Familia Marcum, Operation Ecuador

Happy Holidays from our family to yours!

2011-12-17T12:02:00.002-04:00

Highlights from Bolivia

2011-11-16T16:13:00.007-04:00

So here are some of the highlights from our trip to Bolivia... Word images first. Pictures below (can you tell Enoch stole the show?)

-introducing Enoch to his Bolivian family
-silpancho 3 times in a week (and pique macho besides!)
-watching the kids play together with their friends and cousins
-mineragua almost every day
-being able to be at another family camp
-Josh and Jenny playing the guitar and harmonica together
-seeing Jenny and Erik's new place
-hearing the familiar bird calls and walking the streets of Cochabamba again
-a trip up to the Cristo statue with the Aimers
-a date with Jenny and Erik to the Joy Ride cafe
-coffee with the Sandovals
-a night at Bouganvillas hotel
-prayer time with the ladies
-staying with the Forbess family
-being able to visit with so many families in the church

Back to Bolivia

2011-11-09T15:32:00.002-04:00

We just recently returned from a whirlwind trip to Bolivia... 7 different flights on different days + 7 different places to sleep + 2 meals a day with people in the church + a ten day travel span + four kids = I don't know... insanity? As I type it all out, I'm wondering how we did it... but I'm so glad we did! When we started talking about Josh going to Bolivia for his yearly visit to the teams/churches, I told him I thought it was really important that the kids and I go too... to encourage/see people, introduce Enoch, have more closure.

It was harder than I thought it would be... being back. Cochabamba still feels more 'familiar' than Quito... I know the streets, the shopping, the public transportation better than Quito. It was so good seeing teammates and brothers and sisters in the church, but it reminded me how much I still miss everyone.

And yet at the same time, it was good. Good to renew friendships and to talk in person. Good to see brothers and sisters remaining faithful to the Lord. Good for the kids to be able to see their friends and teachers. Good to be with family and see their new home. Good for the kids to realize this was 'home'... and now our place is elsewhere.

It was good to come 'home' to Quito and to get that feeling of relief as you walk through the door of your home. Good to see the kids excited about going back to school and seeing all their friends and teachers that they have here. Good to come 'home' to Nana and Papa being back.

Michaela had a melt down one night after we left Cochabamba. She cried and cried about how she wished she could be close to Jubilee. We talked about how she has made new friends and would miss them if she did not see them... how people's lives change. She said she wished all her friends could be together. Welcome to the life of the global nomad, my child. Only in heaven.

My sister shared this quote on one of her recent blogs and it truly expresses my heart. Alfred, Lord Tennyson: "I am a part of all that I have met; yet all experience is an arch wherethrough gleams that untravelled world whose margin fades for ever and for ever when I move.”

Michaela's rules

2011-10-11T19:44:00.003-04:00

So Michaela came home today with a paper of rules that she and her friends had made up together. For posterity's sake, I thought I'd record them here :) See if you can figure them out.

No srimin in lunch.
No bragin.
No jumpin in pudus.
No tisin.
No fidin.
No runin.

First days of school!

2011-10-01T22:34:00.002-04:00

Firsts for Enoch

2011-10-01T22:11:00.002-04:00

First time in the bouncer

First horseback ride

Sitting up

First rice cereal

Travels

2011-08-06T17:43:00.010-04:00

I am so behind on my updates with the business of school starting that I decided to combine a few posts. We haven't done a whole lot of traveling since arriving in Quito due to being so busy and having a baby, but we did get away for our 11th anniversary to San Pablo lake, and we took a few days of family vacation to the beach - combined with a work visit to the church in Santo Domingo.

Happy 11th Anniversary! A view from our hotel room of volcano Imbabura... sacred to local people.

We took a drive up to another volcano - Cotacachi - to see a crater lake - called Cuicocha (or guinea pig lake) for the 2 islands in the middle that supposedly looks like the backs of 2 guinea pigs... and have lots of wild guinea pigs living on them.

And ate lunch at a 300 year old hacienda... where Simon Bolivar used to stay. And ate off of pewter plates!

Our beach trip was a much needed few days away. We enjoyed the peace of the ocean... the girls got terribly sunburned... and we even went on a boat ride out to see humpback whales off the coast (June and July are the best months to spot whales). It was a first for me to see whales in the wild, even though I've seen a multitude of wild animals growing up in Kenya - there is something exciting about see animals in their natural habitat. Enoch did NOT like the heat though.

Michaela got her hair braided at the beach

Gotta love the ocean

Little water bug

Enjoying the waves

Playing with Daddy

Enoch's first time in the pool

Building sand castles

At the Tsachila Indian village where the local missionaries hold a weekly Bible study. It reminded me a lot of village visits we used to make in Kenya when I was a child.

Introducing the kids to Talking Tom on the IPhone

Playing Tsachila instruments

Some favorite pics of Enoch

2011-07-25T17:08:00.007-04:00

In an effort to be fair... and in case I ever do another blog book... I thought I'd post some of my favorite shots of Enoch so far, most of which I have already posted on facebook :) Enjoy!

Reflections on Life in Ecuador

2011-07-23T16:13:00.000-04:00

This blog has been brewing a long time on the back burner in my brain. There have been a lot of reasons why I have kept pushing it back and letting it simmer: too many things to process in those first few weeks, too busy with settling in, having a baby, taking care of 4 kids, homeschooling when I'm able, keeping up with the house cleaning. And let's get real - facebook is just so much easier! It's a lot easier to spit out a sentence or two and upload a ton of pictures at once. But it seems a week of vacation was just the stimulant I needed to get back into the world of blogging.

But there are some things that can't be said in a few words. Namely, thoughts on our new life here in Ecuador... birth and life with 4 children... new work... living close to family. Where do I begin? Here are 20 different thoughts I have had... in no particular order.

1. Ecuador is much more modern than Bolivia. The malls are comparable to the US... we have Pizza Hut and Taco Bell. There are actual 6 and 8 lane highways. You don't have to check your purse at the grocery store. You can buy frozen vegetables and frozen juice concentrate.
2. Ecuador is still a 3rd world Latin American country. Things may be slightly more organized, but we still have to run circles getting any paperwork done. The driving, unbelievably, is a whole new level of craziness. Traffic moves much faster and you better drive with your window down so you can stick your hand out at a whim, because people do not pay attention to turn signals... and forget merging and yielding. You have to bully your way in. It's terrifying! This is definitely the biggest city I have every lived in, much less driven in. And the roads wind and curve so much - going around and through mountains.
3. We still have to buy our natural gas in tanks (although at least the gas truck comes by our house daily). You still buy your milk in bags. And buses and taxis are still the primary mode of transportation.
3. Ecuador has a coast. I am loving the availability of fresh seafood! Shrimp and fish are so much cheaper and easier to buy.
4. Fresh bread here is beyond comparison!
5. When we first arrived, it rained all the time! Bolivia was an incredibly beautiful country, in it's own way. Ecuador is GREEN and beautiful! And surprisingly, it is colder here most of the time than it was in Bolivia. There is just no telling what the weather will be like... it may be sunny and 5 minutes later, cold and rainy.
6. Interestingly enough, I actually think Bolivia had more foreign import items. I miss Que Barato and my sporadic supply of Dr. Pepper! I have yet to find a can in Ecuador.
7. I am enjoying doing all my weekly shopping in one place. I don't have to go to the fresh market and the supermarket. And the supermarket here has an amazing supply of fresh fruit and vegetables, unlike the ones in Bolivia. Some of the fruits I have never heard of or seen anywhere else.
8. There is a price to modernity: everything is more expensive.
9. Living close to family has definite benefits. The girls are loving spending time at Nana and Papa's and playing with their cousins. And we got to see cousin Addison the day after she was born! A first for me as an auntie. We are loving getting to spend more time with Jauna, Justin and their kids. God is good... he has always had us near one of our siblings.
10. The birthing experience here was beautiful! The clinic and water birth was amazing. I did, however, find it ironic that after having 4 natural labor and deliveries because I didn't want a needle stuck in my back, I found myself getting an epidural the following morning before my surgery. And as the drugs set in, I found myself thinking,"Wow, this is why some women opt for the epidural!" But I definitely did not enjoy the recovery from said drugs. I was so woozy and lethargic the following day, and had major headaches for 3 days in a row.
11. The hardest part of our new ministry is Josh being gone for days at a time. It is also different being involved in a work that has been established for 20+ years. It is a delicate balance, knowing how to get involved and help while not wanting to take charge or change things that are already going well. It has also been a challenge for me, coming into a place and meeting people that know Josh so well, but not knowing any of them! I am still wading the murky waters of learning names and faces.
12. I have great respect for young moms that homeschool. It is so challenging getting anything done with 3 kids and a baby! Consistency has definitely suffered since Enoch was born. A part of me is looking forward to the girls starting school... at least it will get us into a routine! The other part of me feels like the days are slipping through my fingers like water... I'm treasuring these slow and easy days with my children, knowing that I probably won't have time like this very often again.
13. Ecuador reminds me hauntingly at times of Kenya... whether it be the feeling that I must be driving up the Rift Valley ridge... or seeing more black faces on the streets... or sitting on the beach remembering the white sands of Mombasa... or remembering childhood visits to the villages as we visit a local tribal group here. Ecuador is also a lot more like Kenya in the sense that it is very tourist oriented. There are so many places to explore... and means and manner to do so!
14. The soups in Bolivia are better, but they still have the 'almuerzo' tradition... a 3 course meal of the day served at most restaurants for a very cheap price.
15. LIfe with 4 children is not a whole lot different than life with 3. It is nice having a child/children old enough to be able to hold a baby, put a paci in, feed him a bottle, even change a diaper. And it is a whole new world having only 1 in diapers! Having a boy... is not a whole lot different than having a girl... so far. There are still just as many folds of skin to wipe when you change a diaper... they are just arranged differently... and you have to be more careful to cover him up quickly! I will say Enoch seems to be a little stronger... a fighter. And he eats a lot! He also seems to have developed an early case of 'mommyitis'.
16. I have experienced another hard part of life abroad recently. My mom has recently been diagnosed with non-Hodgekins lymphoma. It is really hard being far from family at times like this. Please keep her health in your prayers.
17. It is nice being such a 'short' trip from the US. My father-in-law likes to say we're just 5 hours south of Miami/Houston. It is easy to get here in a day... with only 2 plane rides.
18. I am a creature of habit. I miss familiarity... knowing where to buy things... knowing where to drive... knowing which buses to take... which taxi service to call... I miss my pediatrician. I miss our house. I miss having consistent help in the house! I miss my friends and church family.
19. i am enjoying experiencing new places and making new memories. Our house is finally starting to feel like 'home'. The people here are so friendly and glad we are here.
20. Josh keeps reminding me, in my emotional ups and downs, that God has brought us here at the right time for a purpose. I know he is right, although sometimes I get tired of hearing it. I can see it too, in the way he is contributing to Operation Ecuador and in the lives of his family. To be honest, for some reason, I resist it at times.... I'm not sure why. Am I afraid to put roots down? Reluctant? I am praying God continue to work in me... to open me to what He wants to teach me here in this place... among this people... and to serve in the way He has laid out for me.

Team For Eyes Mission Trip to Ecuador, June 2011

2011-06-16T10:14:00.000-04:00

Enoch Kent

2011-04-20T18:05:00.005-04:00

We are so thankful to welcome our son into the world! Enoch Kent was born on April 18th at 7:22 pm, weighing 7.9 lbs and 54 cm long. With red-blonde hair and blue eyes, he is a true Marcum! Just as his name means 'dedicated' in Hebrew, so we dedicate him to the Lord. The water birth and clinic experience was the best we've had yet, although I sure had to work to push him out! And it was great having Aunt Jauna, Uncle Justin and the cousins nearby to welcome him into the world. We are home now enjoying our family, recovering, and adjusting to being a family of 6.

Top Twenty Pics from Christmas 2010

2011-02-17T16:57:00.007-04:00

Decorating the Christmas tree

Visiting the gingerbread house display

Making a gingerbread house with Nyanya

Baking with Nyanya

Visiting Santa Claus

Playing in the snow

Cousin time

At Chuck E Cheese's

Music time with Nyanya

At the ice festival... BRRRR! It was cold!

Playing games with Nyanya and Babu

At Greenfield Village

Is it worth it?

2011-02-17T12:19:00.002-04:00

The 'Thinking Ahead' part of the RAFT process is always the most difficult for me. I do not, for the most part, enjoy change. Often it is hard for me to imagine what our 'new' life will be like. How new relationships, though different, may be as special as the old. How a new house will one day feel familiar as home. How this new work, with it's own struggles and joys, will be as fulfilling as what we have done. How a new place, a new country, a new culture will one day have its own place in my heart. It's easier to live in the nostalgia of the past. To be quite honest, I have not been ready to 'move on', mentally, physically or emotionally until the last few days. I guess God knew I needed this buffer of time between lives to process and refocus.

Moving is always hard. Moving internationally comes with its own set of compounded difficulties. So many things you have to think about tying off in person before you leave... so many details to think about for the future. The last couple months have been full of 'drama' for lack of a better word... one situation after another. Here are a few of the situations we have been dealing with both before and after leaving Cochabamba.

*For better or worse, we made the decision to take our dogs with us to Ecuador. It was a decision based solely on the children. Jana loves the dogs. When we arrived back in August, she was outside all the time, playing with them, loving on them. We decided that it might be one other 'constant', another tie to our lives in Bolivia, one less goodbye for them to say. So we checked into all the details of transporting them, talked to the airlines on several different occasions, got their shots and papers in order 2 weeks before we left, bought kennels and ran all over town trying to find the water bottles the airline required. Everything seemed to be in order. The dogs flew with us to Santa Cruz and we were all set to go... Josh would fly with us to Miami and then to Quito with the dogs (where they would stay with his folks) to receive the container, while the girls and I continued on to my parents in Detroit. We arrived at the airport with 3 children, 2 dogs and 8 bags and I could tell by the look on Josh's face that something was wrong as he was checking in. He came to inform me that 2 weeks prior to our flight, AA had changed their policy and no longer allowed pug-nosed dogs to travel. We had bought our tickets 3 months prior... would they honor the tickets? No... no allowances. What to do? Pregnant wife is an emotional basket case... trying to hold it together for the kids, and doing a terrible job of it. 2 hours before our flight left. We checked into Josh flying with the dogs on another airline and just eating the cost of his AA ticket.... and ran into problem #2. Bolivian immigration would not allow the girls and I to board our AA flight without Josh. In Bolivia, there is a law that one parent traveling alone with a child must have a signed, notarized permission form from the other parent, approved by a judge, to travel outside of the country. Since we were all traveling together, we didn't get those forms, and even though Josh was there in person, telling immigration the situation and that we could travel without him, they would not let us on board the plane without him. No mercy... no allowances. 1 hour before our flight leaves.... what to do?!?! Our 2 dogs are sitting at the airport in their kennels... and we have a plane to catch. We start calling any and all of our contacts in Santa Cruz.... finally get a hold of an elder and his wife in one of the churches there... can they come to pick up the dogs? Praise God for friendships in Jesus. They agreed. We left the dogs, boarded our plane with not a minute to spare. I cried for about the first half-hour of the flight.

*Situation #2. As much as we would have like to take our car with us to Ecuador (it really was the perfect car for our family and for mission work!), it was logistically impossible to import/export it to Ecuador. We were very thankful to find buyers without even having to advertise... the Christian camp where we have held our family camps for 3 years told us they wanted to buy it. We asked if they could wait until 2 weeks before we left, so we could continue to use it. The day we had set for signing the papers arrived... problem number one: they didn't have the money together, could we wait till the week before we left? We agreed. A week passed... problem number two: their mission board decided they wanted to do an in depth police check on the car. We were very perturbed. Why did they have to wait till the week before we left to decide this? They had known for 3 months they were going to purchase the vehicle. The police check would not be able to be accomplished before we left the country. But at that point, what could we do? There was no time to find another buyer. We quickly prepared a power of attorney to allow a brother in the church to sell the car for us. The next week, after we had arrived in the US, we got a call. Something was very wrong. Even though all of our papers were in order, the police had 'discovered' that the car was a stolen vehicle (most likely stolen years ago and then brought across the border into Bolivia), the original number had been filed off and replaced. So although we had papers leading back to the first original owner in Bolivia (the car had been owned by 3 previous owners) and when we purchased the car everything appeared to be in order, when the missions board insisted on the in-depth police check, they turned up this discrepancy. The car was impounded with no realistic chance of getting it released or being able to sell it... and just like if you get stuck with a fake $100 bill and it's perforated in front of you.... your loss... we got to say goodbye to $12,000. We were sick.

