La Blondie Peruana

Community.

2012-01-31T22:52:00.004-05:00

When we moved to Peru, I never imagined I would be part of something so amazing. I've been feeling extremely overwhelmed this week by the love the Father has for me and the way He expresses it. He has blessed me and surrounded me with the most amazing community.

This afternoon, we sat down together and had homemade pizza. Some of our teammates couldn't make it, and although we enjoyed each others company {and the pizza!} it just wasn't the same.

This is community.

After lunch I met with Nancy and Anna Lou, two of my teammates. We have decided to start an accountability group. We spent most of the time just talking and sharing our life experiences. We learned more about each other, and poured into each other. Then we spent time praying together.

This is community.

Tonight we had our first leadership meeting of the year. It was SO good to all be together in one room for the first time since before Christmas. We talked about vision and we planned. Then we prayed together. We prayed for our teammates who are struggling. We prayed for each other. We shared tears and laughter. We prayed for Pacifico, Los Cedros and San Genaro Dos. For the things God is going to do in Peru this year, and in the future.

This is community.

It's sharing, eating, laughing, crying, praying, talking and accountability.

It's Real.

It's Love.

It's Sacrifice.

My home away from home. My spiritual family. This is what the church is meant to be. Living life together. Sharing in real struggles and joys. Experiencing His love.

This is HIS community.

Barranco Photo Shoot.

2012-01-31T08:30:00.001-05:00

On Saturday, my friend and teammate, Nancy and I had been lounging around the house {It was our day off after all!} and she randomly says, "I would love to model for a photo shoot one day." and my head shot up..."I can shoot it for you! Do you want to do one?!?!" Her eyes got wide, "Today?!" and I got all excited, "YES! LET'S DO IT TODAY!"

Where I am usually a homebody, especially on my day off, after the past few weeks I have been taking advantage of every opportunity to get out of the house. We decided we would go to Barranco, a charming little town here in Lima. It's a mix of Bohemian, classic and old town with plenty of beautiful buildings and color. So while I got my camera ready, Nancy threw a bag together of a few outfits and did her makeup. Before we knew it we were in a taxi, headed to Barranco.

We had an absolutely fabulous afternoon and the weather was perfect! It was fun to practice shooting, even if it was for no reason at all. When we got home I got to editing right away, I couldn't wait! I am really pleased with the outcome. It helps that my model is absolutely gorgeous and photogenic :)

...and now that I've talked and talked about it, here are the results!

Getting to Know You: Peru.

2012-01-26T12:09:00.000-05:00

I'm going to borrow an idea from a friend {but revise it a little}. It's kind of like a "Getting to know me"...but a bonus because you're getting to know Peru as well!

You're allowed to ask me anything, as long as it has to do with Peru! It can be about me, or us or just Peru. I will do my best to answer questions, as well as take pictures {if they apply}.

So, what do you want to know? What are you curious about? Where would you like to see? Who would you like to meet?

Be creative! I'm looking forward to answering your questions!

Humble Pie.

2012-01-24T23:08:00.002-05:00

If you think I don't have a perfectly acceptable reason for not {properly} blogging over the last month or so...you, dear reader, would be wrong.

First of all, we were in the jungle for two weeks {Dec 26-Jan 9: See previous posts!} Then on our way home from Calleria the trip started to become really uncomfortable. Uh-oh!

You see, back in 2008 I also noticed that uncomfortable feeling. I decided I had just been sitting for too long {I had a desk job} so I let it go for a few days. One day, the pain became absolutely unbearable, and I had to leave work and drive myself to the emergency clinic.

It was there I got the news that I have a cyst on my tailbone. It had flared up and had become an abscess. {Gross, I know.} It's not something I like to talk about because it's an embarrassing subject and was a horrible experience. I hesitated even writing about it, but honestly, it keeps me humble about it all.

It wasn't anything I could have prevented, it just happens sometimes. At this point it has flared up 3 times: Oct 2008, March 2010 and 2 weeks ago. Unfortunately, the 5 hour boat ride back to Pucallpa from Calleria didn't help. I was able to make it back to Lima and we decided to wait it out a few days. We were praying for direction and healing. Our team and our families were praying with us.

We really had peace about it, especially considering the last experience. {It took me a month to heal and it was a very long month for both of us.} But we felt like God would do something miraculous. Last Tuesday, I finally had to go to the Emergency Clinic. They sent me to see the general surgeon, who was amazing. Even though he didn't give me ANYTHING before he cut me open :( One word: Oooooowwwwwwwww!!!!!

He sent me home with antibiotics and pain meds and instructions to return the next day. I dreaded going back, especially since I was in a lot of pain...but like a good patient, I went AND I didn't cry! {Although, Shaun's hand probably hurt worse than I did. I adore my husband for being by my side through this!}. The surgeon told us that everything looked really clean and I was all set to start healing.

So, that is my perfectly legitimate excuse! Since then, I have been healing {NOT blogging}. It's been a difficult process. On top of being in pain, I have not been able to sleep on my back, which equals super achy sides and hardly any sleep for me. I've also not been able to sit. Blah! Can you imagine not being able to sit for over a week?! I wouldn't blame you for not wanting to think about it. There were times I would just get up and walk around aimlessly because I didn't want to lay anymore. Booooring!

Remember how I said that last time was a very painful and very long recovery BUT we felt that God was going to do something miraculous? Not only am I almost completely recovered {in less than 2 weeks time} but today has been a huge milestone! Last night for the first time I was able to sleep on my back! {It was heavenly!} and today I sat through an entire lunch without having to get up! I was even able to enjoy my quiet time in my hammock up on the roof this afternoon AND sit through most of a movie at the house with friends tonight!

God is so good! What an amazing healer! I am so thankful that He cares about me. That he has taken a miserable, embarrassing experience and worked through it. During this time I have been covered in prayer, as well as showered with love and blessings from friends in form of visits and little gifts. We are surrounded by such an amazing community, and I know that now more than ever.

So back to being humbled. I don't like to tell people what is going on...but how else are you going to know about how God has been working in my life? Also, how are you going to know how to pray with us specifically? That is why I am sharing this experience with you. I would like to ask you to pray with us.

At this point we have had 2 surgeons tell us that I need to have the cyst completely removed, otherwise this is something I will deal with every few years probably for the rest of my life. The only thing is, it's a very expensive surgery and the healing time is an estimated 3-4 month process.

Our only prayer is that God's will would be done. If that means I am miraculously healed from this cyst and never have to deal with it again, or that God provides the finances for the surgery, we will praise Him! But we would love it if you would pray with us for His clear guidance, since this is something we would like to have taken care of as soon as possible.

And now that I have written a novel, I'm off to bed :) I plan on sleeping on my back again! Woohoo! Goodnight friends!

Natural Beauty.

2012-01-24T11:17:00.000-05:00

This little beauty showed up in the backyard this morning.

This is the second time this plant has bloomed...and both times I had thought the night before, "That's it...this one isn't going to make it." It's almost like the plant says, "I'll show you!"

I should think about the plant more often. I wouldn't mind if these flowers were around all of the time. So beautiful!

In the Jungle: Calleria.

2012-01-19T11:36:00.003-05:00

I was going to write about our trip up the Amazon river to Calleria....but Shaun beat me to it! So I've posted most of the pics, but you can read about our experience HERE. Enjoy!

Our little boat!

We fit about 16 people {plus 3 kids} on the boat.

Handsome hubs, just relaxing.

Sometimes we went through thick debris...a little scary!

After 4.5 hours, we finally spotted Calleria!

Setting up tents.

The kitchen we used.

Nancy and I made spaghetti the first night. It was an experience!

Yes, that is a real tarantula! It was on a beam right above our heads! Needless to say there was screaming and running on my part...and lots of laughing from everyone else. What can I say, I've never seen a wild tarantula. YUCK!

The beautiful sunrise on our first morning.

About 15 minutes up the river for a little jungle adventure.

A wild snake. Believe me, my zoom was used to it's fullest potential.

Thick, thick, THICK!

The only road was lined with about 75 houses...During the rainy season, the water rises and the "roads" become rivers and everyone uses boats to get around.

Beauty.

Adorable.

The local church.

Our team "base".

Rain clouds! I miss the rain.

Shakira :)

She smiled for the picture.

These limes were the size of oranges!

Taking parasite pills during the medical campaign.

Parasite awareness and prevention.

Leading worship. So surreal and such an experience!

On our last night, some of the women presented a song and dance for us.

Traditional Shipibo dress.

We got stuck in the debris!

It took several people about 10 minutes to rock the boat out of the debris...We could tell they had done it quite a few times!

Last team lunch when we arrived back in Pucallpa.

