Last Tuesday night as I was laying down I remembered that I was supposed to lead devotions Wednesday. Even though being unprepared is not always wise, I love how it leaves so much more room to just speak from what the Lord is laying on your heart. I got to share the Derek Redmond video from the 1992 Olympics. If you haven't gotten to watch it, stop and check it out (it shows such a beautiful picture of our Father's love over us). I see myself so much in the son, who is desperate for my Father. Who is broken, and often discouraged- but thankful to have a Father who fights over me, to pick me up, carry me, and cheer me on. I wouldn't be able to be here and love on any one if it wasn't him in me- I am literally daily reminded of this. In this story Derek's father was a physical reminder of who the Lord is. We also get to be this in others lives! Jesus says, " I soon will be gone, but because of the Holy Spirit you will be a part of even greater things". Right before however in the gospel of John there is the promise " remain in me, and I will remain in you". Heidi Baker says as people would come to Africa and ask " How can we help?" Our answer was always the same: very simply, you can always love and hug children. And you can always spend a few weeks of your life to get a glimpse of how much of the world lives- and let your heart break. But more deeply, in order for you to be useful to the Master here- or anywhere- you must be close to Him and in love with Him. To the degree that you are intimate with Him, you will know what to do, what you must do"! I LOVE that! It's so true, the greatest way we can love others and serve others is by being intimate with our Father first! Even though this is so simple, it's so easy to slip away from! We live in a society that tells us our worth is in what we DO DO DO, but so often the Lord says "come, be still, rest in me". This is where we are poured into so that when opportunities come to love on his people, we can't miss out on them because our hearts our being transformed to be more like his! This is a daily prayer, and many days (like today) I get really tired and frustrated, but I am thankful for truth! I am excited for it to continue to come alive in my life!
A few glimpses of how I have gotten to see the Lord lately:
Tuesdays and Thursdays we are tutoring our street boys (Pablo, Menfi, Bebe, Richie, Christopher, Tommy, Gus, Haskerd). This week we were able to pray over them, and as I was praying I looked up to find all the boys with their arms around each other. What a beautiful family to be a part of! I see the Lord more in those boys than they will ever know!
One of the boys (15 years old) has been in jail for 7 weeks, and Harry headed up going over to visit to get him meals. They are not fed in jail, which paints a picture of what life is like there. Pray over our brother, that in a dark place he would experience God's love, light, and truth in undeniable ways! We are praying he will be out soon, but untill then I pray we are able to keep stopping by and giving him daily reminders that the Lord never forgets him & certainly will never give up on him. He has the most beautiful heart!
I have had to have 5 meetings with kids in the principals office this past week addressing behavior issues. As draining as this can be, I am thankful that these kids are reminded that the reason they are corrected is because their worth investing in. One mom even agreed to and has starting taking her child to counseling because of an "intervention". Love when the Lord stops us in our tracks and shows us a better way! This is a huge growing experience for me, because discipline is not what come most naturally to me. I constantly have to pray for boldness and grace for myself. Please join me in praying transformed lives over my kids! It has been very up and down, but I continue to give thanks for them even when I am in tears feeling defeated! They are precious.
We were able to have another high school night. So fun! Nice to take off the uniform and be friend! Harrison did a bangerade job talking about love and the crazy things we are willing to do for it. Plain and simple, straight up- Jesus is the greatest example of this!
On another note, in two days it will be Thanksgiving! I couldn't be more thankful and ready for a much needed break! We are still deciding where we will be traveling- hoping Guatemala :) Will keep you posted!
AS ALWAYS, CRAZY BLESSED AND THANKFUL TO HAVE SUCH SPECIAL PEOPLE IN MY LIFE! THANK YOU FOR LOVING ME AND WALKING WITH ME! I CONTINUALLY AM LEFT IN AWE OF THE RELATIONSHIPS I HAVE BEEN BLESSED WITH!
MUCHO AMOR AMIOGOS Y FAMILIA! Like that ;)? Learning at the pace of a grandma turtle.... but thats better than not at all right!
LOVE YOU!
Monday, November 22, 2010
Sunday, October 31, 2010
WOW!
The Lord is so good!
