To you, getting mail is probably no big deal. It's a daily occurrence. But here, when a missionary gets mail, it's a BIG DEAL...and it can emotionally carry you through several days.
So, last Monday, the day after I arrived back at the home, I was so excited to find that mail had arrived for me while I was gone. Wow...mail from all sorts of people! And only a few hours later, the mailman arrived with even more mail for me! I was beyond ecstatic! I was nearly jumping up and down! I wanted to tear into each of them immediately like a kid at Christmas, but instead I'm making myself savor them and enjoy a couple each day. It seems that most are arriving in 10-14 days from when they were postmarked.
THANK YOU THANK YOU THANK YOU!
I saw that some of you are still using the old address which will soon no longer be functional. Please note that we're now using a different address in Miami Florida and it's on the top right hand corner of this blog web page.
And again, Thank you!
Thursday, June 28, 2007
Deb's Driving School- open one day only!
Last Tues, just my 2nd day back here at the home, I was asked to teach 3 staff members how to drive. Unlike when I was 15 years old, driving lessons are not a part of the school curriculum, and they're very expensive. Even if you do have a license, it is unlikely that you actually own a car due to the costs involved. Apparently these 3 twenty-something year olds are part of the team that is teaching the "Sex, Lies, and the Truth" program designed by James Dobson(of Focus on the Family) that this mission organization has been asked to teach in the school systems. Apparently, it would help a lot if they could drive themselves to the schools and other events. So, our mission org. paid to send them to a driving school, and now that they've completed the school they only needed some add'l experience and confidence. Thus, I was asked to ride with them in some low traffic areas. However, you should understand at this point that I've NEVER driven in a 3rd world country, and the place we were starting from is not a place I'm not familiar with (and is in the city!). I don't know how to get anywhere, much less to where there's little traffic.
Before I go on, let me tell you about the 5 new traffic laws that I learned/observed that I have already entered into my person journal:
Rule #1:
It is necessary to change lanes at least every 10 seconds just to keep people guessing. It is not necessary to look into the other lanes to see if there's other traffic.
Rule #2:
If you hit another car while following rule #1, you do not need to stop. However, if you feel it is necessary, you can stop and put your now damaged mirror back in place with tape, rope, etc.
Rule #3:
There are lines only on certain roads, therefore they must only be a mere suggestion, and can be enjoyed as an artistic impression on your voyage.
Rule #4:
When making a turn at an intersection, you may turn into any lane that suits you, not necessarily the one closest to you nor the one that you started in.
Rule #5:
When you're not sure where you are or what you should do, simple stop wherever you are, even if on a fast moving highway. The speeding cars and tractor trailer behind you will sound their horns in obvious approval as they swerve to miss you. At that point, you may determine that your next stop should be the emergency room because your instructor has had a heart attack.
Yes, every one of these things happened on Tues (except the heart attack)....and I could've written so many more! We were indeed in one accident when my student driver never bothered to look into the other lane before merging into it in order to swerve around the stopped bus in front of us. So our blue car now has some white paint on it, and our passenger side mirror isn't quite up to par. When I finally got my driver to stop the car, so I could inspect the damage, I also chose to use this time as a teachable moment as I drew the incident in the dust on the hood of the car, explaining some better alternatives in similar situations. As it happens, I had 2 more teachable moments during the day where I get out of the car and drew out various scenarios. And I also chose to drive twice myself, because I could not mentally or emotionally handle one more moment of their driving (particularly as we were leaving and returning to the city). I was quite scared to drive...but I was more scared of them. So, I just went for it. This was not exactly the scenario I had in my head for my first driving experience in Latin America.
By the way, I should tell you that Teri (the administrator who arranged this insanity) apologized profusely and said that she really thought that everything would be fine since they had graduated from driving school. Ok, one more lesson leaned. And let's see....this makes the 2nd stupid things I've done since making the promise on the volcano only 10 days earlier.
Before I go on, let me tell you about the 5 new traffic laws that I learned/observed that I have already entered into my person journal:
Rule #1:
It is necessary to change lanes at least every 10 seconds just to keep people guessing. It is not necessary to look into the other lanes to see if there's other traffic.
Rule #2:
If you hit another car while following rule #1, you do not need to stop. However, if you feel it is necessary, you can stop and put your now damaged mirror back in place with tape, rope, etc.
Rule #3:
There are lines only on certain roads, therefore they must only be a mere suggestion, and can be enjoyed as an artistic impression on your voyage.
Rule #4:
When making a turn at an intersection, you may turn into any lane that suits you, not necessarily the one closest to you nor the one that you started in.
Rule #5:
When you're not sure where you are or what you should do, simple stop wherever you are, even if on a fast moving highway. The speeding cars and tractor trailer behind you will sound their horns in obvious approval as they swerve to miss you. At that point, you may determine that your next stop should be the emergency room because your instructor has had a heart attack.
Yes, every one of these things happened on Tues (except the heart attack)....and I could've written so many more! We were indeed in one accident when my student driver never bothered to look into the other lane before merging into it in order to swerve around the stopped bus in front of us. So our blue car now has some white paint on it, and our passenger side mirror isn't quite up to par. When I finally got my driver to stop the car, so I could inspect the damage, I also chose to use this time as a teachable moment as I drew the incident in the dust on the hood of the car, explaining some better alternatives in similar situations. As it happens, I had 2 more teachable moments during the day where I get out of the car and drew out various scenarios. And I also chose to drive twice myself, because I could not mentally or emotionally handle one more moment of their driving (particularly as we were leaving and returning to the city). I was quite scared to drive...but I was more scared of them. So, I just went for it. This was not exactly the scenario I had in my head for my first driving experience in Latin America.
By the way, I should tell you that Teri (the administrator who arranged this insanity) apologized profusely and said that she really thought that everything would be fine since they had graduated from driving school. Ok, one more lesson leaned. And let's see....this makes the 2nd stupid things I've done since making the promise on the volcano only 10 days earlier.
Rescue Squad Duty in Guatamala
Heidy, one of my language school's administrators, offered to show me the local volunteer rescue/fire squad in Antigua last Sat. She said she was good friends with most of the squad members, and that from time to time she brings medical professions to the squad house. When Heidy called to make the arrangements, she was told to remind me to bring my nursing license with me. When I asked why it was needed, she said because the squad sometimes gets called to dangerous situations that include things like battles btw gangs using guns, and the cops were not going to think I was a member of the squad. I'd need to show my license so that I wouldn't get thrown into the crowd where it was even more dangerous. OH!! Wish I hadn't asked! Ginny, my good friend in Guat said," Didn't you just make a promise to God that after getting off the dangerous volcano mountain at night, that you wouldn't do anything else stupid for at least a month?" Ooops
They're are so many differences that I'd hardly know where to start. I guess first let me tell you about the pictures that I just put on the blog. The first is of the dispatchers desk. The second is of the "alarm lights" and the 3rd is me in front of the ambulance I'll tell you about shortly. If the dispatcher gets a call for something important, then he turns on the green light and he sets off a loud alarm in the building. Various lights and tones have various meanings. I asked the dispatcher what happens if there's no electricity (which happens often). He said that somebody just runs around shouting.
Both men and women work here. They're title is "bomberos" which means fireman. But in actuality, they're equally trained in both fire and rescue, and they have fire and rescue vehicles at the squad house. They severity and type determines which type of vehicle(s). I should also tell you that they have very crude quarters (their bunk room, kitchen and locker/bathroom areas).
After only being there for a little while, a man near the squad house yelled for help for his friend (that was with him) that had a head injury. Apparently he was drunk (at midday), had been in a fight, and had a rock thrown at him that hit him in the head. He had a nice flap of skin layed open on his head. Probably no big deal, but as usual with head wounds, he was bleeding like crazy. It seemed someone was reading my mind, and they pulled a pair of gloves out of their pocket for me to use. Once we had his head bandaged, we put him on the stretcher in the back of the pick-up truck. No kidding...a pick-up truck! See my picture in the previous blog to see this modern ambulance. And notice that there is no tail gate or chain or rope across the back end of the truck! The stretcher was "locked in", but the guy wasn't strapped onto the stretcher, and as we bumped and zig-zagged on the road to the hospital, this guy started to become a little combative. I was really glad when we got to the "public" (free) hospital. The difference btw the waiting room and the emergency room was a sheet pulled across a room. As we left the hospital, I noticed the 2 other squad people carefully removed their gloves and put them in their pocket for next time. I did likewise, figuring it might be all I had for the day. For one reason or another, I was never in the right place at the right time to go on any other interesting calls that day. Or, then again, maybe I was in just the right place at just the right time so that I was protected from more calls.
