I am sitting in the airport and I am getting ready to leave Atlanta and head home. I had to hold back tears after hugging Shaun and Driver because I had to check in. Excited and sad right now.
It is weird to think I will never see some (if not all) of these people ever again.
7/19/08
Saturday Night
I am on the plane from Iquitos to Lima. We are on our way home and I really don't know how I am feeling about leaving. Like, I am really excited to get back home and eat vegetables and tell my family and friends what God has done, but I also am worried about re-entering life in America. I know people will forget that I am home and some people won't really want to hear about my travels. But, I am excited to hear what God has been doing in people's lives at home while I've been gone. I am also not sure whether or not I will miss the Amazon. Like, I loved the simplicity and openness of the people. Also God's beauty completely showed and changed me while there. I will definitely miss living in community, but it will be nice to have time to be alone again once I am home.
What I missed most was making music and listening to music. It really inspires me a lot and makes me more chill and makes me who I am better. It is how I worship.
What I missed most was making music and listening to music. It really inspires me a lot and makes me more chill and makes me who I am better. It is how I worship.
Saturday July 12
Yesterday we went to the zoo. It was awesome. I love animals. I held an anaconda, and fed monkeys and held hands with them. It was good. There was also a beach, but I didn't get in the water.
We also did debrief last night after going out for pizza in Iquitos. We got Driver to sit with us during dinner, which was great. His stories and wisdom amaze me. Today we are shopping at the market and then going home.
We also did debrief last night after going out for pizza in Iquitos. We got Driver to sit with us during dinner, which was great. His stories and wisdom amaze me. Today we are shopping at the market and then going home.
7/16/08
My Timeline
- Born in Pekin, IL in 1991. brother Shaun, 5 years older than me
- Grew up going to church a couple times a week. Methodist, did not preach salvation. I knew that Jesus loved me, but that's about it.
- At home: my parents drank a lot of alcohol. I found out a lot of secrets about my parents because I was nosy and it hurt me a lot.
- God had already given me the gift of discernment, and I knew way more about my parents lives than they told me and wanted me to know.
- I spent most of my time at my baby sitter's house and friends houses. My childhood memories are mostly with my babysitter and friends...not family.
- Friends: Always in and out of my life. No one ever stays in my life very long. Never had friends at school. Always have been a loner.
- Middle School: My family members started learning more about God and understanding better. Shaun was saved on Destiny. We began going to a new church. I was "saved". Middle school was hard for me: hung out with the cool kids, I was REALLY mean.
- Friends changed. they drank and smoked a lot and were just really mean people. I knew it was wrong.
- 8th grade...lost those friends too. I had no friends really, but was learning a lot at church. I had a shallow relationship with Jesus.
High School
- Freshman year--barely remember. By now, my parents had completely changed. They love Jesus. Church is good. People have always looked up to me for some reason. Leadership qualities? or control problem? I was still confused about my beliefs. I met some friends but we weren't very close.
- Sophomore-- Marching band. I had been consumed with being the best my whole life. I felt horrible about myself if I did not get an A on everything. I had to be the best flute player in band. Worried about my looks a lot. Friends: all left at the end of the year.
- Junior-- the summer changed my life. I had been overcome with a passion for the world and other nations. I read a lot of books that made me understand my beliefs and Christianity and Jesus much better. I started to truly love other people and understand Christianity and Jesus' life and death.
- Junior year was great. All my friends were seniors so we just had a lot of fun and enjoyed life. I was able to solidify my beliefs and really understand my identity. I learned to live like Jesus did.
- I really simplified my life. Got rid of a lot of material possessions, tried to life glorifying God in every way I could.
- Lately, I have been learning a lot more about God's presence here on earth. I have learned more about spiritual warfare and began to fight it. Lots of people influence my life. I am sick and tired of the church not acting like the church should. I am happy with being alone and don't need friends, but I do love community and wish I had it.
- Now, I am trying to figure out how to glorify God with my entire life. I want his will for my life.
Thursday July 10
We started the morning worshipping with the Real Lifers. It was great. Pure. So, Jorge's testimony was incredibly...really incredible. I cannot believe some of it. It made me appreciate him so much more and understand his ministry much better.
Then we hung out with the Real-Lifers. We played ultimate and soccer for a couple hours. They are a lot of fun. Then we said good bye and went to the boat. We started to travel to another village where we spent the night because we don't travel during the night. We were moving again before I woke up this morning.
O yea, last night we worshipped, some people said testimonies and we played mafia. So, today we traveled to Nauta. We got there around 1 then got on a bus in order to get to Iquitos (Jorge's home). On the way, we drove on a highway through the Jungle. It was beautiful. God's love through his creativity is so evident. How could I not follow him? So yea, I am going to miss this a lot. The simplicity. The openness. The creation. But mostly living in a community.
(Read "My Commitment" on my other blog... I read that today)
Then we hung out with the Real-Lifers. We played ultimate and soccer for a couple hours. They are a lot of fun. Then we said good bye and went to the boat. We started to travel to another village where we spent the night because we don't travel during the night. We were moving again before I woke up this morning.
O yea, last night we worshipped, some people said testimonies and we played mafia. So, today we traveled to Nauta. We got there around 1 then got on a bus in order to get to Iquitos (Jorge's home). On the way, we drove on a highway through the Jungle. It was beautiful. God's love through his creativity is so evident. How could I not follow him? So yea, I am going to miss this a lot. The simplicity. The openness. The creation. But mostly living in a community.
(Read "My Commitment" on my other blog... I read that today)
Wednesday July 9
Yesterday I traveled all day. I read a lot of my book and talked a lot to Lindsey and Miranda (translators). At night we got to Parinari and we met the super excited Real Life team. They are crazy fun. They have so much energy and all are fun to be around. We did a service with them. Then we worshipped with them afterwards. They have a pet monkey. We are eating Breakfast together, hearing Jorge's testimony and playing football or Ultimate . Today we leave Parinari in the afternoon.
Tuesday July 8
Yesterday we kind of just relaxed a lot. We had a lot of free time. We had a baptism service in the river which was really good. Tessa was talking about the change we wants and her desire to know Jesus. I cried a little. We had a lot of time for reflection and I wrote a letter to myself that will be sent to me in a few months. I am really excited about that.
I started reading "Through Painted Deserts" this morning and I need to finish it because it is Amanda's book . It got me thinking about why humans do the things we do. Like, why do we all love and hate no matter what culture you are from? Why do some people desire more from life? Why do humans desire sex? Why do we think some people, animals, babies are more beautiful than others?
Well, today we are leaving to go chill with the Real Life team (the other AIM team here, 18-22 years old, 2 months in Peru). I hope they are excited about it like we are.
I started reading "Through Painted Deserts" this morning and I need to finish it because it is Amanda's book . It got me thinking about why humans do the things we do. Like, why do we all love and hate no matter what culture you are from? Why do some people desire more from life? Why do humans desire sex? Why do we think some people, animals, babies are more beautiful than others?
Well, today we are leaving to go chill with the Real Life team (the other AIM team here, 18-22 years old, 2 months in Peru). I hope they are excited about it like we are.
Monday July 7
Yesterday we did ATL . I think I saw a feather. Charles saw a parrot. So, we walked through the row of houses looking for a parrot. We got to the last house in the whole village, even after the sidewalk ended. There were people eating, so I told them that we would return later. So we walked around and prayed about it, then we returned. I was the only one who spoke Spanish, so I translated for them. I was with Ali, Charles and Amanda. We came straight forward and said we are missionaries here in Peru to tell about Jesus. She said she does not go to church but is going to go. She has a bible and reads it sometimes. She was probably 16 or younger and had a beautiful 8 month old baby boy. We prayed for her and of course invited her to the service.
In another group, God healed a woman, one group brushed the teeth of all the kids in the village and taught them the importance of dental hygiene (haha... God told them to do it), another go in canoes and went to the only house across the river.