My amazing river fish. {I forgot the name...boo!}

Hanging out with Daniel.

My favorite relaxing spot!

Goodnight, Pucallpa!

In the Jungle: Pucallpa Continued...

2012-01-16T09:00:00.004-05:00

I didn't realize that my last post was the first post of 2012! But that's ok, because it's actually very fitting to mention it in THIS post! We spent New Years in the Jungle, which was a first for us both!

We didn't really have any plans, so on NYE Day, we decided that anyone who wanted to go could meet in the hotel lobby and we would go down to Pucallpa center for dinner and to bring in the New Year. We met around 9:30 and everyone but Mark, Anna and the boys came (it was way past their bedtime) including Rosa and her 2 brothers! When we arrived downtown it was absolutely packed, so we walked a few blocks and found a place to eat...

Jessica, Rosa and Me

Shaun, Erling, Roquelin and Ronald

Lighting up the sparklers...INSIDE of the restaurant. This is Peru!

Downtown

We walked back towards the center and took a few pictures...Haseena (in the blue dress) was NOT happy because it felt like we were literally walking through a mine field. People were shooting off fireworks everywhere we went.

The girls!

The Men.

We decided to leave the center and head back to a plaza a little closer to our hotel and away from so many crowds. Haseena and I found a place to sit that was a safe distance from where everyone else were shooting firecrackers.

First picture of the New Year!

New Years Kiss!

A few days later we had 2 days off before heading to Calleria. On our first day off Shaun and I decided to go fishing! How often do you get to fish in the jungle?!?! A few people heard we were going and before we knew it, the entire team was coming with us! The more the merrier!

On our walk down to the fishing spot we saw a wild cherry tree!

Sooooo cute and delicious!

Arriving at our fishing spot! An old airport hangar.

We made homemade fishing poles from line and branches we cut down in the jungle, then stood on the bank and fished all morning!

Shaun and Daniel fishing together :)

I made the first catch of the day! I went to take my fish off the hook and realized it was a PIRANHA! I was terrified and extremely excited all at once! I'd been fishing plenty of times but didn't know how to take a piranha off the hook. That was a new experience :)

I was trying to take a picture of his teeth, but every time I tried to open it's mouth he went crazy! I decided a close up was good enough. I like my fingers where they are and not in a piranha's stomach.

Daniel's first catch!

We caught several types of fish: Piranhas, 2 types of catfish, and some other type of river fish no one was exactly sure what it was...

Yes, we still stood in the water, even though we were catching piranhas...I don't know what we were thinking!

After a while, we moved to another location about 5 minutes walk away. Just a little stream that came off the main river.

We found a dead iguana in the river :( He was huge! I didn't get a picture, but when we flipped him over his entire leg and tail had been eaten to the bone by piranhas! Yuck!

Speaking of animals, we saw so many interesting creatures in Pucallpa!

This is the biggest beetle I have ever seen (alive). It was just hanging out around the hotel one afternoon. I ran to the pool to get Daniel and Joel because I knew they would love it!

The beetle next to MY hand! Sooooo huge!

As big as Joely's hand!

We also saw the most amazing leaf cutter ants all over the jungle!

Here they are eating the peel off of a mango. They were fascinating to watch! I could have watched them all day!

You can't tell the size, but this was a huge butterfly!

On our second day off we went to the local zoo! I didn't get many pictures, in fact Anna took this one. But it was so exciting to shake hands with the monkeys! They were so cute!

...And although I didn't take a picture of it, we also saw a (dead) wild sloth. Poor guy!

If you missed it, check out my last post: In the Jungle: San Juan, Pucallpa
Next post: Calleria...our trip up the Amazon River!

P.S. Happy 300th post to me!

In the Jungle: San Juan, Pucallpa

2012-01-15T18:05:00.002-05:00

Well, hello blog of mine! Yes, yes...No need to remind me that my last post was over a month ago. Things have been crazy busy around here between Christmas and our trip to the jungle. It's possible I will get pics up from Christmas at some point, but first things first. Jungle pics!!!

On December 26 we boarded a flight for Pucallpa! Since we had been planning this trip for a while, we were all very excited to be on our way. We flew with Mark, Anna and their 3 boys. The rest of our team had ventured out earlier on a bus! As much as I love road trips, we weren't adventurous enough to brave the 18+ hour bus ride through the mountains. I was much happier with our 50 minute flight. The boys did SO well and we arrived safely in Pucallpa around 9:30pm. The shuttle from our hotel picked us up and took us right to Los Gavilanes Hotel.

We spent the first week in San Juan, a community right outside of Pucallpa. Our biggest focus of the trip was to continue building relationships with the church there. Mark and Anna had been previously and our hope is to spend a little more time there in the future. We had split up into groups to make things easier. Mark and Shaun met with the men/leaders; Anna and I met with the women; Haseena worked with the kids and Nancy, Ronald and Jessica were with the young adults.

It was so interesting because most of the people speak Shipibo, a jungle language! So not only was it being translated in my mind from English into Spanish, but then once more in Shipibo. Yikes! It was a little wearing sometimes, but certainly an experience. It's a very neat language to listen to!

Over all it was a great week! Since pictures speak louder than words, I will post lots of pics so you can see for yourself :) Enjoy!

On our way!

Kaleb's first flight!

Joely didn't last long :)

First team dinner together (minus Anna and the boys)

View from our hotel room.

The church in San Juan.

Shaun and Mark meeting with the men for the first time.

Praying for a woman with severe arthritis.

Me with some of the kids.

Our women's group was so much fun. They were very interested and participated in everything. Here Rosa is translating for Anna.

We used a seed to define our relationship with God. When a seed is planted, it starts to grow roots. The roots signify the depth of our relationship. But sometimes we come across "stones" or obstacles. One day we focused on the obstacles. Each of the women took a paper "stone" and drew what their obstacles were. We talked about how to overcome those obstacles in order to continue growing deep. The next day we talked about the "fruit" of our relationship. Each woman took a paper "fruit" and drew about the good fruits that are grown from a healthy relationship with God. It sounds very simple, but the women really connected with it!

Drawing.

Sharing.

The completed plant!

Rain clouds! A beautiful site for those of us who live in Lima where it NEVER rains! It rained many days in Pucallpa and we were very excited!

Enjoying the refreshing rain! If you notice behind her, it looks like a river..but it was only the platform outside of the church that was flooded from so much rain!

I love this picture for 2 reasons...1) the men are all very focused on what's being said. 2) Look to the far left. Shaun's "writing board" is a table hung in a tree!

This is Nancy. She is driving a mototaxi for the first time. I was in the back...Praying.

Traditional Jungle Dress.

Coming up...More pictures from Pucallpa and our trip up the Amazon River to Calleria!

Coca-Cola Cake: Pinterest Recipe!

2011-12-13T09:00:00.000-05:00

I know I say it every time I post about it...but I really, really love Pinterest! Here are the step by step instructions {and pictures} for a new recipe I tried over the weekend and looooved!

Coca-Cola Cake
{I know it sounds...interesting. But you don't even taste the coke! It just gives it a little something different/sweet/fluffy}

Cake Ingredients:2 Cups flour2 Cups white sugar1/2 tsp salt
1tsp baking powder
1/2 tsp cinnamon
1 cup butter
1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1 cup coca-cola
1/2 cup buttermilk2 eggs

1 tsp vanilla extract

Icing Ingredients:
1/2 cup butter
1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1/2 cup coca cola
4 cups powdered sugar

1) Preheat oven to 350 degrees and grease cake pan.
{Recipe suggested 9x13 but I don't have one so I used 2 smaller pans and evenly split the mix}

2) Mix together in large bowl:

2 Cups flour

2 Cups white sugar

1/2 tsp salt

1 tsp baking powder

1/2 tsp cinnamon

3.) In a saucepan, over medium high heat, stir together the following ingredients until it boils:

1 cup butter

1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder

1 cup coca-cola

1/2 cup buttermilk
{I didn't have buttermilk. For each cup of buttermilk needed mix 1 Tbsp white vinegar with regular milk. Let it sit for at least 10 minutes before using in recipe.}

4.) Take boiling mix off heat and add to the dry flour mix.
**Careful! It will be hot!

5.) Whisk until combined.

6.) Add and mix well:

2 eggs

1 tsp vanilla extract

7.) Pour mix into pan. Bake at 350 degrees for 30 minutes.
{It’s a quick bake. Don’t over-do it!}

8.) When cake is nearly done make the icing by mixing in medium saucepan until it boils:
1/2 cup butter
1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1/2 cup coca cola

9.) Remove from heat and slowly stir in 4 cups of powdered sugar until nice and smooth.