They're are so many differences that I'd hardly know where to start. I guess first let me tell you about the pictures that I just put on the blog. The first is of the dispatchers desk. The second is of the "alarm lights" and the 3rd is me in front of the ambulance I'll tell you about shortly. If the dispatcher gets a call for something important, then he turns on the green light and he sets off a loud alarm in the building. Various lights and tones have various meanings. I asked the dispatcher what happens if there's no electricity (which happens often). He said that somebody just runs around shouting.
Both men and women work here. They're title is "bomberos" which means fireman. But in actuality, they're equally trained in both fire and rescue, and they have fire and rescue vehicles at the squad house. They severity and type determines which type of vehicle(s). I should also tell you that they have very crude quarters (their bunk room, kitchen and locker/bathroom areas).
After only being there for a little while, a man near the squad house yelled for help for his friend (that was with him) that had a head injury. Apparently he was drunk (at midday), had been in a fight, and had a rock thrown at him that hit him in the head. He had a nice flap of skin layed open on his head. Probably no big deal, but as usual with head wounds, he was bleeding like crazy. It seemed someone was reading my mind, and they pulled a pair of gloves out of their pocket for me to use. Once we had his head bandaged, we put him on the stretcher in the back of the pick-up truck. No kidding...a pick-up truck! See my picture in the previous blog to see this modern ambulance. And notice that there is no tail gate or chain or rope across the back end of the truck! The stretcher was "locked in", but the guy wasn't strapped onto the stretcher, and as we bumped and zig-zagged on the road to the hospital, this guy started to become a little combative. I was really glad when we got to the "public" (free) hospital. The difference btw the waiting room and the emergency room was a sheet pulled across a room. As we left the hospital, I noticed the 2 other squad people carefully removed their gloves and put them in their pocket for next time. I did likewise, figuring it might be all I had for the day. For one reason or another, I was never in the right place at the right time to go on any other interesting calls that day. Or, then again, maybe I was in just the right place at just the right time so that I was protected from more calls.
End of wk 8- transition time
On Friday June 22nd, I finished my 8th week of school, and took my Grade B exam before leaving for my 3 week break. Thankfully, I did well on my oral and written exams. The oral exams are always nerve wracking to me!
On Saturday I went to visit and ride along with the local volunteer fire and rescue squads. But that experience earned it's own blog space. I'll write about that in my next blog entry.
On Sunday a thousand things could've gone wrong, but none (not even one) did. I know bunches of you were praying specifically me on this day of travel. I could tell. Thanks so much! My shuttle van picked me up from my student house in Antigua on time and the driver was not only nice, but seemed safer than most (he even wore a seat belt and used his blinkers at times!) He dropped me off 1.5hr later in Guatemala City right on time at the Holiday Inn where I sat and relaxed until my next bus pick-up scheduled for 1pm from the hotel. During one point of confusion at the bus ticket counter, the Lord provided a bilingual man (that happened to be right behind me in line) to provide assistance. I've learned a lot of Spanish, but I'm FAR from fluent. (After all it's only been 8 weeks!) We left a little late, and except for me being a little car sick for the first couple of hours, all went smoothly. We crossed the "dangerous area" near the country boarders without any problems, and we got through customs at both borders pretty well too. I was able to get out and walk a few feet while we were at customs, and my car sickness seemed to go away. I don't know why this is suddenly an issue for me. It normally isn't. Perhaps it's the altitude? We arrived in San Salvador, El Salvador around 6pm (my time). I rec'd big hugs of greeting from Teri & Osvaldo who took me to the orphanage (30 min further). Upon my arrival at the home, both the kids and adults greeted me warmly. I was VERY excited to back "home", and let out a decent "Whoopie" when I got there.
My brand new apartment at the home was almost ready for me,but due to the team apartment springing a big leak (from a big rain storm) the previous day, the team was moved into my apartment. Therefore I was put temporarily in the VIP/Guest room. Oh my goodness! An AIR CONDITIONED room with it's OWN bathroom (and HOT water)! As I layed on my DOUBLE sized bed that night Psalm 23 came to mind..."He makes me lie down in green pastures, He leads me beside the cool waters, He refreshes my soul." This indeed was refreshment for my soul!
On Saturday I went to visit and ride along with the local volunteer fire and rescue squads. But that experience earned it's own blog space. I'll write about that in my next blog entry.
On Sunday a thousand things could've gone wrong, but none (not even one) did. I know bunches of you were praying specifically me on this day of travel. I could tell. Thanks so much! My shuttle van picked me up from my student house in Antigua on time and the driver was not only nice, but seemed safer than most (he even wore a seat belt and used his blinkers at times!) He dropped me off 1.5hr later in Guatemala City right on time at the Holiday Inn where I sat and relaxed until my next bus pick-up scheduled for 1pm from the hotel. During one point of confusion at the bus ticket counter, the Lord provided a bilingual man (that happened to be right behind me in line) to provide assistance. I've learned a lot of Spanish, but I'm FAR from fluent. (After all it's only been 8 weeks!) We left a little late, and except for me being a little car sick for the first couple of hours, all went smoothly. We crossed the "dangerous area" near the country boarders without any problems, and we got through customs at both borders pretty well too. I was able to get out and walk a few feet while we were at customs, and my car sickness seemed to go away. I don't know why this is suddenly an issue for me. It normally isn't. Perhaps it's the altitude? We arrived in San Salvador, El Salvador around 6pm (my time). I rec'd big hugs of greeting from Teri & Osvaldo who took me to the orphanage (30 min further). Upon my arrival at the home, both the kids and adults greeted me warmly. I was VERY excited to back "home", and let out a decent "Whoopie" when I got there.
My brand new apartment at the home was almost ready for me,but due to the team apartment springing a big leak (from a big rain storm) the previous day, the team was moved into my apartment. Therefore I was put temporarily in the VIP/Guest room. Oh my goodness! An AIR CONDITIONED room with it's OWN bathroom (and HOT water)! As I layed on my DOUBLE sized bed that night Psalm 23 came to mind..."He makes me lie down in green pastures, He leads me beside the cool waters, He refreshes my soul." This indeed was refreshment for my soul!
Tuesday, June 19, 2007
My stupidity- God's protection
One of my very good friends just recently said something like the following: "OK Deb, you like logic and you're usually quite logical. So, let me try to understand...you live in area that just went through a 6.8 earthquake, yet yesterday you climbed a volcano?!!! Where's the logic in that?" Good point Cerena! And my mom asked me the same thing before I left for this adventure.
Yes, I went up a volcano. Some poor horse carted me about 3/5ths of the way up, and then when it got too rough, we were let off and we hoofed it the rest of the way. As many of you know, I'm a camera/picture freak. The horse ride up the mountain was so bumpy and steep and scary at times, that I didn't dare let go of the saddle horn to take any photos while we were moving. Most people don't use horses, but I would've never made it without the horse. Between me being out of shape, having bum knees, and the altitude...no way! My $5 horse ride was well worth it! Two of my friends that joined me on horseback definitely agreed.
Speaking of horses, at the bottom of the volcano we could all hear a snorting sort of sound...kind of like the noise a horse or buck (deer) makes. We figured it was just some horses that were in the group ahead of us. Each group had a guide and about 20 hikers. Yet, the "snort" sound continued to build as we went up the volcano. It didn't take too much longer before it became obvious that the volcano itself was snorting...almost like a regular exhale of something really angry. Yikes!