We then had a service later, at 7:30. We decided to make it a different service because we just needed something different. So it started with the team (without leaders) praying before the service for everyone who was a part of it. Then after singing the Peruvian songs for like and hour, Christian did sign language to a song which was really awesome. Then Alex Wessner play and sang "Speak to Me" which was fantastic. Her voice is so sweet. It was also cool because I had prayed with her outside during the Peruvian worship. Then Abigail gave her whole timeline. It was tragic. Seriously, her life has been so hard and crappy. But, God was so good...he saved her and loved when no one else would. Then my beautiful sister, Tessa, danced and smiled and worshipped. God worked through her. Her dance was beautiful. I cried. Then Amanda sang "Amazing Grace (My Chains are Gone)". Also beautiful because she had taken a vow of silence all day so the first words out of her mouth today were to our king. Charles preached. Then Amy led a foot-washing service. Gringos and Peruvians. It was heavenly. It was one of those nights where you feel God with you physically. You want to keep worshipping and glorifying God with everything you have.
So we went home but all of us just stayed up and talked and sang and it was good. Then I was just chilling, laying in my bed and Kendra just came and laid next to me and we listened to great music for an hour of something. Then we talked through the wall with the guys. Kendra left. I slept. woke up and went swimming. I love swimming in the morning. it wakes me up, and refreshes my body.
Ministry is over now. We are debriefing today. I am so sad to be leaving this family. We are so good together.
I'm in love with God and God's in love with me
This is who I am, and this is who I'll be
That settles it, completely.
In another group, God healed a woman, one group brushed the teeth of all the kids in the village and taught them the importance of dental hygiene (haha... God told them to do it), another go in canoes and went to the only house across the river.
We then had a service later, at 7:30. We decided to make it a different service because we just needed something different. So it started with the team (without leaders) praying before the service for everyone who was a part of it. Then after singing the Peruvian songs for like and hour, Christian did sign language to a song which was really awesome. Then Alex Wessner play and sang "Speak to Me" which was fantastic. Her voice is so sweet. It was also cool because I had prayed with her outside during the Peruvian worship. Then Abigail gave her whole timeline. It was tragic. Seriously, her life has been so hard and crappy. But, God was so good...he saved her and loved when no one else would. Then my beautiful sister, Tessa, danced and smiled and worshipped. God worked through her. Her dance was beautiful. I cried. Then Amanda sang "Amazing Grace (My Chains are Gone)". Also beautiful because she had taken a vow of silence all day so the first words out of her mouth today were to our king. Charles preached. Then Amy led a foot-washing service. Gringos and Peruvians. It was heavenly. It was one of those nights where you feel God with you physically. You want to keep worshipping and glorifying God with everything you have.
So we went home but all of us just stayed up and talked and sang and it was good. Then I was just chilling, laying in my bed and Kendra just came and laid next to me and we listened to great music for an hour of something. Then we talked through the wall with the guys. Kendra left. I slept. woke up and went swimming. I love swimming in the morning. it wakes me up, and refreshes my body.
Ministry is over now. We are debriefing today. I am so sad to be leaving this family. We are so good together.
I'm in love with God and God's in love with me
This is who I am, and this is who I'll be
That settles it, completely.
Sunday July 6
Yesterday I went on house visitations with Miranda before lunch. We visited Rosa who has Malaria. She looked like death, could not stand at all, was in major pain, and really look horrible. We prayed healing over her and we felt God move in that place. When Miranda prayed in Spanish, the Spirit was there. She was praying about evil spirits when our hands that were on her started shaking. The woman was crying. She asked for pain medicine, so one girl gave her ibuprofen because Malaria really makes your joints and muscles hurt. Miranda also read her some Psalms while I continued praying outside.
Later, Jorge went and visited her and she was walking around. It could just be the typed of Malaria she has that makes her feel better one day and horrible the next...but I believe God has worked.
We did a VBS later, which was mediocre. After that Jorge scheduled a soccer game between the Americans and the Jungle people: women played their own game and men afterwards. They played really dirty. They really just trucked us. I swam in the river. I tried to get to the middle, but once I got there, the current was really strong and I got pulled really far down the river, and had to walk home.
We were then told that we had to go to church immediately, so we got ready real fast and we were all dreading going to church when Jovita told us that there is no service. Instead Ethan told his incredible timeline, while we ate his birthday cake (w/ layer of nutella). During dinner, I talked with Miranda and Kendra which was really great.
Then we just turned on some Phil Wickham and some people went out and watched stars, some made art, some journaled, some blew up balloons and watched them fly around when the air came out. I love closing my eyes and letting the music take over my body. It is like I can feel each chord, each rhythm move through my physical body. I love it. I don't think I realized how much music inspires me until this trip. I get really out of it without music.
Later, Jorge went and visited her and she was walking around. It could just be the typed of Malaria she has that makes her feel better one day and horrible the next...but I believe God has worked.
We did a VBS later, which was mediocre. After that Jorge scheduled a soccer game between the Americans and the Jungle people: women played their own game and men afterwards. They played really dirty. They really just trucked us. I swam in the river. I tried to get to the middle, but once I got there, the current was really strong and I got pulled really far down the river, and had to walk home.
We were then told that we had to go to church immediately, so we got ready real fast and we were all dreading going to church when Jovita told us that there is no service. Instead Ethan told his incredible timeline, while we ate his birthday cake (w/ layer of nutella). During dinner, I talked with Miranda and Kendra which was really great.
Then we just turned on some Phil Wickham and some people went out and watched stars, some made art, some journaled, some blew up balloons and watched them fly around when the air came out. I love closing my eyes and letting the music take over my body. It is like I can feel each chord, each rhythm move through my physical body. I love it. I don't think I realized how much music inspires me until this trip. I get really out of it without music.
Saturday July 5
I prayer walked San Juan yesterday and that was weird. I ran out of things to pray for after about an hour. Also, the people in my group were being awkward and weren't really talking. Some even refused to pray out loud....the enemy cannot read our minds. Kind of odd...
Then we planned VBS, I taught Kendra to play the verse of "Little Flowers" on guitar, then we ate lunch. Amanda and Amy had baked a 4th of July cake that tasted wonderful.
I helped with the VBS craft (sheep masks) then we had VBS at the church. It went really well, I thought. Afterwards, we played volleyball with some kids, but I was really bad so I let someone else play. We swam and bathed (swam with soap) around 5 and chilled (I played guitar). Then we ate dinner and had church at 7. I slept through most of church. I was super uncomfortable and did not feel well. Jeni told her timeline (testimony) which was incredible. God has worked in her.
Sleep was good.
I have been having trouble connecting with God during this quiet time... it is frustrating. My mind is everywhere. I had a good dream last night. I can never tell which dreams mean something and which ones don't.
I kind of miss home, but I do like it here, and I do like these people and I love that God is working here.
Then we planned VBS, I taught Kendra to play the verse of "Little Flowers" on guitar, then we ate lunch. Amanda and Amy had baked a 4th of July cake that tasted wonderful.
I helped with the VBS craft (sheep masks) then we had VBS at the church. It went really well, I thought. Afterwards, we played volleyball with some kids, but I was really bad so I let someone else play. We swam and bathed (swam with soap) around 5 and chilled (I played guitar). Then we ate dinner and had church at 7. I slept through most of church. I was super uncomfortable and did not feel well. Jeni told her timeline (testimony) which was incredible. God has worked in her.
Sleep was good.
I have been having trouble connecting with God during this quiet time... it is frustrating. My mind is everywhere. I had a good dream last night. I can never tell which dreams mean something and which ones don't.
I kind of miss home, but I do like it here, and I do like these people and I love that God is working here.
