer sentences with him, since he’s a seasoned pro. They guys enjoyed listening and trying to keep up and figure out ahead of him what to say. I always enjoy my time with those guys. I’m so proud of them and the progress they are making. It blows my mind. They are through with their college studies, so English class is their priority and they are drinking in all they can get of English. It’s fun to see their progress.
The guys helped me catch a taxi for home and I told the driver Hotel Berlín, which is the name of the place that we are renting as our Mission House. He already had a fare in the back, so he dropped him off first. After that guy got out, he looked at me and asked which street and why wasn’t I getting out. I said Hotel Berlín again, and he reacted as if a light came on in his brain. Turns out that the neighborhood that we were dropping the other guy off at is called Berlín. LOL. The driver said he understood now and knew where the place is. He got me home safe and sound. I always call Alberto when I’m getting close, so he can meet me at the door. He watches over me very well.
After a quick pb&j sandwich and some pudding I settled in to review some Spanish notes. I typed up some charts and lists and printed them off for tomorrow’s class. I didn’t intend on spending so much time on it, but before I knew it, German was pulling into the property with Mary from the airport. I gave her a quick tour, got her some cups and showed her where the water dispenser is. I introduced her to Alberto and made sure that he would have coffee ready in the morning. Mary used to always make the coffee at the old place. She will have to get used to people doing things for her here. I think she’ll like it.
Mary and I talked a little bit and got her settled in for the night. I’m wide awake and hyper from yakking. I need to go to bed and sleep well so that I’m prepared for class tomorrow and also, so I’ll wake up on time. Can’t believe I slept so late today.
I don’t usually have class on Fridays, but because of the chaos that follows elections, most of the businesses and stuff shut down on Monday. Juan moved all his Monday classes to tomorrow. It will make a very full week for my brain, but next week will be like having a holiday! I plan to sew!!!
Going to bed now and thanking God for the opportunity to live and serve here. I’m very happy and blessed.
Wednesday, November 2, 2011
Wednesday, Nov 2, 2011 NICARAGUA
Another great day. I’m exhausted, but happy.
I got up early to do Bible study before breakfast and getting ready for Spanish class. I enjoy my quiet time. Although, since I don’t have TV and other distractions, most of the time in my room is quiet time! Ha
Aracelys cleaned my room quickly before I locked up and headed off to class. I stopped by Bazar Jerry for the much needed light blue thread to make more Bible bags for the ladies. I also stopped at the libreria for some paper clips. By the way, I asked Juan how to say paper clips in Spanish and he said they just say ‘clips’. That should be easy to remember!
It was a lovely, sunny morning and not too hot for the walk. Soon it will be too hot for me to walk. I’ll miss it very much. I lather on the sunscreen and wear a hat now. My bloodpressure meds make me burn easily, so I try to be cautious.
I got to class a little early and started reviewing my verbs. Juan was late again. I think we have slowly moved my class from 10a-12p to 10:30a-12:30 or 1pm. But that’s okay with me.
We had a good class and I was very challenged. He is going very fast and I wish I had more study time at home to really grasp everything. I made him promise to let me nail some of this info before he starts throwing more at me. That lasted about 15 minutes this morning. LOL. I do enjoy the class very much.
I left for home about 12:30 and went a head and walked even though the sun was very strong. I just love walking and it’s hard not to do it.
I got home for lunch and we had shredded beef, rice, beans and a fried plantain. It was yummy. I’m liking this new cook very much! She was wearing the apron that I had made for her last night. I told her I would make more and prettier ones this weekend. She and Aracelys deserve some nice ones.
I played with Manuel a little bit. Then I started sewing some more on the Bible bags. Leslie and I talked about Spanish grammar and how she worked hard on her English lessons when she first started learning. She understands my challenges and joys.
Sherry talked to Mary and found out that her plane was delayed and she would have to spend the night in Houston and catch the flight to Managua tomorrow instead of today. The airline will pay for the hotel, but I’m sure she would rather be here than hanging out at the airport most of the day tomorrow. But at least she will be here soon.
The Hulsey’s left and Leslie and I prepared for the Women’s Bible study class at Las Quimeras. Leslie’s husband, Jorge, had the day off from the children’s psychology place, so he was driving his taxi. He took us to the Bible study and brought us back to the hotel. Today was a holiday for a lot of people. It’s the Day of the Dead, which sounds more like Halloween, but is like our Memorial Day. People go to the cemeteries and clean up and decorate the graves of their loved ones. Since we have a cemetery on each end of our ‘block’, we saw a lot of action on the street today.
When I left for class this morning, I came across 3 people walking and waving to me. I recognized them from the Sewer Pond neighborhood. They spoke with me a few minutes and I told them that I was going to Spanish class. They were proud of me. It was nice to see them. They said that they miss us.
I got home from the Bible study and sewed on 6 more Bible bags, then fixed a tuna wrap in a tortilla and some yuka chips, then had some pudding for dessert.