*Situation #3. We decided to ship a 20 ft. container of personal items and some household goods to Ecuador. A month before we left, we packed up our house, jumped through all the hoops to get all the papers in order, loaded the container, and sent it off. The plan being that the container would arrive in Ecuador, Josh would be able to fly there and get the paperwork started to release it before Christmas, and our things would be waiting for us upon our arrival in March. Everything seemed to go fine, more or less, that first week. Josh has described the process as a bit of a scavenger hunt... go here and get this signature... go there and buy this envelope... get this document notarized... get colored, notarized, translated, apostilized, and consulized copies of your family's passports (seriously!)... Every day it seemed like some new requirement. And then, middle of January, we got an email from the agent helping us, saying that the had changed their policy at the beginning of the new year (again!) and the owner of the container was now required to be physically present, with a visa in hand, for the release of the container, or they would ship our stuff back to Bolivia. So we rushed around getting all our papers in order... made a fast trip to Chicago to get our visas (which came through... praise the Lord!)... and sent Josh off for the 2nd time to Ecuador to secure the release of our things. After 10 days of more running around and paperwork, they released our container and our things, as of Sunday, have now arrived safely at Josh's parents house in Quito.

And in the midst of all of these situations (and other smaller ones besides), we have been in the process of fundraising, which as several people have said in the past, is anything but 'fun'! And there is no end in sight, even though we leave for Ecuador in less than 2 weeks.

A part of me has been wondering over the past few weeks whether this transitory life is worth it. Would it not be easier to come back to the country where you are a citizen... to find a job still serving the Lord (but without the need to fundraise your own salary)... to buy a car and a house on credit... to have free good public schools (in most places) or the community and resources to really pursue quality homeschooling... Is it worth it? All the things you give up in both going and coming... all the losses you face? Call it a personal pity party if you will. But as a very wise counselor told me in Brazil, God will be God. He has been stripping away many of my confidences and my securities to remind me that it is all about Him. We have been studying the book of Luke in Bible class on Sunday morning and the book of Romans in ladies Bible class on Tuesday, and every week, through so many passages of Scripture, He has gently reminded me how much he gave up for me... humbly bringing me to the realization that the things that I have given up are really very minute indeed... that they are simply the only response to what He has done for me. And that what I have gained - in relationships, in experiences, and most of all in my walk with Him - is invariably, invaluably so much more. That His grace and mercy have brought me into relationship with Him... and that is all that is needed. Everything else on my part results from the natural, overflowing gratefulness of that relationship with Him. Not that I feel like He has negated my feelings... or that it has become somehow miraculously easier. I feel like the Spirit's quiet presence has acknowledged my struggles, and yet redirected me into a more humble posture before him... He loves me so much, how can I give anything less than my all to him? I feel like I don't have the words to describe the quiet, gentle prodding that He has given me during this time here in Livonia. Prodding to look back with thankfulness... and move on to serve with gratefulness.

So is it worth it? Yes, He is worth it... because I was worth it to Him.

Goodbye to Cochabamba

2011-02-06T17:08:00.005-04:00

The day of our goodbyes inevitably arrived. The church held a farewell dinner for us the Thursday before we left. I think my eyes were wet practically the whole night as we listened to different brothers and sisters share, as I watched the students in the Bible class I helped teach perform a creative dance, as we listened to the jovenes sing a song they had worked hard to prepare. The sign they prepared said it the best though, "This is not a goodbye... this is just 'See you later'."

And the hard part sometimes about goodbyes is that you have to do them twice. Our last Sunday and the day we left, Josh preached, and we had a special party for the kids during class time. My students prepared a special table and cards for me.

And then again at the airport. It was very special to have so many show up to see us off... to walk through security to the sound of their singing "Unidos." United... united by faith in our Lord Jesus Christ. Certain of our hope of heaven.

Bulls' goodbye and a Tribute to Team

2011-02-03T23:34:00.010-04:00

A lot of transitions and changes happened in the life of our team and church in the last year. The biggest of these was the Bulls' announcement at the beginning of the year of their plans to leave in November of 2010, followed by our announcement in August of our plans to leave a mere 6 weeks after the Bulls. A missionary's job is a strange one; as my husband so often puts it... we're trying to work ourselves out of a job. And although we had initially planned to stay in Bolivia longer (In his heart a man plans his course, but the Lord determines his steps. Proverbs 16:9), we are thankful for the 2 strong, faithful team families we are leaving behind, and for the brothers and sister of the congregation (who, in spite of their relative youth in the faith in so many instances and their regret over the departure of 2 leading families) are stepping up to resume responsibilities for the overall health of the church. And ultimately... it is all about Him. He has done this work from the beginning - using us, wonder of wonders... His flawed but willing vessels - and He will carry it on to completion.

It is a bittersweet experience to say goodbye to teammates with whom you have invested so much time and energy and memories and life... many things and life events that not many other people may understand or have shared. There is a feeling of 'shared history', and of having endured and celebrated many aspects of life together. As I have been editing this blog book, I have been struck by the enormity of this shared history... both in my/our life and in the lives of my children. These are the people who have been present on the day of my childrens' births, who have celebrated our family's milestones, who have born the daily burden of ministry with us... rejoicing over the good and sharing struggles, who have known the ins and outs of our daily lives, who have been in and out of our front door more than anyone else, who have experienced the joys and frustrations of culture shock. "Team' is definitely a form of family... replete with all of the benefits and drawbacks.

Our church gave the Bulls a farewell luncheon a couple weeks before they left Bolivia. It was a beautiful and emotional time, as different ones shared and thanked the Bull family. We ended by praying over their family and their future. As I stood at the goodbye luncheon and then again at the airport as we saw them off, I remember feeling overwhelmed by a feeling of almost panic... that in a few short weeks, it would be me standing there saying difficult goodbyes.

And here the RAFT process continues... Before we left Bolivia, I intended to write a note to each of our team families to affirm the part they have played in my life, but it was one of those things that got buried along with many other good intentions. And so I figure here is as good a place as any. In alphabetical order, I might add.

Bulls: Gary and Laura, I have always admired the effort which you invested in 'making your life' in Bolivia. Gary, for one who came with very little Spanish, the time and effort you put into learning how to communicate was admirable. You all figured out how to make life work for you in Bolivia, and you did it. Laura, I admire the way you ran around town... discovering the best places to buy things... making relationships with all the little stores around your apartment. Both of you, with your organizational strengths, provided structure for our team and for our church. Your 'behind the scenes service' (in the kitchen, in the area of church finances) was invaluable. Laura, I will treasure the times we were able to pray and have coffee, and late night movies at the theatre (usually instigated by you :) and long phone conversataions. Gary, I know Josh appreciated the days on the golf course... recreational ministry as he calls it :) I have often thought in the last few months, too, about how God uses specific people in a time and place, when they are willing, to attract others to the Lord. I think your presence and friendship with ones like Jhonny and Ligia and their family was key in drawing them to the Lord. Thank you for sharing your boys with us, when (especially Josh) felt overpowered by females :) I will always treasure their unique personalities. We love you!

Forbesses: Jeff and Katie, every team needs a couple like you. Your unending compassion for people, your social connections that interest many in the church and the Lord, your ideas for outreach have all contributed in a great way. Your home was a revolving door for our team and church, and you were always ready to welcome someone (or some event) into your home and lives. Both of you, with your gift for teaching, were able to reach out and connect with a variety of different people... from English classes, to Bible classes, to helping families with children with special needs. Katie, you were the catalyst for our ladies ministry. Your love for Bolivia and the culture was always evident in the way you lived and experienced life. Katie, just as every team needs a couple like you, every introvert (me!) needs a friend like you. Thank you! Jeff and Katie, thank you both for the sincere interest you took in the lives of our children, and for fostering the friendships that grew up between our kids, both through school and play dates and special events. As one TCK raising 4 more, I will always be grateful for the memories my children have with yours. We will always be thankful for date and prayer nights! Thank you for being the ones willing to try out new places with us, for your sense of adventure, and for your flexibility. We love you!

Sandovals: Butch and Trish, we have been so thankful for your wisdom and experience on our team. You provided a stability in an era of many life changes for us, although in reality, you were experiencing just as many life changes in the lives of your family too! You have been gracious in all things. You have loved and cared for our children as if they were of your family. You provided some much needed date nights for which we will be eternally grateful - in some cases on very short notice :) Trish, the classes you provided for our toddlers have given them an unforgettable foundation in the Scripture and in life skills. They have a joy for going to Bible class that they might not have had if you had not provided them such a nurturing, supportive environment. Butch, from finding Barbie dolls to 'snoogles'... our girls never doubted your love for them. Your home and your hearts were always open both to the team and to the church and provided for many a safe haven in the middle of town in which to retreat. Each and every one felt special and welcome in your home... and I for one am grateful for the many delicious 'cafes' and meals... and for a clean bathroom when I needed one :) Butch, your classes at the Conexion have touched countless lives, and both you and Trish have provided a much needed balance in leadership of correction and encouragement. Trish, your creativity is really astounding! I never tired of seeing your 'works of art' and you provided a beauty to so many activities that would not have been there otherwise. We love you!

I'm sure that these words, although heartfelt and sincere, don't really do justice to all the ways each of you have contributed to the work and our lives in the last few years. The years we have spent with you all (the whole team) are unforgettable. Our lives are forever changed, and we will be grateful always that God gave us the opportunity to know you and work with you. Our prayers continue with you, even though our lives are now taking different paths. Thank you for your love for us, your love for the Lord, and your faithful service in His kingdom.

Baby Shower!

2011-02-03T22:17:00.004-04:00

The ladies of the congregation threw a baby shower for Katie and I in November. It was a really lovely time of sisterly fellowship, and Trish and Ligia really outdid themselves with the decorations (the 'safari cake' is made out of diapers, believe it or not!). And yes.... the blue decorations are mine this time!! We found out in early November that we are indeed having a boy!! The ladies really showered us with love and made it a memorable time with games and special treats.

End of the Year School Program

2011-02-03T18:43:00.004-04:00

Schools in Bolivia get out at the end of November. So thankfully, we were able to celebrate the end of the school year with the girls' preschool friends. We have been so thankful for Rise and Shine. It has been an excellent preschool: bilingual, with great teachers and good cross-section of Bolivian and foreign friends. It has provided a great education and social outlet for our children. I cried during each of the girls parent/teacher conferences at the end of the year because I have been so thankful for each of their teachers and I am sad to leave the comfortable, safe atmosphere they have provided.

Their end of school program was full of songs and dances and even a little drama that the girls (and their teachers... who are we kidding?? I know who does the majority of the work in these things!) worked so hard to prepare. Michaela did a traditional Bolivian dance, called the tinku, with her class. She was also the mother cat in "The 3 little kittens who lost their mittens." Eliana sang 2 songs and did a Hindu dance (I about died when my 4 year old girl came out on stage dressed in a sari and doing a belly dance!), but she did a fantastic job. Jana sang 2 songs.... well, made it through one and then saw me and lost it and had to come sit with me. As a teacher, I always wondered if parents actually enjoyed school programs, or if they just endured them. Now as a parent, I can say.... I enjoy it, boring parts and all. It is a joy seeing my children perform and seeing them interact with their teachers and their friends. Thank you, Rise and Shine, for the wonderful part you played in our lives in Cochabamba!

Farewells

2011-02-03T18:14:00.006-04:00

One of the most useful tools I have ever received as one who has made many cross-cultural transitions is the idea of building your RAFT before you leave a place: Reconciliation, Affirmation, Farewells, and Thinking ahead. Saying farewell has been an especially important part of closure for me. And so before I started dismantling our house to pack in the container, I took pictures of each room. We have lived longer and had more memories in this house than any other of our married life. As I walked through and around the house our last day in Cochabamba and plucked one last gardenia flower from the bush to press in my Bible, the walls practically echoed with all the memories. Laughter... tears... frustration... desperation... joy... birthdays... lazy family days... tea parties... sister fun... games... wrestling on the living room carpet... movies and popcorn... holidays and family visits... church and team fellowships... coffee and early morning Bible reading on the back porch... family meals... swinging... wading pools and sand boxes... sleep overs... barbecues... late night discussions in front of the heater... work and play... peace... and life. I thank God for this home and will always treasure the memories it holds.

Eliana's 4th Birthday

2011-02-03T17:44:00.004-04:00

We celebrated Eliana's 4th birthday a little late this last year due to the craziness of family camp and the fact that we were saying goodbye to our teammates, the Bulls, right around that same time.

She chose to have a 'ballerina' party (she is really into ballerinas right now!) and wanted to invite all her little girlfriends from school. We kept it simple, with a few musical games and homemade tutus as party favors. But all the work in the midst of packing a container is SO worth it, when your little girl looks at you and tells you thank you for her cake and decorations! And the extra treat was that Jenny, Zion, and Mia got to celebrate with us :) Thanks to Jenny for the special birthday hair-do!

Happy Birthday, Eliana! I am so blessed to be your mommy! Blessed by your sweet, kind, and loving spirit... your nurturing attitude... your careful deliberateness... your love for God and for singing... your dainty way of being... your amazing way of entertaining and being happy with yourself. You are very special and I know He has great plans for your life!

Family Camp 2010

2011-02-03T17:07:00.006-04:00

Every last weekend of October or first weekend in November for the past 4 years, the Cochabamba Centro church has hosted a national family camp for the churches around Bolivia. This year was no different. Around 80 members from 4 different churches met together for a time of fellowship at a mountainous campsite near a lake about an hour from Cochabamba.

Josh and I and the girls drove up the night before the camp to help get things set up, and as we have done the last 2 years, we camped out in our tent instead of in a cabin. The difference this year is that it rained and was cold almost the whole time! And although our tent held up well, this 4 month pregnant woman was ready to get back to my bed and bathroom and stop traipsing through the rain to the potty.

Ken Hines, former missionary to Bolivia, was our guest speaker, and gave an excellent series of lessons on "How to bear with someone you just can't stand." There were some excellent thoughts on forgiveness and reconciliation that were very beneficial for many churches.

There was also the usual time of fellowship over meals, sports, games and ice-breakers, and singing.

We also had our usual Bible classes for the kids during the class sessions. Here are our children!

In Retrospect

2011-02-03T16:40:00.002-04:00

I have not done a very good job of blogging over the last few months.

Honestly, it has been too difficult. There have been too many other things going on. But, in reality, it has been too difficult to find the initiative to sit down and write when there are so many different emotions and events to process through. Too much is fresh and raw. I haven't had the ability. I have felt like in some ways that I am in 'survival mode'.

These last few weeks at my parents' house have been what I have needed. A 'safe' space to rest and recuperate between lives so it seems. To be quite honest, although I have done some crying and some thinking... mostly I have just 'been'. I have done all the normal things that every mother does... Christmas preparations, laundry, cleaning, shopping, establishing routine for my children in another environment, some cooking... and some things that not every mother does... like homeschooling. I have also had time to do some things that I haven't had time to do in a long time. Like more consistency in my daily time with the Lord. Or reading a novel for enjoyment. Or watching Ladies Number One Detective Agency shows with my mother. Not that life has been boring... how can it be with 3 kids and with the daily drama of moving from one 3rd world country to another? But more on that later.