7/15/08
later on Friday
So after I journaled this morning, Emily came upstairs and asked Amy Allen if she wanted to go study the bible with her, so I really wanted to go and made that apparent, so she had to invite me too. hahah, it was good. We walked and then sat on a log and I read Job 38-41 where God talks about his incredible creation. I also read 1 Peter and learned a lot. And Isaiah 6, which I think is great! Then we walked back and Shaun and Colby were swimming (It's been a few hours since I have been up and it is 7:30am). So we went and sat by them on the raft thing. They got us a little wet and none of us cared. Then they both got us soaked by jumping in right in front of us. So we just jumped in. It felt incredible. Refreshing and it woke me up so much. I have God's joy in me today like I have never felt and I love it. No one can put me down. God is good.
When you go near the jungle here, it get so loud. Seriously, it is ridiculously loud by the trees. The monkeys and birds sound like a blaring stereo. Some quiet would be nice eventually, but I like this noise right now. It reminds me of God's creativity and beauty. This week will be really good. God is in San Juan, and he will work this week. Use me, God. Send me. Here I am. Send me. Use me, mold me. This body is yours to move and use like a puppet.
Oh yea. I ate alligator yesterday. I almost cried. In Job 41, God talks about the Leviathon, which is like a crocodile. He loves it, really. It is his beautiful creation and I took a bite out of it. Jorge caught it. I think that was pretty exciting for him, so I had to bless him by eating it. Whatever, now I can say I ate alligator. I saw it too. I touched it's head. hehe :)
When you go near the jungle here, it get so loud. Seriously, it is ridiculously loud by the trees. The monkeys and birds sound like a blaring stereo. Some quiet would be nice eventually, but I like this noise right now. It reminds me of God's creativity and beauty. This week will be really good. God is in San Juan, and he will work this week. Use me, God. Send me. Here I am. Send me. Use me, mold me. This body is yours to move and use like a puppet.
Oh yea. I ate alligator yesterday. I almost cried. In Job 41, God talks about the Leviathon, which is like a crocodile. He loves it, really. It is his beautiful creation and I took a bite out of it. Jorge caught it. I think that was pretty exciting for him, so I had to bless him by eating it. Whatever, now I can say I ate alligator. I saw it too. I touched it's head. hehe :)
Friday July 4
So, I like Peru a lot a lot a lot. I will miss it like crazy but I miss home right now too. I am kind of reay to go home, but not incredibly homesick. We are staying 6 more days here then to Iquitos then Atlanat, then home. I miss home, family, no mosquitos, music....oh my goodnes, I miss my piano, and making music. I miss listening to music more than anything. I play guitar here, but not hard-core music making.
I still feel like the leaders don't like me at all...except for Shaun and Driver. I don't think they judge anyone. Drivere seems to really care for us and love us. He wants to know us and stay in touch when he is in Kenya (where he is moving to after the Jungle). He is really an incredible man of God and I have so much respect for him.
people to remember:
Jorge Montero-- he's in charge, silly, likes food...and pictures
Jorge Vaus-- little Jorge, starting a church, shows up everywhere
Chad Miller-- odd name for a Peruvian, beautiful 16 year old Peruvian, mad skillz at piano and guitar
Jovita-- taught me a song, cooks with Jose, loves Jesus, beautiful, helpful
Jose-- Greatest cook ever! so silly and joyful
I still feel like the leaders don't like me at all...except for Shaun and Driver. I don't think they judge anyone. Drivere seems to really care for us and love us. He wants to know us and stay in touch when he is in Kenya (where he is moving to after the Jungle). He is really an incredible man of God and I have so much respect for him.
people to remember:
Jorge Montero-- he's in charge, silly, likes food...and pictures
Jorge Vaus-- little Jorge, starting a church, shows up everywhere
Chad Miller-- odd name for a Peruvian, beautiful 16 year old Peruvian, mad skillz at piano and guitar
Jovita-- taught me a song, cooks with Jose, loves Jesus, beautiful, helpful
Jose-- Greatest cook ever! so silly and joyful
Thursday Night
Today Jorge's boat magically appeared in Ollanta (Oh-jaun-tuh), so we traveled to San Juan for about an hour. Jorge built a house/compound here that is incredible. We were all sad to leave Ollanta. We really liked it there. But...it is nice to keep moving as well.
Tonight worship was so good. We stayed here at Jorge's beautiful home. We were worshipping and it was dark because the electricity had turned off already. (Dark= you can't see a foot in front of you) We had been praying a bunch and it was good. We were singing "Grace Like Rain" and wow. I had a huge smile, and so much joy in my heart but there was no other way to express my joy, so I just started crying out of happiness of worshipping my God. I cannot express how much joy I was in my heart. I love when that happens.
Yes!
Tonight worship was so good. We stayed here at Jorge's beautiful home. We were worshipping and it was dark because the electricity had turned off already. (Dark= you can't see a foot in front of you) We had been praying a bunch and it was good. We were singing "Grace Like Rain" and wow. I had a huge smile, and so much joy in my heart but there was no other way to express my joy, so I just started crying out of happiness of worshipping my God. I cannot express how much joy I was in my heart. I love when that happens.
Yes!
Thursday July 3
We did more house visits yesterday. We walked through nasty poop mud and waded up to our chests in water. Then we met an old lady named Margarita. She was beautiful. She had beautiful, thick silver hair and an incredible smile that completely warmed the room. She was embarrassed because she had nothing to give us to eat and she probably only ate a little rice once a day...if even that. Her body was hurt. That's what she told us. She had broken relationships in her life. She lives with Fernando, be hes not her husband and she prefers not to talk about her children. So we prayed for her after getting to know her and trying to make her smile. That's the point of these things...to make people smile. So, Ali was praying and I just started crying because I just felt so much for this woman. Shes such a beautiful woman, and I want her to know God's grace, forgiveness and love. Yea, so I cried.
We said goodbye and we visited Lydia who was 8 months pregnant and didn't want her baby. No husband. Her 16 year old brother was upstairs having sex with his girlfriend. 16. We prayed for her and her baby.
We visited Bessy. Bessy had quite the imagination. She has 8 children: 6 girls, 2 boys. Only 1 lives at home. The rest are at school. She has one grandchild. I liked her mind. Apparently her god, Chiquita fell in love with the neighbor's ca.t They did everything together. Truly, the were soul mates. But another cat got jealous of Chiquita, so she stole Chiquita's eyeball. I was gory. Then Chiquita's lover died, and now Chiquita is heart broken...and she looks like the devil with only one eye.Yep.
It started pouring down beautiful, beautiful rain.
We said goodbye and we visited Lydia who was 8 months pregnant and didn't want her baby. No husband. Her 16 year old brother was upstairs having sex with his girlfriend. 16. We prayed for her and her baby.
We visited Bessy. Bessy had quite the imagination. She has 8 children: 6 girls, 2 boys. Only 1 lives at home. The rest are at school. She has one grandchild. I liked her mind. Apparently her god, Chiquita fell in love with the neighbor's ca.t They did everything together. Truly, the were soul mates. But another cat got jealous of Chiquita, so she stole Chiquita's eyeball. I was gory. Then Chiquita's lover died, and now Chiquita is heart broken...and she looks like the devil with only one eye.Yep.
It started pouring down beautiful, beautiful rain.
Mid-Way Evaluation
1. How had my attitude been so far?
okay, I have been kind of pessimistic about some things and that is why I am fasting that. But, other than that, pretty good. My attitude toward others has been really good...I like them too much.
2. Have I cared for others needs more than my own?
No, I have been selfish. Especially with that stupid mosquito net and my towel (someone took my towel off the clothesline and wiped it in the mud then hung it back up. Someone jacked my mosquito net). I need to apologize and to the people I complained to.
3. Do I have any regrets about the trip?
Yes. I don't feel like I served as well as was able to in Maypuco. Also, I have not loved/served my team as well as I should have been loving them.
4. Is there is anyone I have put down, gossiped about or discouraged?
Yes. yesterday while bathing...we were joking around and we said some mean things.
5. Is there anyone I need to forgive?
some people at home
6. Have I grown closer to the Lord on this trip? Why?
Yes, because everyone around me is doing it and we are given time everyday to do so. Plus, I am in the middle of His incredible creation.
