'tis the season...to post an update

my cousins and me entertaining ourselves during the graduation ceremony.... :)















my parents and me..whom do i look most like?













more family pictures













it feels great to be on vacation!!! my last final was the 12th, and that very evening, rikki, the same friend from the previous post, came to visit me and spend the night. i cannot tell you how encouraging and uplifting it is for me to be with her. it is always great to catch up, reminisce about the summer, share updates about people we know. it was good for us to share our hearts with each other and seek the Lord's face together as we spend time together the way it's supposed to be, having fun yet sharing Christ's love!!!
last weekend i went to my cousin's graduation at baylor and got to see some family there. that was really sweet! this week i worked about 39hrs at kohl's and a few at the church. friday was my last day until school starts again. it was kind of a weird feeling. but saturday we drove up to see my mom's family. it was wonderful to see them all again. i hadn't seen my grandparents and one of my uncles and his kids since august when he was in the hospital. it was so wonderful to see him and how much he has recovered! praise God for the miracle of life that he has given and the improvement we've seen. he's walking all over the place (with minimal difficulty) and he's his normal hilarious/witty self. our family has defintely seen the Lord's hand this year, through all we've been through, both good and bad.
back a few steps, thanksgiving...thanksgiving was great! i went down to houston with a good friend and spent some time with her family and had a wonderful meal! came back, worked black friday (day after thanksgiving sales), then i went to the AWESOME football game where A&M BTHO t.u. 38-30 WHOOP! then that saturday we had thanksgiving with the family. that was such a wonderful time too. i'm so blessed to live in a Christ-centered home. we got to share some of the blessings in our lives.
i'm definitely gratefuly for my family, for the support and the love they have shown me throughout the years in all the decisions i've made. i'm thankful for the opportunity i had to go to mexico this year, and the role i got to play in ministering in the lives of my host family. i praise the Lord that my host-parents and sisters are my family through the blood of Christ!!! and i'm also thankful that the Lord has provided a job for me and the means to save for plans that i have yearned for for so long.
well, this week is Christmas, and i'm looking forward to time with family, time with friends, but also fellowship with the Lord. He has shown Himself near me this break, and i am so glad.
i'm also looking forward to my trip this wendensday. i leave to indiana to see about 10 friends from my youth group in costa rica, the more i think about it... the more excited i get!!! whoop! just a few more days!!! can't wait.
anyway, MERRY CHRISTMAS!!!

highlight

Rikki, Dawn and Me (reunion from this summer in Mexico)















Pretty much the best costume I saw on Halloween on-campus


This was a really good week for many reasons. Monday night we had our intramural soccer game, and we won the intense game 3-2. It was a great game, and it felt great to win. Now we move on to the second round of playoffs with our game a week from Sunday.
Then Tuesday, my friend Rikki came up from Houston as soon as I got out of class. I mett her in Mexico this summer. She is originally from Arkansas, but recently moved to Houston and is currently settling in there. So it was wonderful to have her spend the night and gave us a chance to catch up, laugh and have some fun girl time.
A couple of other friends came down from the CAM offices in Dallas to represent at the GO! Missions conference. We all got together with some other students that interned with CAM this summer and last in different Spanish-speaking countries.
Wednesday, I had a great day with Rikki and just skipped class...I should feel guilty, but I don't really... :)
Thursday, class went well, got some work done, and took a nap. I went to play sand volley ball with some friends, which I absolutely enjoy everytime we do. Then I spent the night at my friend Rebecca's house because class was cancelled today. We had a wonderful time just hanging out and being lazy. I worked at the church a few hours, came home and hung out until I worked at Kohl's for 4 hrs.
Doesn't that just sound like a good week? Only 3 days of class, and lots of hanging out. But maybe I should have done some more homework than I did. Next week I have plenty going on. We'll see how that goes.

Oh, P.S., I was talking online to a woman I met in Mexico this summer, and she was telling me that my friend Abigail is having a real hard time with her marriage. If you could please just lift up Abi, her husband and two sons in prayer, that would be very needed. Thanks for your support!

needed update

I admit, it is a lot harder to keep up with this than it was this summer. I never came back to finish sharing about the end of my summer and beginning of the fall semester.
After being back for a few days, on August 23rd, we heard that my grandfather, H. Owen Roberts, went to be with the Lord. That weekend, the whole Roberts clan from Texas flew up to upstate NY. We had a wonderful time together, full of joy! The memorial service was very special, I am very proud of my Dad for speaking with such strength and the Lord used him to share a good message. Despite the sadness, it was such a wonderful experience to see the impact my grandfather had on the lives of so many (of all ages, races, times of his life, beliefs, etc.). I also had a wonderful time with all my extended relatives. It was the first time all of us had been together in years.
I came back to College Station having missed my first two days of class. I definitely hit the ground running.
This semester I am taking 13 hours of class and am working several different jobs. I currently work about 15hrs/wk at Kohl's (department store), 5 hrs/wk as a babysitter, and about 3-5hrs/wk at the church office in the missions department. That definitely keeps me busy!!!
I decided to not be a Bible study leader this year so that I could work to save money for my study abroad in France. I had been hoping to go in the spring, but I didn't get the financial aid I hoped for, mostly due to matters with time of acceptance and scholarship deadlines. However, now I am aiming to go next fall. I will be working next semester, trying to save money so I won't have to take out any additional loans. That is something I feel the Lord is leading me away from. My acceptance with this study abroad program has been deferred, and so far, things seem to be running much smoother than expected.
I am looking forward to this Christmas break. Not only will I have a break from school, but my friend Johnny's parents are flying me up to Indiana, where I will spend a few weeks with him, and at least 5 more friends that I haven't seen since I lived in Costa Rica. We are all so excited to spend some time together again. It has been over 4 years since I've seen some of them. This will be so exciting!
Until then, I am going to have to work hard and plod along this whole school and work business...haha!
I hope this was an adequate enough summary of some things going on around here.