After getting off our horses, we hiked some more, then we finally reached the bottom of the lava field. The lava field is a huge area....as far as the eye could see to my left, right, and beyond me...of gray/black rocks. No vegetation. The rocks/boulders have the texture of sponges, yet are very sharp and easily cut human skin. Yet, are much lighter then "normal" rocks of the same size. This also meant that a large rock that would normally look substantial, may not be substantial enough. Sometimes I kind of liked the strategy of figuring out which rocks and which path looked best. Sometimes I had to literally use my hands to pull up on some rock faces. The lava field seemed to never end. Once we reached a certain height, we could feel lots of heat coming from below- like a vent in the floorboard of a car- and the rocks were warm to touch. More than once I thought to myself....this is the closest thing to hell that I can imagine. The pictures in the previous entry show me sitting on some dried swirled lava, and other pictures show some of the active lava river. We watched as the lava tumbled down the mountain, sometimes quickly and sometimes in slow motion. It was quite a sight...one I'm not likely to forget soon.
But here's where's things became tricky. My tour left Antigua at 2:30pm. We arrived at the volcano (somewhat car sick) at 4pm ish. We reached the lava area (our destination)btw 6-6:30pm, and it started to get dark (remember that we're not on daylight savings time) and it started to rain. We knew that we'd quickly be in trouble if we could not see our way and see where to step on the rocks of the lava field. At one point, my right toe caught on one of the rough rocks as I went to take a step. I can remember the people around me gasping in horror as they were about to see me take a tragic fall. Somehow God kept my feet moving forward and I was able to regain my balance. Whew! We just did get off the lava field before it became dark...but we still had the wet steep trail through the woods for another hour to reach the bottom of the mt. The simple dirt trail had lots of ruts from rain run off over time, and lots and lots of roots that were easy to trip on, and rocks of all sizes everywhere. More than once I and others around me slipped on the wet trail, but none of us fell. Once I stepped forward onto a rock the size of a baseball, and I'm sure my legs looked like Fred Flinstone peddling his car as I tried to regain my balance. My guess is that my very experienced guide can tell who the most needy folks are...and she offered me her walking stick. I humbly and thankfully took the stick (that's rented to hikeers for 75 cents at the bottom). I can't tell you how much of a difference the stick made as we wound our way down this totally dark trail. The stick was like another set of eyes to tell me where I can and can't step...and like another leg to help me keep my balance. I never once thought that we'd be coming off the mountain so late...and out of the whole group only one young married couple had tiny but bright flashlights. I was so glad they were right behind me! Honestly it was quite treacherous, dangerous, and scary getting off that mountain. You may think it strange...but I believe God provided for the stick and the people with the flashlight behind me. And just like the guide that could tell which person would need the extra help of the stick....God also knows what I need and when I need it, and then He provides it. Among my many prayers as I was coming down, I told God that if He allowed me get off this mountain safely, then I promised I wouldn't do anything this stupid for...humm...ahhhh...mmmm...at least a month :)
In retrospect, I guess I'm glad for the opportunity for the experience...but it was pretty stupid too. I risked my health, my knee (with 4 previous surgeries), and ultimately the mission that I know I've been called to. I just didn't know what I was getting into. Yet, in my stupidity, God provided.
Yes, I went up a volcano. Some poor horse carted me about 3/5ths of the way up, and then when it got too rough, we were let off and we hoofed it the rest of the way. As many of you know, I'm a camera/picture freak. The horse ride up the mountain was so bumpy and steep and scary at times, that I didn't dare let go of the saddle horn to take any photos while we were moving. Most people don't use horses, but I would've never made it without the horse. Between me being out of shape, having bum knees, and the altitude...no way! My $5 horse ride was well worth it! Two of my friends that joined me on horseback definitely agreed.
Speaking of horses, at the bottom of the volcano we could all hear a snorting sort of sound...kind of like the noise a horse or buck (deer) makes. We figured it was just some horses that were in the group ahead of us. Each group had a guide and about 20 hikers. Yet, the "snort" sound continued to build as we went up the volcano. It didn't take too much longer before it became obvious that the volcano itself was snorting...almost like a regular exhale of something really angry. Yikes!
After getting off our horses, we hiked some more, then we finally reached the bottom of the lava field. The lava field is a huge area....as far as the eye could see to my left, right, and beyond me...of gray/black rocks. No vegetation. The rocks/boulders have the texture of sponges, yet are very sharp and easily cut human skin. Yet, are much lighter then "normal" rocks of the same size. This also meant that a large rock that would normally look substantial, may not be substantial enough. Sometimes I kind of liked the strategy of figuring out which rocks and which path looked best. Sometimes I had to literally use my hands to pull up on some rock faces. The lava field seemed to never end. Once we reached a certain height, we could feel lots of heat coming from below- like a vent in the floorboard of a car- and the rocks were warm to touch. More than once I thought to myself....this is the closest thing to hell that I can imagine. The pictures in the previous entry show me sitting on some dried swirled lava, and other pictures show some of the active lava river. We watched as the lava tumbled down the mountain, sometimes quickly and sometimes in slow motion. It was quite a sight...one I'm not likely to forget soon.
But here's where's things became tricky. My tour left Antigua at 2:30pm. We arrived at the volcano (somewhat car sick) at 4pm ish. We reached the lava area (our destination)btw 6-6:30pm, and it started to get dark (remember that we're not on daylight savings time) and it started to rain. We knew that we'd quickly be in trouble if we could not see our way and see where to step on the rocks of the lava field. At one point, my right toe caught on one of the rough rocks as I went to take a step. I can remember the people around me gasping in horror as they were about to see me take a tragic fall. Somehow God kept my feet moving forward and I was able to regain my balance. Whew! We just did get off the lava field before it became dark...but we still had the wet steep trail through the woods for another hour to reach the bottom of the mt. The simple dirt trail had lots of ruts from rain run off over time, and lots and lots of roots that were easy to trip on, and rocks of all sizes everywhere. More than once I and others around me slipped on the wet trail, but none of us fell. Once I stepped forward onto a rock the size of a baseball, and I'm sure my legs looked like Fred Flinstone peddling his car as I tried to regain my balance. My guess is that my very experienced guide can tell who the most needy folks are...and she offered me her walking stick. I humbly and thankfully took the stick (that's rented to hikeers for 75 cents at the bottom). I can't tell you how much of a difference the stick made as we wound our way down this totally dark trail. The stick was like another set of eyes to tell me where I can and can't step...and like another leg to help me keep my balance. I never once thought that we'd be coming off the mountain so late...and out of the whole group only one young married couple had tiny but bright flashlights. I was so glad they were right behind me! Honestly it was quite treacherous, dangerous, and scary getting off that mountain. You may think it strange...but I believe God provided for the stick and the people with the flashlight behind me. And just like the guide that could tell which person would need the extra help of the stick....God also knows what I need and when I need it, and then He provides it. Among my many prayers as I was coming down, I told God that if He allowed me get off this mountain safely, then I promised I wouldn't do anything this stupid for...humm...ahhhh...mmmm...at least a month :)
In retrospect, I guess I'm glad for the opportunity for the experience...but it was pretty stupid too. I risked my health, my knee (with 4 previous surgeries), and ultimately the mission that I know I've been called to. I just didn't know what I was getting into. Yet, in my stupidity, God provided.
Thursday, June 14, 2007
Earthquakes & surgery for Eliz.
Thurs 6-14-07
Yesterday during lunch we had a pretty serious earthquake tremor...the largest I've ever felt at least. It was a 6.8! When I looked at that national website re: earthquakes, this one was in a bold red font. Only those above 6.0 get a bold red font...not many of those seen very often. Elizabeth (my "house mother") and her helper got this look of urgency on their face and popped out of their chairs, and pulled away from the lunch table quickly. Usually they don't even feel the tremors and/or they ignore them because they're accustomed to them (and our house shakes frequently because of the big trucks going by). So I figured if they were concerned, then so was I! I was the first one to hit the closest door...but Eliz yelled "Don't go out there!" She later explained that the streets are very dangerous during tremors/earthquakes because the electric lines are not sturdy and they often snap free and wildly fling about...killing many. She said the best place to be (in this area) was under a door frame. Good info to know! Some of the ruins had some damage and some homes near the epicenter didn't fare well...but essentially all was fine. I'm hearing that this was covered by CNN and all the major networks in the USA. It's been the talk around town today.
Elizabeth announced yesterday that she had scheduled surgery today for her ovarian tumor (mentioned in a previous email). Apparently the MD happened to have an opening. As far as I know she had surgery at 8am today, but at lunch time her daughter hadn't yet heard anything. She said the doctor warned her that he would not be able to do the surgery with small incisions and a scope...but would have a large incision on her lower abdomen at the bikini line. So, her recovery will be slow and quite painful. Poor thing! If there are no complications, I think she'll come home on Sat. It's gonna get quite interesting in our house without her being there to run things! Please keep her in your prayers.