7. skipping this one...too personal
8. If I could start this over with a clean slate, what would I do differently?
Be more outgoing. Be less selfish. Be myself.
okay, I have been kind of pessimistic about some things and that is why I am fasting that. But, other than that, pretty good. My attitude toward others has been really good...I like them too much.
2. Have I cared for others needs more than my own?
No, I have been selfish. Especially with that stupid mosquito net and my towel (someone took my towel off the clothesline and wiped it in the mud then hung it back up. Someone jacked my mosquito net). I need to apologize and to the people I complained to.
3. Do I have any regrets about the trip?
Yes. I don't feel like I served as well as was able to in Maypuco. Also, I have not loved/served my team as well as I should have been loving them.
4. Is there is anyone I have put down, gossiped about or discouraged?
Yes. yesterday while bathing...we were joking around and we said some mean things.
5. Is there anyone I need to forgive?
some people at home
6. Have I grown closer to the Lord on this trip? Why?
Yes, because everyone around me is doing it and we are given time everyday to do so. Plus, I am in the middle of His incredible creation.
7. skipping this one...too personal
8. If I could start this over with a clean slate, what would I do differently?
Be more outgoing. Be less selfish. Be myself.
Wednesday July 2
Yesterday we did house visits in the morning. They were GREAT! I used to hate them, but now I really like them. The people were so friendly and welcoming. They asked us to come back and talk more with them. I ate a weird vegetable that tasted like salt and lime. I got bubble gum. I got and tree nut that tasted like a potato. I got to smash tree nuts. I drank some red banana mush/amazon river water drink. The people were so much fun. I want to see them again. They made the start of my day fantastic. We lunched then...we eat a lot here.
We did a horrid job at VBS today. It was awkward and we didn't tell them about Jesus saving us or loving us...I was frustrated with that. Actually, I was angry. Then I played futbol with some boys. The field here is so wet and muddy and the ball kept going in the river. The little boys would take off all their clothes and jump in. Then we played soccer with a bunch of naked kids. It was a lot of fun falling in the mud and get stuck in the mud too.
We came home, and some people were fishing for piranhas. They caught 5 little ones. So, then I cam inside and talked to Tessa a bit because she is sick and bored and I love her (Typing this right now...and am thinking about how much I love her. now I am crying. really, love her). Then we decided to go bathe in the river. We got outside to bathe and some little boys wanted to canoe us further out, so we let them. So we sat on a log and bathed. It was fun. We came back in and ate dinner, then we went to church.
The church was full of kids. WE waited for adults to show up for one hour, but they never did show up. Jorge came in and told us we were in the wrong church, so we went to the right church and it was really good. I am liking the music now. I understand the words now, and I like them a lot. I slept a lot during the service and had to pee really bad the whole time. Then on our way home, we have to walk on muddy boards through a lot of water and of course I fell in and got my skirt soaking wet. Yep...I am possibly the clumsiest person alive.
We did a horrid job at VBS today. It was awkward and we didn't tell them about Jesus saving us or loving us...I was frustrated with that. Actually, I was angry. Then I played futbol with some boys. The field here is so wet and muddy and the ball kept going in the river. The little boys would take off all their clothes and jump in. Then we played soccer with a bunch of naked kids. It was a lot of fun falling in the mud and get stuck in the mud too.
We came home, and some people were fishing for piranhas. They caught 5 little ones. So, then I cam inside and talked to Tessa a bit because she is sick and bored and I love her (Typing this right now...and am thinking about how much I love her. now I am crying. really, love her). Then we decided to go bathe in the river. We got outside to bathe and some little boys wanted to canoe us further out, so we let them. So we sat on a log and bathed. It was fun. We came back in and ate dinner, then we went to church.
The church was full of kids. WE waited for adults to show up for one hour, but they never did show up. Jorge came in and told us we were in the wrong church, so we went to the right church and it was really good. I am liking the music now. I understand the words now, and I like them a lot. I slept a lot during the service and had to pee really bad the whole time. Then on our way home, we have to walk on muddy boards through a lot of water and of course I fell in and got my skirt soaking wet. Yep...I am possibly the clumsiest person alive.
Tuesday July 1
On Sunday we just chilled. Soon after quiet time, we found out we were supposed to be leading a church service and Sunday school...so we darted over to lead Sunday school. We sang songs, told some bible stories and acted them out spontaneously, played outside. Then we had to go pray in the service. After that we just hung out and talked for awhile. Then we lunched. After lunch, the ladies showered. Dinner. I kind of don't remember what happened then...oh before dinner, we packed all the ministry bags and personal bags. We prepared some stuff to give to the school and churches.
I had night watch with Melissa. It was really good. We talked a lot, and she seemed really interested in who I am. It feels good when people want to know you.
Monday, we got up and ate. Then we prepared to leave the casa by 9am. I knew we were taking boats to Ollanta, but that's about it. So we waited and waited and waited for Jorge to get home since he had left for couple days...but we didn't know where he had gone. So we got to the river (by walking). It is about a 10 minute walk. We saw our boats: 3 canoe-like things. About 4 feet wide and 20 feet long...with a motor. So we packed the boats up, waited for Jorge even more then left. 7 hour boat ride, here I come!
well, it was really incredible. I could put my feet in the water and it was beautiful. But, we had to bail water out of the boat and the motor kept breaking down and stopped working very often. So we stopped a lot. I dropped my Kurt Vonnegut book into the bottom of the boat and it got soaked. We got to Ollanta in about 5 hours, which was sweet. Then we moved all our stuff into our house we were staying in. It is big and sturdy. We are sleeping in hammock and mosquito nets here. There are a lot of mosquitoes here...it is a water filled village....wet everywhere. Oh, it smells weird here. weird as in bad.
I saw a monkey this morning on top of the bano. Then he swung around in the trees. He was reddish/orange/brown color.
Sunrise is beautiful this morning.
I had night watch with Melissa. It was really good. We talked a lot, and she seemed really interested in who I am. It feels good when people want to know you.
Monday, we got up and ate. Then we prepared to leave the casa by 9am. I knew we were taking boats to Ollanta, but that's about it. So we waited and waited and waited for Jorge to get home since he had left for couple days...but we didn't know where he had gone. So we got to the river (by walking). It is about a 10 minute walk. We saw our boats: 3 canoe-like things. About 4 feet wide and 20 feet long...with a motor. So we packed the boats up, waited for Jorge even more then left. 7 hour boat ride, here I come!
well, it was really incredible. I could put my feet in the water and it was beautiful. But, we had to bail water out of the boat and the motor kept breaking down and stopped working very often. So we stopped a lot. I dropped my Kurt Vonnegut book into the bottom of the boat and it got soaked. We got to Ollanta in about 5 hours, which was sweet. Then we moved all our stuff into our house we were staying in. It is big and sturdy. We are sleeping in hammock and mosquito nets here. There are a lot of mosquitoes here...it is a water filled village....wet everywhere. Oh, it smells weird here. weird as in bad.
I saw a monkey this morning on top of the bano. Then he swung around in the trees. He was reddish/orange/brown color.
Sunrise is beautiful this morning.
Sunday June 29
Yesterday we did door to door which was okay...not so awkward, but I still don't feel like we are doing any good or making people feel more loved, cared for...I dunno, maybe just by sitting withthem in their homes we are making them feel more important. After that we worshiped a bit inside the casa. Atlunch and prepared for a VBS in Maypuco again. We then did the VBS, and it went alright. I feel like nothing is changing. After VBS we prepared for the service.
The service is supposed to last from 7pm to 5am. 10 HOURS! All the surrounding villages were invited. I had to give a God story and I also had to read a chapter about blessings from the bible in spanish. It was long... really long. They served really great coffee and bread. I went outside of the church around 3:00 am and hung out with some team members watching the stars and getting my hair braided by some little girls.
I need more time with Jesus today.
The service is supposed to last from 7pm to 5am. 10 HOURS! All the surrounding villages were invited. I had to give a God story and I also had to read a chapter about blessings from the bible in spanish. It was long... really long. They served really great coffee and bread. I went outside of the church around 3:00 am and hung out with some team members watching the stars and getting my hair braided by some little girls.