10.) Once cake is done and out of oven (a toothpick should come out clean), pour the warm icing right over the top of the hot cake.

11.) Wait several minutes for the icing to set and the cake to cool.**The icing will look too runny. Be patient!!!! It will set.

You're silly if you think I waited for it to set before I tried it ;) {Just don't try too much or the icing will run into the pan. Oops!}

12.) Enjoy warm or wait until cool!

*You can also microwave to reheat.

**Warning: This cake WILL go fast! Make sure you set a piece aside for yourself.

:) ENJOY!!!!!

Christmas Party #1.

2011-12-12T09:00:00.004-05:00

Our first Christmas party was a huge success! This was our combined community party for Pacifico and Los Cedros. We had over 100 in attendance! We have been planning for a while, so it's a little strange that it is over. The party was at a restaurant and included a Nativity play, lots of food and gifts for all of the children. It was very exciting and we loved blessing them and seeing their smiles. Here are a few pics from the day.

The Nativity Play

"Mi Burrito Sabanero" A traditional Christmas song.

Shaun, my husband, was the STAR of the play...literally :)

Everyone laughed when he came in!

I love the sheep being held up by Mark...It's the little things.

Handsome Kings.

Beautiful Angels.

Noche de Paz {Silent Night}

The costumes were so cute! Even the adults wanted to play with them!

It was a full house!

Haseena and Silvana ready to pass out gifts.

Forgive our tired looks. It had been a long {but great} day!

You can see all of the pictures HERE. Next week is our HUGE Christmas outreach! We are expecting about 800 children and their parents. Please pray for us as we prepare this week!

Called To Peru- Website Update!

2011-12-07T10:59:00.000-05:00

Our ministry website has been completely revamped! We are so thankful for Elisenda {Overlooked Photography} who took our pictures in California and for Jose and Katty, our friends here in Peru who did the web design. We are surrounded and blessed by many talented people!

Please head on over and click around! Don't forget to sign up for the email newsletter {on the front page} to receive monthly updates and videos and read the Blog for our latest updates on our Christmas outreach! Lots of exciting things happening here in Peru!

Called To Peru: Nov/Dec Newsletter!

2011-12-02T21:57:00.003-05:00

It's here! Our November/December Newsletter! Below is the video but you can also find the newsletter HERE. There are SO many exciting things happening here in Peru! But I won't spoil them for you. Watch the video to find out :) Enjoy!!!

November Newsletter from CalledtoPeru on Vimeo.

To read more about the Christmas Outreach check out our Blog!

San Genaro 2 {The site of our Christmas Ministry}

If you're interested in receiving our monthly newsletter by email, you can sign up on our website! Just scroll down to the bottom of the main page and enter your email address! {Your information is for our personal use only. We never give others email addresses to any third party.} You can also find us on Facebook and Twitter!

Happy Weekend!

Thanksgiving 2011.

2011-11-25T09:30:00.001-05:00

Happy Thanksgiving!!! Or as we say here in Peru, "Feliz Dia de Acción de Gracia!" Now, obviously, Thanksgiving is an American holiday, but our teammates were amazing and celebrated with us! We had a very international Thanksgiving where America, England, Peru and Canada were all represented! It was very exciting and a special way to spend Thanksgiving...and of course, I took a ton of pics!

The preparations started on Wednesday. My friend, Nancy {who is also a missionary from Texas} and I made a REAL Homemade pumpkin pie! They don't have canned pumpkin pie filling here in Peru, but I just happened to have the perfect size pumpkin sitting on my coffee table!

I made my first homemade crust! If you ever need to roll out dough and don't have a roller, just grab the nearest hairspray bottle and cover in saran wrap!

I found this braided crust idea on Pinterest! I thought it added SO much to the pie!

We got a huge Turkey, and I prepped it on Wednesday. Imagine my surprise when I stuck my hand inside and found the head and feet. GROSS!

Our Thanksgiving morning preparations!

On the calendar at Mark and Anna's house!

Shaun and Ronald carving the turkey!

Yum!

Joel and Daniel made several decorations,

A Thanksgiving boat as the centerpiece!

I made everyone a sheet, and we all wrote things we were thankful for about each of our teammates. I wasn't sure if anyone was interested, but EVERYONE participated and it worked SO well! I felt so encouraged by my page! I think we will use this idea in the future!

Daniel wanted his in English as well :)

Love these boys!

Then it was time for the amazing feast! Our entire meal consisted of: Turkey, mashed potatoes, green beans, corn casserole, sweet potatoes, stuffing, corn on the cob and bread! For dessert: Pumpkin pie, apple crisp, custard and ice cream!

Loving the meal!

We also took turns going around the table and giving thanks. Very special :)

Finishing touches on the pumpkin pie!

SO pretty!

And SO delicious! We were really proud of ourselves!

Joel approves!

The giving thanks continued after lunch.

I love this picture. The sun came in just right when and illuminated the marker colors. Glowing words of thanks :)

I was SO encouraged by how full everyone's pages were! We have an amazing team and there is so much love for each other!

Angela helping Zoe write her thanks.

My Thanksgiving hair :) Thanks to Pinterest, of course!

Happy Thanksgiving from Peru!

Cinnamon Roll Cake.

2011-11-19T00:11:00.004-05:00

I've always wanted to do a post where I've taken pictures of the process and I've finally done it. I found this recipe on Pintrest and I was so excited that I had all of the ingredients so I made it right away! So here is the recipe and process for Cinnamon Roll Cake!

Cake:
3 cups flour
1/4 tsp salt
1 cup sugar
4 tsp baking powder
1 1/2 cups milk
2 eggs
2 tsp vanilla
1/2 cups butter {melted}

Topping:
1 cup butter {softened}
1 cup brown sugar
2 Tbsp flour
1 Tbsp cinnamon

Glaze:
2 cups powdered sugar
5 Tbsp milk
1 tsp vanilla

Mix everything together except for the butter.

Slowly stir in the melted butter.

Pour into a greased 9x13 pan. {I didn't have a 9x13, so I used the biggest pan I had. Since it was more deep than wide I had to turn up the temp a little and cook a little longer}

For the topping, mix all the ingredients together until well combined.

Drop evenly over the batter. {I was a little confused about what this meant, so I just did exactly what it sounded like I was supposed to do...and that was right! So literally drop over the batter!}

Swirl with a knife.

Bake at 350 for 28-32 minutes. {I baked at 375 for 35 min in a deep pan}

Glaze mix.

While warm drizzle the glaze over the cake.

{When you first pour the glaze on, it will look like you made too much, but give it a minute and the cake will soak it right up!}

Eat with a cold glass of milk.

One of the most amazing cakes I have ever made from scratch! So easy to make and so delicious!

Reviewers comments: "This is one of those foods that makes your soul happy!" -Nancy Lane {lol. Nancy requested that she be quoted on my blog.}

ENJOY!!!!!!!!

Imitation.

2011-11-18T08:00:00.002-05:00

A few weeks ago, we were out with Mark and Anna {our teammates} and their boys. We were headed home, and I was listening to Anna and Daniel {4 yrs} in the backseat talking about Worship.

It was such a simple, but sweet conversation especially when Daniel told Anna, “Sometimes I worship God myself! I’m worshiping God already!”

There was a break for a few minutes and then he started singing:

“I love you, God, yes I do!

I’m happy that you made the Universe and everything, like us!

We love you.

I like it that you made the mountains, the seas and the rivers.

We love you, yes we do!

We like everything and I like the colors of the rainbow, apart from pink.

We love you, yes we do!

I see the clouds and sky and sunset.

We love you, yes we do!

I love you God! I love you God! Yes I do!”

My heart was so full in this moment. This was worship! A new song. Pure and honest.

I don’t have children yet, but I am thankful to have such wonderful examples of parents around me. I love that Anna is setting such a beautiful example for her children at a young age. Sometimes it’s easy to think, “Well, kids are kids. I’ll teach them when they’re older.” But have you ever watched or listened to kids? They love to imitate the people around them.

I wonder what would happen, if we were constantly living a life worth imitating? Not just singing songs on Sunday mornings, but living every moment in pure, honest worship. Setting an example of imitation, by imitating Jesus...

"Therefore be imitators of God, as beloved children; and walk in love, just as Christ also loved you and gave Himself up for us, an offering and a sacrifice to God as a fragrant aroma." Eph. 5:1-2

Leaders Retreat.

2011-11-15T10:00:00.002-05:00

This weekend, we had our leaders retreat. Friday evening we had a meeting discussing plans for the future and talking about vision. Then Saturday we spent the entire day hanging out together. Shaun grilled and we had a wonderful lunch, then spontaneously decided to go bowling! Best. Decision. Ever! It was our first time to go bowling since coming to Peru :) {2 years! Too long!} It was so much fun! Here are a few pics of our day:

Hubs doing what he loves...Grilling!