This last week I have decided to print the first 5 years of my blog as a book. It seems like a natural time. This has been a nostalgic process for me as I've been preparing and editing it. I have been more 'homesick' (if I even dare use that word, it has so many confusing connotations to me) for Bolivia in the past week than I have been since we left. It started when we were sitting in the Rainforest Cafe in Chicago last week and I heard a recording of a 'jungle' bird that sounded like one we heard frequently in Bolivia. Sounds silly, I know, but I miss hearing birds. And then sitting in the Ecuadorian consulate listening to the hum of Spanish speakers around me. And then as I look back over entries and pictures I have made over the last 5 years, the feeling has compounded. I miss friends and teammates, and church family, and yes, even life (although I will not be so dishonest as to say I miss all aspects of life!).

All of this is to say that I am going to be making some blog entries... in retrospect. Because of the lack of time before we left Cochabamba (as a result of all of the preparations to leave), it seems there are some important entries missing from the last few weeks of our life in Cochabamba. I would feel like I was cheating myself and my blog book if I didn't go back and post about them. And probably somewhere in midst of all these blogs, I will process a little bit on paper my feelings surrounding the drama of this international move.

So let the retrospection begin.

Do not fear

2011-01-14T18:19:00.000-04:00

Heaven

2010-12-10T07:56:00.002-04:00

I have lived a large portion of my life in 3 countries...

18 years in Kenya...
8 years in the USA...
5 years in Bolivia...

It's a good thing that God makes our hearts with a large capacity to love...
because I feel like I have left a part of my heart planted in each place.

Bolivia will always hold a special place in my heart...
Here is where 2 of my children have been born...
Where I will treasure the babyhood memories.
The only 'home' they have known.
Where we have developed our family.

We have experienced a lifetime with our brothers and sisters here.
As I sat in our farewell dinner last night and looked with love at the faces around the room...
It was a joy to see how far we have walked together.

We have overcome obstacles.... and stumbled.
We have grown in faith.... and learned lessons... sometimes the hard way.
We have loved and fellowshipped... and had to resolve conflict.
We have learned and studied the Word together.... encouraged and rebuked one another.
We have experienced births and baptisms, birthdays, holidays, retreats, graduations, farewells and hellos, sickness...
even deaths.

I have been honored to share these experiences with my beautiful Bolivian family.

When people think of heaven, different images come to mind.
Angels, a golden city, the throne of God...
When I think of heaven, I think of faces.
I see the faces of my beloved brothers and sisters that I have been privileged to know from around the world...
Together at last in one place...
Surrounding the throne of God...
Praising Him with one voice.

Where there will be no more tears...
No more death...
No more pain...
No more goodbyes.

Home at last.

Thanksgiving

2010-11-25T07:26:00.005-04:00

In Josh's family, they have the tradition of writing a Thanksgiving Day psalm and sharing it with the family. Here is mine...

I lift up my eyes to the hills. Where does my help come from?
My help comes from the Lord, the Maker of heaven and earth.

Even though it seems everything is changing,
the very foundations of our lives uprooted...
Yet will I trust Him. I will praise Him for His faithfulness.
He holds the future in His hands.

Even though our family is shaken by the fragility of health,
the touch of cancer too close for comfort...
Yet will I trust Him. I will praise Him for His faithfulness.
He holds our lives and health in His hands.

Even though this baby came at an unexpected time of transition,
making this mother wonder and worry at the details...
Yet will I trust Him. I will praise Him for His faithfulness.
He holds the plan for this little life in His hands.

Even though leaving the future of these people, this place, this work
that we have come to love is so difficult...
Yet will I trust Him. I will praise Him for His faithfulness.
He holds this body of believers in His hands. He will complete it.

As the mountains surround [us]
So the Lord surrounds his people, both now and forevermore.

View from our backyard of the mountains on Thanksgiving morning 2010

Top Ten (well, 11) Pics/Experiences from the CCC Conference in Brazil

2010-10-25T17:28:00.007-04:00

I can't even begin to describe the blessing this week was in my life. It was a time of retreat, of fellowship, of healing. I felt God speaking to me in so many personal ways over the course of the week: through song, through the lessons, through personal Bible study and meditation, through prayer, through my connection group, through personal time with a counselor. If I could write down one thing that I took away from this conference, sounding so simple and trite, but so profound in the depths of my soul, it would be "GRACE and PEACE." This phrase has been the prayer of my life and for the lives of other in the last few weeks.... Thank you to all those who worked so hard to make this conference happen, and to my amazing husband, who with such a gracious and loving attitude, held down the fort while I was gone. I hope the pictures express the rest... I tried to pick pictures mostly featuring myself, to spare any possible embarrassment on other's behalf :)

Pizza Hut pizza in the Sao Paolo airport... which I regreted the entire 4 hour bus ride later... but come to think of it... it was still worth it!

The beach... Need I say more???

Time for meditation and child's worship

Prayer and worship on the beach

Time to visit with and learn from some amazing women of God

Having my feet washed by my group leader, Becky Holton, someone I have looked up to for a very long time... such a humbling experience

Memories and time with precious teammates

The yummy food!

The skits during the luau party... I laughed so hard, I literally thought I was going to be sick!

The luau party the final night

My connection group

Goodbyes

2010-10-19T20:47:00.003-04:00

I forget how hard the last few weeks and months are before you leave a place. It seems like everything in your normal everyday routine is in upheaval as you prepare to leave, and that the days are filled with lasts and goodbyes. Today, I had a formal tea party (something I usually do for my birthday every year, although this year it just didn't happen), as sort of a farewell activity for both myself and my teammate, Laura, whose family is flying out of Bolivia to return stateside in a mere 2 weeks. I asked everyone to bring something 'inspiring' that was related to friendship, saying goodbye, transition etc. One of my friends, Angie, wrote the following poem. You can find it on her website.

Tejidas
by @NGIE on OCTOBER 19, 2010

Mamita de cara curtida

El aguayo en tu espalda

Sonríes aun cargada

Contenta con tu jornada

-

See the mountains that grow high above our heads

Bent down low to the earth the Bolivian woman is small

She lays the woven fabric on the ground

Then in those colored threads she lays her burdens

A fold, a twist, a swing and the thing she flings

Upon her sturdy back nestles on her shoulders

-

Tucked from view, hidden in the yarn

There in the dark a protected bit of her life

Precious baby, her wares or some goods

-

How does she face the monotony of the daily haul?

Does she fuss or complain

Trudging through market, street, bus and barrio?

-

Her cloth, el aguayo

Traditional weave, el tejido

Of coarse hairs of the herd

Of her land

-

See the looming mount standing in our path calling itself change

Bent down low to the earth I weep small prayers

Laid before me the fabric of my life, the people dear to me

Then in those diverse folds of humanity I lay my burdens

My love, my fears, my pains and joys, the things I fling

Upon my back made sturdy by living, I let it all settle in

-

Tucked from view, hidden in the threads

There in the dark a protected bit of life

Precious family, work or dear friends

-

How do I face the relentless change of the daily haul?

Do I fuss or complain

Labored steps crossing the street; crossing the world?

-

My cloth, el aguayo

Traditions woven, las tejidas

Coarse prayers are heard

Of clasped hands

-

You the red with the firey passion

You the blue with the calm reflection

You the green with the new ambition

You the yellow with the warm welcome

You the pink with the staying smile

You the black with the tenacious style

You the purple, happy through the trial

-

You are wrapped around me

Woven through me

-

The dust ground in the tiny overlaps of existence

Wetted by the rains and stayed by the wind

The strings stained permanent

A reminder that the only thing that doesn’t change

Is that things always change

-

I grasp for what I know, fingering the familiar knots

Holding on tight as my neck is choked by the haul

That familiar pain of strain in the bones pulls at the soul

-

The woman, the bearer

Bears in her womb posterity

Bears on her shoulders life

Borne in her heart the elation and devastation of love

-

The woman gratefully wraps the aguayo around her body

She knows it weighs her down

But its contents are the sustenance of life

-

So I embrace the changes before me

Or rather let them embrace my heaving frame

For these are the tejidas of life

Thanks for sharing, Angie.

Dia de Cochabamba

2010-09-10T15:28:00.003-04:00

The girls had a typical Bolivian fair/market at their school today in honor of Dia de Cochabamba. They all dressed up in traditional Bolivian dress, like cholitas, and when we arrived, they were busy selling their wares. Eliana was selling potatos, Jana helped to sell bread, and Michaela was in charge of selling jello. It sure was fun and yummy food too: buñuelos, api, sopa de maní, salteñas, sandwiches de chorizo, pasteles, fresh fruit. This is the fun part of being missionaries and raising missionary kids!

Transition

2010-08-30T16:13:00.002-04:00

This blog has been brewing in the back of my mind for the last couple months now... although I've been thankful for the time to think and pray about it before I actually had to sit down and write it. I have decided that I dislike change. I am a creature of routine and of habit. And so I have resisted writing this blog, although I knew the day was coming when I would have to, because it made it seem so real and permanent.

A couple months ago Josh and I made one of the hardest decisions we have ever had to make. We made the decision to leave Cochabamba and the work here at the end of our five year commitment in December and move to a different calling and mission in Quito, Ecuador. A variety of factors influenced our decision, but the bottom line is that, after a lot of prayer and deliberation and consultation and even tears, we feel God's strong leading away from this place and into a new ministry.

Josh will be moving into a role of working with national teams that form at the EQUEB School of Biblical Studies and their US sponsoring churches as they go out to establish new church plants across the country of Ecuador and into other parts of Latin America. We will also be working directly with a fairly new church plant right outside of Quito on a regular basis. Josh is excited about the possibilities of this new work and looking forward to streamlining his doctoral studies to fit this work as well. We are thankful as well that this will be moving us closer to Josh's family as both his parents and his sister's family is working in Ecuador. And it will give us the opportunity to maintain contact here, as we will be making a yearly visit to Bolivia to visit some of the church plants here.

It is amazing how invested you can become in a place, in a people, in a ministry in 5 short and long years. I remember saying in one of my previous blogs that it feels we have lived a lifetime here. So true... a lifetime of joys and struggles, birth and death, work and play. We are so thankful that God saw fit to call us here, to teach us and mold us and use us in spite of ourselves. We have had the privilege of working with some great teammates, true servants of God, and although we have had our differences, we are thankful that we are leaving behind such quality people to continue working in his kingdom here. We have been blessed to see God transform the lives of many brothers and sisters... to see a church start from square one and grow to a vibrant body of believers seeking his will. It has been the hardest decision in our life to leave because we feel so connected to the work and the people. But God works in mysterious ways, and in causing us to make this decision, He has taught us again that this work is not about us... it is about Him... we are merely tools in His hand to be used as He sees fit. And although part of us wishes we could stay here and see the milestones the church has yet to accomplish, the other part knows we would rather be in the center of God's will for our lives. He is the One who will continue this work... who will raise up this people to be His own... He is the One who has done it from the beginning. He has taught us again about trust in his Lordship, about my fallacy to depend on earthly things, and about turning everything over into His control.

This last week has been an emotional one, as we have shared with the church our plans to move. And yet we are thankful for their spiritual vision. They say they will be sad to see us go, but confident that God will continue to work here as well as in our lives. We have the same confidence as well. We have felt affirmed on many levels in our decision, but the reality of making it happen the last week has been hard. The reality of informing people we love of our plans to leave, the reality of thinking about packing and moving... of leaving our home, the only home and life the girls have ever really known. I have shed a lot of tears in the last couple months, and I'm sure I have bucket loads more to cry.

As we think about our last few months in this place, I find myself clinging to a straw of wisdom that has stayed with me since my highschool days... a senior seminar on reentry with TCK guru Dave Polluck. He talked about building your RAFT as you get ready to leave. RAFT consisting of.... Reconciliation, Affirmation, Farewells, and Thinking ahead. These next few months we would appreciate your prayers as we attempt to make this transition in as healthy and gracious a way as possible. We would appreciate your prayers for the church and the team as they face many transitions as well, that they would stay focused and grounded in Christ and continue the good work. We would appreciate your prayers for our family as we uproot ourselves and make this daunting international move and as we seek financial support for this new calling in Ecuador. And we thank you for your consistent prayers and support of our family over the last 5 years. We couldn't have been here doing what we are doing without your love and prayers. And we pray that you would continue both as we transition into this new calling.

Update on the Work in Coch.

2010-08-04T22:31:00.003-04:00

Our teammate, Jeff Forbess, just posted a fabulous newsy blog (http://highlanderhighlights.blogspot.com/) updating everyone on the work in Cochabamba this summer. Thanks, Jeff, for keeping us in the loop!

Brownwood in Word Pictures

2010-07-30T23:59:00.004-04:00

We have been in Brownwood now for 2 weeks and leave tomorrow for our long trek back to Michigan, via Memphis. I realized tonight that I have been a terrible picture taker the last 2 weeks, with no grandparents' cameras to back me up, so I decided to give you a taste of Brownwood in 'word pictures.' Here's some of the things we've enjoyed the last 2 weeks.

-Hot sun, chlorine and sunscreen, and cool water with Ruthie and the Chessers
-Watching the girls feed and chase the goats at the Washburns
-Steak 4 times!!!
-yummy church potlucks and fellowship
-taking the kids to the eye doctor for the first time
-playing with Mr. Potato Head's at the Ruizes
-watching the girls laugh and jump on the trampoline all together (first time they've ever enjoyed jumping together) at the Benton's
-watching Michaela and Mark play in the pool together
-petting the goats and donkeys at the Rogers
-poor Jana's feet getting blistered up by fire ants
-watching Jana put away 4 helpings of mac and cheese every other meal
-chocolate milkshakes at Doc's drugstore
-Eliana feeding a cow 'cake' on Bill and Charlotte's ranch
-homemade peach icecream at the Pursch's
-watching Jana get loved on by Shnitzel the dog
-watching Michaela make friends wherever she goes... on any playground... within 30 seconds
-the kids playing cops on the playground outside of church with the Lykes kids
-watching the kids enjoy Bible class so much
-walking up to our old apartment here in Brownwood and remembering Michaela as a little bitty baby
-movie in bed with my husband
-donuts and coffee with Billie
-a play date and chitchat with Melanie and James
-hearing a couple of great marriage classes
-a comfortable and spacious place to stay!
-a trip to Abilene to see my brother and Janille's sweet, newly-wed apartment and taking them out to Abuelo's
-a trip to Mardel's

It's been a wonderful stay, Brownwood! We love you all! Thanks and see you soon!

The Farm

2010-07-22T17:29:00.004-04:00

After Hot Springs, we drove over to Oklahoma. Josh's grandad has a ranch near Lawton, and Josh's folks just bought a doublewide trailer home to be installed on the land too. They were hoping to have it all set up by the time we got there, but had some last minute problems with the water pipes... so we had to 'rough' it without water for a couple days. At least we had air-conditioning, because it was hot! We enjoyed doing all the fun things you do on a farm...swimming in the creek (which was full because of all the rain they've had!), jumping on hay bales, picnics. And we were able to celebrate Josh's parents 34th anniversary with them! We went to see Toy Story 3 and out to eat... and ended the day with an unexpected show of fireworks (which I was super excited about seeing as we missed out on seeing them on the 4th.) We had a great time and pray Nana and Papa's new US home (which they'll live in 6 months out of the year... the other 6 will be in Ecuador) will be filled with lots of happy memories.

Hot Springs- Stephens family reunion

2010-07-22T16:43:00.006-04:00

We were able to meet up with my whole family in Hot Springs, which is quite a feat seeing as my sister and her family live in Portugal, Matt and Janille just got married, and we are all over the country on our furlough... so we were very blessed to find a time and place to be able to meet up with everyone. We spent a few days just playing games, going on family outings and enjoying each other's company. Every time we meet up, I think to myself, "I wonder how long it will be until we're able to do this again." But God is good... it seems like every time I think it will be the last time to see my sister for several years, God provides another opportunity for us to be together. We are very blessed.

At the park....

Frisbee golfing at the park....

And the girls first time to mini-golf!

One of the highlights was presenting Matt and Janille with our wedding present to them... a year's worth of date night's in a box for their first year of marriage.... complete with....