I need more time with Jesus today.
Saturday June 28
Yesterday, we had banana pancakes for breakfast! Then I went to school. I taught them Hello, Bye, How are you?, 12345, and the colors. It is Saturday....no more school..YES! I am really glad its over. After school, we had quite time. I didn't get focused at all. I think I even fell asleep. I hate when that happens. We then had time to shower which felt incredible....even though I felt dirty immediately afterward. I did dishes after lunch while the team planned VBS.
We had VBS in Maypuco, which was good....lots of kids. Then i played duck duck goose (pato pato gonso) with some kids. Then I went with Monica, Kaylah, and Callee to walk around. It was the most freedom I have had yet. It felt really sweet. I bought some candy....then proceeded to eat it. Then we talked with Amy and Emily (the girl leaders) about their failed relationships a little. They have good experience with bad relationships. A lot of the girls are in relationships here, so I think they are good mentors for that. I guess I wouldn't know though...
After dinner, we had a service across the street. Best service yet! The song was fun with dancing...I don't know if people were really worshipping though. Everything just went well...the songs, testimonies, and message. Not long or drawn out. We sang my favorite song in the service about flying like an eagle, and jumping like a bunny to praise Jesus. Haha...it is fun.
We went home, and the boys left, then the ladies went and sat near a field at a police station. The girls told stories about relationships and poop. I kind of feel like no one here wants to listen to me, kind of the same way I feel at home. It is frustrating. I kind of didn't listen to the girls stories...I just laid down and stared at the sky. The night sky is so incredible here. It has made me cry.
Well, I went to bed and some weird things happened before my night watch, but my watch was really horrible. I was alone on my watch. It was so dark and I was scared. Really really frightened. I cried a little. And I had to go to the bathroom really bad, but I was too scared. Next time, I will wake someone else up. This morning I up by myself again and I talked with Abigail, Jose, and Jovita. It was hard to understand Jose for some reason. Everyone else got up and we ate. Now I feel sick...which is pretty normal. Don't know what's happening the next few days.
We had VBS in Maypuco, which was good....lots of kids. Then i played duck duck goose (pato pato gonso) with some kids. Then I went with Monica, Kaylah, and Callee to walk around. It was the most freedom I have had yet. It felt really sweet. I bought some candy....then proceeded to eat it. Then we talked with Amy and Emily (the girl leaders) about their failed relationships a little. They have good experience with bad relationships. A lot of the girls are in relationships here, so I think they are good mentors for that. I guess I wouldn't know though...
After dinner, we had a service across the street. Best service yet! The song was fun with dancing...I don't know if people were really worshipping though. Everything just went well...the songs, testimonies, and message. Not long or drawn out. We sang my favorite song in the service about flying like an eagle, and jumping like a bunny to praise Jesus. Haha...it is fun.
We went home, and the boys left, then the ladies went and sat near a field at a police station. The girls told stories about relationships and poop. I kind of feel like no one here wants to listen to me, kind of the same way I feel at home. It is frustrating. I kind of didn't listen to the girls stories...I just laid down and stared at the sky. The night sky is so incredible here. It has made me cry.
Well, I went to bed and some weird things happened before my night watch, but my watch was really horrible. I was alone on my watch. It was so dark and I was scared. Really really frightened. I cried a little. And I had to go to the bathroom really bad, but I was too scared. Next time, I will wake someone else up. This morning I up by myself again and I talked with Abigail, Jose, and Jovita. It was hard to understand Jose for some reason. Everyone else got up and we ate. Now I feel sick...which is pretty normal. Don't know what's happening the next few days.
Friday June 27
I just woke up and I am in a really good mood for some reason. I woke up on my own time and I had time to brush my teeth. It felt good. I think today is my last day with clean underwear. I really need to wash those when I have time. The pastor's wife and other ladies from the church in Maypuco have been washing like 1 shirt a day for everyone, but not underwear. So yep...
I also haven't showered in a few days. Showering takes a while here because of the well, and the bucket showering in the middle of the backyard visible to everyone. Even the creepy neighbor with the machete. Did I talk about the toilet yet?
Well, the balance beam at training camp prepared us for that. A thin wooden sidewalk, elevated off the ground leads to the bano. At night, in the rain....worst time to go to the bathroom.
Today is my last day with the 3 and 4 year olds...Yes! It is so hard to teach them English....and very very awkward. so yay! Almost done... but I have no idea what tot teach them this morning. I think I have to be there at 7. But don't worry, I will pull it off somehow. My legs are now covered in flea and fly bites. For some super natural reason, mosquitoes don't bite me! But apparently, the fleas and flies don't care. Oh my, I just realized how bad I smell.
Did I tell you how much I love this culture? 8:00 means 8:30 or whenever you finish breakfast, and no one cares. We are all so worried about looking modest and all that crap, but they could are less what we look like and dress like. The leaders are real worried about what our hair looks like. Seriously....it's hard-core. It doesn't matter though.
I also haven't showered in a few days. Showering takes a while here because of the well, and the bucket showering in the middle of the backyard visible to everyone. Even the creepy neighbor with the machete. Did I talk about the toilet yet?
Well, the balance beam at training camp prepared us for that. A thin wooden sidewalk, elevated off the ground leads to the bano. At night, in the rain....worst time to go to the bathroom.
Today is my last day with the 3 and 4 year olds...Yes! It is so hard to teach them English....and very very awkward. so yay! Almost done... but I have no idea what tot teach them this morning. I think I have to be there at 7. But don't worry, I will pull it off somehow. My legs are now covered in flea and fly bites. For some super natural reason, mosquitoes don't bite me! But apparently, the fleas and flies don't care. Oh my, I just realized how bad I smell.
Did I tell you how much I love this culture? 8:00 means 8:30 or whenever you finish breakfast, and no one cares. We are all so worried about looking modest and all that crap, but they could are less what we look like and dress like. The leaders are real worried about what our hair looks like. Seriously....it's hard-core. It doesn't matter though.
Thursday Night
School was much better today. Then we walked 10 minutes further today to Bello Horizante. It is smaller and much more impoverished. There were about 12 houses in the village. We got there and did door-to-door. It was really awkward. I hate door-to-door. Jesus wouldn't have done that. Jose brought us lunch from Maypuco. We ate Jungle Rat.
Then we played with the kids-- volleyball and soccer. The women here are so good at volleyball. We had a really good VBS. Then more soccer.
We had another service tonight. They were really unresponsive. It is so awkward still. At the service there are always three teenage girls who do the same dance during the music. They have expressionless faces and they seem really bored while dancing. Thankfully, in Bello Horizante, there is a wonderful little boy with Downs Syndrome. He is probably 7 or maybe younger. During the service, he was shaking everything he had. It was kind of raunchy...but absolutely hilarious....because he was so little. He was very talented, and made the service much more enjoyable.
We walked 45 minutes home, then I had night watch right away (11-midnight). Now I am journaling....bed soon.
Then we played with the kids-- volleyball and soccer. The women here are so good at volleyball. We had a really good VBS. Then more soccer.
We had another service tonight. They were really unresponsive. It is so awkward still. At the service there are always three teenage girls who do the same dance during the music. They have expressionless faces and they seem really bored while dancing. Thankfully, in Bello Horizante, there is a wonderful little boy with Downs Syndrome. He is probably 7 or maybe younger. During the service, he was shaking everything he had. It was kind of raunchy...but absolutely hilarious....because he was so little. He was very talented, and made the service much more enjoyable.
We walked 45 minutes home, then I had night watch right away (11-midnight). Now I am journaling....bed soon.