These girls are amazing! and hilarious :)

Sweet Ronald with Baby Kaleb

Waiting for lunch!

Silvana and Kaleb

Kids table!

It got SO quiet as everyone ate. We were a hungry group!

Adorable Zoe!

Lovely Maria Paz!
{That's right...I said lovely! I've been hanging around Mark and Anna too long ;)}

Adore these boys! Joely and Daniel.

Rosa approves of the food!

True to the Peruvian way, we fit all 11 of us in Mark and Anna's car!

Back seat.

Bowling!!! So exciting!

Yeeeea. Thanks, Shaun.

"Shaunie Bear" in Spanish.

We played "Pass Kaleb" as we all took turns bowling.

LOVE this picture! Joely giving Anna a High Five after he scored.

Team 1.

Team 2.

Afterwards we were treated to Ice Cream!

Everyone was super happy!

Mark, Anna and Kaleb.

Sil and Me!

Every day I feel so blessed to be part of this community. I love that we can work with and have fun with our wonderful team! This was a much needed, relaxing weekend for all. Life/work is busy in general but the upcoming holidays will be an especially busy season for our team and we are ready to work together for the Kingdom! Such a blessing!

Happy Birthday, Kynli!

2011-11-15T00:06:00.000-05:00

Today is my beautiful Goddaughter's 1st Birthday!

On November 15, 2010, my best friend, Katie, welcomed her first daughter, Kynli Emma, into the world! When Katie asked me to be Kynli's Godmother, I was overwhelmed and absolutely honored! After I stopped crying, I could not stop smiling!

On November 28 I got to "meet her" for the first time via Skype! It was a very special day!

FINALLY on July 21, 2011 I got to hold her in my arms for the very first time. I loved the way she smiled at me and came right to me. We played together all morning!

And true to our nature, Katie and I took many, many pictures :)

Kynli enjoyed every minute of it!

She's grown so much since then and a few days ago she celebrated her birthday in true Princess fashion!

My Dearest Kynli Emma,

I love you so much! You're so precious and beautiful and I am thankful every day to call you my goddaughter. I am sad that I cannot be around to watch you grow, but Mommy doesn't let me miss any news, big or little! I am excited to see how you grow and change in the coming weeks, months and this year. You are such a joy to those around you. I know that God has such wonderful plans for you and you will brighten the lives of many. Never forget that you are special to me! Happy Birthday little Princess! I love you!

Love, Your proud, proud, proud Godmother!

One Thousand Gifts.

2011-11-14T10:30:00.003-05:00

A few weeks ago I was talking with my friend and teammate Anna. During our conversation she handed me a book. One Thousand Gifts; A dare to live fully right where you are {Ann Voskamp}. I haven't finished it yet, in fact I'm probably only about half way through. But I already have to tell you about this book, so you can pick up a copy and start reading.

I love this book for so many reasons. Ann is a poetic writer. Her words speak straight to my heart. This book is brutal but beautiful. It is challenging me to seek God in new ways. It asks those hard questions and makes me think.

"Life is not an emergency, life is a gift! Just. Slow. Down!!!" -Ann Voskamp, One Thousand Gifts

I also love this book is because I am a list person. I love making them. I love crossing off items. I love completing them. I love everything about lists. But this is no ordinary list. It's a dare. A dare to find beauty in a cruel and dying world. A dare to give thanks...in ALL things. A dare to fall in love with Jesus all over again. To see his character in a way I have never experienced. To put myself aside and bask in the good that He is.

"The only place we need to see before we die is this place of seeing God, here and now." -Ann Voskamp, One Thousand Gifts

This book has completely changed my perspective. I can't help but see life in a new light. Slowly but surely, it's transforming my mind and my heart to see the beauty all around me. To experience true JOY.

"Thanksgiving makes time. Give thanks, slow down time with all of your attention and time multiplies." -Ann Voskamp, One Thousand Gifts

Eucharisteo. It means Thanksgiving...and inside of this word we find Chara or Joy. I'm learning how to find Joy inside of Thanksgiving! It's a process and it's hard. But it's so worth it.

"Every breath is a battle between grudgery and gratitude. Give thanks, and you win JOY!" -Ann Voskamp, One Thousand Gifts

I want to experience the fullness of who God is. I don't want to miss out anymore because of my ungratefulness or a bad attitude.

"The way to give thanks in all things: give thanks in this one small thing. The moments add up." -Ann Voskamp, One Thousand Gifts

I want to give thanks for the gifts God has given me. I want to notice the beauty all around me, in the big things and the small. I desire to know more of Him.

I've started my list of 1,000 things...1,000 gifts. I'm ready to live fully, right where I am. Starting today I will be participating in "Multitudes on Mondays" and sharing some of my list!

Reading, understanding and having a new found joy through this book.
A quiet room in a coffee shop.
A new journal waiting to be filled with thanksgivings and blessings.
An unexpected check. {God's provision}
A Beautiful, sunny, breezy day.
Poolside, reading a book.
Ping Pong with friends
Walking barefoot in soft sand.
"Sometimes I worship God myself! I'm worshiping God already!" -Daniel {4 years old}
Made up songs.
Childlike worship. Honest worship.
Worship in a living room.
Dancing wind.
Packing hats for the very first Krochet Kids Peru shipment.
A clean bathroom, new rug, new shower curtain.
Fluffy pillows.
Having more than enough.
Game night/pizza with the leaders.
Sitting on the roof with coffee, bible and journals.
Rugby sitting at my feet.

I encourage you to join me! What are you thankful for?

A Few Posts Not To Miss!

2011-11-10T23:47:00.000-05:00

Meet Jacque of Krochet Kids Peru! We have the blessing of calling her family because she is also part of our church body. She is a beautiful young woman with a precious 2 year old, Bianca. We would love it if you would pray for her, and the other women of Krochet Kids. Thanks Krochet Kids International for giving these women such a wonderful opportunity to change their lives. This is an amazing video!

A fun post from our teammate Anna: A Sample of What We Eat. She took pictures of our meals for 2 weeks and did a post of what our weekly meals look like. It can get a little crazy living in a community with anywhere from 5-12+ adults around the table.

Post by my husband, Shaun: God is my Insurance Policy.

Another post by Shaun. Jesus Christ: A Walt Disney Production

Have a Happy Weekend!

Krochet Kids Peru LAUNCH!

2011-11-07T15:03:00.002-05:00

{Pics by Krochet Kids International}

The day has finally come! Today is the launch date for the Krochet Kids Peru products! Starting today you can purchase these styles:

The Riley {Grey}

This is one of my favorites because it is so simple and goes with absolutely everything.

The Riley {Gold}

The Riley {Sea Green}

The Dorothy {Green}

The Eisley {Almond}

The Eisley {Black}

It has been so exciting to watch this process unfold. I was at the KKP office today and I felt so proud of the women who have come so far, and will still accomplish so much and especially proud for Blake and Sarah. I can imagine today will forever be a milestone in their journey at KKP! Congrats, guys!

Must Read Blogs!

2011-11-06T23:41:00.000-05:00

Meredith {Moments with Mere} recently tagged me with the Liebster Award. It basically means: dear, sweet, kind, nice, good, beloved, lovely, kindly, pleasant, valued, cute, endearing and welcome. :) Thanks Meredith!

I haven't done one of these in a while, but since I like sharing some of the blogs I read, I thought it would be fun to pass this one along.

Here Are The Award Rules:

{It's given to up and coming bloggers who have less than 200 followers.}

1. Thank the giver and link back to the blogger who gave it to you.
2. Reveal your top five picks and

let them know by leaving a comment on their blog.
3. Copy and paste the award on your blog.

My 5 picks:

1. Katie {This and That from the Tullis'} - My precious best friend and mother of my beautiful goddaughter, Kynli. Katie blogs about being a mom and her wonderful life!

2. Valerie {Saltwater Coke} - Hilarious, beautiful, creative, insightful, unique! Val co-blogs with her sister Ginger. They are quite a pair!

3. Kristin {The Random Ramblings of Kristin} -Kristin is a mom of 4 beautiful children {Between the ages of 4 years and 6 months!} You can imagine the fun they have!

4. Shaun {For Lack of Wood the Fire Goes Out} -My handsome husband! He is such an amazing and passionate writer. God really speaks to him and he loves to share that through his blog.

5. Mark and Anna Burgess {The Burgess Family}- Our new teammates! Another fun way to keep up with the happenings of our community. Mark and Anna have 3 boys, which are awesome! They blog about their adventures as a family of 5 in Peru!