whirlwind

that's what life has been these past few months, a complete whirlwind. i can't believe it's already october! so much has happened, and i foresee another long entry coming ahead, but considering it's already 12:22am, i'll break it up into a few entries.
my friend, catherine's, wedding was so much fun!!! i had a great time and it was such an honor to stand with her and garrett on such a special day!
when i got back in town, mom told me that my uncle, josue, had been taken to the hospital. the next day, after church, mom told me that he took a turn for the worse and she wanted to go up to see him in the ICU and to spend time with family there. she asked if i would take her if dad wasn't able to go. he was able to go, but i wanted to travel with them anyway. so we quickly came home, grabbed some clothes for the night and left for fort worth. that night turned into a week, and we ended up staying there with my family. while we were there, my grandfather on my dad's side of the family went the the hospital up in NY state. dad went up to visit him and grandma while mom and i were with her family. after a few days of being in fort worth, i drove over to see david and amanda for a night and came back for be with family again.
that next weekend was the "next step" conference in dallas. this was for the people that worked with CAM international over the summer. it was a great reunion, we got to see fellow interns as well as rod and mayra and their kids. we had so much fun rememebering the fun times and all the inside jokes and stories. at the same time, as the name implies, it was a time for us to look ahead and to see where the Lord is leading us and what goals we can set for us.
after the conference, i went down with some of the interns to houston and stayed two nights there. we celebrated two birthdays there, and of course had to have a party like we did back in mexico. we went to the zoo and got to spend some more precious time with each other as well as with rod and the family.
by the time i had gotten back to college station, i had been to 6 cities in texas in just a week! pretty well spread out too!
as crazy as that all was, i found myself praising the Lord, because He answered a desire of my heart that i had not even uttered with words. i had wanted to see my brother and sister-in-law and all my extended family, but that wouldn't have happened this summer otherwise.
alright...well, this is definitely not the end!!! still more to come!



the bridesmaids around catherine 08.11.07


bito, bita y yo (my grandparents and me) 08.12.07

memories

I can't help but think of my time in Mexico all the time. Not a day goes by that I don't think of my good friends I've made there. The Lord is working wonders everyday.
My sister, Ale, is still growing immensely and her love for the Lord is burning. It is so encouraging for me to talk to her. I am so grateful for technology, that I can talk to her and communicate throught the Internet with her. I miss her very much. But the Lord is greater than distance and borders! Almost everytime we talk, email or chat, she asks for advice and encouragement. I thank the Lord for giving me wisdom and the words to speak.
I have a few real cool stories to tell before I share a few more pictures of my time there. A couple of nights ago, I was chatting over the Internet with Ale, and all of a sudden we decided to start going through the Essentials Bible study via Internet. I must say, it's not as easy as being in person and studying one-on-one, but regardless, this is something that still blows me away!!! I love that we don't have any time schedule to follow and this information is all new to her, so her excitement is so contagious!!! She is so thrilled, she wants to share everything she is learning with those around her!!! Praise God! Please be praying for her growth and for the continuation of this unique ministry.
The second story happened just a week ago today. My friend, Alberto, whom had become a believer last summer through the same internship program I worked with, was telling me he was going to be traveling with his brother for a family reunion. He wasn't exactly looking forward to it because he didn't have any other believers in the family, and it was always a hard experience to spend time with them. I encouraged him and told him I'd be praying for him.
That Monday, come to find out, his younger brother trusted Christ. Oh the excitement!!! He was so thrilled to tell me, "Now I can't say I'm not the only believer in my family!!" I pray that this is only a start of a great change in the lives of his family.

Anyway, this weekend was great! I went up to Dallas for the weekend to go to the wedding of some college friends. It was a beautiful ceremony and a great reunion!!! It's crazy to think that next weekend, I'm going to be in the wedding of my best-friend from college!!! This is so exciting and crazy! WHo said we had to grow up??? Haha...anyway, it was also a sweet weekend because I spend the weekend at Rachel Drennan's house, a girl that was on the internship in Mexico with me. So great to share memories together.

This is me and Alejandra. I miss this girl soooo much!!!



















This is Abigail and me after church. Sweet, sweet girl!!!
















My wonderful host-family the day I left the home.
Such a sweet family! I had a blast with them!
















Abigail, her two sons, Saul and Abraham,
and a friend, Alejandro, in her little store.
















My English class in Ixtapaluca, Mexico City.

back in texas

As you may have figured by now, I'm back in College Station, TX. I've been back for 2 weeks now, and managing to keep myself busy. Maybe it helps me forget how much I miss Mexico from time to time. Saying goodbye was not easy, but it was really sweet getting to be there!
My flight went smoothly, I had no major hassles, so for that I am thankful. I was met up at the airport by my sister, Ale, and my two friends, Alejandro and Alberto. It was defintely great to spend a few last hours with them, but once it was time to say goodbye, I didn't want to let go of them. As I walked away with tears in my eyes, although I wasn't crying, my heart ached and still does because I left a piece of it with each of them.
Now I thank the Lord for the ease of communication through technology. I've been able to email, chat and even call a few times since I've been gone. It's great to be able to keep in touch with everyone still.
My welcome to Texas was sweet. My parents picked me up and took me out to dinner where Daniel and Amber surprised me by meeting us there. That was really cool!
It has been great getting to reconnect with people here again. I've been working back at the church a few hours a day.
Pretty soon one of my best friends is officially growing up...in my eyes....she's getting married! I'm so excited! This is crazy!
Anyway, thanks again for checking up on me and being interested in my trip. God bless!

8 weeks already???

Well, I think I failed to update on what's going on right now in Mexico. Yesterday I came with the girls that went back to Santa Barbara with me, with Alberto, David and Rod to Cuautitlan-Iscali, still within the state of Mexico. Last night we just hung out, chatted and watched movies. I went to bed pretty late hanging out with my friends here. This morning we "slept in," it really does kind of feel like it now, until 9. After breakfast, we started our debriefing. We went until about 5pm or so, with several breaks in between. It has been really great to process, to share, to ecourage, to worship the Lord, to pray. It has been so great! But it's so hard to believe that I'm heading home tomorrow.
My flight leaves at 3.20pm. My host-family and my friend are hoping to meet me at the airport before I leave. I know it will be hard to say good-bye one last time, you would think I'd be out of tears by now, but they just keep coming. I just have to keep in mind how excited I am about seeing everyone back home.
Well, I'm off to eat dinner and probably stay up late one last time with the interns here. Once again, I thank you for your prayers and encouragement. I look forward to seeing you and thanking you in person!!!