Bitter Lemons!!! The real soft drink in glass bottles that we had in Kenya. Rusty found them at an import store in Nashville.

And of course... lots of family time... including pillow fights with Babu!

Sikes Reunion 2010

2010-07-22T16:32:00.004-04:00

After Matt's wedding, we drove from San Antonio to Mahoney State Park for the Josh's Sikes family reunion. It was a little different this year since this is the first time in about 20 years that they/we have not gone to Estes Park. But we were able to enjoy lots of activities just the same. Josh was able to go golfing; we went swimming; the ladies went to a fun luncheon/ dress up place called Art Chicks. Mostly we just enjoyed reconnecting with family... all 150 of them.... listening to the first generation share their favorite passages of Scripture.... singing old hymns... watching the next generation of cousins/great-grandchildren developing friendships.... playing cards. It was a beautiful time (a little crazy at times trying to keep up with all 3 kids: Jana got away from us during one meal and climbed the 50 ft. observation tower outside the lodge... by herself!!! This mommy almost had a heart-attack over that one!) But God is good. We are so thankful to be part of such a heritage of servants loving and following the Lord.
Sikes reunions aren't complete without lots of food! Our family cooked potato stack up for everyone.

Art Chicks Fun!

The Jack Sikes family

Nightly devotionals

Fun with family

Matt and Janille's wedding

2010-07-20T14:59:00.006-04:00

It's a beautiful and nostalgic experience watching your little brother (7 years younger) marry the wonderful woman he loves. God has designed us for relationships... primarily with Him, but also with other people. I loved seeing my brother, all grown up, serving and loving his bride. I loved seeing Janille radiant with happiness. I loved seeing the look of pride on my brother's face. Mostly, I enjoy seeing 2 people who love God and each other committing themselves to a life of love, and friendship and service to each other. Congratulations, Matt and Janille! We love you both and pray God's blessings on you as you walk through the joys and struggles of life hand in hand.

This free photo slideshow made with Smilebox

Fun times with the Harrolds

2010-07-20T14:51:00.003-04:00

We stopped in Wichita on our way down to Texas and spent a few days with long time family friends and supporters. We had a wonderful visit. They borrowed an amazing blow-up water slide... Michaela and Addison had so much fun! We enjoyed lunch out with Van and Mary Ann at Yaya's Bistro (the most amazing hummus I've ever had!), and a day trip to a water park near Hutchinson which was a blast. Mostly, we just enjoyed visiting, sharing our lives (Josh got the American consumer experience by standing in line with Justin and Donna to get the new iphone4 :), and watching our kids play together. We are so thankful for this family and the many ways they contribute to our lives with their friendship and their support. We love you, Harrold family!

Furlough 2010

2010-07-13T15:55:00.010-04:00

It has been a busy summer so far! We started our furlough out with our Cochabamba Connection Conference in Dallas, celebrating 5 years in the life of our team. It was a wonderful time with our supporters to show how God has worked in the past 5 years and share our plans for the future. We then flew up to Michigan. Joshua and I were able to get away for a few days in north Michigan to celebrate our 10th anniversary and really enjoyed the time at a cabin on Torch Lake. Pictures have I none! Josh then left for 2 and a half weeks of classes in Dallas. He is beginning work on his Doctorate of Ministry. He was extremely fulfilled and blessed by his classes. The girls and I stayed at my parents house and enjoyed our 3 weeks with them. Here is look at some of the things we did:

Michaela had lots of fun on the Wii Fit.

We made a couple trips to Greenfield Village - the live museum in Detroit. One visit was in celebration of Memorial Day and they had Civil War remembrances set up. We enjoyed the carousel, the train, feeding the ducks, playing old time games on the green, and riding in one of the original Model T cars and an old timey bus. Eliana even got to touch a snake!

We visited Miss Peggy's gymnastics with the young families and made several trips to the library.

We went to a special Africa section of the Battlecreek zoo and fed the giraffes. Jana did not like their long tongues! Pictures to come of that event, as soon as I get my hands on my dad's camera. I had my hands full helping the girls feed them :)

We enjoyed being with my sister and her family and had lots of cousin time.... playing in the sprinkler, reading, and going to the park.

We made a trip to Chuck E Cheese.

We missed Daddy while he was in Dallas very much, but we filled our time with lots of fun activities and special memories with Nyanya and Babu and family.

Ecuador 2010

2010-06-03T16:08:00.007-04:00

We enjoyed a quick trip to Ecuador on our way back to the States. It was a whirlwind of a trip. Josh was extremely busy... he gave the graduation address on Saturday, preached on Sunday and did a 6 hour conference on Monday and Tuesday. But we managed to fit in a birthday celebration for him, horseback riding and cousin time in spite of it all. We enjoyed being with Nana and Papa and visiting with Uncle Justin and Aunt Jauna too!

Graduation ceremony

Lots of play time with sisters, cousins, and Uncle James

And time outside with Papa and the animals

Birthday fun with Nana

And one of my favorites... sunset over the valley beyond Josh's parents house with beautiful Mt. Antezana in the far background, looking like a cloud.

Ministry Events in April and May

2010-06-03T15:49:00.002-04:00

The last few weeks of our time in Cochabamba before we left on furlough were so crazy, I didn´t have time to make this post. So here it is. I figure better late than never.

The primary school Bible class finished out their rotating 3 and a half year curriculum in May, which took us through the whole Bible. To celebrate, we had a dress up party at our house with games and fellowship.

Wendy, a long time member of the church, and Gonzalo decided to make the committment of marriage. Josh has done relationship counseling with them for a couple years, and we were excited they decided to take this step. Wendy is one of the moms that lost her daughter in the accident last year.

The church has been very creative in ideas for raising money for purchasing property as a permanent worship location for the church. One of the things we do is a raffle every month during our fellowship meal. Church members bring grocery items to fill a large container and then a raffle is held. Patricia is the happy winner this month!

The youth helped organize the evangelistic outreach we have had 2 years running on the ´Day of the Child´ in April. We organize a group to go to one of the local parks and hand out balloons and pamphlets, and have facepainting and a few of the youth dress up in costumes.

The youth have a fellowship time together once a month. This time they decided to make pizza and watch a movie and take advantage of the foozeball table and pingpong table they bought with some of their funds for the church.

Things that amaze me about the US

2010-06-03T15:09:00.002-04:00

Some of these I´m sure I´ve mentioned before... but they never fail to cease to amaze me.
1. The sugar! The white is so fine and the brown is so moist.
2. The things people throw away. Josh picked up a Fisher Price play kitchen for my parent´s house that someone had put out on the road for the dumpster.
3. The endless choices in shopping. I´ve left 3 stores without buying anything I need because it´s so overwhelming.
4. Water fountains (Michaela calls them waterfalls) and clean drinking water out of the tap.
5. Orderly driving, street signs, well designed and maintained sidewalks, and houses that are numbered according to a pattern.
6. The fact you can find any address and directions on Google maps.
7. Mail to your front door.
8. You can renew your driver´s license online!!!! It took me all of 10 minutes.
9. The many family oriented, child oriented activities available... In the last week, we´ve eaten several times at restaurants with playgrounds and coloring sheets, gone to the zoo (which had an amazing playground, with hand sanitizer dispensers as you enter and exit!), the park 3 times, Greenfield village, and the kids have played at the playground at church. We´re planning on taking advantage of the free programs at the library while we´re here at my parents. However, I have to say I think the attitudes of Bolivian people are generally more child friendly (this is especially noticiable when traveling with 3 small children).
10. Nobody walks! When we were at the hotel in Dallas and walking to the surrounding restaurants, you felt like a fish out of water because nobody else was on the streets.
11. How light it stays for so long in the summer. Does anyone else have trouble putting their kids to bed in the summer?
12. The ease of automatic locks and doors on the cars and garage door openers.
13. Garage sales!
14. Radio stations! Especially NPR.
15. Recycling, garbage collection from your house, and natural gas lines.
That´s all I can think of right now... more to come I´m sure.

Furlough 2010

2010-05-16T19:23:00.002-04:00

3 days till we leave! I have been busily getting things marked off my to do list this last week and still have a lot to do! I thought I'd post this so everyone knows what our schedule is like this summer. If we are in your neck of the woods, send us an email and we'll try to get together. Thanks for your prayers surrounding our travels. We are looking forward to seeing everyone!
May 20th Fly to La Paz
May 21st Fly to Quito
May 22nd Josh speaks at graduation for EQUEB
May 23rd Josh preaches at Quito Norte
May 24th-25th Josh gives an 8 hour conference “Dime la historia de Cristo”
May 27th Fly Dallas
May 28-29th Coch. Connection Conference
June 1st Fly Livonia
June 2-6th Time with the Livonia church (Josh preaches)
June 7-9th 10th anniversary trip
June 10th Josh flies to Dallas
June 11th-25th Josh’s DMin classes in Dallas(Julie and the girls stay in Livonia)
June 25th Josh flies to Livonia
June 26th-27th Drive to Wichita
June 28th-30th Wichita with the Harrold family
June 30th-31st Drive to San Antonio
July 1st-4th San Antonio for my brother’s wedding
July 4th-5th Drive to Nebraska
July 5th-9th Sikes reunion at Mahoney National Park, NE
July 10th-13th Stephens family reunion in Hot Springs, AR
July 14th-18th Marcum family reunion in Indiahoma, OK
Night of July 18th -August 1st Brownwood
Night of July 23rd Drive San Angelo to be present at the Operation Ecuador conference, drive back to Brownwood on the afternoon of the 24th
August 2-4th Drive Livonia
August 5th-15th Time with the Livonia church
August 16th Fly Coch.

Michaela Grace turns 5!

2010-05-03T16:51:00.008-04:00

We celebrated Michaela's 5th birthday last month. It's so hard to believe that 5 years ago we welcomed this little bundle of Grace into the world... She changed our world, in a marvelous way...

and she's grown into this lovely young lady...

Michaela is so full of life! She is active and outgoing. She loves her school and friends. She is learning to read and can count to one hundred. She loves playing outside and with her sisters. I think it's precisely because of her social nature that she wanted a big Bolivian style party this year, so we decided to go all out. She chose a "Princess and the Frog" theme... problem being that because it's a new movie, there was nothing available here in the way of decorations. Everything ended up being homemade. It made for a fun week though, because Michaela enjoys anything crafty and so we were able to work together to make the party preparations. We invited all her classmates and all the little children from church (30 kids in all!), and rented a big inflatable slide for the morning. We made a bean bag/ water balloon toss and a homemade pinata. It was a lot of work, but a fun morning!

The party spread... everything in green or chocolate.

The birthday cake

Frog cupcakes

The slide

The water balloon toss... You can't see it, but there is an adult behind the cardboard, to make it more fun for the kids ;)

Mr. Pinata

Michaela getting ready to hit the pinata.

Singing happy birthday

The birthday bags - as one of the treats, the little girls all got tiaras and the little boys got frog eye sunglasses.

Opening birthday bags with the sisters

We celebrated Michaela's birthday the week before she turned 5 because we had plans to go visit Erik, Jenny and the cousins in Sucre on her actual birthday. We enjoyed seeing the kids play together for a couple days and catching up with them after their furlough in the States and before we head stateside in 2 weeks. We got to see their new house... and enjoy their jacuzzi bathtub!... went to the children's park to ride the ferris wheel (I forgot the camera :(, and made another trip to the dinosaur park (didn't take pictures there cause it cost!).

Cousins

Mia is now walking and it was fun to see her and Jana interacting.

Their favorite thing to do was to ride Zion's little cars down the cobblestone hill outside the gate of their condo. So funny!

My girls, in matching shirts from Aunt Jenny

Chillin' out

Mt. Tunari

2010-04-04T18:05:00.008-04:00

Another one of my birthday presents this year was the opportunity to climb Mt. Tunari, the highest peak in central Bolivia, reaching a height of just over 17,000 ft. A whole day away by myself (with a tour guide and some friends of course!) for reflection and to be astounded by God's amazing creation. It was an amazing experience... alpine lakes, snow, mountain streams, wild llamas, rocky crags, and huge boulders. The climb itself wasn't technically difficult, but the altitude made it so... the air sure gets thin at 17,000 feet, and several of our group didn't make it. It gave me a chance to reflect on the awsome power and greatness of our God (making my life seem miniscule in comparision to the grandness of his creation), and on the Christian life. How God's perspective is sometimes so different than ours... we can't always see the view from the top, or see beyond the next ridge, but God knows and leads us one step at a time.

A view of Cochabamba and the Cristo statue from the road on the way up.

The road up was... not the greatest. I was glad Joe drove so I didn't have to ride the bus!

On the drive up we caught this amazing shot of the moon rising over the peak.

We saw lots of sheep and wild llamas.

A mountain village.

This was the view from the start off point, the second of 2 alpine lakes in the mountain.

Hiking around the lake.

Taking a rest and looking back at what we've accomplished so far.

A view of one of the other peaks.

Climbing higher...

Some of the amazing rock formations!

Reaching the summit! We did it!

View from the top.

Starting the climb back down.

Enjoying the snow!!

Stopping at an alpine pond for some photo ops.

Some of our fellow hikers found a dead... something. Looked like a cross between a rabbit and a squirrel to me.

Arriving back at the lake... our starting point. What an amazing day!

Villa Tunari

2010-04-04T17:05:00.006-04:00

We took a few days family vacation last week to celebrate my birthday. We drove to Villa Tunari, a little jungle town about 4 hours drive down the mountains, and stayed in our favorite hotel there, but this time we rented a cabin. It was perfect for our family... gave us some space and a place to cook some meals. The kids loved the pool and the water slide, and we had great weather. We also went on a jungle hike one day and saw beautiful butterflies, caves, bats, and a glimpse of some monkeys and a rare noctural bird called a guachero. It was great just to get away and recreate a little bit. Enjoy the pics.

We had a little bit of adventure on the way there... there was a blockade and we had to off-road it for a few kilometers before getting back on the main highway.

Some of the scenery on the drive down the mountains.

Our hotel... didn't get a pic of the cabin.

The kids loved the pool and the slide! I think Jana could have gone up and down that thing all day long! (That's our cabin in the background.)

We went on a hike in the national forest near our hotel and had to cross this river in this cable car.

3 jungle explorers

Crossing a bridge

This cave was full of a rare nocturnal bird called a guachero, or oilbird.

Josh went inside another cave to see a variety of bats. The girls and I stayed outside!

Congratulations Matt and Janille!

2010-03-28T17:04:00.002-04:00

My brother is getting married... to a most beautiful and wonderful girl!!!! We are so excited and thankful for you guys, Matt and Janille!

Feliz Dia del Padre!

2010-03-18T16:28:00.006-04:00

Bolivia celebrates Father's Day on the 19th of March. In honor of the occasion, Michaela and Eliana had a special presentation at school. They recited several poems and presented their daddy with hand painted boxes.

My girls are blessed with such a wonderful father! Happy Father's Day.

Everything you can

2010-02-25T13:52:00.005-04:00

You know you are doing everything you can when you...
-boil and filter your drinking water
-filter the water to the whole house
-sterilize all your fruits and vegetables
-sterilize juice bags
-use antibacterial spray on your kitchen counters after washing the dishes
-bleach the rinse water for your dishes
-have antibiotic soap, wet wipes, and hand sanitizer all over the house (and in the car)
-air dry your sippy cups (all dishes for that matter!) until there is not a drop of water on them
-sterilize your toothbrushes once a week
-use boiled water for brushing teeth
-clean/disinfect your bathrooms 3x a week
-sweep and mop (with disinfectant) your floors 3x a week
-empty the trash and lysol the trashcans and bathrooms 3x a week
-continually rebuke and remind your children not to put hands or anything that might possibly be remotely dirty in their mouths!
-contiually rebuke and remind your children to wash their hands
-only order bottled beverages and/or cooked vegetables at restaurants or church functions
-only eat 'God-wrapped' fruit when out and about
-keep your pets outside at all times
-wash towels and linens once a week
-feed your family probiotic yogurt mixed with ground up papaya seeds every day

Despite all these precautions, Eliana still has parasites - we've only been treating them off and on for the last 9 months! This is so frustrating and discouraging. I hate the fact that she is almost always taking some sort of medication. I hate having to force my child to take foul-tasting medicine every day. I hate having to wash out poopy underwear all the time. I hate myself when I get frustrated with Eliana or with washing out poopy underwear; if something were to happen to one of us, I don't want her memories of me to be a frustrated mommy when she can't really help it! I hate taking in samples to the lab 2x a week. I hate seeing Eliana with circles under her eyes and not gaining weight like she should. I hate feeling like I have to force my child to eat to see her gain weight. I hate feeling that I'm sacrificing my child's health to be on the mission field. I hate feeling guilty, like I should be doing something more or better to help her get over these parasites. I cry and pray over this situation all the time.