Thursday June 26
Not much time to write anymore
Yesterday: I walked back and forth to schoole for a while in confusion. Then I had breakfast (chocolate mush...mmm). I taught colors and 123 to my class. It was so difficult. They don't even know their colors in Spanish and I have to teach them in English. I really just spent a lot of time singing and dancing with them. Then they color for a while. Then I attempt more teaching. It is difficult. Then the three teachers (Amy, Monica, and I) took a motocarro to El Seis de Mayo. 2 boys were coming back to walk us there when we got into the motocarro, and I felt kind of bad, but I am kind of sick of the sexist attitude. In El Seis de Mayo, we played volleyball and soccer. We then did hut-to-hut, and we prayed for the sick.
When we were playing volleyball, Amy had to go to the bathroom, so we asked the locals where to go, and they pointed towards the river. So, we were walking towards the river when the kids told us they have a bathroom. So, they took Amy to the bathroom. She went in and went to the bathroom while the kids outside talked to her. Then she realized there was no toilet paper and said something about...creating entertainment for the kids. Then the toilet wouldn't flush so the kids gave her a bucket. She didn't realize you can just pour the water into the toilet so she took off the back of the toilet. A frog then jumped out of the toilet onto her face. The kids are all around at this point. So, Amy wiped the frog off, and poured the water in. Then she walked back with a face red with embarassment.
We walked back to Maypuco for lunch, and planned VBS. Then we had VBS in El Seis de Mayo, which was really good. They seemed to understand and have fun too. At one moment a little girl just looked into my eyes for a solid minute. I have never had eye contact from someone for that long. It was humbling.
That night we had a service in El 6 de Mayo. Colby preached on faith. There were so many people there that we had to have the service outside. The songs were about 20 minutes long each. It was a really awkward service.
I haven't had time to talk much with God. I am upset with the leaders...they are really frustrating me.
I am feeling comfortable in Maypuco. The house is cozy. The group is united.
Yesterday: I walked back and forth to schoole for a while in confusion. Then I had breakfast (chocolate mush...mmm). I taught colors and 123 to my class. It was so difficult. They don't even know their colors in Spanish and I have to teach them in English. I really just spent a lot of time singing and dancing with them. Then they color for a while. Then I attempt more teaching. It is difficult. Then the three teachers (Amy, Monica, and I) took a motocarro to El Seis de Mayo. 2 boys were coming back to walk us there when we got into the motocarro, and I felt kind of bad, but I am kind of sick of the sexist attitude. In El Seis de Mayo, we played volleyball and soccer. We then did hut-to-hut, and we prayed for the sick.
When we were playing volleyball, Amy had to go to the bathroom, so we asked the locals where to go, and they pointed towards the river. So, we were walking towards the river when the kids told us they have a bathroom. So, they took Amy to the bathroom. She went in and went to the bathroom while the kids outside talked to her. Then she realized there was no toilet paper and said something about...creating entertainment for the kids. Then the toilet wouldn't flush so the kids gave her a bucket. She didn't realize you can just pour the water into the toilet so she took off the back of the toilet. A frog then jumped out of the toilet onto her face. The kids are all around at this point. So, Amy wiped the frog off, and poured the water in. Then she walked back with a face red with embarassment.
We walked back to Maypuco for lunch, and planned VBS. Then we had VBS in El Seis de Mayo, which was really good. They seemed to understand and have fun too. At one moment a little girl just looked into my eyes for a solid minute. I have never had eye contact from someone for that long. It was humbling.
That night we had a service in El 6 de Mayo. Colby preached on faith. There were so many people there that we had to have the service outside. The songs were about 20 minutes long each. It was a really awkward service.
I haven't had time to talk much with God. I am upset with the leaders...they are really frustrating me.
I am feeling comfortable in Maypuco. The house is cozy. The group is united.
Wednesday June 25
Yesterday: breakfast, quiet time, Teaching from Jorge about the Voice of God, worship together, lunch, girl's shower party!, Girl's after party, Chillaxin', dinner, team time (Driver talking and Mafia)
My journals got really short here for some reason. I just didn't have much time to journal. Jorge's teaching was really good. He is a fantastic speaker. The shower party needs to be explained though. In Maypuco, our shower was a piece of wood surrounded on three sides by a hip-level tarp. There was a well nearby and a bucket. So, at the shower party, we were getting water out of the well, which is a very muddy process. Then we just poured bucket of water on each other and called ourselves clean. The after party consisted of going to the church and eating snickers while playing paper football.
At night, it was really awesome to hear about Driver's life and I always love hearing what he has to say. He talked about how important it is that everything he does is God's will. He does what God tells him to...nothing on his own accord. If God tells him to go to the Leper Colonies...he goes. God tells him to live in Kenya for three years...he does exactly that. If God tells him he cannot marry the woman he loves...he doesn't. He is an awesome man of God that I have incredible amounts of respect for.
My journals got really short here for some reason. I just didn't have much time to journal. Jorge's teaching was really good. He is a fantastic speaker. The shower party needs to be explained though. In Maypuco, our shower was a piece of wood surrounded on three sides by a hip-level tarp. There was a well nearby and a bucket. So, at the shower party, we were getting water out of the well, which is a very muddy process. Then we just poured bucket of water on each other and called ourselves clean. The after party consisted of going to the church and eating snickers while playing paper football.
At night, it was really awesome to hear about Driver's life and I always love hearing what he has to say. He talked about how important it is that everything he does is God's will. He does what God tells him to...nothing on his own accord. If God tells him to go to the Leper Colonies...he goes. God tells him to live in Kenya for three years...he does exactly that. If God tells him he cannot marry the woman he loves...he doesn't. He is an awesome man of God that I have incredible amounts of respect for.
Tuesday June 24
Yesterday after quiet time, we ate breakfast. Coffee was so good :) Then we had more quiet time. Amy, Monica, and I went with 2 ladies (Juana and Graciel) to the school. We entered a classroom of about 30 2-4 year olds. We were expecting to just be meeting the students and teachers, but we soon found out that they wanted us to teach. So we awkwardly went to the front of the classroom and we tried to teach numbers 1,2,3 but that kind of failed, so they asked us to sit down. Then the kids were singing songs and in one of them they all had to hug a companero. so, three kids came up and hugged us. Then smiled. After the song ended, a little, beautiful boy walked over shyly and gave me a huge hug!
It was beautiful. They asked us to teach again, so we tried a few songs. That bombed. so, we left when they asked us to. We than had to tell the teachers husband, Fidel, when church started, but we told him the wrong time...oops. At the house, everybody was busy with VBS preparations, so we worked on a lesson for school on Wednesday.
After lunch, we left to go to another village, San Antonio. After an hour walk throught the jungle, we arrived at a much smaller and impoverished village. We waited for kids to show up for a few minutes. Then we started playing futbol and various games. It was incredible to see some of the team with the kids. Getting pushed in the mud and getting lice and doing the silliest things because of the deep love that we all had for these children. We had a VBS in the church which went okay. They were a tough crowd. So, we played more games with them until church started at 6:30.
We put on nice clothes and we sat down. 6 0r 7 other people were there. They sang ONE song that last a half hour. Oh my....then we sang 2 English songs, and one in Spanish. It was awkward...they just stared at us. Then we drimed it up. Then there were 3 God stories (personal storied about God working in our lives) and Driver was about to give a sermon when he decided to just pray for the people and explain the gospel. It was great. We had to the opportunity to pray over the people of the church. I don't know if God healed anyone, but I wouldn't be surprised. Then one more song was sung and we began to walk home.
It was about 9:30 pm. And it was dark. A kind of dark that it doesn't get in the Chicago area. So, we were in skirts and dress clothes walking through the black jungle. Also, it had rained a lot that night...so we were walking through mud puddles and a literal sea of gnats.....for one hour. yep. I think my lungs were completely filled with bugs after that. But, the team had a great attitude the whole walk.
Home late. dinner. sleep.
today we are sleeping in until 9, but I am up early and I don't know what time it is.
I feel content. not very emotional. Amazed by Dios.
It was beautiful. They asked us to teach again, so we tried a few songs. That bombed. so, we left when they asked us to. We than had to tell the teachers husband, Fidel, when church started, but we told him the wrong time...oops. At the house, everybody was busy with VBS preparations, so we worked on a lesson for school on Wednesday.