ENJOY!

A Second Chance.

2011-11-04T18:41:00.002-05:00

"Amanda..." I heard his voice before I opened my eyes. "Babe..."I stirred and turned toward him. As I opened my eyes, Shaun was standing over me. "I'm sorry. I was going to let you sleep, but I knew you wouldn't want to miss this. Come see!"

Curiosity got the best of me. I stretched and threw my feet over the side of the bed. I stretched again before putting on my slippers and followed him out into the living room. I saw it before we reached the back door and gasped. "Oh wow!"

As we walked into the backyard only one thing had my attention. A flower...but not just any flower. Literally the most gorgeous, breath taking flower I had ever seen. And here it was, in OUR backyard!

"It's SO beautiful!" I tried not to shout, but it was so exciting! "I knew you would love it." Shaun said. I only had one question..."But, where did it come from?!"

You see, this wasn't a big, beautiful, healthy plant. No, this was a small, sad, ugly, weak little twig of a "plant".

The only reason I had continued to water it, along with the other plants, was because it had a few green leaves on it. So I thought, why not? Maybe it has a chance...I never, ever, EVER thought this single, gorgeous flower would be the result of my half hearted chance.

It just didn't make sense! It didn't belong on that little twig surrounded by ugly leaves. This flower belonged to a full, budding plant with others like it. But there it was. In all of it's beauty.

And in that moment, God was speaking directly to my heart. Hadn't He given me that second chance...and a third, fourth and fifth...How many times had I been the ugly, sad plant. The one that looked like it was about to die. The one everyone else had probably given up on.

But God looked at me, and saw the possibility. How many times have I been revived, have I felt His touch, have I received His refreshing, living water...the one thing I needed to keep going. That has allowed me to not only survive, but to bud, blossom and flourish.

In this moment I was overwhelmed...and all I could do was feel blessed and thankful. That God would not only create something so beautiful and that He would reveal these thoughts, but that He would choose to share this flower with me.

What a wonderful God.

November.

2011-11-03T09:00:00.006-05:00

Does anyone else feel that 2011 has gone by entirely too fast?! This is just crazy!

Well, this week has been eventful and now it's Thursday. Seriously, someone make it all slow down!

Monday morning I went with Mark to hang out with the women at Krochet Kids. This week the whole place was buzzing! November 7 marks the official launch date for the first Peru hats! Blake and Sarah were working fast and furious to tag and package hats so they could get them in the mail to get to the Krochet Kids headquarters before the launch date...I spent several hours that morning helping them and then a few hours on Tuesday morning as well. They did make their deadline and everything is on schedule for November 7th! Congrats guys!!!!

Sarah and I packaging hats!

Monday, late afternoon, was the Light Party, and then Monday evening we had our weekly meeting with our teammates Mark and Anna to discuss team stuff. I know I say it often, but I absolutely love Mark and Anna. They are wonderful friends and such an answer to our prayers! So get used to it because I will be saying it again!

Tuesday, after I helped out with the hats, we had lunch with our team before heading home for a while. Then it was back to Mark and Anna's for our weekly leadership meeting with our entire team. This week we changed things up a bit and ordered in pizza and had a game night! While we were waiting for the pizza to arrive, we played Bananagrams! Oh. my. word. If you have not played this game, I suggest you stop what you are doing, drive to the nearest store and get it! It is fantastic and so much fun for groups! We played in English and in Spanish, which was interesting :)

After we had dinner, we started talking about what game we wanted to play. Someone had suggested poker, but eventually we decided on a new game. I'm not sure exactly what it was called, but basically it's like a Murder Mystery game played with a normal deck of cards. I just HAVE to explain it because it was so much fun, so bear with me...

Queen = assassin

Ace = Detective

Joker = Nurse

Number card = Town People

and one person is the narrator {basically sits out for that round}

Everyone is given a card, then closes their eyes. The narrator can make up a story {Anna was absolutely fantastic at this!} and then asks the Assassin to open their eyes and point to a person to kill. Then they close their eyes. Then the narrator asks the detective to open their eyes and choose a person to investigate. If they point to the murderer, they get a thumbs down {guilty} from the narrator or if that person is innocent, they get a thumbs up. Then they close their eyes and the nurse opens their eyes and chooses a person to heal. If they choose the person that the murderer tried to kill, then that person is still in the game but if not, the person the murderer chose is now dead and cannot talk the rest of the round.

Then everyone opens their eyes and the fun begins. Anyone can make an accusation about anyone...it can be a made up story, or the way a person is reacting or whatever...then after a while there is a vote on who everyone thinks is the assassin. If the towns people choose incorrectly, they kill off an innocent victim, who now cannot talk the rest of the round.

Then everyone closes their eyes, and they begin again...until either the assassin is caught, or everyone else dies and the assassin wins.

It was SO hilarious to play and everyone gets really creative with their stories and accusations! Has anyone else ever heard of this game?! Do you know what it's called? I am definitely going to be teaching this one to family and friends!

Yesterday, hubby and I went to run errands in town. We paid bills then went grocery shopping, you know...that fun adult stuff. {Blah!} Then when we got home I spent most of the afternoon preparing for my message on Sunday. Yep, I'm giving the message on Sunday. *gulp* I'm feeling a lot better about it but still don't prefer any type of public speaking, so I'm a little nervous...then last night was date night :) I love spending alone time with my one and only and am so thankful that we have a weekly date night!

So that brings us to today! I'm in charge of the team lunch and I've decided to make meatloaf, green beans and homemade mashed potatoes for 10 people! This will be a first and I'll be interested to see how it all turns out!

Happy Thursday!

Light Party.

2011-11-02T08:30:00.002-05:00

Monday we hosted "Fiesta de la Luz" or "The Light Party". We wanted to give the kids from Pacifico a safe, but fun, alternative to a Halloween Party. A ministry team came and did games, puppet shows and a theater show and afterwards we gave them treats to take home. It was a great night and we had about 80 people total {moms and kids}.

Batman {Daniel} lets his cape fly in the wind.

Fireman Joely shows off his costume.

Rosa decided Shaun needed a mask...of himself!

A crowd waiting outside while we finished setting up!

Karina and Rosa, two of our leaders.

Here they come!

Ronald and Shaun.

A little Michael Jackson!

Some of the ministry team from Tower of Hope.

Joel got tired of being a Fireman, so Shaun decided he would take over.

*Sigh* I love him. He is going to make a great daddy some day!

Mark thanking the team from Tower of Hope.

...and I am finally caught up on posts I needed to do! Sometimes when I don't post a while, I get so overwhelmed! Now that I'm caught up, I need to remember that feeling and STAY caught up! Ha!

Happy Wednesday! One day closer to the weekend!

Day Off.

2011-11-01T08:30:00.001-05:00

Saturday is our day off, and this weekend our friends {and team mates} Mark and Anna invited us to hang out with their family! We absolutely adore spending time with the Burgess family, and we had a wonderful day together! A picture is worth a thousand words...so here are lots of them :)

Getting our spot set up, and Shaun starting the grill for burgers

Joely wanted to help...{Don't worry, the fire wasn't lit yet. They were just placing charcoal}

Hanging out with sweet Kaleb! {He has on his serious face}

Got a little smile out of him.

Handsome Hubby at the grill! He is a happy man!

Mark and Daniel playing Rugby.

Classic!

Shaun, Daniel, Mark and Daniel passing the ball.

Kaleb has started smiling more and more, and recently started laughing. I get so tickled at him!

Every now and then he laughs so hard that he throws his head back. Adorable!

Our delicious burgers, right off the grill!

Joely is so excited about the pool!

Relaxing.

Shaun and Daniel enjoying the water.

Little frog!

So pretty :) Anna watching the pool fun. She and I let the boys do the swimming while we relaxed and talked.

Both of the boys had awesome towels! Daniel's towel pancho.

Joely's towel suit! He looked like a little gangster!

He even walked away like a gangster!

Ice Cream! Think he likes it?

Eventually, Daniel got tired of ping pong.

We had a fabulous day! Every day we thank God for our team mates and our community! We are so blessed to be where we are, doing what we do!

It's the Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown!

2011-10-31T08:30:00.001-05:00

My precious Haven and Jackson as Charlie Brown and the Great Pumpkin. LOVE IT!

We don't have much planned. Our church is hosting a "Fiesta de Luz" {Light Party} which is an alternative Halloween Party for the kids, so Shaun and I will be going to help in any way we can. Other than that, just a normal day!

Have a safe and Happy Halloween!

Seasons.

2011-10-29T01:02:00.000-05:00

We have been in Peru for 2 years, and I still can't get used to the backwards seasons.