bittersweet

Thanks so much for your prayers. Friday went so well. Class was great, and we all had a really fun time. We laughed so hard. The children's program was so cute and they all did really well. The parents were very proud.
We had a few hours to rest and pack. When we got back to the church, it was all decorated beautifully with all this Mexcian decorations. The program went really well, many people came to bid us farewell. It was a very special time. Then, we all headed to the bus station and our bus left at 1am. I got more rest this time, about 4 or 5hrs. So that was so much better.
Saturday afternoon, when we got into Mexico City, four of us took a taxi to the airport to meet Rod so he could take us back to Ixtapaluca. I was greeted by my host-sister and her cousin. That was so sweet.
I had an AMAZING time back there. It was wonderful getting to see so many of my friends from the past two months again. Saturday night there was a birthday party for one of the host-dads. That was cool because, first of all, it was another pachanga (party), and second, because it was a great way to see so many people again.
Afterward, we went out for quesadillas one last time.
Today, church was so great. I was very encouraged. It was definitely a bit bittersweet, so hard to say goodbye to everyone. When we went home, I hungout with my Alejandra and a friend. Then Abigail came over and my host-parents came back from the market. Abi brought me gifts and it was so hard to say goodbye to her. Rod came to pick me up, I really didn't want to go.
The thought that comforts me is that I get to go home and see family and friends, but my little heart is breaking. Please pray for me.

nachooooooooo!

Well, I can officially say that after this trip to Mexico, I have lived life!!! I've tried interesting foods, I've met amazing people, I've seen cool things, and Tuesday night I went with the team to watch Lucha Libre. It was definitely an experience! I wish my family had been there. Maybe some day, I'll have to come back and bring them with me to Mexico.
English classes have been going quite well. I feel like the students have learned a lot in two weeks. We have begun to prepare for Friday's "clausura" (closing ceremony). Each class will be performing something for their parents, we'll all sing "Forever," a contemporary Christian song in English. I'm so proud because today we had them sing it without any help, and they did so well!!! We're also going to share the wordless book and see if the kids can tell it, so it's more impacting for the parents. Please pray that the Lord will speak to the parents, especially the non-believers.
Please also pray for Friday. It's going to be a long day. After English class is the closing ceremony, then in the evening is our farewell activity. We are to be at the bus station at 12pm and our ride leaves at 1am. We are to arrive in Mexico City at 8am. I don't know what exactly will be going on on Saturday, but in the evening, I will be heading back to Ixtapaluca for the night. After church, I will be heading to D.F. I'm sad I can't stay longer, but I'm glad I'll get to see everyone at least once more.
I can't believe I've been here over 7 weeks. Time has flown by! I miss everyone back home, especially Mom and Dad. I will see you all soon!
Please be praying for my return, and reverse culture-shock. I'm not really looking forward to that, but I know being home will be amazing!!! I love you all! God bless!

continuamos con...

So, I had to leave for lunch, but I am back. Sorry for the confusing order and interruption. When we got back from eating out, there had been a terrible rainstorm, so the whole town had bad flooding. We got to the church, finally and thankfully (there were many cars and even trucks that got stranded in the streets), and the main hall had about 2 inches or so of water, the pastor's house next door was just as affected, the classrooms had about 5 or 6 inches. So it was crazy trying to work hard to get all the water out ASAP. I had fun though, even though it was a bit stressing. Afterward we finally got a chance to rehearse and then go home and I got to hear my host-parents' stories and testimonies. That was very special.
At church, I helped with some of the people from the team to sing worship. After the service, the church family all went to about 30 mins away to a family's home to eat and hang out. It was a great way to get to know some of the people from the church.
Yesterday, after English class, the pastor shared the church's missionary vision to the indigenous people of Oaxaca. It so cool to hear the church's heart. They are sending a group from the church of 7 people tomorrow to go minister there for a few days. Please pray for their 12 hr travels and safety while there!
I need to go for now. I've been on the computer for too long. Lord bless and keep you! Thanks!

to be continued...

Well, well, it's been a while again. It's been a little more difficult to get time to post here, so this might be another long one. I apologize ahead of time, and I will keep that in mind.
Last I talked about was that Tuesday we were going to the orphanage to work for the first time. I helped with the painting. Afterward, we had a fun little presentation with songs, games and the story of the wordless book.
Wednesday, when we were done with the English club, we went to this "tianguis" or market. It was really fun to get to experience that here. Later in the evening, Fer (the pastor's oldest son) took us to a coffee house. It was so great to hang out and chill with the team in a setting like that!
Thursday, after class, I had a very meaningful time with God. I think the Lord renewed my focus and humbled my heart. He reminded me to be content in all circumstances, because I really don't have it hard. He has been placing on my heart, time and again, all the blessings I have that I shouldn't take for granted. I also had a great time lifting up those around me in prayer. How refreshing!!! These past several days have been hard for the whole group. Much fatigue, sickness, issues that have come up with children, discipline, attitude problems with the children and even within the group. But, thanks to the Lord, our leadership has stepped up and we have united to fight in this spiritual battle. Please continue to pray for strength and protection, it is evident that these are more than physical struggles.
Friday was a really great day. Maybe I'm a little biased, but I'm not going to let that get in my way. I woke up to one of my house-mates, Jessica, standing in the doorway to wish me a happy birthday! Then, when I was getting ready, I heard some children's music in the hallway, when I heard that it said something about "Feliz CumpleaÑos," I walked out and my host-parents were waiting to give me hugs and wish me a happy day. They gave me a little present, it was so sweet. Then in English class, all the students and teachers sang to me and attacked me with hugs. It was very special.
In the evening, there was (what was supposed to be a surprise) party for me. We played games, ate hot dogs and had cake! The have this tradition that the birthday person has to take a bite of the cake as it is, and someone most likely will shove their face in. I didn't have too bad of an experience, I took advantage of the darkness after I blew the candles out, so not many people had a chance to shove me in. Regardless, it was really fun and sweet. I got a few cards and presents. I definitely felt loved. Then my host-dad, a guy from the church and a guy from the team came out with guitars and were my birthday mariachis. I was soooo excited! (I kind of secretly wanted mariachis for my birthday, but no one knew)
Saturday we got to sleep in; that was amazing, I repeat, AMAZING! Sleep in til 9am....can't believe I'm calling that sleeping in!!! Then we went downtown to check out museums and go to the central market. The craziest thing is that while walking around, I bumped into the McDougal's, a family from my home church that lives just about 5 mins from my house back in College Station.

feliz birthday

Mom, I love you so much!!! I want to wish you a very, very happy birthday! I miss you. I want everyone to know how amazing mi mama es!!! Que la pases bien y nos vemos pronto!

the say i talk like a chilanga (from Mex. City)