After lunch, we left to go to another village, San Antonio. After an hour walk throught the jungle, we arrived at a much smaller and impoverished village. We waited for kids to show up for a few minutes. Then we started playing futbol and various games. It was incredible to see some of the team with the kids. Getting pushed in the mud and getting lice and doing the silliest things because of the deep love that we all had for these children. We had a VBS in the church which went okay. They were a tough crowd. So, we played more games with them until church started at 6:30.
We put on nice clothes and we sat down. 6 0r 7 other people were there. They sang ONE song that last a half hour. Oh my....then we sang 2 English songs, and one in Spanish. It was awkward...they just stared at us. Then we drimed it up. Then there were 3 God stories (personal storied about God working in our lives) and Driver was about to give a sermon when he decided to just pray for the people and explain the gospel. It was great. We had to the opportunity to pray over the people of the church. I don't know if God healed anyone, but I wouldn't be surprised. Then one more song was sung and we began to walk home.
It was about 9:30 pm. And it was dark. A kind of dark that it doesn't get in the Chicago area. So, we were in skirts and dress clothes walking through the black jungle. Also, it had rained a lot that night...so we were walking through mud puddles and a literal sea of gnats.....for one hour. yep. I think my lungs were completely filled with bugs after that. But, the team had a great attitude the whole walk.
Home late. dinner. sleep.
today we are sleeping in until 9, but I am up early and I don't know what time it is.
I feel content. not very emotional. Amazed by Dios.
Monday June 23
Sunday was fun, I had lots of fun with the team and enjoyed the day. I finished reading Jesus For President at night which was great. I need to change how I live. Loving my enemy, nonviolence...stuff like that. Well, we went to bed at 9 pm and awoke at 4:30 am so we could get off the barge! Yay!
We got off at 5:30 at the town of Maypuco. We are here for 1 week. We got all our bags and food and walked on a straight cement path for about a mile. We arrived at a beautiful house (kind of a hut...more like a porch in the states). A thatched room, A-frame, skillfully made, and tree bark on the floor. A bamboo railing surrounds us. There is a kitchen space off the rear and a small path to the bathroom (a.k.a. a hole in the ground inside a shack). It is great.
After getting situated with all our crap, we layed down tarps on the ground and put our sleeping bags down. Now we are quiet-timing it while some Peruvian guys are hanging mosquito nets over us. They are very kind. I am teaching English everyday this week along with Amy and Monica. I am excited for that.
We got off at 5:30 at the town of Maypuco. We are here for 1 week. We got all our bags and food and walked on a straight cement path for about a mile. We arrived at a beautiful house (kind of a hut...more like a porch in the states). A thatched room, A-frame, skillfully made, and tree bark on the floor. A bamboo railing surrounds us. There is a kitchen space off the rear and a small path to the bathroom (a.k.a. a hole in the ground inside a shack). It is great.
After getting situated with all our crap, we layed down tarps on the ground and put our sleeping bags down. Now we are quiet-timing it while some Peruvian guys are hanging mosquito nets over us. They are very kind. I am teaching English everyday this week along with Amy and Monica. I am excited for that.
Sunday June 22
Yesterday we were preparing to leave. We packed and got ready to go to the barge. By then we found out we would be on a public barge, but I didn't know what that meant. So Chase and I got into a motocarro and we were driven to the barge. Oh my...through a huge mob of people, then we just stopped in the middle of it. I desperately looked around for a person that I knew. Miranda (a translator) told me to get onto Eduardo VI (the name of the barge). We are on the third level in a pool of hammocks. It is beautiful on the river! Hay una cocina, a place to eat, benches, bathrooms, and showers. Also...mirrors (weird). We haven't had those anywhere yet. Well, we didn't leave for another 5 hours....which seemed really long and boring. We ate dinner and went to bed at 10.
I had night watch at midnight. It was really scary. It was dark and I was watching for creepy people trying to steal our crap. It freaked me out every time a person came upstairs and walked around. I couldn't wait for the hour to be over.
I had night watch at midnight. It was really scary. It was dark and I was watching for creepy people trying to steal our crap. It freaked me out every time a person came upstairs and walked around. I couldn't wait for the hour to be over.
Saturday June 21 (1 week gone...wow)
Last night we worshipped together, then we tried to make a team covenant. It was horrible. We were mean to each other, and frustrated. It really did not go well.
So, Emily (a leader) told us her timeline (aka testimony/life story), which was fantastic. She spent the last year in the Dominican Republic and she told us all about that. She has so much joy and passion all the time. She is only 19. wow, what a strong woman of God.
Sleep was great. there was a lot of rain last night. We are leaving at 3!
TO THE JUNGLE! Yesss.....
So, Emily (a leader) told us her timeline (aka testimony/life story), which was fantastic. She spent the last year in the Dominican Republic and she told us all about that. She has so much joy and passion all the time. She is only 19. wow, what a strong woman of God.
Sleep was great. there was a lot of rain last night. We are leaving at 3!
TO THE JUNGLE! Yesss.....
Friday June 20
We are at Jorge's home. He is the missionary we are working with. I don't know when the day changed from Thursday to Friday because we have been traveling so much. We arrived a the Iquitos airport where Jorge and a bus picked us up and brought us to his home. Is is BEAUTIFUL here! We ate a wonderful breakfast, then had time to sleep until lunch. I slept in a hammock..Yay! This family is so hospitable.
Our plan is to leave in the morning...either on a public barge or on Jorge's boat. I am comfortable and at ease. Excited, not so nervous any more.
I was kind of disappointed in our leader's behavior yesterday. It was just very mean and selfish. I was frustrated. the leader apologized to us before dinner.
God is so good.
Our plan is to leave in the morning...either on a public barge or on Jorge's boat. I am comfortable and at ease. Excited, not so nervous any more.
I was kind of disappointed in our leader's behavior yesterday. It was just very mean and selfish. I was frustrated. the leader apologized to us before dinner.
God is so good.
Thursday June 19 : Travel Day
Got up at 3 am to begin travel. Atlanta to Ft. Lauderdale..good flight, slept the whole time.
5 hours in Ft. Lauderdale airport. Now on plane to Lima.
I am scared more than I have ever been before. there is excessive turbulence and thunder storm. Jesus save us, again. The plane started shaking and turning a lot, then we started falling really fast. I thought I was going to die. Without thinking, I started praying out loud, and we stopped falling after 1,000 feet.
I love Him so muich. I need peace now, and trust.
5 hours in Ft. Lauderdale airport. Now on plane to Lima.
I am scared more than I have ever been before. there is excessive turbulence and thunder storm. Jesus save us, again. The plane started shaking and turning a lot, then we started falling really fast. I thought I was going to die. Without thinking, I started praying out loud, and we stopped falling after 1,000 feet.
I love Him so muich. I need peace now, and trust.
Wed June 18: TC Day 4
After breakfast, we made sack lunches for the entire camp outreach. We then had 2 sessions, one about relational evangelism and the other about ATL (Ask The Lord). ATL is so difficult for me to do right now. I try too hard. Well, we then went to a strip mall in Gainesville where we were supposed to tell people about Jesus. We walked around a Gregory store and prayed over it and the people there. We met a man in the parking lot who did not speak English (he was from India) and I feel like we were really able to love him. He seemed to really enjoy trying to talk with us...and we enjoyed it too.
Afterwards, I felt so much joy. We came back and learned another 2 drimes...which are really beautiful dramas/dances to music. I love them a lot...I can't wait to do them in the Amazon. Then we spent a long time packing and them we enjoyed a meal of mashed potatoes, corn on the cob and peach cobbler! No Rice..yes!
We then had a commission session, which was so uplifting and filled us all with joy! Now we are all in high spirits and joking around like crazy because we are so crazy excited! Amazon! Yesss.
I have to wake up in 3 hours...ohmy. goodnight!