It's Fall in my mind {and on my coffee table!}

...And winter in Colorado!

...but it's spring in Peru! The sun is coming out a little more every day. It was a gorgeous, sunny day today! Wednesday I was outside for a few hours and I have a horrible sunburn on my neck. Ouch! First sunburn of the season! Tomorrow {well, technically today} is our day off and we are spending the day out with our teammates, Mark and Anna. I'm sure to have plenty of pictures :)

Hope you all have a great weekend!

Krochet Kids International: Peru. {KKP}

2011-10-15T14:30:00.003-05:00

Since being back, we have been getting our feet wet in several different areas. One of those has been Krochet Kids International. This is a group that started as an idea between friends in the states, and began it's first program site in Uganda, and now it has moved to Peru!

Our friends, Blake and Sarah Goodfellow, are the Director's in Peru. You should check out their blog! They are an incredible couple and are so passionate about helping change the lives and circumstances of the people of Peru through Krochet Kids! A few weeks ago we also had to privilege to meet Adam, Stewart and Travis, three of the guys behind KKi! {Check them out in the video at the end of this post}. They were visiting Peru to meet the women and see how things were going here in Peru. It was great to meet them and hear more about the heart of Krochet Kids from the guys who had been there from the beginning.

Krochet Kids Peru {KKPeru} began with 5 women, and due to the overwhelming response to the Kickstarter program {video above} they were able to hire 5 more women after a few short weeks! I had to honor of going to the interviews for the second group of women. When I say "interviews" I don't mean we had scheduled times or appointments. Most of these women do not have jobs. It is difficult to find a job that will pay well and fit their needs. Sometimes they will have a few hour job, of cleaning someone else's house, but it is nothing consistent.

One weekday afternoon we walked up the side of the mountain in Pacifico in the middle of the day, knocked on several doors and would be invited to sit on an old, dirty couch. We then explained why we were there: We wanted to see if they were interested in being involved in the program. An opportunity to change their circumstance, to have a consistent job, as well as receive mentoring and discipleship. It was a very humbling experience. I've never been to an interview that was not extremely professional. {Not to say we were not professional about it, but I'm talking about the comparison} Within the week 5 more women were informed that they had been accepted!

Now, every Monday I go and hang out with the women at the KKP site. As they work, I'll talk with them or play with their children. It's not much, but we are building relationships. It is amazing to see that we have been asking God to provide for these families and he has not only heard our prayer, but has responded in a BIG way! The growth in these women has been amazing, and the provisions and obstacles are growing them as they have been blessed! It's so special to see how God worked because each of these women are from our church community, which is so important because we can follow up everything they are learning, with discipleship.

I love seeing their beautiful faces. I love watching them learn and become confident in themselves. I love seeing their progress every week. I love watching the piles of hats grow and grow. I love to see how they have created their own KKP family; how they laugh together and help each other. I love seeing how they are changing. It's a process...but it's happening.

{pic by Blake and Sarah Goodfellow}

Blake and Sarah in Pacifico with the first 5 women of Krochet Kids Peru!

{pic by Blake and Sarah Goodfellow}

Training on the machines.

Training.

Blake and Sarah hosted a party/dinner for the women and their families to welcome them to the program.

SNEAK PEEK Video :)

{pic by Blake and Sarah Goodfellow}

Elizabet, Ana, Jacque, Belen & Luz with their very first hats!

{pic by Blake and Sarah Goodfellow}
I adore this picture. Blake did something to make the women laugh. THIS is what they usually look like :) So full of joy!

Oh! When bringing up the Krochet Kids website, I saw something that caught my eye...They have a weekly post called "Twitpic Tuesday" where they combine several pics from the previous week tagged on Twitter with @Krochet Kids. Well, last Monday I posted this pic:

...and I just happened to notice it featured on the Twitpic Tuesday post :)

See?! :) So fun!

Although we are a very very very small part of KKP, we are thankful to get to know Blake, Sarah and the beautiful women. We are excited about each day in Peru and are so thankful that this is our job.

If you're interested to know more about Krochet Kids International, here are a few links:

Krochet Kids International

Krochet Kids PERU

Krochet Kids Products

Blake and Sarah Goodfellow- Peru Directors

"This is a nationally televised commercial courtesy of Bing. It was first aired during the 17th Annual X Games on July, 28th. It is a condensed version of a video they did on KKi. View the full version here... http://youtu.be/KAO4PJ-RTpo"

Who's Who in Peru!

2011-10-12T19:30:00.006-05:00

Well, we seem to be settling in quite nicely here in Chorrillos. I can't believe tomorrow marks four weeks since I left the states! We have been trying to get the house in order as well as figure out where we fit in on our new team.

I adore our teammates, Mark and Anna. They are like family and we are so thankful for them. I started to write out who everyone is, since I will be talking more and more about them, but it just doesn't work in paragraph form...so here's the list of Who is Who!

The Burgess Family {From the UK}
Mark- Team Leader
Anna - Team Leader
Daniel {4}
Joel {3}
Kaleb {2 months}

The Burgess Family

Currently Living in the Burgess Home:
Sue- Anna's Mom {Visiting from Australia}
Haseena- Team Intern {from the UK}

Living in our home {until Sue leaves}
Lili- Team Leadership {From Lima}
Rosa- Intern {from Pulcapa- Peru Jungle}

Other Leaders:
Ronald- {Lima, Peru}
Angela- {Lima, Peru}
Karina- {Ventanilla, Peru}

So as you can see...we are quite a large and diverse family from all over the world! It's very exciting!
Every day is different and we are enjoying learning about everyone and how we fit in on the team.

Here are a few recent pics:

To give you a visual on any normal day our lunch table will look like this. It was a little overwhelming at first, and now it's just normal and we love it.

My first Sunday back in Peru. Church in Pacifico.
{From Left: Me, Lili, Silvana, Rosa, Haseena}

Shaun preaching in Pacifico.

The guys after church in Pacifico.
{Men from top left: Ronald, Julian {Anna's Dad}, Shaun and Mark}

The girls after church in Pacifico.
{From Left: Silvana, Angela, Haseena, Karina, Me, Paula {far right}}

Mark, Anna, Shaun and I spent an entire day planning for near and future events.

It was an awesome place to work!

Shaun playing with some boys in Pacifico. I love him.

Joel's 3rd birthday. Isn't he ADORABLE?! I love these kids!

Lots of Kids & Lots of Cake!

Daniel {on left} at Joel's party.

Me and Haseena {Team Intern}

Well, with pics this post is longer than I thought it would be, so I will do another post tomorrow on more happenings! Hope you're having a great week!

Twice as much to love, TWO blessings from above!

2011-09-29T16:41:00.002-05:00

HAPPY 2nd BIRTHDAY to my precious niece, Haven Joy and handsome nephew, Jackson Levi!

I cannot believe they are already two! It doesn't seem that long ago that we were waiting for any good new from the NICU. They have changed so much this year and I cannot wait to see how they grow this year.

Skype this morning. They were showing off their birthday presents :) {Sept. 29, 2011}

Pics from their 2nd birthday party {Sept 2, 2011}

Adorable Cupcakes that my sister made. {Thanks to Pintrest!}- {Sept 2, 2011}

Digging in. {Sept 2, 2011}

Haven LOVES cupcakes! {Sept 2, 2011}

Messy face. {Sept 2, 2011}

Yummy! {Sept 2, 2011}

Love that hair! {Sept 2, 2011}

Their birthday sock monkeys! {Sept 2, 2011}

My sweet girl! {Sept 10, 2011}

My handsome boy! {Sept 10, 2011}

Traditional pic :) We might have to sit down next year! {Aug 4, 2011}

Sept 2010

May 2010

The first day they were both home from the hospital! {Oct 2009}

Haven and Jackson,
I fall more in love with you every day and just adore your precious personalities! I knew I would love being an Aunt but could never imagine how much you two would steal my heart away! Happy Birthday my loves! -Aunt Manda

Home Sweet Home, Part 2.

2011-09-23T16:20:00.000-05:00

Well, I have officially been back in Peru for one week. Some days it feels like I just got here, and others it just feels normal. This week has been spent getting our new home in order. I've finally got things where they are supposed to be, and while there is still so much that we need/want to do to the house, we have had several requests for pictures. So I have {reluctantly :)} given in and taken pics...

But before we get to the pics, I wanted to give you a little background on our house, so you can rejoice with us in how the Lord has completely blessed us!

When we started talking about moving to Chorrillos, we really wanted to move into a house. We have only lived in apartments since we got married {6 years ago} and although it seemed a bit crazy being on a missionaries budget, we started praying about a house. If we were going to move again, we wanted it to be to a place where we could bless short term teams, possible interns and Peruvians. We want to be able to open our home and bless others.