I'm definitely seeing the Lord's sovereign hand working here!
The bus ride wasn't to bad. The whol trip was about 7.5 hrs. I only slept a total of 20 mins or so. When we got to Guadalajara, we met the pastor, Fernando Amezcua and his family. Then we went to our host-homes. Our family is really fun and very sweet. They are a strong Christian family, very involved in the church, especially in the music ministry. They have four daughters, Karime (10), Ania (7) and Dani (6). I'm living in their home along with three other girls. They have a really nice home.
I feel like, until this afternoon, we have been going non-stop. I was so exhausted, this afternoon I took a 2 hour nap, and it was AMAZING! Praise the Lord. I'm serious, I really needed it (for bothe mental and physical reasons).
We pretty much spend all day, from 8am, at the church facility. It can get exhausting, so please pray for strength, energy and patience. Today was our first day of English class. We are going from about 9.30am-1pm. It is a bit of a long day, but we have decided to break up the day into sessions and do music, games and snacks along with the class time. That has helped with the crowd control aspects. We're still trying to figure out the division of the groups, but today I worked with the only adult that showed.
Tomorrow, after English class, we are going to work at an orphanage for about four hours and again on Thursday. Like I said, they've got us pretty busy here. But it's all good, and at the end of the day, we feel accomplished. As we have been studying recently, please pray that we would only boast in the Lord and in His mighty power!
One last prayer request, it has been a bit hard for me to part from the church and my host-family from Ixtapaluca. I think about them often. I'm so grateful I will get to see them again before I leave, but it's hard to be away from them. I think about them often. It's also hard to not compare ministry here to there. Please pray for contentment in ALL circumstances!
I cannot thank you enough for all your love and prayers. I have been so encouraged by you all! God bless you!

la mas panzita

Well, it has been over a week. Yet again, i haven't gotten around to updating. Mis disculpas, my apologies.
Thursday was a fun day. After our daily English class, and kids' club, I went to play soccer with the girls again. It was a good game. I must say, I was pretty proud of myself, even though we lost, I scored 3 goals. I was sad we lost, that's just because I am competitive, but we played well with our final score being 5-4. Of course I have my justifications for why we lost, but I must admit that the other team played well.
Friday after English class, I had another unforgettable Mexcian experience. A family that I have had the priviledge of having them all as students throughout my time here, invited me and three other girls for dinner. They served us cow stomach....a delicacy, or so they say. I felt bad for the girls, I could tell they were really struggling to be polite. We each ate so many tortillas to wash it down. I tried to make excuses for not eating, I did have to tell them that we had a huge lunch. But I tried to eat the most I could stomach...har har! I ate my full plate, as I tried hard to not look at what I was eating. Then, our host served me a second plate...I tried to eat the most of it I could, but I only got half-way. I did what I could for my sisters. That was a fun experience. Then we went to hang out at Rod and Mayra's house to play board games. I just love hanging out withh all the people I've met here, Mexcian and American!!!
Saturday we went out ot Xochimilco, a place that makes me think of the Mexican version of Venice. We road down this lagoon in these sort of boats that are decorated so colorful. It was really cool. A great day to relax. We had a mariachi band play for us while we were out on the water. It was a fun experience. When we got back in town, I hung out with Abigail. She's so amazing!!! I love that girl! She made threaded a braid in my hair. It looks pretty cool. I always enjoy talking to her. I always leave encouraged and in a great mood!
Sunday, at church, we had another skit by the drama team. It was amazing and moved many people. Afterward, the music team had a special song in English called, Wonderful Maker. I helped with the children's class along with about three or four other girls. After church, I went to lunch and to watch Spiderman with a few friends. When I got home, my host-mom and her friend gave me and three other girls a pedicure. She'd been wanting to give me one for the longest time.
Monday, we had a going away party for Amanda Stephens and Rod's cousing and his wife. It's wierd to say good-bye to people already.
I've had a few more driving lessons, I actually feel comfortable driving a standard now.
I know I'm really jumping from one subject to another, but let's see...Thursday night was our going away party. They had a party and a fun "award" ceremony for us. I got the award for "la mas panzita" (the most stomach), they said because of my solidarity in eating the most of the cow stomach. After all the fun, I started te get a bit bummed out about having to leave Santa Barbara.
Please pray for our time in Guadalajara. Especially for our attitudes, we're not really pumped about leaving, myself strongly included. I feel your prayers are helping me feel a little more at peace, but I want passion!!!
Anyway, today I had and ENglish party in my class and just hung out, ate and talked with my students in English for 1-1.5 hrs. It was so encouraging to see how much they had learned and enjoyed the class. We could actually converse for that long! I pretended that I couldn't understand Spanish, forcing them to use ENglish. Then I came home and my host-family took me out to dinner. I gave them some thank you gifts and they gave me some of the sweetest words of encouragement. I'm so grateful for their love and hospitality. I'm also grateful that I will come back for 3 days to see them before I leave.
Well, I think this is good for now. I need to go to sleep. I have to be up early for my 8 hour busride to Guadalajara tomorrow. Hope to update you soon! Thanks again, God bless!

unas imagenes

Children's club









Melany y yo

a day in my life in mexico

Well, today was the first day in ages that I was able to sleep in!!! But since my body has gotten used to early mornings, I kept waking up at ever hour, so I finally got up at 9am. At least I'm rested!
Yesterday was such a great day! We had our morning devotional, which went really well. (By the way, thank you so much to those of you who have been praying for my personal time with the Lord. It has been so much better recently. I've found the perfect time to be alone with Him. Recently I've been eating breakfast alone, just because it works out that way, so I've taken advantage of that time. I feel soooo much better! Thanks!) We finished our devotional early, so a fellow-intern, Braeden (she's a girl, many people get thrown off by the name), my host-sister and I went to go work out. After lunch, I took a quick shower and off to English class. I had two girls, and I am so proud of how much they have improved in a month! We were reading a children's Disney book together yesterday.
Right after English class, we walked over to a sister in the church's home, where she had a tarp set up for the children's club. This is an opportunity to teach the children Bible stories, verses and songs while having fun playing games and stuff. We had a great time with the children. This club is Tue, Wed and Thurs. I think the children are really enjoying this. It was started up last Saturday by Jonathan, a fellow-intern originally from the Dominican Republic but lives in Boston. He is perfect for these kids. Reminds me of Dorothy Rempel, a woman that directed Vacation Bible Schools in Costa Rica.
After the club, we took public vans up to Acozac, the place where the girls' sleep-over was, to celebrate Bill's birthday. We had fun cooking hotdogs and s'mores over the bonfire, singing songs, tossing the football, and just hanging out like we usually do.
This past year, ever since last summer, God has been teaching me so much about what the Great Commission is really about. It's not about making converts of all nations, it's about making disciples. That lesson has really hit home here. I think that is why I'm loving the ministry here, because it's all about relationships! Even though we have few official responsibilities (English class, VBS, etc) we are always doing something, we are building friendships that have an eternal impact. It has been so cool to encourage and be encouraged by people while just spending time with them. LIving life with them. What a blessing! I'm glad Christ asked us to make disciples and not just converts, this is very fulfilling!

que onda?