And yet at a very low point this last week, as I was praying, God helped me put things in a better perspective.
-Eliana is active, intelligent and happy and is not loosing weight.
-What mother doesn't have to wash out poopy underwear?
-What mother doesn't have to force her child to eat or take foul-tasting meds?
-I am not having to care for my child through a life-threatening or debilitating illness.
-Eliana is alive.
-I have the money and means to provide her with good medical care and medicine.
-I have the money and means to buy the cleaning supplies I need to take every precaution to provide her with a clean and healthy home.
-I have the money and means to buy healthy food and provide clean water for my family.

I would appreciate your prayers for myself... my attitude, my patience, my love... it has been one of those emotional roller coaster kind of weeks. And for Eliana, for her complete healing and prevention of getting parasites again. God is good, all the time.

Happy Birthday, Jana!

2010-02-23T19:28:00.006-04:00

We finally got around to celebrating Jana's 2nd birthday on Sunday... she turned 2 on February 4th. My baby... 2 years old. It's hard to believe. This time of year always reminds me of her birth. She's my Carnaval baby, born on the Monday of Carnaval 2 years ago. We drove to the clinic with windows rolled up to keep us from getting soaked by the water balloons. That night we didn't get much sleep due to the partying at the disco across the street from the clinic and we had to pay extra for her birth because it was a national holiday. Jana was my surprise baby... surprise pregnancy, surprise - 2 days late (my other 2 came nearly 2 weeks early), surprise red curly hair that gets redder every day, and every day she continues to surprise me with her personality... she is extremely affectionate (she loves giving kisses and hugs), adventerous, inquisitive (her favorite word right now is 'why?'), determined (her Papa says she walks like a farmer), active and flexible, serious but so much fun. As a mother I am continually amazed by the unique gifts, traits and talents of my children. I love you, Jana!

This year we celebrated Jana's and Grant's birthdays together with the team, complete with potato soup, cake, and presents. Jana wanted a butterfly cake; Grant chose a train. We sang and prayed with the kids and enjoyed some outside play time (with water guns of course!). It's wonderful to have team 'family' when other family is far away. Happy birthday, kiddos!

Funny quotes from the girls....

2010-02-22T09:50:00.003-04:00

Eliana on going potty... (I found her the other day washing her hands...)
Me: Did you go potty?
Eliana: I went potty, wiped myself, cleaned out the little potty and washed my hands all by myself.
You have to imagine her sweet little distinct voice while she's telling me this!
Me: What a big girl you are!
Eliana: I don't need you any more. :)
Me: Well, I guess daddy and I will just move to a different house.
Eliana didn't think too much of that idea :)

Michaela on heaven....
Michaela: Where does God live?
Me: Well, God is everywhere and lives inside us, but God's home is in heaven.
Michaela: Where is heaven?
Me: Most people think of heaven as being somewhere up in the sky, but we don't really know. Heaven is where God lives.
Michaela: I'm going to live in heaven.
Me: Good! Because I want to live in heaven forever too, with you and God!

Carnaval

2010-02-14T17:18:00.003-04:00

For those who live in Latin American cultures, it is Carnaval time! Tomorrow and Tuesday are national holidays. There is a huge parade in Oruro with national dances. Traditionally, Carnaval is the weekend before the start of Lent, the Catholic month of fasting leading up to Easter weekend. Here in Bolivia, it is generally celebrated with a lot of energy, good fun and water fights for the young at heart... as well as, sadly because of the world's influence, a lot of drinking, partying, and sycronistic religious practices (like burning incense to Mother Earth).

We have tried to highlight the good aspects of the holiday. This year the youth had a scavenger hunt in the center of town and then lunch and a water fight at our house.

Fellowship and food... my batch of brownies sure went quick!

Rolando and Bruno face off on the capture the flag field.

Water fun! Even Michaela got in on the action... although she really didn't understand the rules of the game... she just tried to get everyone wet :)

The Thursday before Carnaval is known as Dia de Commadres... for lack of a better translation "Girlfriend Day". Generally speaking, ladies have the night out. We decided to celebrate with the sisters of the church by having a fun get-to-gether on Saturday. We dressed up, played games, shared snacks... and finished up with a full blown water fight. It sure was a lot of fun :)

We had some icebreakers to get to know each other better.

We played games... this one consisted of a treasure hunt to find partial Bible verse phrases and then putting them together as a team.

Here are all the costumes... Can you pick out Trish Sandoval? She won the prize for best costume!

(If you haven't figured it out yet... she's the lamp/table!)

3rd Anniversary

2010-02-02T15:33:00.006-04:00

January marked 4 years for our team in Cochabamba and 3 years since the official inauguration of the church. It's kind of bizzare looking back and realizing the craziness of that inauguration... political turmoil, the blessing of tons of Stateside visitors, the first visit my parents made, Eliana as a 2 month old baby. It all seems so long ago, and yesterday at the same time.

And what a blessing to look at these 2 pictures from our 3rd anniversary...

And see how much that the body of the Lord has grown here in Cochabamba. From our team and 1 family to this! God is good.

What a great feeling to be able to sit in a worship service directed by our Bolivian brothers!

We gave out 'servant towels' to honor those who have served the church in various capacities this last year... and the servant award went to Gaston and Miguel for spending so much time and money helping repair Augustina's house. What an emotional moment to see Miguel receive this plaque.

3 of our youth recieved a scholarship fund set aside for them by the Richland Hills Church of Christ. Rebeca and Bruno have shown special perseverence in continuing their studies while recuperating from their major injuries recieved in the bus accident.

The church leaders presented the missionary families with plaques to thank us for our service.

And of course we had to document the occasion with lots of pictures!

We praise God for the way He is working... the numbers are secondary to the way we have seen people's faith change their lives... in the way they have handled the tradegy and struggles of this last year... in our relationships together... in their families... in their growth in the Word and prayer. We are so thankful to have been a part of this work over the last 4 years, and pray that God will continue to use us to His glory for many more to come.

2010-01-28T18:13:00.004-04:00

This is Josh. I don’t usually blog, but I thought I’d just share my heart with a few of you via this medium. Thank you in advance for being there.

This is the line that I started to get in to wait for gas yesterday. These people were standing out in the rain hoping that a truck might come and they could exchange their bottle of gas. I left when I saw men starting to fight and several talk about rushing the nearby highway to blockade. They wanted to make a spectacle to show their disapproval! What is sad is that Bolivia is rich in Natural Gas; they just don’t know how to distribute it.

Things like the above make life here a bit difficult. We have to have this gas for our stove, dryer, hot water heater, and heaters. It is even more difficult for people without a vehicle. Those in line had either to walk a good ways with their canister or pay a taxi with money that they really didn’t have for such an expense.

This month Julie and I have had a “Bolivian Month.”
• She had her purse stolen out of her cart while at the nicest grocery store in town. Unfortunately she had three weeks of grocery money with her ($300)
• Gas has been in short supply for the whole month. Even the Chessers visiting from Austin Ave got to help us chase down a gas truck.
• Eliana and I have gone through several antibiotic treatments to treat Giardia and Amoebas.
• Our house is now for sale by the owner. We could have months or years left, we don’t know. Meanwhile we’ll have to show the house and hope it doesn’t sell while we are on furlough.
• We received a negative and blaming letter from one of the families who lost their daughters. I know they are just hurting, but it’s depressing when they accuse and state that they will not be coming back to the church; we who have helped them so much.
• And to top it all off, thieves broke into our yard two nights ago while we were sleeping and clipped the chain link fence and took most everything out of my shed. All of my tools, power tools, lawnmower and weed eater. Over $1200 in tools lost…Just makes me sick

I’ve always made fun of people talk about “suffering on the foreign fields.” And I know we are not suffering but sometimes it starts to get to you. I do ask that you pray for us…for me, that we’d not be discouraged but “continue to run with perseverance the race marked out for us.”

God is also doing amazing things at the same time:
• We are preparing for an Evangelism Training seminar this Saturday for the members. How awesome to equip new members to be conduits for the Lord!
• We celebrated our “official” three year anniversary two weeks ago with over 100 in attendance.
• We have more people wanting God’s word than we can even keep up with.
• We are alive, Julie and I love each other, we have three precious daughters and a rewarding mission to which God has entrusted us.

My desire is to allow these horizons dictate my level of joy. I want to count all things lost for the sake of knowing my Redeemer. I thank God for family in Christ in whom we can confide and share our struggles. Thank you for your prayers, support, and for loving us though we are far away. God bless you!

Top 10 pics of Christmas 2009

2010-01-28T14:41:00.009-04:00

Decorating the Christmas tree

Opening stockings

Opening presents with the Reyes

Michaela and Daddy trying out her new Christmas present

Christmas dinner

Papa got his exercise pulling wagon loads of grandkids around the yard!

Tea parties with Nana

And lots of cousin time!!!

7 months later

2010-01-25T15:37:00.003-04:00

This blog has been brewing in the back of my head for a long time. I meant to write it last month for the 6 month anniversary of the accident. Kept putting it off, finding excuses not to sit down and do it. Maybe I didn't want to think about it, although I know so many of you out there who have prayed over us during this time would love an update on how everyone is doing.

Then yesterday, we got a really discouraging email from the son of the family who has struggled the most through all of this. Blame, dissappointment with the church, cutting ties with us. It would have been easier to take if there had been an element of gratitude. I cried as I read the email. It was like an emotional aftershock for Josh and I. Opening up all the old questions, doubts and feelings. Of guilt. In hindsight, could we have done anything different to keep this from happening? Did we make the right decision not to actively pursue prosecution of the bus company with the family in question (although the government will prosecute the case in it's own time). Could we have done or said or been anything more to help this family? Of sadness. I wish this had never happened. As much as I would give to bring one of those girls back, I feel selfish in my thankfulness to have Josh by my side. How did God and Jesus so selflessly sacrifice everything for the horrible wrong choices of humanity?

So I just have to cling to the faithfulness of God, who never gives up on us. And to the answered prayers of the last 7 months. Surgeons removed the plate in JD's spine in December. He's making a full recovery. Kevin, Ariel and Bruno are walking without assitence. Rebeca and Bruno are back in university, taking classes again. Camilla had another surgery on her nose that went well. All the kids are back to having fun together. Many are still in physical therapy, but are gaining back the breadth of physical movement. All the families, minus the one mentioned above, remain faithful members of the church and are growing in their walk with God. Naturally, many are afraid to travel. Miguel continues to recover, gaining use of his hand, his right eye now open, now driving, now leading singing during worship service again. Yet especially when seeing Miguel, I'm plagued again by all the 'what if's' and the knowledge of how much was lost. He is having to sell his business and his home.

Your continued prayers are appreciated. We are thankful to have spiritual warriors lifting us up all over the world. Please continue to pray for emotional and physical healing for the youth and their families. Pray for wisdom and grace for our team and leaders. Pray, as we do, for God to be glorified through it all.

Family Pictures 2009

2010-01-09T19:05:00.004-04:00

Thanksgiving in the US

2010-01-07T13:43:00.010-04:00

November found us traveling to the US. Although not our regular furlough time, Josh felt the need (after everything that had happened this past year), to get away and unplug. It was a whirlwind of a trip - partly fundraising, partly visiting family and friends... Dallas, Ablilene, Brownwood, San Antonio, Austin, Searcy, Little Rock, Memphis, Nashville, Wichita, Indiahoma, Detroit... all in one month (not to mention in a small rental car... I was very glad to see the end of that car!) We visited 6 different church contacts in 2 weeks and presented our fundraising plan for purchasing property here in Cochacabamba, although the trip was, for the most part, a 'mental health' trip, and we peppered our fundraising routes with stops visiting old friends. And although I chalked it up initially to Josh's need to be with family after the accident, it turns out I needed it just as much (at least my weepiness the first few days was tribute to that fact.) We greatly enjoyed the time catching up with old friends and the refreshment given us by our families. Enjoy the pictures!

We tried staying at a guest house in Santa Cruz on our way the the States and really liked it. This picture was taken on the swing outside.

We enjoyed staying with Betty Kennamer, a long time family friend and supporter in Abilene, and visiting with my brother and his girlfriend (now fiancee!). Ashamedly, I have no pictures with them :(

We spent 4 encouraging days with the church in Brownwood... Michaela loved playing with her new friends...

...and the girls got to see some day old baby goats!

Kody and Kristie Speer, good friends of ours, showed us around downtown San Antonion, a wonderful experience!

We spent a few beautiful fall days in Memphis, catching up with old friends... and eating dinner with one of Josh's cousins, Teresa and her family. Here are the 2nd cousins together!

I felt like I was stealing time in Nashville, because I got to see my sister again (when we said goodbye in May I thought it would be for several years, seeing as they are moving to Angola this year.) I loved the sister time and watching the cousins play together (my nephew Stephen is so cute!). And an extra blessing was having my best childhood friend, Rachel, drive down and spending time together with her and her sister... we went out for Indian food, to a fun indoor playground called the Monkey's Treehouse, reminisced and shared childraising techniques. Here we are... with all our kids! Amazing how our families have grown in the last years.

My sister and I took advantage of the opportunity to take a picture of all the cousins with the personal quilts my mom has made each of them.

We enjoyed spending time in Wichita with our good friends and supporters, the Harrolds. Michaela and Addison are great friends!

We spent Thanksgiving week on the farm in Oklahoma with Josh's family. Josh taught Michaela how to jump on haybales.

Michaela loves playing with James and Kaidan!

Cooking Thanksgiving dinner with Nana.

Guy talk

Jana loves Uncle James!

Feeding the cows

Thanksgiving dinner

Playing Mouse Trap

And lots of dune buggy rides!

We ended our time with my folks in Michigan...

We spent a day at the Henry Ford museum... here we are in a giant hot dog :)...

With Santa Clause...

And at the Legoland display.

We had Christmas together...

And got new pajamas :)

The girls loved singing and dancing with Nyanya playing the piano.

All in all it was a much needed trip and we returned home tired from the traveling, but encouraged and refreshed. We enjoyed seeing all of you and hope to see even more of you on our next trip!

Recent Ministry Events

2010-01-05T14:35:00.005-04:00

A thousand apologies for my most recent absence from the blogging world... due again to a sick computer (we had to completely strip and reload everything, a very time consuming process! I'm still attempted to upload all my pictures again. Ugh!) and then the business of the holiday season. Hopefully, if I am diligent with my posts over the next week, I'll be caught up pretty soon.

I wanted to post some pictures of some recent ministry events (some before and some after our trip to the US), but I figured it might help me if I combine them all in one post.

Our team finished out a series of marriage classes in the middle of October. We designed a 5 part marriage conference with one class offered each month for 5 months. It was a huge encouragment to marriages in the congregation, but also an evangelical outreach, as we asked each couple who attended to invite another couple they knew outside the church to attend for free. By the end of the conference, 2 of those families had placed membership with the church! Here are a couple pictures of Josh wrapping up the conference in October.

At the very end of November, we held our 3rd annual national family camp at campsite Kewina, about an hour and a half drive from Cochabamba. It was a huge success as usual, with around 150 brothers and sisters attending from churches all over the country. The theme focused on the spiritual disciplines, and our good friend and ex-coworker from our Memphis days, Jim Holway, came to do the classes. It was a great time of fellowship and fun... prayer time, men's and women's activities, shared meals, childrens' classes, talent show, sports tournaments etc.