We had no idea what we were in for and how God would hear us and answer those prayers.

Several months ago {before we ever started looking at houses} Shaun was in Chorrillos with Mark, one of our team members, and they were driving around so Mark could show him the area/neighborhood. Shaun asked if he knew how much a house would cost to rent, and Mark didn't know. They were in front of a security stand, so they parked in the street and asked the security guard if he knew of any houses for rent in the area, and about how much it would cost to rent. He said, "Actually, this house right behind me is for rent. I don't know how much it is, but here is the number."

Since we weren't sure if we would be moving yet, we waited a few weeks and then called once we knew. The house was still for rent and Monica, the landlord, asked us to meet her the next day. As we walked into the house she turned around and said {in perfect English}, "This is the garage...Oh! Is it OK if I speak in English?" We. were. shocked...and so excited! It is rare, in this area, that people speak English! Turns out, she had gone to school in Washington, and had lived in Texas. Her mom, who owns the house, is currently living in Texas! This is such a huge blessing, because there will be NO miscommunication when it comes to the house and the contract!

So we look at the house, and are so very excited, because it is everything we could have ever wanted in our first home! So we get to the roof, and start talking. We are trying to hide our excitement, and guard our hearts because surely we are about to be disappointed in the price of rent, but as Monica tells us how much rent cost, we just look at each other...Our rent will only be $20 more than the apartment we lived in at the time! {Which believe it or not, is less than a decent 1 bedroom in the states!}

This was our very first time to ever look at a house, and everything fell into place. We were just getting ready to leave for the states, which was perfect because there were a few things that Monica needed to fix or take care of before we could move in. So it was completely ready and when Shaun came back on August 31, he spent the next few days moving into the house!

Our HOME has been the most beautiful blessing! Every day we say how much we love it and how blessed we are to live here. Now, without further ado, here are the pics :) {I will update pics as we are able to make changes.}

Our beautiful home.
{We are less than 2 blocks from our teammates, Mark and Anna's house}

The garage.

Come on in!

Front door {inside}

Half bath and Front Door.

Standing at the front door, looking in.

The glass doors {on the right in the pic above} open up to this little room outside. We don't have a/c or heating, so in the summer we open up this door and it circulates fresh air throughout the house

Dining Room.

My "Welcome Home" flowers from Shaun :)

From the dining room looking into the living room.

Living Room.

Living Room. Here we pray to have several young people and families come watch movies, play video games they love, share life with us and have amazing times of discipleship.

Living Room.

Looking into the Kitchen.

Kitchen {Right side}. A place to cook for those without, with what God has provided for us.

Kitchen {Left side}

My fridge collage!

Kitchen {the door goes outside to courtyard/laundry area}

My favorite new addition. I've always wanted a marker board! {It's the little things!}

Courtyard {Still need to work on the yard.}

Courtyard {Looking into the living room}

The area to the far left is the laundry and the door to the right opens up into an outside bathroom {which is serving as a storage room for the moment}

My hibiscus plant is starting to produce beautiful flowers!

Hall to our bathroom {left door} and bedroom {straight}.

Our bathroom.

My absolute favorite part of the house! My fabulous bathtub! I loooooove taking baths and we didn't have a tub in our apartment for the past 2 years. What is so crazy is my ONE {silly but major} prayer request was to have a bathtub! God answers those crazy prayers too!

Our bedroom.

Our "closet". The house has NO closets at the moment...We are hoping to get some in the future.

Bedroom. Don't laugh at our "curtains". It's very bright in the mornings and we did what we have to do until we can get curtains!

Upstairs...Main hall.

Guest bath

Guest Bedroom #1. Well, room...since there is no bed. Also the only room that isn't mostly finished. Since we don't have closets this is where we are keeping most of our clothes and some boxes we haven't unpacked.

Temporary "closet".

Guest room #2.

Two levels.

We've made the second level our office.

In the office, looking back into the bedroom.

We are EXTREMELY excited about this next part. When we were talking about a house, we really wanted a place where we could host short term teams or long term interns. On the second floor, there is a complete apartment attached to the house! It is still unfinished and currently being used as storage with some things left by the landlord, but we have worked it out that when they do finish it, we will be able to rent it out. Such an answered prayer! In the mean time, the two guest rooms will function as a place for interns to come and stay. We can't wait!

Entry.

Living Room.

Living room/Hall

Bedroom.

Hall into the kitchen.

Living room.

Another very exciting part of the house...The roof! Here, most of the roofs are used for laundry or storage. Ours is completely finished and we will be able to use this space for bible studies, parties and good fellowship!

Covered area. {Future eating space!}

SO much space! We can't wait to see how it will be used!

Our rooftop view of Pacifico {The shanty town on the mountain. One of our ministry sites}. A constant reminder of why we are here, why we are so blessed and what God is doing in Peru.

{Closeup of Pacifico.}

Guitar.

2011-09-21T20:23:00.000-05:00

Two posts in one week! Well, the house is slowly but surely coming together. I will have pics up in the next few days. Until then, I wanted to share a pretty awesome story about how God has answered a prayer of mine.

Several months ago I wrote this:

"I had a guitar once. My grandparents gave it to me when I was about 10. It was a me-sized guitar and pretty gosh darn adorable. They even gave me a book to learn how to play. I’m pretty sure I flipped through it once, and strummed on the guitar a handful of times. Then it sat in the corner of my room. I’m not even sure what ever happened to it.

I wish I had taken the chance to learn. When things were simple, and I had the time…and I actually HAD a guitar.

Recently, I have been feeling more and more, that the Lord has it in His plan for me to learn the guitar. I lead worship, and for the time, I have a band. But it won’t always be that way. I know there will be times when I have the opportunity to lead, and I don’t want to use the excuse, “…but there is no one to play…” I’m good at using excuses. Especially when something puts me in the spotlight. Get me outta there, and quick!

"Trust in the Lord with all of your heart." I’m working on that one. It’s not always easy when it comes to something that makes me uncomfortable.

Then there’s that other thing. The guitar. Being a missionary is awesome, but just going out and buying a guitar is impossible. It’s a good thing that God is God…and if HE is putting that calling in my life, well then it will only be because of HIM that I get a guitar.

Looking forward to seeing how this all works out."

Well, back in July when we had a team down from Texas, I was talking with Shawn, the worship leader, and he asked me if I played guitar. I told him no I didn't have one but I was praying for one, and from across the room someone says, "Well, you have one now." I looked up to see Tony {the pastor} looking back at me and smiling. He said, "Did you just say you needed a guitar?" I shook my head yes and he said, "Today I was in a pastor's conference and I felt the Lord putting on my heart to give away one of my guitars. Now I know who it is for!"

I was shocked...excited but shocked. I almost couldn't believe what he had just said, but as we talked about it more, it slowly sunk in. I was getting a guitar!

So, when I was in the states, I met up with Tony and he hands me the most beautiful guitar I had ever seen! It had belonged to a girl before, but she couldn't take it with her when she moved so she gave it to him. I don't know anything about guitars, but apparently God knew just what I needed because it is SO me!

Now, I just need to learn how to play! I feel incredibly blessed to have this beautiful testimony of God's provision and answered prayer.

Home Sweet Home. {Part 1}

2011-09-17T10:47:00.002-05:00

Well, I have safely made it back to Peru! I traveled all day on Thursday and arrived around 12:30 yesterday morning. I don't have a ton of time to update on my trip to the states {yet} but I wanted to share some exciting news!

Shaun and I got a house! Our very first house in the 6 years we have been married. We are renting, but still, it's our very own space! It's absolutely gorgeous and everything we hoped for in a home. I will be doing another post with more details about the house, but first I want to get it organized. I will be spending the entire day unpacking boxes and putting things in their place. Hopefully I will have enough done to get some pictures taken to share!

Until then, here is a picture:

Isn't it just FABULOUS?! We are SO blessed! I cannot wait to share the story because it is such a huge provision from God! We still cannot believe it!

I know, I know...this is such a teaser! But I just wanted to let you know WHY it will probably be a few more days before I start to post regularly. I have SO much to catch up on!

I hope everyone is doing well. I missed blogging and reading blogs while I was in the states, but our days were so full and way too short! I'll be back around soon!

Week 1-TX/CO

2011-07-30T00:54:00.000-05:00

I can't believe I have been in the states for a week! I would LOVE to do an in depth recap of my week so far, but I haven't had much time to be online...so here it is briefly in pics!

Day 1- Flew into Houston and spent the night with my best friend, Katie! {We haven't seen each other in 2 years!} We ate Olive Garden, which was aaaaamazing! and spent lots of time talking.