This is me and Carla, one of my many favorite little Mexican kids. She is so adorable!!!

a true public profession

What an amazing experience! The Lord is GOOD and it is evident in the lives of these believers. We drove out to a public swimming area about an hour from here. When we got there, we started the morning with worship, our church together with a sister church. Then those who were going to get baptized shared their testimonies. That was so moving, I cannot tell you! It was so amazing to see how the Lord has worked in the lives of these people. One of the most moving testimonies was of my friend Abi. It was so cool to see that she has stood out to her friends and they have asked her what is different in her life, what is she into? And all she can tell them is, she's into God. It was amaing to see the tears streaming down her face because of her passion for the Lord. Afterward, the drama team shared their skit and the music team played the song. From what we hear, they were very impacting. Many people were moved to tears, and later, after an invitation, a few people placed their faith in Christ alone for the forgiveness of their sins. Praise GOD!
Once the baptisms were over, we hung out in the pools and had so much fun. I love how the whole church family gets along just like a family. We had so much fun swimming, jumping off the diving boards and going down the slides numerous times doing crazy fun things. I had a blast. Toward the end, i had the opportunity to give some swimming lessons to a few of my Mexican friends. I had so much fun! By the end of the day, one of them was able to swim all by himself and the others had improved a lot. How cool!!!
This morning it was my turn to share the devotional on 2 Corinthians 3:7-18. I think it went really well. This passages really spoke to me personally, especially verse 12. (Look it up!!!) It has given me a renewed desire to be passionately convinced of the truth, so much that i can't help but speak with boldness, sincerity and confidence. I just hope that my heart overflowed that lesson into everyone present. After reading verse 18, it was all cool to hear the testimonies of some of the interns of how God is transforming them and showing his glory in a real way, near and in their lives. Way cool! (That was for you Marsha and JoJo!)
English class went well, and then afterward, some people stayed to watch "High School Musical" while some of us went to help babysit the Fry's kids.
When I got home, I had a great time chatting with my sister about everything under the sun. But the coolest thing was when she asked me about how my devotional went and I shared about the passage with her. I love that she is thirsting. Please continue to pray for that. Also that we both may take verse 12 to heart and speak with confidence and sincerity to her mom, that our passion may overflow endlessly.
So it's only been a couple of days, but I still managed to write a long post. Again, I thank you for your love, encouragement and prayers. It means so much. I love you!

livin' la vida loca!

Well, yet again, I've taken long to update, but I want you all to know that I am well. I have recovered from my stomach issues completely. Things are rolling well. I have a little cold, but it's so easy to get medicine here, that I feel fine all drugged up.
I remembered what I had done of significance last week that I couldn't remember last post. One evening, one of my best Mexican friends, Abigail (I've mentioned her numerous times), took me out to teach me how to drive a standard. little did i know, i would have quite an audience. some friends were coming our way and joined us in the car. that made me a little more nervous, but it was fun too. Anyway, now I have an idea of how to do it, but I definitely need practice to keep me from stalling in the future.
We've been up to a lot recently. Wednesday, we woke up early and hike up el "cerro del elefante" (elephant hill). It was a bit exhausting, Yet it was so cool to be up there and look down to our town. After English class, we had a birthday party for Rod's oldest son and then a surprise going away party for Brigam. That evening, he came over to my host-home to say good-bye to my family. It was so moving for me to be there because I had to translate for them. I must say, that was a cool experience to see how much both parties had been impacted by each other. So cool how the Lord works even through the obstacles of language.
Thursday, after the devotional, my host-sister, Mauricio (a church friend) and I accompanied Rod to taking Brigam to the airport. My host-mom insisted in meeting us there. It was good to hang out all of us as a group again one last time before he left. When we got back, after English class, the church rented a soccer court for two hours. The women (some from the team and some from the church) played for the first hour and then the men played. It was so much fun!!! Our team won, it was a close game. 6-5. Them men's game was a little sorry with the soccer settled at 16-6. Right after the game, we all headed over to Mauricio's home and celebrated his birthday. That was so cool! I could live this life, partying it up all the time! :)
Yesterday was a good day, with much excercise, a great devotional and good times haning out. One of the interns, Crystal, found out that a close friend of hers back home in California past away after a serious accident. She was a bit bummed and spent all morning by herself, with the Lord and resting. After English class, some of us wanted to go to the movies, so Crystal came along. We all had a great time. Afterward, I noticed she was still bummed, so I she spent the night at my house. It worked out for the both of us because she needed to be with some one and just hang out, and my host-family had gone to visit relatives and din't get home until late. Crystal and I had some really good conversations last night. The Lord is good. Please continue to pray for her and for her loved ones back home.
This morning we woke up early to help the church with their campaign to clean up the community from 10am-2pm. We all wore t-shirts that say "Haz lo mismo en tu vida" (do the same in you life). We got some pretty interesting reactions from the community, mostly good.
The interns have formed to servant teams, one is drama and the other music. I have been asked to sing and play guitar in the music team. I'm glad there are two other guitars and everyone else is there to sing. We had our rehearsal for tomorrow. The drama team is performing a skit, so they requested the song "Hungry" in Spanish to go along with it. Tomorrow church will be held about an hour from here because we are having baptisms. I'm looking forward to witnessing that and to seeing the servant teams in action. I'm also looking forward to finally swimming, the weather has been so warm, I'm ready for some H2O.
I have a praise. I've been a bit lazy in making time for my devotionals, and I find myself blaming it on not having alone time, knowing that I can't make that time if I really tried. Well, the other day, my host-sister encouraged me and we both had a devotional together. It's been great seeing her grow and change so many things. PRAISE GOD! Please continue to pray for her growth, her family's salvation, and my passion and diligence.
Thanks again for all the love and encouragement. God bless you!!!