Any fyi...my email problems still continue.
Yesterday during lunch we had a pretty serious earthquake tremor...the largest I've ever felt at least. It was a 6.8! When I looked at that national website re: earthquakes, this one was in a bold red font. Only those above 6.0 get a bold red font...not many of those seen very often. Elizabeth (my "house mother") and her helper got this look of urgency on their face and popped out of their chairs, and pulled away from the lunch table quickly. Usually they don't even feel the tremors and/or they ignore them because they're accustomed to them (and our house shakes frequently because of the big trucks going by). So I figured if they were concerned, then so was I! I was the first one to hit the closest door...but Eliz yelled "Don't go out there!" She later explained that the streets are very dangerous during tremors/earthquakes because the electric lines are not sturdy and they often snap free and wildly fling about...killing many. She said the best place to be (in this area) was under a door frame. Good info to know! Some of the ruins had some damage and some homes near the epicenter didn't fare well...but essentially all was fine. I'm hearing that this was covered by CNN and all the major networks in the USA. It's been the talk around town today.
Elizabeth announced yesterday that she had scheduled surgery today for her ovarian tumor (mentioned in a previous email). Apparently the MD happened to have an opening. As far as I know she had surgery at 8am today, but at lunch time her daughter hadn't yet heard anything. She said the doctor warned her that he would not be able to do the surgery with small incisions and a scope...but would have a large incision on her lower abdomen at the bikini line. So, her recovery will be slow and quite painful. Poor thing! If there are no complications, I think she'll come home on Sat. It's gonna get quite interesting in our house without her being there to run things! Please keep her in your prayers.
Any fyi...my email problems still continue.
Monday, June 11, 2007
EMAIL FRUSTRATION!
For more than one week I have been blocked from part of my email. It's an extremely long story, and unless your a computer person that wants to try to help, I won't bore you with the details. The bottom line is that for over a week I have not been able to access parts of my email address book, including the part that has all of your addresses in it. This is VERY FRUSTRATING. I have been online with MSN, my email folks every day trying to get this resolved. I don't know when/if this will happen. I'm afraid there is a chance that I won't be able to ever retrieve this information, and unfortunately I may never be able to recreate some of it. This has chewing into much of my time and brain. My guess is that most of you wait for my email update before you check this blog...and I can't send most of you emails. I'm so sorry. If you are reading this and you know of others that may receive updates from me, please tell them about my problem, and encourage them to keep up with me via my blog. Please pray for this situation to be resolved quickly and for no information to be lost. And/or if you are a computer person that can help, please let me know. I can receive emails and can send out emails if I happen to know your email address.
Just walk on the street!
Monday June 11, 2007
I've got to tell you about the challenge of trying to stay dry as people walk to and from work/school/market, etc now that it's rainy season and it rains essentially every day.
Picture this with me:
1st: the sidewalks are sometimes the normal width, but 1/2 the time they are wide enough for just one person. 2nd: The overhangs from the roofs on the buildings don't stick out very far. 3rd: NONE of the window frames around here sit flush against the exterior of the building. All of the windows have a bottom ledge of concrete that juts out about 10-12", usually at about should height. Still with me?
So, when it's raining, and assuming your on a sidewalk of normal width, the rains pours off the buildings overhanging roof onto the middle of the sidewalk. So, you tend to hug the wall. But the windows, about every 20 steps, makes it impossible to hug the wall, so you either try to go under the ledge or under Niagara Falls. If you decide to just walk in the rain on the outer half of the sidewalk and use your rain jacket, hood, and/or umbrella, then you get splashed with yucky, muddy water by passing cars, trucks, motorcycles, and took-tooks. (Kudos to you if you remember from my first blog entry about took-tooks!) And if you're on a narrow sidewalk...well, it's hopeless. For that matter, if you're on a wide sidewalk, it's hopeless to stay dry too. So, in my opinion, just walk on the street!
I've got to tell you about the challenge of trying to stay dry as people walk to and from work/school/market, etc now that it's rainy season and it rains essentially every day.
Picture this with me:
1st: the sidewalks are sometimes the normal width, but 1/2 the time they are wide enough for just one person. 2nd: The overhangs from the roofs on the buildings don't stick out very far. 3rd: NONE of the window frames around here sit flush against the exterior of the building. All of the windows have a bottom ledge of concrete that juts out about 10-12", usually at about should height. Still with me?
So, when it's raining, and assuming your on a sidewalk of normal width, the rains pours off the buildings overhanging roof onto the middle of the sidewalk. So, you tend to hug the wall. But the windows, about every 20 steps, makes it impossible to hug the wall, so you either try to go under the ledge or under Niagara Falls. If you decide to just walk in the rain on the outer half of the sidewalk and use your rain jacket, hood, and/or umbrella, then you get splashed with yucky, muddy water by passing cars, trucks, motorcycles, and took-tooks. (Kudos to you if you remember from my first blog entry about took-tooks!) And if you're on a narrow sidewalk...well, it's hopeless. For that matter, if you're on a wide sidewalk, it's hopeless to stay dry too. So, in my opinion, just walk on the street!
New news
Monday June 11, 2007
Some of you may remember me talking about Michael, a child in El Salvador with a terminal condition that was abandoned in an El Salvadoran hospital. Since no person or agency would take Michael, my organization, Harvesting In Spanish (HIS), started looking things. I've just discovered that Michael is now at our orphanage. You can see his picture and get his story on the HIS website (see below).
Also, I also just found out that at least the hole for the clinic has been dug. We've had so many bureaucratic hold ups!
Praise the Lord for these things. Go to www.harvesting.org and on the right side you'll see these stories listed. You may want to regularly (monthly or so) check this website for additional info.
Some of you may remember me talking about Michael, a child in El Salvador with a terminal condition that was abandoned in an El Salvadoran hospital. Since no person or agency would take Michael, my organization, Harvesting In Spanish (HIS), started looking things. I've just discovered that Michael is now at our orphanage. You can see his picture and get his story on the HIS website (see below).
Also, I also just found out that at least the hole for the clinic has been dug. We've had so many bureaucratic hold ups!
Praise the Lord for these things. Go to www.harvesting.org and on the right side you'll see these stories listed. You may want to regularly (monthly or so) check this website for additional info.
Sunday, June 10, 2007
End of week 6
Sunday June 10, 2007 PM
I'm signed up for 12 weeks of language school...so I'm half finished. I hope I'm learning enough. I anticipate that I'll take the Grade B test at the beginning of next weekend. I guess I know what I'll be doing all of next weekend!
When I registered for school back in April, they notified me that they didn't have any room for me at the end of June or beginning of July (3 weeks in total). Therefore I'll be taking the bus back to El Salvador in 2 weeks on Sat the 23rd. I'll be in El Salvador for the 3 weeks that they don't have room for me, then I'll return to El Salvador on Sunday July 13th. I'll have 4 more weeks of school at that point and will be finished around the middle of Aug. Then I'll go back to El Salvador.
Another answer to prayer...all of my previously scheduled afternoon classes have been changed to morning classes. I offered the coordinator a Snickers bar if she got it worked out for me, and...ta dah...the space became available. Actually, I'm kind of kidding. I did try to bribe her with a Snickers, and she did indeed receive the Snickers (twice!) but I honestly don't believe the chocolate was the deciding factor. This coordinator and I have become buddies and I really believe she'd do anything for me she could. Her name is Heidy (kind of like my sister, Heidi)...but it's pronounced like the country Haiti. This continuation of morning classes also means that I get to keep my teacher, Liz...which is really great news. When I come back from the 3 week "break" in El Salvador, it's not likely that I can return to my teacher Liz or to my same house. But I'll worry about that when the time comes.
Remember An-Hui, the girl from Taiwan that lives in my house? The Lord continues to give me really good opportunities to talk with her. She believes in Taoism, which I think is popular in Asian cultures. And it's WAY different from Christianity. I'm excited to see how the Lord chooses to cultivate and water these seeds.