Let me share with you one of Harry's recent blogs "I don't have a ton to say this morning but I want to share what the Lord is doing in the lives of this family. Here is a little back story. I met these two little girls, Daniella and Susanna, last year right on my doorstep. I heard two voices yelling "buenas, buenas...... Doughnuts." It was love at first bite. This 12 and 13 year old were selling homemade doughnuts on the street and lucky for me, they do this everyday. After eating doughnuts for about two weeks, Amy and Jessica started to have the little girls come in and hang out with them. We built an amazing relationship with these two girls, we cooked together, took them to the dentist, played a lot of games, practiced each others languages and gave these kids a chance to be kids and feel the love we all deserve. This year I don't live as close to them but I have been by there house a few times. We have been blessed with the opportunity to partner with a non-profit organization called dwellings who is going to come down to the island and build them a house in Feb. as long as we can raise the money and get some extra hands to help in the building process. I am so excited to be able to give this family a more comfortable and safe place to live. Their home right now has mud walls and dirt floors, you can imagine what it must be like when it is raining. Keep this whole situation in your prayers, things have fit together very well up to this point, now we are waiting to here back about what we do next from dwellings. At some point in the near future, this project will be listed on their website for donations. Much love!"
Amazing news- this family asked for help to get floors, NOW THEY WILL HAVE A NEW HOME! I don't think that it ever crossed their minds as a possibility, but the Lord desires to take care of and bless his children! Their lives are about to be completely changed- and we get to go tell them and share the joy with them tomorrow :) Praise the Lord!
We need to raise $9,500- which I trust will happen. Please join us in prayer, that the Lord would continue to blow them and us away in this process! Check out
http://www.ministrysync.com/event/website/?m=551383
, and if you feel led please donate to make this dream a reality (cheesy- yes, but true )! THANKS SO MUCH, EXCITING STUFF! We will keep you posted :)
Let me share with you one of Harry's recent blogs "I don't have a ton to say this morning but I want to share what the Lord is doing in the lives of this family. Here is a little back story. I met these two little girls, Daniella and Susanna, last year right on my doorstep. I heard two voices yelling "buenas, buenas...... Doughnuts." It was love at first bite. This 12 and 13 year old were selling homemade doughnuts on the street and lucky for me, they do this everyday. After eating doughnuts for about two weeks, Amy and Jessica started to have the little girls come in and hang out with them. We built an amazing relationship with these two girls, we cooked together, took them to the dentist, played a lot of games, practiced each others languages and gave these kids a chance to be kids and feel the love we all deserve. This year I don't live as close to them but I have been by there house a few times. We have been blessed with the opportunity to partner with a non-profit organization called dwellings who is going to come down to the island and build them a house in Feb. as long as we can raise the money and get some extra hands to help in the building process. I am so excited to be able to give this family a more comfortable and safe place to live. Their home right now has mud walls and dirt floors, you can imagine what it must be like when it is raining. Keep this whole situation in your prayers, things have fit together very well up to this point, now we are waiting to here back about what we do next from dwellings. At some point in the near future, this project will be listed on their website for donations. Much love!"
Amazing news- this family asked for help to get floors, NOW THEY WILL HAVE A NEW HOME! I don't think that it ever crossed their minds as a possibility, but the Lord desires to take care of and bless his children! Their lives are about to be completely changed- and we get to go tell them and share the joy with them tomorrow :) Praise the Lord!
We need to raise $9,500- which I trust will happen. Please join us in prayer, that the Lord would continue to blow them and us away in this process! Check out
http://www.ministrysync.com/event/website/?m=551383
, and if you feel led please donate to make this dream a reality (cheesy- yes, but true )! THANKS SO MUCH, EXCITING STUFF! We will keep you posted :)
Saturday, October 23, 2010
Holla!
Yesterday as I was walking into the school I saw Tonito carry out of the cafeteria a huge mouse/rat. Next thing I know Nina's dad runs out, pulls a sneak attack and just wHackS it with a huge hammer. Did I mention that this was at 6:55am in front of about 30 students and a few teachers. Maybe its one of those " I had to be there things", but I literally was crying in laughter!
After school we got to watch the girls rock it in a volleyball match! So fun to join in and help make up school cheers. We are the crabs :) After the game we had a big bus filled with kids and headed over to the Alvarado's house for our first high school night! So fun to move past being Miss Erin in my hunter green CPBS polo and khaki's, and become friend. Loved playing soccer/ volleyball, helping teach them the fine art of making s'mores, and to just not hold back in having fun with them! Jess and Amber led worship, and then I got to share the Lord with them! My talk was about the Samaritan woman at the well, and how our wells are where we run to be satisfied. I loved getting to be raw with them, to not just speak out of knowledge, but thankfully out of experience- what he's done in my life! We had a blast and I can't wait to see what is to come :). Praise the Lord, it was a beautiful start!