Talent show... We taught the kids about the fruits of the spirit in our children's classes, and here they are reciting them.

We had a great turn out from 5 different churches all over the country.

The 4 cousins had a great time hanging out together!

People enjoyed a variety of different sports, including repeling.

Jim's classes were excellent!

We held the usual holiday activities at our home in December: talent show and Christmas carols for our small group, and then our usual church wide fellowship for New Year's day. We had around 70 people on New Year's day, and enjoyed seeing in the New Year with a barbeque, sports, and most importantly, singing and prayer.

Vanessa plays the saxaphone during the talent show.

Christmas carols and cookies

New Year's Day Feast...

And fellowship...

And games!

(Hopefully, I'll be able to get some pics soon from Rodney and Tracie Chesser from our sponsoring congregation who happened to be here... there's some great ones of Josh doing a devo on 'getting rid of the old man'. :)

Eliana's Birthday

2009-12-11T11:12:00.004-04:00

So I have long been absent from the blogging world due to a very busy last couple months as well as a sick computer for half of that time... but it's time to get back on the bandwagon and update you on our lives.

First off, Eliana's 3rd birthday party! We decided this year since she wanted to have a party and her birthday is so close to Halloween (and since we have never done any kind of trick or treat with our team kids), to have a costume birthday party. It was a lot of fun. We invited her close friends, played games (which were kind of a bomb except for the bag race... I need some ideas of good games to play with toddlers), had her favorite finger foods, and her cake of choice... cars! Eliana dressed up like a bunny in a costume my mom made for me and my sister, Michaela was a princess (of course) and Jana wore fairy wings for about 5 minutes :) It was a hoot watching the kids learn about trick or treat (since they had never done it before). I hope you enjoy the pictures!

Eliana, you are such a joy... you definitely live up to your middle name! I have loved watching you grow; I have suffered with you with your frequent illnesses; I have enjoyed your precious and distinct conversation; I have rejoiced over your sweet and loving spirit; I have thrived on your hugs and kisses. Most of all I have loved being your mommy. I pray every day for the grace and wisdom and patience to nurture you and your sisters. I love you!

Nana's visit

2009-10-02T14:58:00.007-04:00

The last couple weeks, we enjoyed a visit from Nana, Josh's mom. She split her time between here and Sucre as she came down for a ladies conference in Sucre, a children's workshop here in Coch., and of course much needed time with her 5 Bolvian grandkids! Jenny, Erik and the cousins came to Coch. for a few days too. Here are some pictures from our time together.

Snuggle time with Nana

Tea party with Nana

Birthday party with Nana (celebrating Mia´s first and Zion and Eliana´s third)

Fun at the pool

Taking a walk

Thanks for coming, Nana! We love you!

Recent Ministry Events

2009-10-02T13:57:00.005-04:00

It has been a very busy month - on top of our regular ministry activities, we've had several special events too. Josh has said he feels like he's hardly had time to breath! And thanks to Josh's mom, we finally have a camara again to start recording memories!! I'm so excited to be able to take pictures again.

The month started out with a church 'retiro' - or mini retreat. We rented out a pool/recreation center for the day and had a great time of fellowship and food. This was the first church event that Miguel came to (see previous blog) and it was wonderful to see him and his family.

We started a monthly 'girls night out', and I put together the craft and the devotional focusing around our uniqueness and unity in Christ.

The guys had their monthly 'guys night out', and enjoyed the presence of Miguel as well as celebrating Gaston's birthday.

We held our annual ladies tea on the 26th, and had almost 60 women in attendance. Our theme focused on the Samaritan woman at the well, and our spiritual thirst for Christ. Trish did a fantastic job on the decorations and the craft! Mary Torres, one of the missionary women in Sucre, came to give the talk. She was very open with us about her life and how Christ has changed her and her family. A lot of our women put in a lot of hours working on invitations, nametags, the craft, the food, the decorations, and the testimonies. We continue to pray for wisdom as to how to draw the women of the congregation into a closer walk with Christ and fellowship with each other.

I lead singing...

Mary Torres, our speaker

An example of our craft

We were so excited with our attendance - and over half were friends of family of our church members!

Carmen and Elsa

Our welcoming table - Alejandra, Gabriella and Pocha

One of the many beautifully decorated tables

Patricia and Beatrice, 2 of our indespensible helpers in the kitchen

The next day, Sharla and Trish gave a workshop on teaching children. Josh's mom did a fabulous job providing a theological base for teaching children and Trish shared about her class for the toddlers, which has been a huge success! We are hoping to get more people excited and involved in our children's program, and I think this was a great start.

3 months later

2009-09-30T16:06:00.003-04:00

Today marks 3 months since the accident... a good time to post updates on how everyone is doing... again, in no particular order.

Miguel has been out of the hospital now for several weeks! The surgery I spoke of in the last update appears to have gone well. He is living with his mom right now, as he still needs supervision and care although he can walk, talk, and eat by himself. He has been to worship with us several times, and also to quite a few church activities. We have also set up a rotating visitation sheet and many church members have volunteered to take a morning or afternoon to sit with him so that his mom can get out. He seems to enjoy the time with the brethren and Josh feels that he is making some small improvements in his memory. His kids are still living with their aunt for the time being, but have been to Bible class a few times as well. We rejoice over the progress that has been made and continue to petition the Lord for his complete recuperation.

Bruno Vargas is out of his wheel chair and walking with the aid of a walker. He continues to go to physical therapy to work on his knee, but is slowly improving. Freddy's arm is almost healed, although he still is wearing a brace for support. Please continue praying for the Vargas family, though, as their family experienced another blow recently with the passing of their grandfather, Renan's father.

Camilla is now bandage and cast free. She is also undergoing physical therapy for her arm and will have another surgery within a few weeks of finishing her final exams.

Rebeca is walking great! She is of course still undergoing physical therapy as well. She is writing an article for the national church newspaper about her reflections surrounding the accident.

We are still searching for a permanent home for Wendy, who lost her daughter Ariana. We managed to find an apartment for rent, but are looking for someplace a little more permanent. Wendy continues to mourn for her daughter, but has found much strength and solace in the church body and in God, for which we are thankful.

Sunday was the birthday of Diana. Her parents, Jorge and Sandra, wanted to do something special in remembrance of her life, so we shared a cake and pizza and a slide show of her life. I was home that morning with a sick kid, but Josh said that service was packed with people who had known Diana. And Ariel, her brother, was there for the first time since the accident that morning! He is in a wheelchair now, but can sit up and move around somewhat, with the hopes of making a full recovery.

Jonathan and Rachel Sandoval have both started their first year teaching in Searcy. Rachel is doing well and enjoying her job. Jonathan's back is doing well, but he's having a lot of pain still in one shoulder. He went in for an MRI, which they decided not to do because of the metal plate in his back. So he will have physical therapy instead for a few weeks and see what kind of progress is made there.

Kevin got the casts off his feet but is still in his wheelchair. It will be a long slow and painful process of walking again.

Alejandra, Josh and Rosa are all doing well. Rosa may have surgery on her nose in another few months. Alejandra's bandages are off her arm and she is doing some physical therapy. Josh's injuries are completely healed. He is going next week to a missionary men's conference in Brazil and I am thankful that he is going to have some time surrounded by a lot of spiritual counselors.

Thank you all for your continued prayers for our family and our church body. God continues to work and be glorified here in Cochabamba, and we pray that the same may be true wherever you are living!

Point of Convergence

2009-09-03T09:06:00.002-04:00

As I was waiting in line for 45 minutes outside the community center yesterday to refill our gas cans, I had plenty of time to meditate :) My first thought was to be thankful for a cloudy day, so as not to be waiting in the hot sun. My second thought was that it has hardly seemed like Bolivia the last year... no blockades or shortages of anything for a long time. It was too good to last. This week we had a blockade and gas cans became a scarcity again. Thirdly, my thoughts focused around the variety of people waiting in line with me.

Bolivia is interesting that way. There are several places I have been waiting in line, when I'm struck by the wide cross section of people waiting with me (in the identification office, getting my driver's license, and waiting in line for gas refills). I don't remember this being the case in the US...although I do remember waiting in Memphis for 2 and a half hours for my driver's license. Maybe because here everything is still so centralized. In the US (at least in the big cities), there are generally multiple offices for everything... so everything ends up being more 'zoned' for lack of a better word.

As I 'people-watched' yesterday (one of my favorite things to do), I saw the elderly and the youth, most likely waiting in line for their parents; women and men; the wealthy (dressed to the nines) and the poor, probably using a good portion of their week's wages to refill one of their most precious posessions; cholas with babies slung in aguayos and a more modern pregnant woman with a baby in a stroller; and myself, a gringa lady. We were all waiting in line for a nessecary commodity in life. Waiting patiently, because there was no other recourse, and smiles and sighs of relief all around when the gas truck finally pulled up.

A point of convergence. A place where all lives cross, no matter your status, class, color or gender. That's how I felt yesterday. And I was struck by the thought that our churches are supposed to be that way, although I get the feeling that they rarely are. May we all strive a little more to reach out to all types of people for, "You are all sons of God, through faith in Christ Jesus, for all of you who were baptized into Christ have clothed yourselves with Christ. There is neither Jew nor Greek, slave nor free, male nor female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus."

A lifetime

2009-08-30T17:17:00.003-04:00

Last night I was honored to attend a concert given in honor of a good friend's parents-in-law. They were celebrating their 50th wedding anniversary. 2 months ago, as I sat in the mass for our 3 young ladies that died in the accident, I felt that we had now been here in Bolivia for what seems a lifetime... a little melodramatic, I know, but we've experienced so much of life here. Baby showers, births, baptisms, graduations, birthdays, weddings... life... and now death.

I got the same feeling as I sat in the concert last night... the feeling of 'a lifetime'. It was their legacy there on stage. All of their children and grandchildren and even they themselves performing in a talent show, honoring their love to each other. You would be hard pressed to find that much musical talent in another family. The grandkids all performed in a small 'rock' band - singing, percussion, guitars, piano. Then after the break, the father - a professional opera singer - sang several love songs to his wife. She in turn read him a poem she had written. There was a beautifully done ballet, perfomed by a niece. Then all the children and father performed different duets - mostly Spanish folkloric music - singing, guitar, even the traditional Bolivian flauta (that part was amazing!)

I couldn't stop from crying. I hope someday Joshua and I will be able to celebrate our parents lives together in such a way. I was overwhelmed with gratefulness again, remembering the accident, for the second chance Joshua and I have at someday, Lord willing, reaching our 50th together. I don't know what kind of legacy we will leave behind us, but I hope and pray it will be one that glorifies God through the lives of our 3 beautiful children. And finally I mourned the loss again of those 3 beautiful lives. Watching the grandchildren perform on stage made me accutely aware of how much we lost. Each individual's uniqueness: their personality, their talents, their inner beauty.

This morning was another emotional morning. A worship service marking the 2 month anniversary of the accident. It was a wonderful tribute to God's presence with us, His working through His body, gratefulness again for His goodness, celebration of our salvation through His Son, and prayer for those who continue to struggle, both physically and emotionally. Kevin was there for the first time this morning! What a blessing to see him and Bruno sitting together in the front in their wheelchairs, sharing a Bible and weeping together. What a blessing to have the Christian family that helped in the rescue attempt worshipping with us this morning. What a blessing to have Jorge and Sandra, parents of Ariel and Diana, get up and thank the congregation for their constant spiritual and financial support. What a blessing to see Carlos, Miguel's brother, with us. What a blessing, knowing that Miguel is out of the hospital, that surgery went well, although only God knows when and if he will recover completely. What a blessing to be able to call Miguel and Ariel up on the phone and sing to them. What a blessing to have representatives from the Bull's supporting church with us. And what a blessing to be able to eat and fellowship with one another afterwards.

We did our share of crying. But God is continuing to heal with His Spirit and through His body. My prayer is that He will continue to take our 'lifetimes' - both of Josh and I and of his church - and use us to His glory.

Beauty

2009-08-28T18:13:00.004-04:00

-curly red ringlets and blue eyes
-Eliana singing on the picnic bench
-a hot cup of chai
-the wind blowing in the trees
-roly poly puppies
-Josh pushing Jana in the swing
-planning a tea party for the kids
-a good friend
-singing and playing English hymns on the piano
-Michaela hugging Jana
-a long nap
-the sunset
-jacaranda trees in full bloom
-blossoming peach tree
-migrating swallows
-Michaela watering flowers

2 months later...

2009-08-27T09:21:00.003-04:00

Sunday marks 2 months since the accident. A lot of water under the bridge and yet still feeling the aftermath in so many ways. I thought it was past time to post an update of some things...

-Miguel continues in the hospital. He has come out of the coma, but has some traumatic brain injury. He can talk, eat, walk by himself, but has little memory of people or events. He is like a little kid. Thankfully, the family and doctors finally decided to move him to a better clinic, and not to the psychiatric hosptial. The transfer was made on Monday. Josh made 5 different trips on different days, attempting to make the transfer and there was always some kind of hold-up. The doctors are planning on operating on a blood clot in the cranium sometime soon. Please continue praying for Miguel and his family. We were very thankful to see Miguel's kids at church one Sunday, but they are sad and struggling to assimilate all the changes in their lives lately. They have been to see their dad, but he didn't recognixe them. We continue to pray for a miracle in this regard and would appreciate your prayers as well. It is discouraging and sad for Josh to see Miguel continuing in this condition - and strange for him to think that he was sitting right next to him when the accident happened.

-Ariel was released from the hospital yesterday, after another pelvic surgery. The first surgery was done wrong - one hip was 4 cm. lower than the other one, and he would have walked with a very severe limp. His parents were worried about his extended recovery and continuing pain and so got a second opinion from another doctor. Thankfully, this doctor seemed to know what he was doing and Ariel was sitting up within days after the surgery. He will now have another 2 weeks recovery at home and then continued recovery in a wheelchair. His cochlear device finally arrived too and we are just waiting for the technician to calibrate it. Ariel continues in good spirits in spite of it all, but his parents are really struggling with the continued tragedy of his health and the loss of Diana. They really need to be surrounded by prayers and the presence of God at this time.

-Most of the others in the accident are recovering well. Rebecca is walking better every time I see her; Kevin continues on bedrest for another month; Bruno will not have to have surgery on his knee, but is doing physical therapy daily; many of the others now have their casts or bandages removed. Josh has been encouraged by several discussions during the youth class together. Many are still struggling emotionally, but are finding strength in God and in each other.

-Butch made it safely to the States with Jonathan and back. They are now settled in Searcy and Rachel is teaching.

-As far as our family goes, Josh is pretty much completely physically recovered. We've had some sickness over the last month, but thankfully everyone is healthy right now. I think both Josh and I still have moments of tiredness and sadness - as I know do the rest of the team as well. It still seems like every day, there is some kind of follow up to do regarding the accident.

I want to express again how thankful we are for the many ways we've recieved encouragement through emails, facebook, and even lately real cards - thank you to Austin Ave. and to Livonia for having your kids make special cards for us! It means so much to us and the church here! And over the last couple days, we've been extremely blessed to have Dale Hawley here with our team. We were able to spend some great time together sharing about our team and everything that's happened over the last couple months. It was good to get away and to have time together. Thank you, Austin Ave. for making that happen!

We continue to find our strength in the Lord and in His body! May He continue to work through us, using us as 'instruments of His peace!'

Fun Pictures

2009-08-07T14:09:00.003-04:00

Here are a few fun pictures (thanks to Katie!) that we took on our trip yesterday to La Cabaña hot springs with the Forbesses. It was a wonderful, relaxing way to spend the 184th Bolivian Independence day!

If I had a camara....

2009-08-05T11:46:00.004-04:00

I have been wanting to take a few pictures of things over the course of the last couple weeks, but seeing as we are still without a camara (it didn't make it in time for Josh's sister to bring down to us), this is the best I could do.