Last Friday I joined a couple of guys from YWAM as we went back out to the park for "soul patrol" ...street witnessing. This is my 2nd time of doing this. The Lord allowed us to lead 3 other young men (in their 20s) to the Lord. And I think we planted seeds into other folks too.
Yesterday, Sat., I went to a free health seminar offered by YWAM. The topic was how to stay health in a developing country and was led by a long-term YWAMer who is a nurse practitioner and helps lead the YWAM medical classes. She focused on the most common health problem for new missionaries and other visitors, which is stomach problems (diarrhea, vomiting, etc). She gave very helpful and user friendly information. And more than ever, I'm convinced that the Lord is really protecting me. I know for fact that my dishes are not being disinfected, just washed in cold (unfiltered/not purified) tap water. And I have reason to believe that the fruits and veggies may not be getting the best of attention either. So, I'm very thankful to God for His continued grace and mercy as He watches out for me. And you know that "meal-time" prayers that we often say? Well, they've become quite serious for me.
Just a note of update re: Kim's dad, Harold. He was able receive the special IV medicine for his out of control ulcerative diverticulitis while he was in the hospital almost 2 weeks ago. Praise the Lord, it seems like the medicine is working. He's feeling better- far from normal- but better. He'll receive his 2nd dose this Thursday.
My house mother, Elizabeth, has an ovarian tumor that was found during a regular check-up. She's not having any pain/discomfort. The MD believes this is benign ("not cancerous"). She's confided a good bit in me and it's interesting to learn the differences in cost and services between the private and public hospitals and doctors. She may have surgery quite soon, like in a week or so from now, or it may be quite a bit longer if she uses the public hospital. It's become evident that she's feeling stressed, and several of wonder if her stress is related to how the quality of our meals have gone down. It should become really interesting in the house during her surgery recovery period. I'll keep you informed when I know more.
I recieved an email from American Airlines about a week ago telling me that they are changing their regulations, and are now imposing expiration dates on their frequent flyer miles. So, you may want to check on your freq flyer miles, regardless of the carrier since most of them have similar rules. And again, if your not going to be able to use them before they expire, please let me know, since I may be able to use them.
Again, thanks for your continued prayers and support. I couldn't be here without you.
I'm signed up for 12 weeks of language school...so I'm half finished. I hope I'm learning enough. I anticipate that I'll take the Grade B test at the beginning of next weekend. I guess I know what I'll be doing all of next weekend!
When I registered for school back in April, they notified me that they didn't have any room for me at the end of June or beginning of July (3 weeks in total). Therefore I'll be taking the bus back to El Salvador in 2 weeks on Sat the 23rd. I'll be in El Salvador for the 3 weeks that they don't have room for me, then I'll return to El Salvador on Sunday July 13th. I'll have 4 more weeks of school at that point and will be finished around the middle of Aug. Then I'll go back to El Salvador.
Another answer to prayer...all of my previously scheduled afternoon classes have been changed to morning classes. I offered the coordinator a Snickers bar if she got it worked out for me, and...ta dah...the space became available. Actually, I'm kind of kidding. I did try to bribe her with a Snickers, and she did indeed receive the Snickers (twice!) but I honestly don't believe the chocolate was the deciding factor. This coordinator and I have become buddies and I really believe she'd do anything for me she could. Her name is Heidy (kind of like my sister, Heidi)...but it's pronounced like the country Haiti. This continuation of morning classes also means that I get to keep my teacher, Liz...which is really great news. When I come back from the 3 week "break" in El Salvador, it's not likely that I can return to my teacher Liz or to my same house. But I'll worry about that when the time comes.
Remember An-Hui, the girl from Taiwan that lives in my house? The Lord continues to give me really good opportunities to talk with her. She believes in Taoism, which I think is popular in Asian cultures. And it's WAY different from Christianity. I'm excited to see how the Lord chooses to cultivate and water these seeds.
Last Friday I joined a couple of guys from YWAM as we went back out to the park for "soul patrol" ...street witnessing. This is my 2nd time of doing this. The Lord allowed us to lead 3 other young men (in their 20s) to the Lord. And I think we planted seeds into other folks too.
Yesterday, Sat., I went to a free health seminar offered by YWAM. The topic was how to stay health in a developing country and was led by a long-term YWAMer who is a nurse practitioner and helps lead the YWAM medical classes. She focused on the most common health problem for new missionaries and other visitors, which is stomach problems (diarrhea, vomiting, etc). She gave very helpful and user friendly information. And more than ever, I'm convinced that the Lord is really protecting me. I know for fact that my dishes are not being disinfected, just washed in cold (unfiltered/not purified) tap water. And I have reason to believe that the fruits and veggies may not be getting the best of attention either. So, I'm very thankful to God for His continued grace and mercy as He watches out for me. And you know that "meal-time" prayers that we often say? Well, they've become quite serious for me.
Just a note of update re: Kim's dad, Harold. He was able receive the special IV medicine for his out of control ulcerative diverticulitis while he was in the hospital almost 2 weeks ago. Praise the Lord, it seems like the medicine is working. He's feeling better- far from normal- but better. He'll receive his 2nd dose this Thursday.
My house mother, Elizabeth, has an ovarian tumor that was found during a regular check-up. She's not having any pain/discomfort. The MD believes this is benign ("not cancerous"). She's confided a good bit in me and it's interesting to learn the differences in cost and services between the private and public hospitals and doctors. She may have surgery quite soon, like in a week or so from now, or it may be quite a bit longer if she uses the public hospital. It's become evident that she's feeling stressed, and several of wonder if her stress is related to how the quality of our meals have gone down. It should become really interesting in the house during her surgery recovery period. I'll keep you informed when I know more.
I recieved an email from American Airlines about a week ago telling me that they are changing their regulations, and are now imposing expiration dates on their frequent flyer miles. So, you may want to check on your freq flyer miles, regardless of the carrier since most of them have similar rules. And again, if your not going to be able to use them before they expire, please let me know, since I may be able to use them.
Again, thanks for your continued prayers and support. I couldn't be here without you.
Earthquakes
Sunday June 10, 2007
Last Friday morning, we had 2 decent earthquake tremors. One was a 5.1, the other was a 5.9, both just offshore of Guatemala. (just copy and past the following website to see the what I think is the best place to see all earthquakes around the world over the last 7 days http://earthquake.usgs.gov/eqcenter/recenteqsww/Quakes/quakes_all.php ) Per the website, they BOLD any tremor over a 3.9 and use RED BOLD for anything over a 5.9. So I assume anything bold is worth glancing at and the ones in red are pretty serious. We had a 5.9...pretty impressive on paper at least. I understand there are at least 2 types of earthquakes...the type that moves the earth side to side, and the type that moves it up and down. The up and down are much more dangerous, more likely to cause tsunamis, crack/break building foundations, and bring down buildings. The 5.9 around 9:30am on Friday had both types of movement, and lasted almost a full 15 seconds...which is really long for a tremor. I knew it was stronger than any I'd felt and longer, but it was my teachers expression and her watching her watch that really got my attention. She said that it was really long as compared to most tremors, and that if we had another decent tremor in the next 30min then we should become a bit concerned. The 5.1 earthquake happened early in the morning, maybe around 7:30am. To be honest, I wasn't even aware of it. Our hourse shakes so much from the big trucks that go by, that I guess I missed it. Thankfully, no more tremors have happened. One thing for sure, it sure gave the new students something to talk about! I'm not aware of any damage...but then again I'm not aware of anything that doesn't happen right in front of my face.
Last Friday morning, we had 2 decent earthquake tremors. One was a 5.1, the other was a 5.9, both just offshore of Guatemala. (just copy and past the following website to see the what I think is the best place to see all earthquakes around the world over the last 7 days http://earthquake.usgs.gov/eqcenter/recenteqsww/Quakes/quakes_all.php ) Per the website, they BOLD any tremor over a 3.9 and use RED BOLD for anything over a 5.9. So I assume anything bold is worth glancing at and the ones in red are pretty serious. We had a 5.9...pretty impressive on paper at least. I understand there are at least 2 types of earthquakes...the type that moves the earth side to side, and the type that moves it up and down. The up and down are much more dangerous, more likely to cause tsunamis, crack/break building foundations, and bring down buildings. The 5.9 around 9:30am on Friday had both types of movement, and lasted almost a full 15 seconds...which is really long for a tremor. I knew it was stronger than any I'd felt and longer, but it was my teachers expression and her watching her watch that really got my attention. She said that it was really long as compared to most tremors, and that if we had another decent tremor in the next 30min then we should become a bit concerned. The 5.1 earthquake happened early in the morning, maybe around 7:30am. To be honest, I wasn't even aware of it. Our hourse shakes so much from the big trucks that go by, that I guess I missed it. Thankfully, no more tremors have happened. One thing for sure, it sure gave the new students something to talk about! I'm not aware of any damage...but then again I'm not aware of anything that doesn't happen right in front of my face.