This morning little Ederick ( my neighbor with autism) who wouldn't speak to us the first 2 months of being here decided to come play and hang out! We got to sit at the table and shuffle through ipod songs, learn spanish & english words associated with pictures, draw, color, and watch All Dogs Go to Heaven! That's a good first day together :) What an amazing morning surprise- he is precious! That's a huge prayer answered to be building a relationship with him- it's taken a little while! The Lord is so good, and SO intentional down to the little details- LOVE IT!
Right now we are on hurricane lock down. Richard, or Little Dicky as I prefer to call it is supposed to roll through very early in the am. I am not worried, but pray for the large amount of people here that either don't have a home or their homes are made of tin scraps. We shall see what the morning looks like, it could end up BEAUTIFUL like the last 2! Usually the power is the first thing to go. On that note- must go shower! Love to you all :)
After school we got to watch the girls rock it in a volleyball match! So fun to join in and help make up school cheers. We are the crabs :) After the game we had a big bus filled with kids and headed over to the Alvarado's house for our first high school night! So fun to move past being Miss Erin in my hunter green CPBS polo and khaki's, and become friend. Loved playing soccer/ volleyball, helping teach them the fine art of making s'mores, and to just not hold back in having fun with them! Jess and Amber led worship, and then I got to share the Lord with them! My talk was about the Samaritan woman at the well, and how our wells are where we run to be satisfied. I loved getting to be raw with them, to not just speak out of knowledge, but thankfully out of experience- what he's done in my life! We had a blast and I can't wait to see what is to come :). Praise the Lord, it was a beautiful start!
This morning little Ederick ( my neighbor with autism) who wouldn't speak to us the first 2 months of being here decided to come play and hang out! We got to sit at the table and shuffle through ipod songs, learn spanish & english words associated with pictures, draw, color, and watch All Dogs Go to Heaven! That's a good first day together :) What an amazing morning surprise- he is precious! That's a huge prayer answered to be building a relationship with him- it's taken a little while! The Lord is so good, and SO intentional down to the little details- LOVE IT!
Right now we are on hurricane lock down. Richard, or Little Dicky as I prefer to call it is supposed to roll through very early in the am. I am not worried, but pray for the large amount of people here that either don't have a home or their homes are made of tin scraps. We shall see what the morning looks like, it could end up BEAUTIFUL like the last 2! Usually the power is the first thing to go. On that note- must go shower! Love to you all :)
Monday, October 18, 2010
I have been given a gift today!
Today I have been given a gift! I have been given such a beautiful picture of the power behind serving as a body! I am so proud pf everyone!
We are starting a youth group and last week was supposed to be our first meeting. Due to rain it had to be post poned untill this Friday. Can't wait to hit the groung running and stay open to what that's supposed to look like. Harry and I both have Young Life background, so our first meeting naturally looks a bit like "club". Will keep you posted! Last week, kids started to stay after school to “talk”. Many are opening up about their family lives, and why they are behaving the way they do. Although so many days are challenging at school, thank you for your prayers! The Lord is breaking down so many walls and I know that will only continue! I love them and am crazy thankful for who they are!
This is just a tiny glimpse of big picture what all God is stirring up, providing for, and making happen. Keep praying that his kingdom would come to earth as it is in heaven! Be reminded that whether you work at a hotel, in the hospital, a lab, cubicle, school- wherever you are and whatever you are doing… you have an amazing gift to give! Investing in lives, changes lives! I am so thankful for every one who has taken time to believe in me and invest in me over the years. SO many come to mind :) Thank you!!!
Yesterday, Zach, Amber, and Jessica stood in front of church leading worship. I loved the freedom I experienced just to sing genuine praise to God, and then look around and realize so many were experiencing the same thing. What an amazing sound, just like we are joining the heavenly angels. Proud of you guys, what a gift to share!