If I had a camara, I would have taken pictures of....

1) Eliana's black eye. She and Jana were trying to stand on the same chair and I think Jana pushed her and she fell off and ended up with a black eye.

2) Jana climbing the slide by herself.

3) Our dog, Daisy's, six new puppies!

4) The people added to our church body in the last week - Elsa and Carmen through a new commitment to Christ and baptism, and one family (Johnny, Ligia, Rosa, Ricardo and Mateo) officially placed membership with us!

5)The cuñapes (cheesy yucca bread) that I made for the first time. They turned out really yummy, and I'm excited because they are one of the girls favorite things to eat here.

Tomorrow is Bolivian independence day and we are off to the hot springs... this time with the Forbesses!

On a lighter note....

2009-07-28T19:48:00.008-04:00

I realized the other day that I never posted pictures from our family vacation. We had just gotten back, and a couple days later Josh left on the jovenes trip... and the last month has been so crazy I haven't even thought about it. I was thankful we were able to salvage our memory chip from the camara, since I hadn't had a chance to download pictures from our trip.

We decided to take our vacation this year in a little town called Saimaipata. We wanted to try out our new car on the Bolivian roads. It did great!!! - and we christened it 'Dora' on the way (the girls idea!). We took the old road from Coch. to Santa Cruz (the same road the jovenes were on when they had the accident. After driving it is when Josh decided it might be better to take a bus. It was only paved for the first couple hours.... then it was dirt - albeit good dirt - the remainder of the way until the very end, when it was washed out pavement. I think I agree with my dad... Good dirt is better than bad pavement.) It was a long drive - it took us about 10 hours to get there. After driving there, we decided we had no desire to drive that road back, so drove on to S.Cruz and back on the new road (basically making a huge circuit). But it was some of the most beautiful and amazing country I've seen yet in Boliva! It's only when you get out of the major cities that you realize what a frontier country Bolivia still is.

We stayed at a hotel called 'El Pueblito'. It was like something straight out of an old west movie or something... each 'cabin' was themed after some kind of business from an old town (i.e. Seamstress, Bakery, Tavern, Blacksmith). They had a quaint little chapel, a playground, a pool (although it was way too cold to swim!), a restaurant, farm animals, fireplaces (which we definitely needed!)... It was a great experience and a beautiful view! And they made beautiful hand-painted pottery and woodwork.

The second day we were there, we went to visit 'El Fuerte', some ancient ruins that date to pre-Incan times, although the Incans used them later on as well as some kind of ceremonial/religous site and possibly a military outpost. It was fascinating... Bolivia's Machu Pichu... and very well laid out/maintained for Bolivia. The girls did great on the 2 k hike through the ruins and we saw our first Andean condor (eat your heart out, mom and dad!)

We also enjoyed exploring the town a little bit and visiting a local animal orphanage.

On the way back to Coch., we stopped halfway on the new road to break up the trip a bit. And stayed at a fascinating place. It was a working Bolivian ranch that is also a hotel. Very off the beaten track, but a great experience too. They had 5000 head of cattle that they were working as we drove up (of course the OK farm boy in Josh loved seeing that!). The hotel was spread out ranch style and very nice and clean; they had beautiful grounds, fishing (for pirahnas!), and free horseback riding as part of the deal... a pool and a great raised pavilion with hammocks (perfect for bird-watching, mom and dad!)

We drove the rest of the way back to Coch. the next day, stopping for lunch at our favorite hotel in Villa Tunari, and taking advantage of their pool and water slide!

All in all, it was a great vacation, and greatly needed.

Updates

2009-07-28T18:33:00.004-04:00

I felt it was about time to give some updates on how everyone is doing.... in no particular order.

-Jonathan seems to be moving around better every time I see him. He has been having a lot of pain in one shoulder and knee... They diagnosed it as tendonitis and he is receiving shots for a week. They are still getting the run-a-round from the insurance, very frustrating, but we're hoping to be able to pay his medical expenses soon so he can get the go-ahead from the dr. to travel, possibly as soon as next week.

-Rachel arrived safely Stateside and is now in Searcy. She's found them an apartment and is getting ready to start teaching next week.

-Rebeca got the cast off of her arm and is still in considerable pain, but is moving around better with her crutches. Her exam seemed to go well, but no news on the results yet. She was pretty consumed with studying there for a few days, but now I think the reality of everything is settling in and she is struggling emotionally to process it all.

-Miguel is out of intensive care and awake, but has some traumatic brain injury. He is struggling to remember faces and names and in a fairly childlike state. We would appreciate your prayers for a miraculous recovery in this regard, as no one can tell if his condition will improve. His family has contracted round the clock nurses to improve the medical care he is receiving at the public hospital. His kids are in the care of his sister, but she has them fairly isolated, so please continue to pray for Abril and Diego.

-Alejandra got the stitches out of her arm and is going through some physical therapy.

-Ariel is home!!! His cochlear device was in La Paz as of Friday, and was being held up due to some paperwork. Pray that it arrives soon.

-Rosa will have surgery soon on her nose.

-Bruno and Kevin continue to be confined to the house - Kevin on bedrest, and Bruno to his wheelchair, although since they live on the 4th floor of some condominiums with no elevator, it is difficult to get him up and down the stairs.

-The conditions of the others (Freddy, Josh, Camila, and Bruno Pol) continue to improve every day.... bones are healing and soreness is gradually dissapating.

-Wendy and Gonzalo found a new apartment and moved last weekend. They are thankful for their new place. Sunday was a difficult day for Wendy as it was Ariana's 17th birthday. We had a special tribute for her at church, ordered her favorite food, cake and a special video of photos of her life.

-We appreciate your prayers surrounding Thursday, which marks the one month anniversary of the accident. We are having a special prayer/memorial service at the church Thursday evening.

-And on a side note, I'm rejoicing and praying over 2 families far from us.... Matthew Bogard, a good friend of Joshua's, has been struggling with 2 types of cancer. His recent bone marrow transplant was successful and tests are looking good, but he needs continued prayers over the graft vs. host process. Also, the Schwambs, a family that are members of the church where Josh's uncle is on staff, just received a heart for their 3 year old little girl and she had a successful transplant!! Read the whole story at http://momstransformed.blogspot.com/... God is good... and God can work miracles! The verse I read today in Mark spoke to my heart, "Have faith in God.... I tell you the truth, if anyone says to this mountain, 'Go throw yourself into the sea,' and does not doubt in his heart, but believes that what he says will happen, it will be done for him. Therefore, I tell you, whatever you ask for in prayer, believe that you have received it, and it will be yours. And when you stand praying, if you hold anything against anyone, forgive him, so that your Father in heaven may forgive you your sin."

Meditations on Life and Death

2009-07-21T06:09:00.004-04:00

On Sunday it was my turn to share the devo during our monthly ladies reunion after church. I was daunted by the task. What do you say during times like this? When you have mothers sitting in front of you who have lost a child or suffered along with their child, caring for them physically and weeping with them in their emotional recovery? It was a first for me and I did not feel equal to the task. I have not even felt up to sharing my own personal thoughts and struggles here... and yet, preparing for this devo has allowed me for the first time to process on a personal level my own thoughts and feelings.

So I decided to share from what I have been reading lately - in the moments I've been able to glean from the craziness of what life has been lately - which sadly to say have been few and far between. In times like this, I always turn to the Psalms.

Psalm 13:1-2
How long, O Lord? Will you forget me forever?
How long will you hide your face from me?
How long must I wrestle with my thoughts and every day have sorrow in my heart?
How long will my ennemy triumph over me?

Praise God that we have a God who is big enough to handle our questions. Whose character does not change because we question His person, His purposes, His plan. Who does not turn us away in our doubt.

Why did God see fit to save my husband with only minor injuries - although I am eternally grateful to Him for doing so - and allow 3 young girls to die instead? Why does he number some with only a few short days or years, and others with a lifetime? Why is it that so many people in this world have to suffer so much... and others not?

I have felt like this event has triggered in me a sensitivity or recognition of the suffering all around me -how easily we become calloused- that the weight of the world has been laid in some small way on my heart. From the tears and pain of those in the accident, to the little girl the same age as Jana that Josh saw brought into the forensics office - physically and sexually abused by her parents, to the little old Quechua man I passed on the road - bent over, unshod feet wrapped up against the cold, to the driver of the bus - 22 years old, spending his life in a 3rd world prison, to even the minor sicknesses and injuries of my own children. How does God bear it? How does He see the sin and sorrow of the world every second of every day? Maybe because He can see the big picture - the past, the present and the future. Maybe because He knows the price has already been paid for sin, the battle already fought, that we are just awaiting the response of mankind and the redemption of all things (Romans 8).

Psalm 13:3-4
Look on me and answer, O Lord my God. Give light to my eyes or I will sleep in death; my enemy will say, "I have overcome him," and my foe will rejoice when I fall.

This has been my prayer, "Give light to my eyes." And in some small way, it has been answered. It has been interesting as well as sad to see the reactions of the community around us. A very Bolivian response to tragedy, I think influenced in part by both Catholic and a fatalistic worldview (although maybe too it is just a normal human response), is to look for the 'sin' that caused the suffering. Just as Jesus' disciples asked him in John 9, "Rabbi, who sinned, this man or his parents, that he was born blind?" And Jesus' reponse... "Neither this man for his parents sinned, but this happened so that the work of God might be displayed in his life.... I am the light of the world." One only has to look at many stories and teachings in the Bible to see that suffering is part of the life of servants of God... Joseph, Job, the prophets, Paul, and ultimately - Jesus himself. I remember Joshua attending an Orthodox Jewish synagogue the Sunday after Mel Gibson's "The Passion" was premiered. The rabbi's lecture focused on the movie, and on Christianity's great misunderstanding of God: God does not bring suffering to those he loves, only blessing. Both Joshua and I were astounded at his blatant misinterpretation of many Biblical passages.

I have turned again to the book of Job as well during this time. The cosmic battle fought between Satan and God over the faithfulness and righteousness of the suffering servant, using the life of Job as the battlefield. One seeking to destroy the faith of the servant, hoping that he would deny the character and supremity of God. The other seeking to prove that mankind could prove his love and trust in God, even when tried by the gravest of circumstances, by remaining faithful. Job, on his part, never understood the larger story. He questioned God, but never denied Him. In the end, the only answer that God gave Job is that "I am God." And Job remained speechless before Him.

During our grief/debrief session on Saturday, something that Joanne said struck me profoundly. In response to a question about whether a parent's sin had caused their child to suffer, she simply said, "I do not believe in a God, who would send his own Son to suffer and die for me, would then turn around and punish my child for my sin." Now this is not to say that certain sins do not have far-reaching consequences on those around us. But we do not serve a capricious God (see Ezekiel 18). We simply live in a fallen world: accidents happen, natural disasters occur, people sin, death is a part of life on earth, evil abounds.

Psalm 13: 5
But I trust in your unfailing love; my heart rejoices in your salvation.

And what else can we do or say at times like this? Trust in His love, rejoice in His salvation. I have found consolation as well in many passages from Paul's second letter to the Corinthians... But considering my prayer, "Give light to my eyes", I found special meaning in 2 Cor. 4:6-10. "For God, who said, "Let light shine out of darkness," made his light shine in our hearts to give us the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Christ. But we have this treasure in jars of clay to show that this all-surpassing power is from God and not from us. We are hard pressed on every side, but not crushed; perplexed, but not in despair; persecuted, but not abandoned; struck down, but not destoyed. We always carry around in our body the death of Jesus, so that the life of Jesus may also be revealed in our body." Ultimately our hope is in the salvation that comes through the death and resurrection of Jesus. That is what carries us through suffering. And our confidence in his love - demonstrated to us on the cross. And the hope of eternal life - where there are no tears, no sorrow, no pain.

Psalm 13:6
I will sing to the Lord, for he has been good to me.

As I started to get the first fuzzy phonecalls about the accident, it was hard to know how to respond. When I hung up the phone after talking with Katie, when we found out that it had been a very serious accident and probably that some had died, I remember thinking, "What if this is true? What if I've lost him? How can I do this? How can I live this life without my husband - my best friend, my lover, my parenting parter - by my side? How can I raise these girls that God has given us without him?" I can't begin to express how glad I am that I don't have to live out the reality of those questions at this point in my life. I am so grateful that God saw fit to spare him. And yet none of us know the number of our days. It could be that we only have a day, or a week, or a year, or 5 years.... I will be thankful for every day that we have, and know that if that particular form of suffering ever does come my way, that God is still God, and that He will be by my side.

God has been good to me. And yet, I can't help but think of the passage in Luke 12:48, "From everyone who has been given much, much will be demanded; and from the one who has been entrusted with much, much more will be asked." God has given me back my husband... and so we will continue to serve him, continue to follow him, continue to do what He asks of us. And perhaps in some small way we will not only be glorfying our God, but we will also be paying tribute to the lives of 3 young girls. May God help each of us as we continue our search to draw closer to Him through each and every circumstance.

Newest news

2009-07-20T15:41:00.003-04:00

-I want to thank you all for your prayers surrounding the counseling session on Saturday. It was a time of sharing and healing for the youth and their families... a lot of tears and questions, but I think all went away feeling a measure of peace. Joanne did an excellent job of facilitating, and she is available for another session in a few weeks - hopefully by that time, all who were not able to be there will be able to come.

-Sunday saw 3 of our youth that haven't yet been able to come to church worshipping with us. It was wonderful to see Bruno, Rebecca, and Jonathan among us.

-Please pray for Ariel, who continues in the hospital. He is confined to his stomach for now due to some bed sores that developed on his back and is struggling with some depression. His parents came to church on Sunday and tearfully asked for prayers and visitation on his behalf. Josh went on Sunday evening and had a good visit with him. Hopefully his cochlear device will arrive this week.

-Rachel Sandoval is flying out tonight - pray for her trip home, her time with her folks, her search for an apartment, and her first year of teaching. Pray for them too as they are separated for a couple weeks. Butch and Jonathan will probably fly out beginning of August.

-As for our family - we are hoping for a return to a degree of normality this week - although it seems we cannot avoid catastrophe more than 2 days in a row. I made another trip to the emergency room on Saturday, this time with Jana. I thought her elbow had been dislocated again (see previous post in Feb.).... Thankfully, it turned out to be fine (I was dreading the thought of a baby in a cast again!). On the way home, our car broke down and we've had problems with our water supply being very dirty. We had to clean out the cistern and get the pumps serviced, so we've been without water for 2 days. Thank you for your continued prayers!

News....

2009-07-17T09:20:00.003-04:00

-Jonathan was released on Wed. and it at home... although they sure had some frustrating moments trying to get him out! He is doing good, and glad to be out of the hospital. He even went briefly to a movie night they had on Wed. for the jovenes - something fun and light and normal. Keep praying for them as they try to get all the insurance stuff - Stateside insurance paying for international health care! - worked out.

-Josh went to visit Miguel again yesterday. He had been moved to a regular room, but had to be transfered back to ICU due to an asthma attack. He was very sedated when Josh saw him. Some family members are wanting to move him to a better clinic, and Josh was supportive of this, saying we could help with medical costs. (We have not been very impressed in all this with the public hospital!) While he was there, the family needed a knee brace (Miguel is becoming more active and even opening his eyes!), so Josh went searching for one... at about 10 different medical supply stores and ended up having to order one, being unsuccessful in his search. Interestingly enough, often hospitals/clinics do not have medications or certain supplies on-hand and family members must purchase them from local farmacies or supply stores.

-Please be praying for Rebeca. Her mom came to our Wed. ladies prayer time and she is doing better health wise, but has to take a final exam on Tuesday of next week. She is in her first year of university on a medical track.... So she is spending her recovery time studying. There are about 1000 students in her course of study and only 180 will be passed on to the next year. Also, school resumes next week for all students... be praying for the teens as they head back to school, and as some of them will have to study from home for a couple months as they continue their recovery process.