Monday, June 4, 2007
You didn't hear it?
Monday June 4, 2007
What do you mean you didn't hear it? Surely everyone on this half of the globe heard it! Let me be a little more specific.... I'll start with the bells last Thursday night that rang for TWENTY continuous minutes from the Catholic church that's on my block. I'm told that they ring on the last Thursday of every month for 20 min, yet nobody can tell me why. Joy! Then, starting mid-day yesterday, there were loud blasts that sounded like cannon balls being shot in the vicinity of the same church. They continued until sometime during the evening...sometimes one after the other...sometimes taking a break for 20-30 min. between firings. The noise from the "boom" was so loud that it kept setting off car alarms...now that's loud. And we won't speak of how many dogs suffered (and then in turn the humans listening to the dogs). I'm told yesterday was a celebration of one of the saints (sorry I'm not up on Catholic holidays)...but more importantly...the firings were to remind everyone that the celebration of Corpus Christi is only 4 days away...Thursday. So, this was just a warm up. I can't wait!!!
Antigua seems to be returning a normal...the public buses are running again. Apparently one of the really bad gangs here has been threatening the public bus drivers and telling each driver that they had to pay 1000 Q to them every week, or they would be killed. Last week, a driver and his assistant were killed by one of the gangs when they didn't pay. Therefore the drivers went on strike (and I don't blame them!) But there are lots of common everyday folks that depend on the bus service to get get to and from market and to other jobs. It's quite a hike to get to the next "bus station" (just a place, not a building, where the buses gather) which is not on the way to anywhere. So it takes more time to get to the bus and it means longer on the bus and one additional bus change, which means leaving earlier and returning home later, and also means more money for the extra fare each way since it at least one additional bus transfer.
I understand this sort of thing is common place everywhere in Latin America. Currently the police are supposedly riding some of the buses, but we all know that it's only a period of time until the cycle repeats itself. The private buses seem to not be affected. I wouldn't have known about this news if it wasn't for a teacher mentioning it to her student, my friend. (Especially since I don't understand the language enough to overhear the local folks talking, and don't have access to a TV.) Likewise, if any world wide news isn't important enough to land on the top line of the Google page (Mon-Fri), then you can assume I don't know about it. Please feel free to enlighten me.
Another thought about the struggles of the people here...or for that matter anywhere. When it's rainy season here (for 6 months of the year), how do some people survive? For example, there's a guy just a little young than me, who shines shoes for a living. He sits on a short wall next to a highly visited Catholic church. I pass by Lewis every day. Certainly folks have become accustomed to seeing me come and go each day. Lewis has uncontrolled epilepsy and can't afford to buy medicine. I've seen the evidence of blood on the ground when he's had a seizure and assisted back to his house. I've seen the splits on his forehead from where he fell forward off the wall during a seizure. Lewis is not the brightest crayon in the box...understandably. When I asked him, he says he can't do any other job because of his health limitations. Everyday when I pass him, he tells me he's hungry. However, I usually see him eating some little bit of something around mid-day. But on the 3rd consecutive day of rain last week (mentioned in a later blog post) he approached me saying that he didn't have any customers that day, didn't have money for bus fare, and hadn't eaten. My got told me this was true. He hasn't ever directly approached me for money before. I gave him enough for a meal and the bus ride home, but it caused me to wonder how folks like this survive the rainy season. (By the way, Lewis was thankful for the money and hasn't approached me for more since then.) There are so many people, street vendors of food, trinkets, etc., that depend on tourists. I suppose some don't survive. There's the other lady beggar lady that I see nearly every day. She wears work gloves on her hands (probably given to her by some good hearted person) and drags herself around, skirt and all. Now trust me, I do understand that this is a universal problem, far from being isolated to this area. But still, my mind ponders their plight and my heart breaks for them. But what can be done?
I am so blessed!
By the way, we had gorgeous weather this weekend. No rain Sat, Sun, and the first half of today...really a rarity in rainy season. And it was actually in the 80s yesterday and today, which is quite a change.
I send my love out to all of you.
Deb
What do you mean you didn't hear it? Surely everyone on this half of the globe heard it! Let me be a little more specific.... I'll start with the bells last Thursday night that rang for TWENTY continuous minutes from the Catholic church that's on my block. I'm told that they ring on the last Thursday of every month for 20 min, yet nobody can tell me why. Joy! Then, starting mid-day yesterday, there were loud blasts that sounded like cannon balls being shot in the vicinity of the same church. They continued until sometime during the evening...sometimes one after the other...sometimes taking a break for 20-30 min. between firings. The noise from the "boom" was so loud that it kept setting off car alarms...now that's loud. And we won't speak of how many dogs suffered (and then in turn the humans listening to the dogs). I'm told yesterday was a celebration of one of the saints (sorry I'm not up on Catholic holidays)...but more importantly...the firings were to remind everyone that the celebration of Corpus Christi is only 4 days away...Thursday. So, this was just a warm up. I can't wait!!!
Antigua seems to be returning a normal...the public buses are running again. Apparently one of the really bad gangs here has been threatening the public bus drivers and telling each driver that they had to pay 1000 Q to them every week, or they would be killed. Last week, a driver and his assistant were killed by one of the gangs when they didn't pay. Therefore the drivers went on strike (and I don't blame them!) But there are lots of common everyday folks that depend on the bus service to get get to and from market and to other jobs. It's quite a hike to get to the next "bus station" (just a place, not a building, where the buses gather) which is not on the way to anywhere. So it takes more time to get to the bus and it means longer on the bus and one additional bus change, which means leaving earlier and returning home later, and also means more money for the extra fare each way since it at least one additional bus transfer.
I understand this sort of thing is common place everywhere in Latin America. Currently the police are supposedly riding some of the buses, but we all know that it's only a period of time until the cycle repeats itself. The private buses seem to not be affected. I wouldn't have known about this news if it wasn't for a teacher mentioning it to her student, my friend. (Especially since I don't understand the language enough to overhear the local folks talking, and don't have access to a TV.) Likewise, if any world wide news isn't important enough to land on the top line of the Google page (Mon-Fri), then you can assume I don't know about it. Please feel free to enlighten me.
Another thought about the struggles of the people here...or for that matter anywhere. When it's rainy season here (for 6 months of the year), how do some people survive? For example, there's a guy just a little young than me, who shines shoes for a living. He sits on a short wall next to a highly visited Catholic church. I pass by Lewis every day. Certainly folks have become accustomed to seeing me come and go each day. Lewis has uncontrolled epilepsy and can't afford to buy medicine. I've seen the evidence of blood on the ground when he's had a seizure and assisted back to his house. I've seen the splits on his forehead from where he fell forward off the wall during a seizure. Lewis is not the brightest crayon in the box...understandably. When I asked him, he says he can't do any other job because of his health limitations. Everyday when I pass him, he tells me he's hungry. However, I usually see him eating some little bit of something around mid-day. But on the 3rd consecutive day of rain last week (mentioned in a later blog post) he approached me saying that he didn't have any customers that day, didn't have money for bus fare, and hadn't eaten. My got told me this was true. He hasn't ever directly approached me for money before. I gave him enough for a meal and the bus ride home, but it caused me to wonder how folks like this survive the rainy season. (By the way, Lewis was thankful for the money and hasn't approached me for more since then.) There are so many people, street vendors of food, trinkets, etc., that depend on tourists. I suppose some don't survive. There's the other lady beggar lady that I see nearly every day. She wears work gloves on her hands (probably given to her by some good hearted person) and drags herself around, skirt and all. Now trust me, I do understand that this is a universal problem, far from being isolated to this area. But still, my mind ponders their plight and my heart breaks for them. But what can be done?