Harry got to know and invest in some really set apart guys from the French Harbourlast year. It has been such a blessing to watch the huge impact he has already had over their lives and the exciting part is that is only continuing to grow! They are so alive with personality! These guys are known by everyone on the island for two reasons; because they are good with people, but also due to extreme poverty they have to find a way to have every need met by themselves. The guys range from 13 to 17 years old, and the highest grade reached is 5th (some are still in 2nd). They don’t have parents at home encouraging them and speaking truth into their lives. The Lord has better for them however, these boys are being loved on, they are getting glimpses of the Lord’s heart for them! A friend gave Harry a key to his office so that we can tutor them! Traditions Harry started last year are carrying on. Sundays they come over as a safe get away, where they fish, cook, relax, dance, goof off, and read. It’s so fun to simply walk with people! This morning Harry, Kelly, and I got the precious gift to take 3 of the boys ( Pablo, Memphi, and Gos) to Clinic Esperanza, where they got their teeth cleaned for the first time! They each have cavities that have either already destroyed teeth, or were heading in that direction. I literally had a tear in my eye as I rubbed their arms, warming them up and sitting with them while Dr. Sanchez worked his wonders on them. Growing up I didn’t think twice about having parents that would bend over backwards to make sure that I was taken care of in every way, but I know that I am beyond blessed! These boys mothers have never had the means to take them to be cared for, and their fathers aren’t present. I am so thankful that today they were reminded their worth, that the Lord’s thoughts over them outweigh the grains of the sand, and that they are precious children of a loving Father. They already had glowing smiles, but now they are excited to have radiant smiles without dark holes all over! It will take a few more visits to fix all the cavities, but this is an amazing start to healthy mouths :)
Ms. Peggy had a vision about 10 years ago to start a health clinic that would reach the community and it is doing exactly that! That vision is being carried out by volunteers year round who serve faithfully, while only charging about $2 per visit. To see all the people lined up at the door at 7am gave a sweet glimpse of daily life at the clinic. I was so encouraged to watch my friend John, and so many others work so hard and enthusiastically behind the scenes to make this possible. About 50 people per day walk in and leave helped/ healed/ and loved on! That is HUGE! I am thankful for my sister and brothers like Ms. Peggy who believe and trust that Jesus is who is says is, and because of that the provision of the Lord is visible daily!
Ms. Peggy had a vision about 10 years ago to start a health clinic that would reach the community and it is doing exactly that! That vision is being carried out by volunteers year round who serve faithfully, while only charging about $2 per visit. To see all the people lined up at the door at 7am gave a sweet glimpse of daily life at the clinic. I was so encouraged to watch my friend John, and so many others work so hard and enthusiastically behind the scenes to make this possible. About 50 people per day walk in and leave helped/ healed/ and loved on! That is HUGE! I am thankful for my sister and brothers like Ms. Peggy who believe and trust that Jesus is who is says is, and because of that the provision of the Lord is visible daily!
Harry ( the pioneer), Kelly (the spanish queen), and Zach (photographer extra-ordinare) got to go back to the doughnut girls house, where it is looking promising that support is coming to bring together the troops to build a home for these girls and their families. Pray that this family would be left in awe over the Lord’s provision for them! I can’t wait to see all the details of what God is working out! Also, I got to spend the afternoon with beautiful Miss Kendall at the orphanage she lives/works/ and volunteers at. I am so thankful that I get to watch the ways the kids respect her and soak up the fact that the way she loves them is different, her joy is different, and her life is completely different! The Lord told Kendall to take time off of school, which she thought was crazy at the time but she was obedient! In her obedience these orphans are discovering that whats different about her, what compels her to love them is the way she has experienced the Lord’s love in her own life. Once you experience it, you just can’t hold it in! I am loving a way to get to be involved with this ministry and to get to visually watch these kids grow, and be healed from crazy scars from the past. Kendall is walking with them towards the freedom that God provides. We got to tutor beautiful Destiny today, and at age 7 we are starting with shapes and colors. I see Jesus’ face so clearly in these kids, words just don’t come close to describing it! Thank you Kendall for daily surrendering the details of your life and just be willing to GO!
We are starting a youth group and last week was supposed to be our first meeting. Due to rain it had to be post poned untill this Friday. Can't wait to hit the groung running and stay open to what that's supposed to look like. Harry and I both have Young Life background, so our first meeting naturally looks a bit like "club". Will keep you posted! Last week, kids started to stay after school to “talk”. Many are opening up about their family lives, and why they are behaving the way they do. Although so many days are challenging at school, thank you for your prayers! The Lord is breaking down so many walls and I know that will only continue! I love them and am crazy thankful for who they are!
This is just a tiny glimpse of big picture what all God is stirring up, providing for, and making happen. Keep praying that his kingdom would come to earth as it is in heaven! Be reminded that whether you work at a hotel, in the hospital, a lab, cubicle, school- wherever you are and whatever you are doing… you have an amazing gift to give! Investing in lives, changes lives! I am so thankful for every one who has taken time to believe in me and invest in me over the years. SO many come to mind :) Thank you!!!
Normally I don't ask this, but if ever you feel led to invest in or bless any of these people or ministries please email me at erinepayne@gmail.com. I know often our heart desires to give but we are not sure of good places to pour into, these are some beautiful people worthy to be loved on!
Sunday, October 3, 2010
Always Enough!
Hello lovely ones!