-Joshua also visited Bruno and Freddy Vargas and had a good talk with Bruno. Continue praying for them and the emotional state of all our teens.

-Josh got the cochlear device ordered for Ariel! Thank you for your prayers in all that process - it ended up that we couldn't order the free replacement, because more than 3 years had gone by since he had it implanted, but thanks to your generous hearts, we have enough to help his parents pay for it... we're thankful that he's going to be recieving it in about a week! Pray that it will arrive safely.

-Please be praying for Wendy, the mother of Ariana. Their landlords told them last week that they have to leave their rental house in a week, so in the depths of dealing with her daughter's death, she's having to think about moving and finding a new house.

-As for our family, the girls are doing better, and although yesterday morning I thought Michaela had pink-eye, it turned out to be an insect bite close to the eye that had caused swelling and puffiness. Maybe things will normalize a little bit in the next week!

-We are daily overwhelmed (in a blessed way!) by the support and prayers and emails and comments that we've recieved. Thank you so much for your financial and spiritual generosity towards us and the brethren here in Cochabamba....

Here's the latest...

2009-07-14T16:21:00.006-04:00

-Jonathan is up and walking and has a great appetite... chances are he'll be released in a couple days. He has been visiting Ariel (who is in the same clinic, one floor down) and they have been playing video games together - I think it's put them both in great spirits!

-Ariel is doing good but will probably have to have one more surgery on his hips. Josh is still in the process of filling out paperwork and making phone calls to get his cochlear replaced. Keep that process in your prayers.

-Kevin has been released and is at home! His mom knew some people at the clinic where he was interned and they have loaned him a hospital bed.

-We found a good wheelchair for Bruno and - thanks to you who have given so generously - were able to purchase it with the intent of keeping it for future needs in the church as well.

-Pray for our teens and their families this Saturday. We managed to get in contact with a missionary counselor here. She has been in Bolivia for over 20 years and has her Masters in Counseling. She is doing a group debrief session at 3 on Sat. for the victims and their families. Pray that God will work through this time and that He will begin healing the many emotional wounds....

-We have been greatly encouraged by the support recieved not only abroard, but also within Bolivia. Another preacher from one of the congregations in Santa Cruz arrived on Sunday to show their love and support for our church body. He traveled the same road that the accident occured on, arriving here at 3am. He was bringing a donation from their brothers to ours, but sadly was robbed here in Coch. on the way to his hotel. Satan is at work, but our God is greater! Thankfully, he was not hurt. The brothers and sisters here in Bolivia have sacrificed so much for us, as have many of you in the US.

-Thanks for your prayers for our family. Josh's back is now feeling better... Jana is back to normal... Mom had 2 days not having to clean up any messes... But Eliana is now sick with the same virus Jana had, so we are dealing we more throw up, fever etc... Continued prayers are greatly appreciated.

-To finish things out... Butch Sandoval has posted some of his thoughts on their blog http://butchntrish.blogspot.com/ - and included some pictures of the girls who passed away that were taken at an orphanage just the week before... precious reminders of the sweet lives they led. I thought I'd post them here too...

And more pictures....

2009-07-14T16:06:00.003-04:00

We got our camara back smashed from the accident... but were able to rescue the chip and save our pictures. Josh was sad though because he thought he had taken a picture of the group before they boarded the bus... apparently not. But Bruno Vargas also had a camara, and although his too was crushed, we were again able to get the pictures off the chip. Here are a few of the pictures taken that terrible day.

Camilla and Freddy

Alejandra, Jonathan, Rebecca, and Rachel

Alejandra and Ariana

Boarding the bus after lunch (the bus before the accident)

Pictures

2009-07-11T17:57:00.005-04:00

The bus

The cliff

Camilla and Belen - serving at a workday project at Agustina's house

Our youth, taken last year with a group of interns from Harding

A group of our youth at last year's family camp - they won the talent show prize.
Left to right - Bruno Vargas, Bruno Pol, Freddy, Vesna, Rebeca, Alvara and Roberto

Belen, Diana, and Ariana

More news....

2009-07-10T16:13:00.003-04:00

Things have been a little crazy around here of late... I've been trying for 2 days to get this update posted.

-I took Jana to the dr. and she has a combination of rotovirus and parasites.... I thought she was getting better, but she still has bad diareahea and just threw up again all over the computer as I was working on this entry (I'm on Josh's computer now!)... At least we know what it is and how to treat it. Keep praying she will get better - and that mommy will have at least 1 day where I'm not having to clean up bodily fluids/excretion!

-To top the whole week off, Eliana fell down on Thursday and busted her chin open and I had to take her to the emergency room for stitches. She would've had to get 3-4 stiches, but she was so great (you would not have believed how still she lay and she didn't even cry!!!!), they did one long stitch on the inside and one little one on the outside.

-Josh's back is really bothering him... He's going to go back to the doc for another check up to make sure everything is okay... It may just be that he's not resting as much as he should be.

-Other than that, our days have been full of millions of other things. Josh spent almost 7 hours total waiting to get his forensics report... and still has to get the hospital to write up a report too. He went to visit Miguel yesterday, and was sad to see his condition, but glad to be able to sit and pray with him. Josh felt sure he could hear him. They have him restrained to keep him from pulling on the cords and hurting himself, and sedated until such time they feel ready to let him come to.

-Yesterday we attended a mass for Belen and Diana (a common Catholic traditon here a week after the funeral. One side of Diana's family are strong Catholics). It was again a very sad time for the family and all involved. But afterward the Sandoval's and Forbesses were able to go out to lunch with the family and I think it was a good time of fellowship, helping to ease the pain and smooth over the relationship with our church.

-We are continuing to work on ordering Ariel's cochlear device... it might be possible to recieve a free replacement!? But of course that means tons of paperwork and phone calls... sometimes a very difficult thing from another continent. Keep this whole process in your prayers.

-Josh talked to Pedro, Rebeca's father, yesterday. They have been out of touch all week and we were a little worried about them. Turns out they had to move Rebeca to a relative's house so she could get some rest... friends from school and church kept coming by. And she was having panic attacks... made worse by a medication they had prescribed. As soon as they took her off that medication, she's been doing much better. But Pedro said they are doing fine and Rebeca is recovering.

-Looks like Monday may be a big day... Kevin might possibly be released and JD might be able to get up! Pray that both of these things may happen!

-I think that's about it... except for the fact that we were able to talk and use the web-cam on Skype last night to see/hear a lot of Josh's family/extended family. What a great blessing to be prayed over and to hear "Precious Lord, Take my Hand" sung over us from thousands of miles away. We feel and know that thousands are continuing to lift us up in prayer... I know it's one of the biggest ways that we are making it through day by day.

The latest....

2009-07-08T06:59:00.003-04:00

Just wanted to keep everyone updated on the latest news and prayer requests....

-Josh is doing great, getting back into the saddle as they would say in OK... He started driving yesterday... says he's fine (of course the wife worries a little bit). He spent yesterday morning at the doc and visiting Kevin. Doc says he's healing nicely, but it'll be about a month till the ribs stop hurting. He's still pretty sore but walking around much better. Keep praying for Kevin - and for several of the kids - who will have up to 2 months bedrest.

-Josh also spent the better part of the afternoon at the forensics office. Each victim has to go in for a physical exam which will help the d.a's office (for lack of a better term) to prosecute the case. It was a frustrating Bolivia experience. He spent an hour getting the paper that he needed the dr. to write on and waited another 2 and a half and didn't even get seen! Then he found out he didn't have everything he needed - that he needed the original xrays and a report from the first hospital. So he had to go pick that up and has to be back at the office at 9:30am for his exam. Pray for patience as all of this can be a very frustrating cultural experience!

-I spoke to Butch yesterday who went by to see Miguel. He said Miguel seemed to be wanting to wake up - tossing and turning - which is a good sign, but the dr.'s are concerned about a blood clot and so are inducing further coma until they feel better about that. Pray that the blood clot will dissapate or move so it will no longer be a threat.

-A group from Santa Cruz arrived yesterday to encourage the brethren here... We have felt a great show of support and love from all the churches around the country. They brought a collection of money - such a sacrifice for the people here -and news that one of the brothers is selling his car to be able to contribute funds to the people here. It is so wonderful being part of the family of God at times like this. We are so thankful for all the funds that are pouring in from all over! I am going to order Ariel's cochlear device today on line and have it sent to Josh's sister, Jenny, who will be coming back in a couple weeks. Thank the Lord with us that there is now a specialist here in Coch. that can calibrate it... they used to have to travel to Chile to have it done - and that is out of the question right now with Ariel's medical condition.

-The Bulls arrived safely last night - praise God!

-And finally, if I could request for our family, pray for Jana who started throwing up and having diareahea yesterday - I felt like I was at the end of my rope when I woke up having to clean up everything... She's still not feeling the greatest, but I have a dr.'s appointment today for her.

I am hoping to be able to post some pictures later on of the crash site and some of our jovenes...

Thanks again for all your prayers and support!

And even more updates!

2009-07-06T21:03:00.003-04:00

Thank you so much for your continued prayers, especially concerning our worship yesterday....

-Our worship service was packed - I think we had the most people we've ever had, besides our inauguration. We had a special service of scripture readings, songs of encouragment, communion, and prayer over each individual and family involved in the accident. Josh said a few words, and although he said he didn't feel like he did justice to the occasion (being emotionally distraught about it all), I'm confident the Spirit spoke through Him. Unfortunately, I didn't get to listen to him - there were so many people, there weren't even enough chairs - and so many kids, it was hard to hear in the back. So a few of us took the kids upstairs to distract them with coloring and a movie. There were many tears shed, and words of encouragement spoken. At one point in the service, we called each youth group member still in the hospital and sang to them over the cell phones. The most important thing is that God was glorified through it all.

-After the service, the parents of the victims met upstairs with a family lawyer to discuss the legal actions that are going to take place. It wasn't as smooth a meeting as we had hoped - some venting and fault-finding (which is only natural) and emotional reactions... but all in all, we felt the support of most families. There was another meeting today and a decision was made to pursue insurance settlements through the normal channels as a group, and if certain members wish to file further action against the bus company to cover further expenses, that it will be an individual decision. Please continue to pray for the Vargas family who have suffered so much with the loss of Diana and Belen, in the injuries of Ariel and the loss of his hearing aid, and in the continued hospitalization of Miguel. They are suffering a lot (as are many of our families), and we especially pray for their relationship with God at this time. Please pray for our team too as we navigate the unfamiliar and muddy waters of legal action here in Bolivia.

-Wonderful news! Camilla, Rebeca, Bruno and Freddy Vargas were all released from the hospital today! Praise God with us - on a personal level, it brings much rejoicing as I was there in the hospital when 3 of them were brought in, seeing their injuries first hand. Please pray for their continued recovery at home, which will be long especially for Bruno and Rebeca. We're in the process of locating a wheelchair for Bruno - pray that one will be found quickly.

-Kevin, Ariel, JD, and Miguel continue in the hospital. Pray for their continued care and recovery. We are also seaching for a hospital bed for Kevin so that his mother can continue his care more easilly at home... pray that one will be found. And pray for them to be encouraged - extended hospital stays are frustrating on many levels - and for their care givers to have strength and positive attitudes.

-Roland and Carol Bowen leave tomorrow and the Sucre group drove home yesterday. Praise God for the encouragment and help that they brought at such a critical time!

-Our teammates, the Bulls, fly into Coch. tomorrow. Pray for their travels and readjustment into Bolivia, and for them as they face the emotional rollercoaster of ministering to the many needs that are facing us right now.

More Updates

2009-07-04T15:34:00.003-04:00

Here is the latest news and prayer requests....

-Jonathan Sandoval had his back surgery this morning. I talked to Butch a little bit ago and he said the surgery went well, that the doctor was pleased, and that JD was recovering from the anathesia, but was joking and talking on coming to. He should be in the hospital about another week. Then it will be between 20-30 days recovery/rest time here in Coch. before he can travel. He had a pretty uncomfortable afternoon and is frustrated like all our other injured from being laid up for so long.
-Rachel Sandoval had the stiches removed from her face and is looking much better.
-Alejandra was readmitted to a different clinic yesterday because of a fever - it appears they didn't clean the wound on her arm very well at the first hospital and they had to open it up, clean it out and stitch it back up. She was released this afternoon.
-Now that the initial shock is over, several of the youth involved are struggling emotionally. Please pray for emotional healing...
-Rebecca rallied today and was sitting up, talking, and joking with the visitors that came to see her. She said she's ready to play football! Praise God for her continued recovery.
-Miguel is beginning to move his hands and feet - a good sign!
-There may be some new legal developments involving the responsibility of the bus agency. The families are attempting to file some kind of civil action against the bus company and the police. There is the possibility that the bus company might bribe the police in the little town that has a checkpoint on the way to the camp in order to have a report that says all their paperwork was in order and that it was mechanical failure of the bus that caused the accident. A cousin of the Vargas family, who is a lawyer, is driving out tomorrow to file a claim to hopefully prevent this action. Please pray that justice will be done and that if the bus agency is responsible, that they will be held responsible.
-Please pray too for the recovery of Ariel's coqulear device. He is deaf in one ear and it has not been located with the rest of the stuff. We have heard that there was a box of cell phones and other such items recovered at the site, but it was not delivered with the rest of the baggage yesterday. It is very common here in Bolivia when bus wrecks occur that people loot the luggage in the process of rescuing the victims. Thankfully, this has not seemed to be the case in our situation. Pray that honest people have found this box and will return it and that Ariel's hearing aid (which cannot be purchased here in Bolivia) will be located.
-The Sandoval family suffered another tragedy tonight with the loss of his neice who has been suffering with cancer. Please pray for them as they deal with this loss while in the midst of all the other suffering and while far from family.
-Please pray too for our worship service tomorrow; for the men that are leading; for Josh's physical and emotional well-being as he says a few words.

And on top of everything else - our maid just called to say she will be delayed another 4 days (she's already been gone 2 weeks) - and we just pulled 3 abandoned and half-drowned puppies out of the creek bed behind our house.... Never a dull moment!

Thank you for your continued prayers - we feel the love and support from all of you. And happy 4th of July.... It sure doesn't seem like the 4th here - very surreal.

Updates

2009-07-02T21:34:00.002-04:00

We got home from the funerals about an hour ago after a long day of hospital visits, memorial services and graveside services. I wanted to update everyone on the new conditions of all our members...

Josh was released about midday. He is moving very slowly and in quite a bit of pain still, but was insistent about being released so he could attend the funeral services. It took a toll on him, emotionally and physically, but he is resting now with his medication and has no plans to go anywhere for a couple days. Riding in the car on bumpy roads is just too painful! He was able to speak at the graveside services and the memorial service, and although it was hard, I know the families greatly appreciated his effort and presence there.

Bruno Vargas had surgery this morning on his broken collar bone and it went well. He might also have to have some minor surgery on some ligaments in his foot.

Alejandra Moscoso was released from the hospital today. Praise God for her recovery!

Freddy Vargas was to have surgery on his arm tonight at 7pm to set the bone.

Jonathan Sandoval is scheduled for surgery on the compressed disk in his back tomorrow at 2pm. Thankfully, due to the location of the disc, this will be a low risk surgery. They will insert a couple plates to expand the disk back to its proper size.

Rebeca Chavez is out of intensive care! The surgery on her femur went very well, and was less invasive than they thought initially. Instead of having a plate and screws put in, she only had to have some pins. It seems that the other surgeries are unnessecary at this time. Praise God for answered prayers.

Miguel Vargas continues in intensive care in a coma, but is still showing positive signs.

There was huge show of support at the memorial and graveside service today. It was a difficult time for the familes and friends of these girls and for those who were on the bus with them (Bruno Pol, Joshua, and Rachel were all in attendance). The Vargas family buried 2 grandaughters/cousins/nieces while Miguel continues in critial condition. Please pray for Miguel's other 2 children, Abril and Diego, who lost their mom a few years ago and now have lost their older sister while their father is in the hospital. Your prayers for all involved would be appreciated.