I am so blessed!
By the way, we had gorgeous weather this weekend. No rain Sat, Sun, and the first half of today...really a rarity in rainy season. And it was actually in the 80s yesterday and today, which is quite a change.
I send my love out to all of you.
Deb
Friday, June 1, 2007
A week of blessings
Friday June 1, 2007
Some weeks are just like that...when I feel like God is as close as the skin on my body...and He just seems to like to lavish gifts on me- the way kids like to dream about Christmas. It's been that kind of week. I have no doubt, (and never have), that many prayers have been going forth on my behalf.
Yesterday (Thursday) when the coordinator came over around 9:40am to tell me that I will not have to switch to afternoon classes for the next 2 weeks, I was beyond thrilled. I pop out of my seat, hugged my short friend, spun her around, and gave out a somewhat quiet "Yeee Haaa!" (as to not disturb my packed like sardines classmates). As you may remember, the school did not have room or a teacher for me in the morning schedule (8a-1p), only the evening schedule (2p-6p). This was quite discouraging to me since I've worked so hard to get into a study routine again. I had really been praying for a morning spot to open...and I know many of you have been joining me in this effort. My mom, among many, has been emailing me of her daily prayers on my behalf. I don't know how people w/o a group of prayer warriors at home survive. I consider myself very blessed.
As I mentioned in the email, two folks have been able to donate a combined amount of 26,000 frequent flyer miles on Delta. I only need 35,000 for a flight. This was quite a blessing. The 1st friend gave me 15,000 miles early in the week. The May 31st deadline for waiving the $25 transaction fee was looming quickly ahead, when with only 10 min to spare, the 2nd friend popped up on my computer. She gave me an add'l 10,000 miles, (to total 26,000 combined). She'd been out of town on vacation, and having just sat down to read her email, rushed to send the email to me. Gosh I love it when God stuff like that happens!
Last Sat as I was rummaging for something in my suitcase, my hand ran across a card addressed to me. It was from my mentor at my home church. It had apparently gotten separated from the other cards that people had give me as a send off. The timing could not have been better. I was reminded that few people in the world get to chase after their dreams. God used this card to further confirm the idea that my complaining had gotten out of control, and to encourage me to look for the good around me. Yep, I'm getting to study a language I've wanted to learn for many years, from an outstanding teacher that I'm convinced is hand-picked by God, in a gorgeous country that's not hot, in order to chase after my God-given dreams.
By the way, I'm loving school right now. Yes, you heard me correctly...no need to change your hearing aid batteries :) I've got a young, energetic, Christian teacher that connects perfectly with me. The language still makes me nuts, and the concrete wall next to my desk shows evidence of where I've banged my empty head against the wall, but I'm absolutely loving this time of learning. And I'm glad to announce that I will be able to continue with this teacher, at least as long as I have morning classes. God is so good! I know that many of you having been praying specifically re: my classes and my learning. I just want you to know that you're really making a difference as you knock on His door on my behalf. Oh, it's time for your Spanish fun fact for this week....a fish before it's dead is a pes and a fish after it's dead is a pescado! I also found out that a chicken has one name while it's alive (gallina for hen and gallo for rooter), and then called pollo after it's dead. I'm telling you this language is totally loony!
Can you handle hearing more blessings from the Lord? Well more I have! I found a McDonald's relatively close by...well, in walking distance like everything else. Either the burger was really was good, or I was really just that hungry. And I found a restaurant run by an American called "Gringos (a slang term for Americans)" that serves lunch everyday for 18Q (about $2.50!). I found it last Sunday after church (Oh,by the way...I love my church too!) when a group went to this restaurant. I thought I'd died and gone to heaven...grilled chicken, MASHED POTATOES!, mixed vegies, tortillas (flat bread), drink, and a sweet muffin as desert! All of this for 18Q ($2.50)! What a blessing...another one I should say! Oh...I found treasures in the local grocery store....Drano (that didn't work) and microwave popcorn! LIFE IS GOOD!
I got a tip to check out a really close by laundry place that is also an internet cafe...which is a common combo here. I really don't mind doing most of my laundry by hand, but I've found that recently my towel (that doesn't get but so wet), doesn't dry entirely from one morning to the next while handing on a hook in my room. So, I was thrilled to find this cheap laundry place. It only cost 4Q/lb of laundry (55 cents/pound) to have it washed, dried, and folded. Another blessing!
Lois Ferguson, a 90 yr old strong Christian lady that lived close by has been a prayer warrior for me and numerous others for many years. A prayer warrior unlike any I've ever met. I found out this past week that she went to be with the Lord on May 13th. She has been telling the Lord that she's ready for a long time now....so it is a blessing that she can go be with her dearly loved husband, sisters, and friends. However, I will miss her. I've called her in tough spots many times...knowing that she would go straight into the thrown room of the Lord on my behalf. I thank the Lord for her and consider it a blessing that she's now with Him. Seems to me that He's been collecting several good folks lately.
Speaking of good folks, I'm gonna leave you good folks alone for a little while. Thanks again for all you do to support me.
Some weeks are just like that...when I feel like God is as close as the skin on my body...and He just seems to like to lavish gifts on me- the way kids like to dream about Christmas. It's been that kind of week. I have no doubt, (and never have), that many prayers have been going forth on my behalf.
Yesterday (Thursday) when the coordinator came over around 9:40am to tell me that I will not have to switch to afternoon classes for the next 2 weeks, I was beyond thrilled. I pop out of my seat, hugged my short friend, spun her around, and gave out a somewhat quiet "Yeee Haaa!" (as to not disturb my packed like sardines classmates). As you may remember, the school did not have room or a teacher for me in the morning schedule (8a-1p), only the evening schedule (2p-6p). This was quite discouraging to me since I've worked so hard to get into a study routine again. I had really been praying for a morning spot to open...and I know many of you have been joining me in this effort. My mom, among many, has been emailing me of her daily prayers on my behalf. I don't know how people w/o a group of prayer warriors at home survive. I consider myself very blessed.
As I mentioned in the email, two folks have been able to donate a combined amount of 26,000 frequent flyer miles on Delta. I only need 35,000 for a flight. This was quite a blessing. The 1st friend gave me 15,000 miles early in the week. The May 31st deadline for waiving the $25 transaction fee was looming quickly ahead, when with only 10 min to spare, the 2nd friend popped up on my computer. She gave me an add'l 10,000 miles, (to total 26,000 combined). She'd been out of town on vacation, and having just sat down to read her email, rushed to send the email to me. Gosh I love it when God stuff like that happens!
Last Sat as I was rummaging for something in my suitcase, my hand ran across a card addressed to me. It was from my mentor at my home church. It had apparently gotten separated from the other cards that people had give me as a send off. The timing could not have been better. I was reminded that few people in the world get to chase after their dreams. God used this card to further confirm the idea that my complaining had gotten out of control, and to encourage me to look for the good around me. Yep, I'm getting to study a language I've wanted to learn for many years, from an outstanding teacher that I'm convinced is hand-picked by God, in a gorgeous country that's not hot, in order to chase after my God-given dreams.
By the way, I'm loving school right now. Yes, you heard me correctly...no need to change your hearing aid batteries :) I've got a young, energetic, Christian teacher that connects perfectly with me. The language still makes me nuts, and the concrete wall next to my desk shows evidence of where I've banged my empty head against the wall, but I'm absolutely loving this time of learning. And I'm glad to announce that I will be able to continue with this teacher, at least as long as I have morning classes. God is so good! I know that many of you having been praying specifically re: my classes and my learning. I just want you to know that you're really making a difference as you knock on His door on my behalf. Oh, it's time for your Spanish fun fact for this week....a fish before it's dead is a pes and a fish after it's dead is a pescado! I also found out that a chicken has one name while it's alive (gallina for hen and gallo for rooter), and then called pollo after it's dead. I'm telling you this language is totally loony!