Missing a lot of you right now but just continue to pray over your lives in excitement of what is being done/ will be done in and through you! Sorry that my blog posts have been few and far between, but thank you for caring about me and desiring to get some glimpses of life here. I really am constantly amazed at all the wonderful people the Lord has placed in my life, love walking and learning from yall!
Since our trip to Copan.....
It was a wonderful feeling to get back from a long weekend so ready to hug my kids and get to hear about their vacations. School continues to be a challenge- I am still facing a large number of behavioral issues, negative attitudes, complaining, lack of willingness to work/ turn in work, etc. This past week I created a new rule that it's mandatory to stay in during recess if you haven't finished your work. Although its hard to have breaks taken up and to be tuturing students after school (12 hour days), I really praise the Lord for the opportunity to help teach and hopefully help mold them. I am praying that far beyond them learning Science and Math, that they would learn who the Lord is, his heart for them, and also what he calls them to be. A lot of these kids come from broken homes, or their fathers are gone most of the time on cruise ships trying to make enough money to be housed and eat meals.... so attention, encouragement, affirmation, love, and guidance is huge! I have been learning a lot about having grace with myself, especially the days where I am exhausted and frustrated. Last weekend it really hit me that I have been trying to work and serve in so many ways within my own strength. It's possible to a certain extent, but its exhausting and completely robs Jesus from being able to truly move, bless, and use this time/ the relationships in life changing ways! I am continueing to learn what a beautiful place it is to be on my knees hungry and desperate for the Lord's love :). The amazing thing is when I become less, he becomes more- and thats when there are crazy amounts of room for his love to overflow!!
Last year a lady at church encouraged me with some words from the Lord, in which Heidi Baker was mentioned. At the time it didn't mean much to me because I had only heard of her name. Once again, the Lord has really spoken to me though, through that encouragement and through her book. ( Reading Always Enough- HIGHLY recommend it :). This gives a beautiful picture of what the Lord invites us into- a picture of two people who trust that the Lord is who he says he is and beause of that they have gotten to experience the limless power he desires to unleash. They have gotten to rescue hundreds of throw away kids in Africa, and have started 5 thousand churches...it's story after story of the Lord miraculously healing sicknesses, providing in crazy ways, restoring the completely broken, and even raising others from the dead. We hear this and get freaked out, but if the Lord says " you will do this and more", why would we want to miss out on his limitless power? I realize how much I am held back by my "self" -wanting to be noticed, by my selfishness and pride. But I continue to encounter his grace, mercy, and love over me and continue to be changed. My life is his, and my prayer continues to be that he would take and do as he pleases- to stop talking about who he is but to actually walk in trust of who he is! Please continue to join me in this prayer!
Even before I ever stepped onto the island I felt that teaching at the school was only a portion of what I would be doing on this island. The past couple weeks have been encouraging to get to start building relationships and get involved on the island in different ways. There is a couple at our church that has started ESL classes in the colonia (poorest section of the island), which has been exciting to get a glimpse of that ministry and get to be a part of it. I have decided that thats just a little too much teaching, especially since my heart is in so many different places. I met another Heidi Baker, excepts hes a man and lives on the island. Harrison had told me about his ministry on the island, and praise the Lord I met him in the line to get lunch last week. He invited us over thursday night and so many prayers have been answered. Thankful that he saw a need on the island and was bold enough to step out in faith and allow the Lord to reach the people here. It's taken MANY different forms, but basically those who are at risk or have been sucked into sex trafficking/ drug trafficking are being rescued, healed, and taught so many other ways of life!!!! Sewing classes, computer classes, hospitality training, health clinics, housing, soccer leagues, english/ spanish classes, counseling.... the list goes on! So encouraged and excited to join these faithful and bold people.... praying what exactly that is supposed to look like- but ready to jump in!
Missing a lot of you right now but just continue to pray over your lives in excitement of what is being done/ will be done in and through you! Sorry that my blog posts have been few and far between, but thank you for caring about me and desiring to get some glimpses of life here. I really am constantly amazed at all the wonderful people the Lord has placed in my life, love walking and learning from yall!
Since our trip to Copan.....