it's been a while

So, it has been a while, and much has happened. Sorry it has taken me this long to update, i haven't had much time at the computer recently. Honestly, this is so bad, but I can't remember what happened last Monday and Tuesday other than my host'sister left to spend a few nights with her grand-mother and i hung out with the Fry's, Brigam and Alberto. We probably played Settlers (and if we did, I lost every time) a few times and ate tacos or something.
Wednesday, Rod, David Gomez, Brigam, Charles (an intern that arrived Tues) and I all drove into the city, about an hour's drive, to go to the airport to pick up the team. They came from all over the States and at different times, so we had to be there from 11am. We left Ixtapaluca with bad news that Alejandro, my sister's "cousin," had run away from home. We were all a bit worried and praying for him. But we had to hurry to the airport. Since most of the team came early, they and the leaders left to the hotel and Brigam and I stayed until about 5.30pm to wait for the rest of the group. When we got to the hotel, we hung out with the group and had a devotional. We walked down to the town square (appearantly one of the largest one's), Zocalo. It was beautiful at nght all lit up!!!
Thursday, after our team devotional, we took the Metro to the Cathedral (located in the town square). The architecture was beautiful. The children were dressed in traditional clothing for a special service for "Jueves de Corpus Christi" (Thursday of Corpus Christi). My sister had been a bit shook up with Alejandro running away from home and she was in touch with Brigam. He saw it as a perfect opportunity to shine for her. Alberto brought her to the hotel, and I talked to her, prayed with her, shared some passages that Brigam and Rod had given me. We talked about Alejandro (who had been found at this point), and how she and her mom were dealing with that worry. Then I talked about John 3 and asked her several questions to see if she understood what it meant to be a Christian. Praise the LORD! I found out that she had made a decision on her own, so we prayed for her mom and dad and for her growth and strength. She's really my blood sister now!!! She knows that it will take a lot more for her mother to make a decision. But I'm glad beacuse from conversations with her, I know she isn't taking it lightly! Keep praying with me!!!
The next day, I woke up with bad stomach cramps and was the most sick I've been yet. I was two kinds of sick...it was actually the first time I threw up in over 5 years, I honestly can't remember. (Sorry for those of you who are easily grossed out). I left our devotional early and took a nap. I felt a little better after resting, so I decided to join the team on our trip to the Basilica de Guadalupe. I toured the current Basilica, but when we finished, I stayed behind in the shade while the rest of the team hiked up to do some more sight-seeing. At that point I realized I was running a little fever. I had been drinking two bottls of gatorade and much water because I couldn't stomach any food. I went into a Burger King with those who didn't want Mexican. It was great to be in the A.C. again. I really felt loved and encourage by all the team the showed their concern for me. When we got back to the hotel, I slept for several hours and woke up feeling completely normal. I am so grateful for the prayers of my friends here. (It was so cool how we all gelled so well and so quickly!)
Saturday, we went to the Castillo (Castle) de Chapultepec. It was soooo beautiful!!! Then we came back to Ixtapaluca, and I had a great time on the busride home with the interns. They are all amazing and make me laugh so hard! (Great qualities!) Soon after, David Gomez (Youth/Associate Pastor) invited Charles, Bill (interns) and me to join the rehearsal for Sunday worship. I'm still boggled as to how the Lord got me serving in this way. After rehearsal, we all went for tacos, but I didn't eat any b/c I didn't want to risk it. Good thing, because soon I disappeared behind the stand to toss my cookies again. My sister took me home and my host'mom was so concerned for me. She made me "atole," took my temp and I went straight to bed. Earliest I've been to bed in a while: 9.45pm. I woke up feeling much better, but I've been eating bland foods since.
Church went really well, attendance, even without the interns, was at it's record high, with about 110 people. Worship went well, and two of the girls and I helped with the littles ones's Sunday school class. After church, the families brought typical food for a meal. I didn't eat anything but fruit, but it all looked great. After the lunch, we went to a soccer game of a woman from the church, Mariana, and her daughter, Denise. After resting, we had a getting-to-know-you activity for the team and the youth group in the tent that the church rented for the day. We had a good time.
Today, we had our group devotional at Rod's house and book study there. Then we talked about plans for the English classes, now that we have more teachers. We are splitting the students up into about 5 groups in 3 locations. I'm leading the intermediate class, with Bill and Alicia. I will be teaching with them these next couple of weeks. We hung, tossed around the frisbee, ate lunch at Rod's, and then headed off to English class. I taught while some of the interns observed. We haven't split up as planned until tomorrow, except for the more advance students who went with a girl that's an ESL makor, here getting credit for Moody Bible Institute. After English class, I played soccer with Mariana and her family and Abigail and her sons. It was so much fun!
Then I went to Rod's house to hang out with them, my sister, Alberto, Charles and Brigam (because he leaves this Thursday). We played and sang songs, ate and played Settlers again. (Needless to say, I lost....)
Tomorrow we are meeting at the pyramids for our team devotional. I'm excited, even though I've already been, I think it's going to be amazing.
Well, this is definitely long enough and it's already 1am. Please continue ro pray for team unity (it's been amazing so far!), for my host family's salvation and growth, for ministry, for health, and that I would be faithful in my time with the Lord. Again, I thank you so much for your words of encouragement to me!!! They really mean so much!!! God bless you!!!