I’ve been working on the computer all evening. And I’m not near done with making all the charts that I’ve scribbled in my notebook. I can’t believe that it’s nearly 11pm already.
I need to get myself to bed so I can get to class early again tomorrow. Oh, speaking of class, we usually are off on Fridays, but since Sunday is the election for the country and the ballots will still be in the process of being counted on Monday, most places are closing. Some for a holiday. Some because you never know what the situation will be from the outcome of the election. It’s best to lay low. We aren’t having class on Monday, so Juan is having all of his Monday classes come this Friday instead. I hope my brain can take 5 days of study this week. Ha. At least it will be a quiet weekend at home. Most churches don’t meet on Election day either. But I think the Las Quimeras might be meeting anyway. At least I will have plenty of time to sew this weekend and that makes me very happy!
My friends Charlie and Leslie Cotton welcomed their daughter Jenna to the world today. They are doing well and are very excited. I’m so happy for them.!
Time to hit the hay. Praying for a good night’s rest so I’ll be ready for the day tomorrow! God is good and I’m so blessed to have Him order my steps
I got up early to do Bible study before breakfast and getting ready for Spanish class. I enjoy my quiet time. Although, since I don’t have TV and other distractions, most of the time in my room is quiet time! Ha
Aracelys cleaned my room quickly before I locked up and headed off to class. I stopped by Bazar Jerry for the much needed light blue thread to make more Bible bags for the ladies. I also stopped at the libreria for some paper clips. By the way, I asked Juan how to say paper clips in Spanish and he said they just say ‘clips’. That should be easy to remember!
It was a lovely, sunny morning and not too hot for the walk. Soon it will be too hot for me to walk. I’ll miss it very much. I lather on the sunscreen and wear a hat now. My bloodpressure meds make me burn easily, so I try to be cautious.
I got to class a little early and started reviewing my verbs. Juan was late again. I think we have slowly moved my class from 10a-12p to 10:30a-12:30 or 1pm. But that’s okay with me.
We had a good class and I was very challenged. He is going very fast and I wish I had more study time at home to really grasp everything. I made him promise to let me nail some of this info before he starts throwing more at me. That lasted about 15 minutes this morning. LOL. I do enjoy the class very much.
I left for home about 12:30 and went a head and walked even though the sun was very strong. I just love walking and it’s hard not to do it.
I got home for lunch and we had shredded beef, rice, beans and a fried plantain. It was yummy. I’m liking this new cook very much! She was wearing the apron that I had made for her last night. I told her I would make more and prettier ones this weekend. She and Aracelys deserve some nice ones.
I played with Manuel a little bit. Then I started sewing some more on the Bible bags. Leslie and I talked about Spanish grammar and how she worked hard on her English lessons when she first started learning. She understands my challenges and joys.
Sherry talked to Mary and found out that her plane was delayed and she would have to spend the night in Houston and catch the flight to Managua tomorrow instead of today. The airline will pay for the hotel, but I’m sure she would rather be here than hanging out at the airport most of the day tomorrow. But at least she will be here soon.
The Hulsey’s left and Leslie and I prepared for the Women’s Bible study class at Las Quimeras. Leslie’s husband, Jorge, had the day off from the children’s psychology place, so he was driving his taxi. He took us to the Bible study and brought us back to the hotel. Today was a holiday for a lot of people. It’s the Day of the Dead, which sounds more like Halloween, but is like our Memorial Day. People go to the cemeteries and clean up and decorate the graves of their loved ones. Since we have a cemetery on each end of our ‘block’, we saw a lot of action on the street today.
When I left for class this morning, I came across 3 people walking and waving to me. I recognized them from the Sewer Pond neighborhood. They spoke with me a few minutes and I told them that I was going to Spanish class. They were proud of me. It was nice to see them. They said that they miss us.
I got home from the Bible study and sewed on 6 more Bible bags, then fixed a tuna wrap in a tortilla and some yuka chips, then had some pudding for dessert.
I’ve been working on the computer all evening. And I’m not near done with making all the charts that I’ve scribbled in my notebook. I can’t believe that it’s nearly 11pm already.
I need to get myself to bed so I can get to class early again tomorrow. Oh, speaking of class, we usually are off on Fridays, but since Sunday is the election for the country and the ballots will still be in the process of being counted on Monday, most places are closing. Some for a holiday. Some because you never know what the situation will be from the outcome of the election. It’s best to lay low. We aren’t having class on Monday, so Juan is having all of his Monday classes come this Friday instead. I hope my brain can take 5 days of study this week. Ha. At least it will be a quiet weekend at home. Most churches don’t meet on Election day either. But I think the Las Quimeras might be meeting anyway. At least I will have plenty of time to sew this weekend and that makes me very happy!
My friends Charlie and Leslie Cotton welcomed their daughter Jenna to the world today. They are doing well and are very excited. I’m so happy for them.!
Time to hit the hay. Praying for a good night’s rest so I’ll be ready for the day tomorrow! God is good and I’m so blessed to have Him order my steps
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