It was a wonderful feeling to get back from a long weekend so ready to hug my kids and get to hear about their vacations. School continues to be a challenge- I am still facing a large number of behavioral issues, negative attitudes, complaining, lack of willingness to work/ turn in work, etc. This past week I created a new rule that it's mandatory to stay in during recess if you haven't finished your work. Although its hard to have breaks taken up and to be tuturing students after school (12 hour days), I really praise the Lord for the opportunity to help teach and hopefully help mold them. I am praying that far beyond them learning Science and Math, that they would learn who the Lord is, his heart for them, and also what he calls them to be. A lot of these kids come from broken homes, or their fathers are gone most of the time on cruise ships trying to make enough money to be housed and eat meals.... so attention, encouragement, affirmation, love, and guidance is huge! I have been learning a lot about having grace with myself, especially the days where I am exhausted and frustrated. Last weekend it really hit me that I have been trying to work and serve in so many ways within my own strength. It's possible to a certain extent, but its exhausting and completely robs Jesus from being able to truly move, bless, and use this time/ the relationships in life changing ways! I am continueing to learn what a beautiful place it is to be on my knees hungry and desperate for the Lord's love :). The amazing thing is when I become less, he becomes more- and thats when there are crazy amounts of room for his love to overflow!!
Last year a lady at church encouraged me with some words from the Lord, in which Heidi Baker was mentioned. At the time it didn't mean much to me because I had only heard of her name. Once again, the Lord has really spoken to me though, through that encouragement and through her book. ( Reading Always Enough- HIGHLY recommend it :). This gives a beautiful picture of what the Lord invites us into- a picture of two people who trust that the Lord is who he says he is and beause of that they have gotten to experience the limless power he desires to unleash. They have gotten to rescue hundreds of throw away kids in Africa, and have started 5 thousand churches...it's story after story of the Lord miraculously healing sicknesses, providing in crazy ways, restoring the completely broken, and even raising others from the dead. We hear this and get freaked out, but if the Lord says " you will do this and more", why would we want to miss out on his limitless power? I realize how much I am held back by my "self" -wanting to be noticed, by my selfishness and pride. But I continue to encounter his grace, mercy, and love over me and continue to be changed. My life is his, and my prayer continues to be that he would take and do as he pleases- to stop talking about who he is but to actually walk in trust of who he is! Please continue to join me in this prayer!
Even before I ever stepped onto the island I felt that teaching at the school was only a portion of what I would be doing on this island. The past couple weeks have been encouraging to get to start building relationships and get involved on the island in different ways. There is a couple at our church that has started ESL classes in the colonia (poorest section of the island), which has been exciting to get a glimpse of that ministry and get to be a part of it. I have decided that thats just a little too much teaching, especially since my heart is in so many different places. I met another Heidi Baker, excepts hes a man and lives on the island. Harrison had told me about his ministry on the island, and praise the Lord I met him in the line to get lunch last week. He invited us over thursday night and so many prayers have been answered. Thankful that he saw a need on the island and was bold enough to step out in faith and allow the Lord to reach the people here. It's taken MANY different forms, but basically those who are at risk or have been sucked into sex trafficking/ drug trafficking are being rescued, healed, and taught so many other ways of life!!!! Sewing classes, computer classes, hospitality training, health clinics, housing, soccer leagues, english/ spanish classes, counseling.... the list goes on! So encouraged and excited to join these faithful and bold people.... praying what exactly that is supposed to look like- but ready to jump in!
Saturday, September 25, 2010
COPAN ADVENTURE!
This is taken from Jessica Sitler's blog- shout out, thanks for spelling it out sista! SO MUCH FUN :)
(since it was already a week ago since the trip I figure I better get something up)
VIAVIA
Probably one of the best international weekends I've had thus far on my journey. Honduran Independence Day was last Wednesday and the kids at school have been practicing for the parade for weeks. We marched around French Harbour with the band, baton twirlers, flag holders and Miss Honduras. We left on the ferry to La Ceiba later in the afternoon and arrived at Michael and Sarah's house to stay the night. We had an amazing spaghetti dinner with fresh avocados, cucumbers, bean soup, chocolate cake and horchata. We decided to hit the town and ended up at a karaoke bar filled with discoballs and a sweet dance floor. Harry sang some Enrique Inglesias, the girlies sang Beyonce and Zach sang Coolio. Very typical. Slept on some yoga mats until our alarms rang at 4am. We walked through some sketchy woods to the highway and then to the bus station. Boarded our bus to Copan. Layover in San Pedro Sula. Decided to check out the city. Language barriers and misunderstanding lead our taxi driver to believe that we wanted to go to the "supermercado" instead of the market downtown. We ended up grocery shopping and drinking coffee and eating smoothies during our time in San Pedro. I couldn't stop laughing. Arrived to Copan around 5 and checked into our hostel, Carrillo, located about 2 blocks from central park. For $5 a day, it was very nice with HOT SHOWERS. WHATTTT!!! We ordered 4 pizzas at a place called Milo's between the 7 of us and finished every last piece. We found a nice coffee shop/book exchange and then meandered over to a wine bar down the street. We met some travelers, played hacky sack, and invited them along for the ride. We ended up dancing the