Afterwards, I felt so much joy. We came back and learned another 2 drimes...which are really beautiful dramas/dances to music. I love them a lot...I can't wait to do them in the Amazon. Then we spent a long time packing and them we enjoyed a meal of mashed potatoes, corn on the cob and peach cobbler! No Rice..yes!
We then had a commission session, which was so uplifting and filled us all with joy! Now we are all in high spirits and joking around like crazy because we are so crazy excited! Amazon! Yesss.
I have to wake up in 3 hours...ohmy. goodnight!
Tuesday June 17: TC Day 3
2 Tim 2:11-13
"If we have died with him, we will also live with him
if we endure, we will also reign with him
if we deny him, he will also deny us
if we are faithless, he remains faithful
for he cannot deny himself."
Spiritual Warfare
A problem: We often don't believe that we are in a battle
1 Peter 5:8, Psalm 18: 31-39, Eph 6:10-13, Daniel 10, 2 Kings 6:15-17
The Devil is stronger than us, but not stronger than our God
Genesis 3:1-7, 2:15-18 --> Conversation between Eve and the serpent VS. conversation with God and Adam. Did Eve understand God's words and promises?
Mistake of Eve-- She downplayed God's permission ("nor shall you touch it" vs 3), She added to what God had prohibited, She downplayed God's judgement (along with Satan) "You will not die" v 4
Asymmetrical Warfare
A far-superior force and a little force. They attack like terrorists: unfair fighting to throw superior force off. Satan does not fight fair.
Romans 8:28 It is important how we respond to the devil.
How to fight
Temptation is not a sin, it's when we give in to it.
- practice, be disciplined: fasting, prayer, fellowship
- understand your sin patterns
- know what feeds your sin (what do you run to when stressed? tell your community/the body your sin)
- pray for deliverance from temptation
When you will be attacked
1. when you experience SPIRITUAL GROWTH
2. when you are INVADING the ENEMY'S TERRITORY
3. when you're EXPOSING THE ENEMY
4. when you're BREAKING WITH THE WORLD
5. IN A GREAT TIME OF BLESSING
Eph 6: 10-
-truth: doubt is one of the first schemes used
- righteousness: protects your heart
you know what is right --do good
choose to do the right things you know
- readiness with Gospel of peace: Romans used good footwear in battle. Stand firm in the gospel.
- faith in God's promises and word: extinguishes all lies and fears
2 Tim 1:7
- salvation: protects our minds, our identity in Christ is attacked most
*Demons have to obey what you say in Christ's name*
- sword of the spirit: offensive and defensive (word of God)
- prayer: deliverance from evil, allow the blood of Christ to work
"If we have died with him, we will also live with him
if we endure, we will also reign with him
if we deny him, he will also deny us
if we are faithless, he remains faithful
for he cannot deny himself."
Spiritual Warfare
A problem: We often don't believe that we are in a battle
1 Peter 5:8, Psalm 18: 31-39, Eph 6:10-13, Daniel 10, 2 Kings 6:15-17
The Devil is stronger than us, but not stronger than our God
Genesis 3:1-7, 2:15-18 --> Conversation between Eve and the serpent VS. conversation with God and Adam. Did Eve understand God's words and promises?
Mistake of Eve-- She downplayed God's permission ("nor shall you touch it" vs 3), She added to what God had prohibited, She downplayed God's judgement (along with Satan) "You will not die" v 4
Asymmetrical Warfare
A far-superior force and a little force. They attack like terrorists: unfair fighting to throw superior force off. Satan does not fight fair.
Romans 8:28 It is important how we respond to the devil.
How to fight
Temptation is not a sin, it's when we give in to it.
- practice, be disciplined: fasting, prayer, fellowship
- understand your sin patterns
- know what feeds your sin (what do you run to when stressed? tell your community/the body your sin)
- pray for deliverance from temptation
When you will be attacked
1. when you experience SPIRITUAL GROWTH
2. when you are INVADING the ENEMY'S TERRITORY
3. when you're EXPOSING THE ENEMY
4. when you're BREAKING WITH THE WORLD
5. IN A GREAT TIME OF BLESSING
Eph 6: 10-
-truth: doubt is one of the first schemes used
- righteousness: protects your heart
you know what is right --do good
choose to do the right things you know
- readiness with Gospel of peace: Romans used good footwear in battle. Stand firm in the gospel.
- faith in God's promises and word: extinguishes all lies and fears
2 Tim 1:7
- salvation: protects our minds, our identity in Christ is attacked most
*Demons have to obey what you say in Christ's name*
- sword of the spirit: offensive and defensive (word of God)
- prayer: deliverance from evil, allow the blood of Christ to work
Monday June 16: TC Day 2
Yesterday, we did a team building obstacle course which was really good. I feel very comfortable with these people. We learned some awesome VBS songs and worshipped together. I am feeling more like myself but I am still being shy and cliques are beginning to form...uh oh.
Today my God is in control. I will be obedient and walk in his strength, power, and love.
"I'm in love God and God's in love with me
This is who I am and this is who I'll be
That settles it...completely"
Today my God is in control. I will be obedient and walk in his strength, power, and love.
"I'm in love God and God's in love with me
This is who I am and this is who I'll be
That settles it...completely"
Sunday June 15: Training Camp Day 1
I slept great the first night. I used the showers this morning (aka a hose)...that was fun once I stopped shivering. I feel grateful for them still because it is nice to be clean. The feel magnificent afterwards. I'm starting to like this place and feel comfortable. It is still awkward with he team. We don't know each other really well. But, I am growing so much in Christ. I know my God much better now than I did a couple weeks ago. I can't wait to grow closer and serve more and love more. Right now, there are some really loud bugs around me. I can hear them making noises that sound human like. Hahhaha, it is so odd. I fell like I should write more to tell about camp.
There are 2 girls cabins and 1 boys. There are 3 levels of bunks beds and we have mattresses. I am on the third level. There are port-o-potties, a shower, and a gutter for brushing teeth. I like it. We eat, worship, pray, and learn under a big tent. Everything is very team-focused. I wear a red bandanna and a name tag to identify myself as an Amazonian. There are four teams here: Dominican Republic, Swaziland, and Ireland.
Now that "quiet time" is over, I must go to the first session where I have no idea what will happen.
Oh yea. Today I learned more about spiritual warfare. Thank you Taylor for preparing me to learn about this. You really opened my mind to it.
There are 2 girls cabins and 1 boys. There are 3 levels of bunks beds and we have mattresses. I am on the third level. There are port-o-potties, a shower, and a gutter for brushing teeth. I like it. We eat, worship, pray, and learn under a big tent. Everything is very team-focused. I wear a red bandanna and a name tag to identify myself as an Amazonian. There are four teams here: Dominican Republic, Swaziland, and Ireland.
Now that "quiet time" is over, I must go to the first session where I have no idea what will happen.
Oh yea. Today I learned more about spiritual warfare. Thank you Taylor for preparing me to learn about this. You really opened my mind to it.
Saturday June 14
I am in Atlanta finally. I left this morning in really good spirits and it was nice to be alone at the airport. While waiting at the gate, I ran into two other kids with AIM shirts on and we hung out a bit the rest of the time. The flight was good. Nothing exciting. I met in the Atrium of the Atlanta airport with many other AIM folks and we just waited around for a couple hours and met people. We got on a bus and headed to camp. It was really awkward trying to meet these people for some reason. After getting settled in at camp, we ate dinner as a team and then we worshipped together.
Worship was good. The worship leader, Davey, is incredible. She never stops playing her guitar the whole time. The songs just flow together. I was able to calm down a lot and just spend time with God. It was refreshing. We then had team time, went over logistics , stupid rules, and played a game. I can't wait to go to the Amazon!
Worship was good. The worship leader, Davey, is incredible. She never stops playing her guitar the whole time. The songs just flow together. I was able to calm down a lot and just spend time with God. It was refreshing. We then had team time, went over logistics , stupid rules, and played a game. I can't wait to go to the Amazon!
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