The next morning, I finally got to meet my beautiful Goddaughter, Kynli!!! I could seriously eat her up! She is just amazing, and we hit it off right away :) We spent the morning playing, then all went to Cracker Barrel for a delicious pancake breakfast before I flew to Colorado.

I FINALLY got my arms around Haven and Jackson, my niece and nephew! They picked me up at the airport wearing their Peru tshirts :) Here they are holding the flutes I brought them from Peru! What kind of Aunt would I be if I didn't bring them something that made noise?!

I've spent some awesome quality time with my sister, brother-in-law and niece and nephew. Last Saturday we went on a picnic in the park :)

"Cupcakes and Cruisers" in Old Town!

One on One time with my seester!

Some gorgeous sunsets

A few fun girls nights! {PF Changs}

Followed by a hilarious game of "Quelf". Ever heard of it? If not, you should check it out!

Yesterday, we went and picked up Shaun!!!!! We had a fabulous day out, then went to the canyon tonight. I haven't had a chance to upload pics yet, but will soon!

Looking forward to Week 2!!! It's so nice to have Shaun here and We LOVE being in Colorado with our sweet family. It's my goal to post more often, but considering how this week went, it might not be as often as I would like...Stay tuned!

P.S. In 7 minutes it will be my birthday {on Saturday}! Looking forward to seeing what 26 has in store for me! I can't believe I am now closer to 30 than 20....so crazy! Tomorrow we are going to Estes Park for the day!! Excited to spend my birthday with family and friends in a new place!

4 Hours!

2011-07-19T23:11:00.001-05:00

I know, I know...it's been 3 weeks since I last updated. We have been so busy! We had a team come in from Texas {one day I will post pics}...and life in general has been super exciting and crazy!

More on that later...but for now I only have one thing to say. 4 HOURS! That's right! In 4 hours I will be waking up to a new day, taking a shower, throwing a few things into my packed bag and jumping on a plane to the US of A!!!!!!!!! Well, first to Panama, then to Mexico City, but after a 12 hour travel day I will finally arrive in TEXAS!!!!!!

So this is my last blog from Peru for a while! My hope is to blog all the way through our 2 month trip!!! See you on the other side!!!

Turn the Page. {Bullet Style}

2011-07-01T11:28:00.000-05:00

I walked past my calendar this morning and realized I needed to turn to JULY!?!? What is happening? Where is this year going in such a hurry?! Seriously, does anyone else feel like this?!
That's a lot of ?'s and !'s
Happy Friday! Do a little Friday dance! Don't be shy!
Happy July!
July = I will be in the states THIS month! fneifonweifheowguhdjkfgheugfke!!!!!!!!!!
In one week we have a team coming from Texas! Looking forward to finally meeting some people we have been in contact with for a few months and seeing what God has in store for them here.
I'm pretty sure I have an ear infection :( Yesterday I noticed a dull ache in my right ear and by the time we left for church last night it was a full on constant pain. So much that it feels like I have charlie horse in my jaw!! Ouch! I reeeeally don't want to go to the Dr. Then again I really don't want it to get any worse. I already had enough trouble sleeping last night. Blah. Thank goodness for coffee!
Speaking of coffee...If you ever run out of creamer AND sugar...Just use ice cream! Works like a charm :)
Did I mention I leave for the states this month?! :) :) :)

Ok, enough with the random thoughts. Things to do! Have a fabulous day!

Wedding Weekend.

2011-06-27T13:26:00.000-05:00

I am well overdue for an update. Things are moving right along here in Peru, and now it's only 23 days until I leave for the states. Crazy! I know I should backtrack, but it's been so long since I updated that I feel a little overwhelmed. So I will just start with this weekend and move forward...

We went to our second Peruvian wedding on Saturday. It was fun and special. I was invited to sing!!! It was my first time to sing at a wedding, and actually my first time to sing outside of the church...{which happens to be #91 on my Project Zero list {that I need to update} oops!} It was a great night. Shaun and I snuck out around 11pm, because there was still SO much going on and I had to sing at church in the morning...the wedding was outside and I was freezing and already starting to lose my voice. We were glad we left when we did because the activities went on until 2am! Soooo Peruvian :) Here are a few pics:

Not a very good pic, but it was the only one I got of my whole outfit.

I was SO PROUD because I am usually not creative at all, but I did my hair all by myself, and it stayed put all night!

My handsome wedding date!

The beautiful bride and groom

Vows.

Mr and Mrs!

The wedding was in someone's backyard! SO gorgeous!

Singing for the bride and groom :)

Yesterday was our 6 YEAR wedding anniversary! I wanted to do a post yesterday, but we were too busy hanging out together and I didn't want to sit at my computer so it could wait :) It was pretty low-key but very us! We went to church, and then we had lunch at SUBWAY!!!!! We wanted something American and Subway is pretty new here in Peru, so we were really excited about it. Then we walked around one of the upper class malls before going to the Inca Market. We bought gifts for when we go to the states {nothing says Happy Anniversary like spending money on other people- ha!} but we had fun. Then we came home and crashed on the couches for the night and watched some movies. We are both home bodies and loved our perfect evening. Really, the entire day was perfect :)

6 years!!!! I put it in perspective like this. If we had a baby the first year we were married, we would have a 6 year old child about to go into 1st grade. That blew both of our minds! LOL! I can't believe we are working on year 7! I adore my husband and I'm looking forward to many more years together!

Love him more everyday!

Woohooooo!!!!!!!!!!

29.

2011-06-20T14:46:00.000-05:00

Absolute craziness!

Happy Daddy's Day!

2011-06-18T21:00:00.005-05:00

If you know anything about me, you know I am a Daddy's girl. Growing up I did everything with my Dad! My favorite memories...Fishing. My daddy taught me how to fish and we loved to go together. He has always been there for me. I am so blessed to be his daughter and could not have asked for a more special father in my life.

I absolutely adore my Dad and miss him terribly every day. {Can't wait to see him in August!} I don't have any pics from when I was little on my computer, but here are a few I do have... {Edit...Thanks to my sister, I now have a younger pics!}

Classic Me.

High School Prom

College Football Game. Yep, he is that dad. The one who paints his hair {and his eyebrows}. I love that about him!

The day I picked out my wedding dress. It was his favorite :) {Mine too}

Walking me down the aisle

Giving me away

Dancing together at our Texas wedding reception. {The day before Shaun and I moved to MD}

LOL!

They say I got my Daddy's good looks. What do you think?

Happy Father's Day, Daddy! I love you!

-Always Your Fish Girl <*(((><

And...a Happy Father's Day to the most amazing Father-In-Law! I sure do love you, Dad Wissmann! Thanks for claiming me as your own {and only} daughter :)

Meeting Jayden!

2011-06-10T16:01:00.000-05:00

Yesterday we went back up to the hospital to meet Baby Jayden! He was asleep when we got there, so we just talked with our friends for a bit, but he finally started stirring, so Mayra let me pick him up :) He is such a doll! He was so good, and just nuzzled himself into my arms and fell asleep the whole time. We stayed long enough to help them check out, which was a much different process than the states, but we saw them off. It was great to spend time with them again, and of course, to hold sweet little Jayden!

Precious baby boy!

Doesn't he look like he's smiling?! I was taken with him for sure :)

Credit Score.

2011-06-10T15:57:00.000-05:00

A long, long time ago...ok fine, not that long ago...when I went to college, I took out a loan for financial aid. I registered for my classes, bought my books, set up my dorm room and was ready for my first semester. I had absolutely no idea what I was doing, but I was determined to figure it out along the way.
The semester came and went. I didn't finish college at the time, so the loan payments came like a flood. Ouch! Ouch! Ouch! So THIS is what it felt like to be an adult. Someone take me back to second grade. Pretty please?! About that same time I moved, not once, but twice and my mail started stacking up, somewhere other than my mailbox.

Somewhere there was some miscommunication about deferments, payments, etc. I thought I was talking to the right people, but they turned out to be the wrong people...so guess what happened. When I thought I was in the clear for putting a hold on payments, the loan company thought I was just being an irresponsible "adult wannabe". If you know anything about loans, you know they don't give you any second chances. I found out the hard way.

My credit was ruined for a really, really long time. Talk about bad timing, when my husband and I were first married and trying to buy a car. That was a process and a pain. I figured out then what a credit score was, and how important it really was in the long run. No one had ever told me these things!

Since my miserable experience, there has been a lot more talk about credit scores, and companies are making it easier to know what yours is by offering a free credit score. Guess my timing was just off, huh? Good to know others will be informed on how to take care of themselves and their families for the future. Do yourselves a favor and be in the know!