a few more things to check off the list

It has been a long week, but that just means it's been that much more fun-filled. Every weekday, I've been getting up around 7:30am to go work out for a few hours. That has been so much fun to hang out with Abigail. She is such a cool lady. Wednesday afternoon, a couple hours after we got back from excersizing, we went down the street from her house to eat some tacos. They are so cheap and good here! (More about that later) On Thurday she took me to the ˝tianguis,˝ or the market. It was really cool to get to do that with her.
Also on Thursday, Brigam and I were invited to a couple from the church's house. The man had to work but her mom, sister and the two kids were there. It was really cool and we made sushi and fried rice and stuff. I had a good time getting to know them a little. Very sweet lady, named Laura, and her husband is Martin.
That evening after English class, Brigam and another friend, Alberto, came to pick me up because my host-family wasn't home. So we went out for tacos and they wanted me to try something...exotic. I had tacos de ˝trompa˝ (snout) and de ˝tripa˝ (intestine). Today I tried de ˝riñon˝ (kidney). I'd have to say, i didn't like the kidney, the snout was alright, not bad but not great, but i did really like the intestine tacos. Not exactly something I thought I would say, but I wouldn't mind going back to order them sometime.
Friday was a loaded day. After working out, I had to finish up my lesson for the women's Bible study and get together with Mayra to practice the songs for worship. Then we had English class, and as soon as that was over was the women's Bible study. It went well, I suppose. The lesson was a really good one. We're going through a book, not the one I translated. I don't think we'll be using that while I'm here because they're half-way through this study, but I will leave it behind with them. As soon as the study was over, I came home to pack and went right back to the church to meet the girls for the sleepover. I started getting a bit nervous about it because these girls are in a bit of a different world from what I'm living. I was fearing not associating well with them or even entertaining them enough for them to enjoy themselves. But we got to the house up on the hill where it was. WOW! That place is beautiful. We got there at night, so we could look down to see all the lights of Ixtapaluca. So beautiful!!! We played picture-telephone (aka Holly Nelson game), then we went outside and played several rounds of mafia on the trampoline. Then we gathered around a little bonfire and Mayra brought two gutiars for us to worship with and the two of us, with another lady from the church named Sandra, shared a few words of encouragement with the girls. After that, Mayra made an invitation for them to place their faith in Christ alone for their eternal salvation. If every decision that was made was done out of a sincere heart, we had several girls place their faith in Him. I just pray that anyone who did would make a concious effort to grow and stay strong.
We went in and played a little more, ate snacks, giggled and talked. I finally went to bed around 3:15am, the most of the girls went to sleep and hour or two later. When we got up and after breakfast, we went up a little higher up the mountain to some pyramids and we got to see the town even better too. That was way cool!
We got back and from what I've heard from people that have talked to the girls, they seemed to have a good time. It was cool going to church today and getting to talk to a few of the girls that I had gotten to know. I think it was a good experience for us all. We had about 12 girls show, a VERY good number.
I guess we can keep praying for ministry there. I know there is a lot to share, but I want to establish a trust with them before I come into their worlds. Please also pray for confidence in the Lord.
Last, I would like to ask for prayer for strength and energy. I haven't rested much recently, until today. I had a pretty laid back day with my friends here. I'm hoping it was good enough to start a new day with new strengths. Please also pray for the group. Most of the people that are coming get in this week. We are going to have an orientation and hang out and sight'seeing time for 3 days in Mexico City (about an hour from here) starting Wednesday. I guess we can pray that we will mesh well from the get-go.
Well, I'm off to bed before an early morning tomorrow! We'll see if I feel sore again. Today was the first day I haven't felt sore since Tuesday.
I appreciate your comment, emails, love, support and prayers. You are all amazing!!! I miss you! Please let me know how I can be praying for you! God bless!

orale!!!

Well, I have to say, I am really enjoying my time here! Things are going really well! Sunday I went to the church service, and praise the Lord, my whole host-family came too!!! The service reminded me a lot of being back in Costa Rica. I really, really enjoy the church family here. They are truly a family, very warm and sweet. Alejandra and I were asked to help Mayra (Rod´s wife) to do a little intro skit for the children´s sunday school class. Afterward, we went with the youth to another house a few blocks away. The church is actually a house that they use for ministry purposes. This place is used daily with English classes, Bible studies, hang out, whatever.
Last night, I had the chance to talk to my sister about a lot of things. In fact, we stayed up until about 2.30am discussing things. But what was most special to me was to see how much she enjoyed church and how welcome she feels here. She has felt like part of the family. Coming from a traditional Catholic background, where her family would usually just go to church for occasions like Christmas and what not, this was quite a change for her. She said that before recently, she had only known one Christian in her life, and was very impressed by her. What she loves the most is she has seen that God is not just something we talk about on Sunday mornings, but He is part of all our lives. WOW!!! Please keep praying for her and her family!!!
Yesterday, I slipped away to have a devotional time, and she came out and asked if she could study with me. OF COURSE!!! I think she enjoyed it, and actually in our talk last night, she made reference to what we had learned in our devotional. I´m so excited about the way things are going.
My host-mom said she also really enjoyed the service and would like to go back. I was impressed to hear when my sister told me that Alejandra´s cousin kind of made fun of her for going to a Protestant church and accused her of betraying the Catholic faith. Fabi remained firm and stood up for herself and her actions. Praise God for giving her the strength to do so!!!
On another note, I made a new work-out buddy. One of the ladies at the church asked me if i wanted to go to the gym with her this week and next. Today was our first day and she really worked me hard, but I enjoyed spending time with her. Then she invited me for tacos later on today. We are very much alike in a lot of things (besides the fact that she has 2 kids...). I have really enjoyed her, she is a really cool person!!!
Things are going well. My schedule still is not really busy as far as activities go. When the most of the rest of the group (make sense?) comes next Wednesday, we are heading to Mexico CIty for some orientation and site-seeing. Then we will come back and probably be a bit more busy.
This Friday, I am trying to get the girls from the youth group together so we can have a sleep-over and I can get to know them a bit. I have decided to start a ministry with them because they don´t have any girls that are leading them and so, I want to do what I can while I´m here. I was talking with one girl, who´s parents are leaders in the church (Melany). She said her home was open for the night. As I was talking to her, and she was telling me about things that would be good to talk to them about. I was very grateful for her input and I told her I would do what I can. It´s a little weird for me to be in this position of leading girls. I still like I should be in a youth group myself. Please pray that the Lord will use me and that I will be able to reach their hearts in a memorable way. Please pray for open hearts and open minds.
Well, I think I am good for now. Thanks for the encouragement. I love you all!!!

Check out this video about ministry here
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=d0blQIoiNcE

fotografias

this is a picture of me and my host-mom, Fabiola


















this is a picture of Brigam, ¨tree-head¨or ¨cabeza de arbolito¨and our daily english class












this is a picture of Alberto, one of my new friends here from the church, me and my little sister Alejandra

i´m alive!