Can you handle hearing more blessings from the Lord? Well more I have! I found a McDonald's relatively close by...well, in walking distance like everything else. Either the burger was really was good, or I was really just that hungry. And I found a restaurant run by an American called "Gringos (a slang term for Americans)" that serves lunch everyday for 18Q (about $2.50!). I found it last Sunday after church (Oh,by the way...I love my church too!) when a group went to this restaurant. I thought I'd died and gone to heaven...grilled chicken, MASHED POTATOES!, mixed vegies, tortillas (flat bread), drink, and a sweet muffin as desert! All of this for 18Q ($2.50)! What a blessing...another one I should say! Oh...I found treasures in the local grocery store....Drano (that didn't work) and microwave popcorn! LIFE IS GOOD!
I got a tip to check out a really close by laundry place that is also an internet cafe...which is a common combo here. I really don't mind doing most of my laundry by hand, but I've found that recently my towel (that doesn't get but so wet), doesn't dry entirely from one morning to the next while handing on a hook in my room. So, I was thrilled to find this cheap laundry place. It only cost 4Q/lb of laundry (55 cents/pound) to have it washed, dried, and folded. Another blessing!
Lois Ferguson, a 90 yr old strong Christian lady that lived close by has been a prayer warrior for me and numerous others for many years. A prayer warrior unlike any I've ever met. I found out this past week that she went to be with the Lord on May 13th. She has been telling the Lord that she's ready for a long time now....so it is a blessing that she can go be with her dearly loved husband, sisters, and friends. However, I will miss her. I've called her in tough spots many times...knowing that she would go straight into the thrown room of the Lord on my behalf. I thank the Lord for her and consider it a blessing that she's now with Him. Seems to me that He's been collecting several good folks lately.
Speaking of good folks, I'm gonna leave you good folks alone for a little while. Thanks again for all you do to support me.
Comfort from THE Mountain
I know this sounds strange...that's nothing new...but I gain a lot of comfort and a feeling of security from the surrounding huge magnificent volcanic mountains. I can't explain it. I've always loved the mountains, and have particularly loved them since I spent the summer in Ecuador (when I was 15) and woke up each morning to snow capped Mt. Chimborazo glimmering through my bedroom window. Every day as soon as I get up, I walk onto the porch to see if the mountains are "out" (like it's possible they would be elsewhere!). Of course, what I'm really checking is to see if the clouds have covered my new friends, like they have been most of the last 2.5 wks. I love gazing at them first thing in the morning (5:30am M-F). It's plenty light here by 5am. You would think that since it's now raining every day, that the clouds would surely be there...but instead I've found that on most days, the mountains are crystal clear early in the morning, but are covered by 7am.
Last weekend, as I stood, mesmerized, by the grandeur of God's creation (specifically these volcanic mountains), I feel like God spoke into my heart the following truth. God is like huge Mt Fuego. He's always there...I may move but He will not. Even though, like the cloud covered mountain, I can't see Him at times, I still know he's there. There are times where you could not possibly prove that there's a mountain "over there" from my vantage point. No way. Yet, I have seen it in the past...and although my eyes would not agree, my brain knows the mountain really is there. Likewise, God has proven Himself over and over and over...and even if I don't feel like I can see God at times...my faith stands strong that God is surely there. Mt. Fuego almost always has steam coming out of it's blown off tip, looking much like a non-stop cloud being birthed by the mountain. And at times during a clear night, Fuego will show it's power and the rim of the mountain glows orange with it's fresh fiery lava, sometimes spitting it into the dark night. Sometimes the low hanging clouds over it will glow orange in it's reflection from the fiery pool within. This too reminds me of God and His power. I know this is an analogy and analogies always fall apart at some point...but I like it anyhow.
Wed night last week Ann Hui (pronounced An Way, temporarily self-named Amelia for ease), my friend and house mate from Taiwan, popped into my room just to chat. Our talk led us to the "balcony-like" area just about 10 ft from my bedroom door where we looked out over the night toward the mountains. I felt like God suggested that I tell her the about how the mountain reminded me of my God. Her belief, Taoism, is far from Christianity, and includes the worship of many Gods. She really liked the analogy, and it led to a short discussion where I asked her about what she believed. I've been asking the Lord to allow me to sew seeds with Ann Hui...and it looks like it's happening. I'm very grateful and look forward to more opportunities to chat with her. Like most, I think she wants to see if my walk matches my talk. I pray daily that it will.
Last weekend, as I stood, mesmerized, by the grandeur of God's creation (specifically these volcanic mountains), I feel like God spoke into my heart the following truth. God is like huge Mt Fuego. He's always there...I may move but He will not. Even though, like the cloud covered mountain, I can't see Him at times, I still know he's there. There are times where you could not possibly prove that there's a mountain "over there" from my vantage point. No way. Yet, I have seen it in the past...and although my eyes would not agree, my brain knows the mountain really is there. Likewise, God has proven Himself over and over and over...and even if I don't feel like I can see God at times...my faith stands strong that God is surely there. Mt. Fuego almost always has steam coming out of it's blown off tip, looking much like a non-stop cloud being birthed by the mountain. And at times during a clear night, Fuego will show it's power and the rim of the mountain glows orange with it's fresh fiery lava, sometimes spitting it into the dark night. Sometimes the low hanging clouds over it will glow orange in it's reflection from the fiery pool within. This too reminds me of God and His power. I know this is an analogy and analogies always fall apart at some point...but I like it anyhow.
Wed night last week Ann Hui (pronounced An Way, temporarily self-named Amelia for ease), my friend and house mate from Taiwan, popped into my room just to chat. Our talk led us to the "balcony-like" area just about 10 ft from my bedroom door where we looked out over the night toward the mountains. I felt like God suggested that I tell her the about how the mountain reminded me of my God. Her belief, Taoism, is far from Christianity, and includes the worship of many Gods. She really liked the analogy, and it led to a short discussion where I asked her about what she believed. I've been asking the Lord to allow me to sew seeds with Ann Hui...and it looks like it's happening. I'm very grateful and look forward to more opportunities to chat with her. Like most, I think she wants to see if my walk matches my talk. I pray daily that it will.
I slept in what?
Friday June 1, 4:30pm
I, Debra Skalsky, of somewhat sound mind and body, admit that I did shut my bedroom window for the first time since my arrival, and will continue henceforth and furthermore to do so as long as it's this crazy chilly....and sometimes cold! Yes, I admit it, I slept in.....sweatshirt, sweatpants, and socks. And I normally like the cold and will take the cold over hot any day. I think it's the dampness that makes the difference.
Here's my Latino twist on the tale told by the "old generation"...I walked to school, over uneven rock laden roads, up hill, both ways, in the pouring rain. :)
Yesterday it rained from sun up until past bedtime. But most days it's just gray, dreary, and starts to rain in the afternoon and/or evening. One of the strange things about this weather is that there's an obvious temperature drop just as the rain starts, and then a couple of hours after the rain stops, it becomes warmer than it's been all day. For example, I'm sitting on a porch type of place right now...suddenly I noticed that it got quite cool, so I got up to pull my jacket out of my backpack, and then noticed that indeed it had just started to rain. I just checked accuweather.com and it says that's it's 64 degrees right now, but feels like 54 degrees...tonight it will be 57 but feel like 60 degrees. Strange! My windows are already shut! And I hear that home, Virginia, is quite warm!
I, Debra Skalsky, of somewhat sound mind and body, admit that I did shut my bedroom window for the first time since my arrival, and will continue henceforth and furthermore to do so as long as it's this crazy chilly....and sometimes cold! Yes, I admit it, I slept in.....sweatshirt, sweatpants, and socks. And I normally like the cold and will take the cold over hot any day. I think it's the dampness that makes the difference.
Here's my Latino twist on the tale told by the "old generation"...I walked to school, over uneven rock laden roads, up hill, both ways, in the pouring rain. :)
Yesterday it rained from sun up until past bedtime. But most days it's just gray, dreary, and starts to rain in the afternoon and/or evening. One of the strange things about this weather is that there's an obvious temperature drop just as the rain starts, and then a couple of hours after the rain stops, it becomes warmer than it's been all day. For example, I'm sitting on a porch type of place right now...suddenly I noticed that it got quite cool, so I got up to pull my jacket out of my backpack, and then noticed that indeed it had just started to rain. I just checked accuweather.com and it says that's it's 64 degrees right now, but feels like 54 degrees...tonight it will be 57 but feel like 60 degrees. Strange! My windows are already shut! And I hear that home, Virginia, is quite warm!
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