night away and learning how to "punta" from some of the local Hondurans. We chatted on the roof of our hostel with candles since the power was out. Woke up on Friday morning and headed over to the Mayan Ruins where we hiked around for a few hours and of course, played hacky sack in the casa court. The ruins were phenomenal, some dating back to 300 BC. John decided to feed the parrots out of his mouth; he provided most of the entertainment for our trip. We were starving and found a cheap local place called Tipicos where we ordered like kings for about $1 each. Nachos, HUGE burritos, quesadillas, fried plantains with beans and queso, and strawberry juice. We immediately decided to take a 3 hour horse riding tour of Copan which, was not the best idea after indulging in copious amounts of comida. Trekked up the mountain to a mud hut village where we were swarmed by children selling corn husk flower bouquets and dolls.The guides Margarito and Juan Carlos were in extremely good shape; they ran beside the horses with us for the entirety of our trip. We headed back to shower before the power went out again, made our way to central park to eat dessert and tacos for dinner. We found a restaurant and bar called ViaVia, mostly with gringos and a bartender from Oregon. We wandered to another place down the street, listened to some guitar playing, some of us went home, some of us decided to keep exploring the beautiful quaint city of Copan. The discoteca we found, was not so quaint. It was phenomenal and loud and full of lights and dancing Hondurans. We had a blast in the fog machine, jumping into the pool at the end of the night and walking back to our hostel, making it in time to catch the bus at 4am back to La Ceiba. We made it to Ceiba around 1pm on Saturday, jumped off some cliffs and took it easy playing spanish catch phrase and meeting fellow travelers who were there to hike waterfalls and white water raft at Jungle River. All 7 of us slept in one room, it was fabulous. Started the rafting trip around 9:30, took a midway hike to a gorgeous waterfall and jumped into it's surrounding pool. We took the ferry back to Roatan and got back on Sunday around 6:30, utterly exhausted yet feeling so accomplished and cultured after the fun filled and adventurous weekend. Can't wait to go back.
(since it was already a week ago since the trip I figure I better get something up)
VIAVIA
Probably one of the best international weekends I've had thus far on my journey. Honduran Independence Day was last Wednesday and the kids at school have been practicing for the parade for weeks. We marched around French Harbour with the band, baton twirlers, flag holders and Miss Honduras. We left on the ferry to La Ceiba later in the afternoon and arrived at Michael and Sarah's house to stay the night. We had an amazing spaghetti dinner with fresh avocados, cucumbers, bean soup, chocolate cake and horchata. We decided to hit the town and ended up at a karaoke bar filled with discoballs and a sweet dance floor. Harry sang some Enrique Inglesias, the girlies sang Beyonce and Zach sang Coolio. Very typical. Slept on some yoga mats until our alarms rang at 4am. We walked through some sketchy woods to the highway and then to the bus station. Boarded our bus to Copan. Layover in San Pedro Sula. Decided to check out the city. Language barriers and misunderstanding lead our taxi driver to believe that we wanted to go to the "supermercado" instead of the market downtown. We ended up grocery shopping and drinking coffee and eating smoothies during our time in San Pedro. I couldn't stop laughing. Arrived to Copan around 5 and checked into our hostel, Carrillo, located about 2 blocks from central park. For $5 a day, it was very nice with HOT SHOWERS. WHATTTT!!! We ordered 4 pizzas at a place called Milo's between the 7 of us and finished every last piece. We found a nice coffee shop/book exchange and then meandered over to a wine bar down the street. We met some travelers, played hacky sack, and invited them along for the ride. We ended up dancing the night away and learning how to "punta" from some of the local Hondurans. We chatted on the roof of our hostel with candles since the power was out. Woke up on Friday morning and headed over to the Mayan Ruins where we hiked around for a few hours and of course, played hacky sack in the casa court. The ruins were phenomenal, some dating back to 300 BC. John decided to feed the parrots out of his mouth; he provided most of the entertainment for our trip. We were starving and found a cheap local place called Tipicos where we ordered like kings for about $1 each. Nachos, HUGE burritos, quesadillas, fried plantains with beans and queso, and strawberry juice. We immediately decided to take a 3 hour horse riding tour of Copan which, was not the best idea after indulging in copious amounts of comida. Trekked up the mountain to a mud hut village where we were swarmed by children selling corn husk flower bouquets and dolls.The guides Margarito and Juan Carlos were in extremely good shape; they ran beside the horses with us for the entirety of our trip. We headed back to shower before the power went out again, made our way to central park to eat dessert and tacos for dinner. We found a restaurant and bar called ViaVia, mostly with gringos and a bartender from Oregon. We wandered to another place down the street, listened to some guitar playing, some of us went home, some of us decided to keep exploring the beautiful quaint city of Copan. The discoteca we found, was not so quaint. It was phenomenal and loud and full of lights and dancing Hondurans. We had a blast in the fog machine, jumping into the pool at the end of the night and walking back to our hostel, making it in time to catch the bus at 4am back to La Ceiba. We made it to Ceiba around 1pm on Saturday, jumped off some cliffs and took it easy playing spanish catch phrase and meeting fellow travelers who were there to hike waterfalls and white water raft at Jungle River. All 7 of us slept in one room, it was fabulous. Started the rafting trip around 9:30, took a midway hike to a gorgeous waterfall and jumped into it's surrounding pool. We took the ferry back to Roatan and got back on Sunday around 6:30, utterly exhausted yet feeling so accomplished and cultured after the fun filled and adventurous weekend. Can't wait to go back.