Well, I´m sorry for keeping some of you waiting, but I really haven´t had a chance to post on my blog. I arrived well in Mexico on Tuesday. My flight was delayed a few hours, but I was greted warmly by a group of seven people. I have gotten to know them quite well the past few days.
My host family is REALLY nice! I have gotten along really well with them. They have made me feel at home here. My host-parents are Fabiola and Arnulfo. My sister´s name is Alejandra. She is 15 years old and we get along really well. They are not believers as of yet, However, they are very open and beginning to get involved. I know that the Lord is working in their lives. Please pray with me that God will use me as a tool to bring them to Him. They will be coming with me to church and hopefully to some Bible studies.
Wednesday was my first day to help Brigam (the guy working here for a few weeks from upstate NY) with the English class. We´ve had quite a few attendees. It is a lot of fun for me. I really enjoy teaching people languages, so this is a great opportunity. We have lessons 7 days a week. And believe me, the people are eager to learn. I´ve even gotten my host-mom and sister to come and learn. Fabiola, my host-mom was studying before we came come this evening. I´m so proud!!!
Today I went to the women´s Bible study after English class. I had a wonderful time. The ladies are all very sweet. They actually recruited me on the spot to accompany Mayra, the missionary´s wife, to play the guitar and sing for worship. I didn´t know all the songs, but I did what I could. Soon I´ll be going to Mayra´s and she´s going to teach me the songs for the following week.
Well, I´m off for now. Thanks again for your love and encouragement. God bless!

ready or not, here i come

Well, considering it is 1:30am, I will try to make this brief. My bags are packed, I'm ready to go. I got my passport Monday with no problem. Friday I only had to wait about two hours. Not bad, really.
Praise #2: Jessica, the girl I mentioned previously, said that her surgery went well and she is recovering very quickly!!!
On a side note, I have a very cool story. Well it’s the night before my flight, and it wasn’t until Mom asked, that I realized I didn’t have a phone number for the coordinating missionary in Mexico (Rod Fry). I was trying to figure out what to do. Then I got online, to this program I have for chatting with friends (MSN Messenger), and it turns out that my Mexican sister, Alejandra, got in touch with me. I’m actually chatting with her as I type this, and I’d have to say, I’m so pumped about meeting this girl and her family in person!!! But the crazy thing was that I was able to get the phone number that I needed!!! Anyway, I got to chat with her for a while and ask her several questions before I head down. I found out that I will be sharing a room with her, and in case you were wondering, I will actually have internet access in our room.
She is so sweet...she said to me: "ya te hice un espacio en mi closet para tu ropa y en los buroes para tus cosas y en mi corazon para que pongas tu amistad!" ("I already made room in my closet for your clothes, in the nightstands for your things and in my heart for you to put your friendship!"). How sweet! I'm going to have a little sister!!!!

never fails me

Wow! All I have to say is that our God is awesome!!! Today (and by today I actually mean Friday) has been amazing!!! The Lord is so good. Last night I was beginning to get a little anxious about my passport situation, but before I went to bed I decided to surrender it over to Him. Since He has bigger hands than I do, I figured He could handle the matters better.
Dad and I drove down to Houston today, and althought things were a little crazy at first, God had everything under control. Thankfully, the clerks honored my travel dates and made the paperwork process a little speedier and allowed my to skip through a ginormous line. I didn't make it in time to pick up my passport, but all the work is done, so now I can go back on Monday and pick it up (hopefully without even having to wait long in line)! Praise God!
As if that were all, I was a bit bummed about this unexpected expense, thinking I would have to pay for this on my own since support had quit coming in. Oh, but the Lord showed His unmerited kindness! Yesterday, someone gave my mom a check for me. Wow, what a blessing! I was only going to have to pay for about $30. Way better! But then when I got home from Houston, someone had left a few notes and a check for $30 at my front door!!! God is sooooo cool!!!!

long awaited reward

Oh the EXCITEMENT!!! Today I officially ordered my Aggie Ring and am officially a bit more broke. Whatever, it's worth it! I'm so excited!!! I will get it this September, yay!!!!

begin on bended knees

This is what I had on my Mexico Prayer Card. Please continue to lift these requests with me to our Father.
Please pray:
- For the preparations for travel and ministry
- That I would completely trust God and depend on His strength
- That I would serve with energy, passion and an attitude of humility
- For protection from spiritual warfare and discouragement
- For spiritual and physical safety
-That I could reflect Christ in my actions and words
- That God would glory through the whole process of taking me to and using me in Mexico

I would also like to ask for prayer for the rest of the interns that I will be serving with. I want to mention Jessica Steele, from the University of Florida, in specific. She will be going into surgery on Friday to have her tonsils and possibly her adenoids removed. She asks prayer for a speedy recovery and for her nerves.
Thanks again!

coming to life

Well, I leave for Mexico in a week, and it hasn't started to click until this week. Yesterday I started buying some of the little things (band-aids, hand sanitizer, medicines, etc.) that I will be needing. I think at that point was when the next two months started becoming a reality to me. Then I went to check my e-mail, and I received a message from Mr. Rod (the CAM missionary that's working in Ixatapaluca, Mexico). He was sending me a few more of the details of the trip, and as soon as I confirm a few things, I will fill you in on them.
I have been greatly encouraged by the words of many who have asked me about my trip. This past week, I've been going through some of the material that I will be teaching to women while I'm there. Honestly, as I thought about it more, all I could think of was, "What in the world have I gotten myself into?! I'm going to be teaching women older than I am?!... in SPANISH?!" But the Lord is sovereign and He has shown me through the encouragement of others that He can use me, especially if I am willing. As I type this, I am praying for a heart of faithfulness and passion in service.
On a more, um, frantic note. Well, for some time now, I've been looking for my passport and cannot find it. "UH!-OH" is right! I made an appointment last week to get the express thing this coming Friday (4 days before my trip). So as embarrassing (for some stupid reason called pride) as this is for me, I ask that you pray with me that I will have peace as I seek the Lord's hand in all of this and not grow frustrated, but rather understand what I can learn from my Father in this. (And at least my closet is clean now that I've searched through it and cleaned it out.)
Anyway, I will hopfully post a few more times before I leave next week (Lord willing). God bless you all. Thanks for your love andfe support!!!

just the beginnings

So, yes, I realize that it is 1:19 am...but I have had this on my mind for some time, and I finally decided to sit down and do something about it. I have debated about getting a blog for the longest time. I figured, if I ever were to get one, now would be a great time, for my trip to Mexico this summer. Hopefully this entry is just the start of many. I must admit, I am not always faithful or even innovative when it comes to things like this. So all i ask for is a little bit of mercy and understanding on your part. As for me, I will do my best to keep you updated.

For those of you who don't know, on May 22nd I will be going to Mexico for 2 months to serve the Lord with missionaries from CAM International there. School is out, but I don't think it has hit me yet that I will be leaving this place for 8 weeks. I'm excited, but it all still seems a bit surreal.

Anyway, it is bedtime. I finished setting this up, and I have posted my first entry. Mission complete. Oh, speaking of, I must say, I'm pretty proud of my web address, but I'm funny like that!