Sunday, September 19, 2010
CAN'T STOP CELEBRATING!
BIG NEWS! I have been away from internet for a week but just have to share my excitement and celebration that two of my best friends are getting married... to each other!!! AHHH I am about to explode with praise, thanks, and joy :)
Stacie and Grant are two of the most set apart people to me, I just love that they get to be set apart together forever! It has been the greatest blessing to get to walk beside these two and watch the Lord transform them and move in their lives/ relationship! From Stace praying over G for 8 months before him realizing his feelings for her to Grant pursuing her so faithfully.. their relationship has just been SUCH a beautiful picture of the Lord's loveto me and so many! We have always called ourselves the trifecta, which sounds ooober cheesy (because in some ways it is) but in reality it has been/ is an amazing honor!! After praying the past year with both Stacie and Grant for patience, it's so fun to get to fully celebrate them and not hold back!! Although it's times like this that it's hard to be away, I am just overwhelmed with awe and thanks for this season and so many to come! Can't wait to walk with them forever, to be behind them forever, pray faithfully, continue to celebrate, and JUST SEE THE LORD ALIVE in them and their marriage! AHHH- LOVE YOU TWO LIKE CRAZY, SO MUCH CELEBRATING TO DO!!! CONGRATS TO THE MEIBURGS TO BE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Philippians 1:3 3 Every time I think of you, I give thanks to my God. 4 Whenever I pray, I make my requests for all of you with joy, 5 for you have been my partners in spreading the Good News about Christ from the time you first heard it until now. 6 And I am certain that God, who began the good work within you, will continue his work until it is finally finished on the day when Christ Jesus returns.
(this is not only their verse for each other but mine for them)
Friday, September 10, 2010
Faith that moves mountains!
Praise the Lord, praise the Lord, PRAISE the Lord! Yesterday I woke up to a sky filled with clouds, so bright that they almost appeared to be a rainbow. As I started the day praying with my little Honduras family over Aunt Jan, tears were rolling down my cheeks in thanks that our God only offers HOPE! Thank you to SO MANY who have been prayer warriors over Jan, Jack, and the boys this past month! Many of you have been so faithful to ask updates, sorry that it has been a little while since my last email, but know that your prayers have been powerful :). Yesterday she went in for round 3 of chemo and her first CT since we discovered the cancer. She is responding to the chemo and the cancer is shrinking!! The doctor was pleased with what he saw and is going to continue 2 more rounds, then evaluate again. I tell her often but I have been floored, watching the grace and strength of my aunt in walking through this process! What a beautiful picture of a daughter who knows her Father is good, and who has faith and love that will move mountains! What a testimony it has already been to so many just to watch the way shes clinging to the Lord through all this... and even on the hardest days the Lord's joy is still shining in her! WOW- only God can do that! So thankful to get to walk with and learn from her! Romans 8 is a huge part of my story, the Lord uses ALL things to work together for good! I know he will use this for good!
Luke 1:37, Nothing is impossible for God! Thank you so much for all your bold prayers- PLEASE DO NOT STOP! Our Father is SO FAR beyond doctors words, and medicine (even though they are a blessing).. he is ultimate healer! Amongst SO MANY, one of my ransom prayers is that her lungs would allow her to laugh hard and not have to hold back.... it excites me to think about all the prayers of everyone together- lets keep asking, that's what He calls/ invites us to do! LOVE YOU ALL SO MUCH!
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