A "Where were you when.." moment

three N. Americans, two Argentines and a Cuban

When my friend Kathryn was in Italy in 2006, I could hardly imagine her delight when the country took home the World Cup. She had told me about wearing the flag as a giant cape and going through the city streets enjoying the celebration.

Then in 2010, at the prospect of going to Argentina, having never paid much attention to soccer in the first place, I began to do some "research". I think that was when I first fell in love with Messi.

shameless

Now, there is something in the air, and it's one of those things worth remembering.

First game, I had to take the pre-teens to their respective homes before I could join some friends (first pic) for the game. What a difference in the quantity of cars in the streets before and after the starting whistle! I'm pretty sure the only people outside of their abodes were female. I had even passed one home where they placed their tv outside and all of their neighbors were gathered around.

I missed the first goal, but I almost feel like it didn't count any way since it was assisted by the other team.

Then you have to remember the half-time choripans. Only in Argentina... :P

My mom's surprise visit left us to watch the next game in the hotel. I caught the goal (go Messi!!) while hanging out with mom and a German friend.

just two hinchas in love with some Argentines. hehe

The next game, accompanied by one more North American, one Argentine and two English folk, was the crazy back-to-back scoring where we gals were actually in the kitchen most of the time missing the action.

Then I watched the US game with Andrea and we just talked about other stuff the whole time. I'm telling you, my attention rate to fútbol increases exponentially by the presence of Lionel. Así es...

The Argentina-Switzerland game I got to watch with a good friend in her home. We about had hard attacks when Angel Di Maria (assisted by Messi!) finally got the goal. The announcer went nuts, talking about the spaghetti, the thumb and the pope. Perhaps I should clarify:

Pulgar - Thumb - nickname for Messi
Fideo - Spaghetti - nickname for Di Maria
The pope is the pope.
For other future reference, Pipa is the nickname for Higuaín...

On with the show because today, July 9th, marks Argentina's independence. Today, Argentina played a grueling match against Holland that ended with a fantastic team effort. While everyone in the back of their mind had a nervous feeling about the game with the ugly 7-1 German win over Brazil in home territory yesterday, they were excited to see the team coming together. And yes, the goal by the Pipa should have counted!

No one likes penalties, but Romero (which also happens to be a fantastic last name) was a boss. Cristian showed a new side tonight as well, driving us around the small town, yelling the Argentina cheer. Everyone was honking and waving flags as they made a circle of cars around the town plaza. I couldn't stop smiling and hoping for the best this Sunday.

A rematch against the Germans who stopped Argentina 4-1 back in 2010. It will be a tough game, that's for sure!

Vamo vamo, Argentina

Vamo vamo, a ganar!!!

Que esta barra quilombera

No te deja no te deja alentar!!!!!

7-month Fiance Visa process in FF

(written to give you an idea of what has always been at the back of my mind for these past months, as well as trying to help anyone involved in the process themselves. Note: this is a case that took place in Argentina, 2013-2014.)

In November 2013, I sent what is called the I-129F to the Dallas Lockbox (which just so happens to be located in my hometown). They received it and sent me a message saying that they would send that to the National Visa Center pending acceptance.

Included in the packet:
- cover letter
- check to cover cost of submission
- I-129F filled out
- G-325A filled out for Cristian and for me
- passport style photos of each of us (in a ziplock bag stapled to a piece of paper. labeled.)
- my birth certificate
- signed and dated letters of our intent to marry
- proof of having met
- proof of ongoing relationship

Proof means a plethora of receipts and photos and knick knacks (photo copies because they keep it) that show we spent time together on a regular basis. My first set of proof included a short list of items on a piece of paper and following that list the different items (again, photos, movie stubs, receipts, etc.).

Also, there is an option that allows you to receive notification via email as to when paperwork has been received. It is free and helpful!

Two weeks later, they had sent the dreaded RFE, or Request for Further Information. In one sense, it is dreaded because it requires more work. As I always like to look on the bright side, I was thankful that they didn't straight up reject us, and were giving us another chance. Plus, they sent it with about two months time to gather as much evidence as possible. Very helpful.

UNIQUE TO OUR CIRCUMSTANCE, but something to consider, is the mail system. Sending in the I-129F, I used the general postal service available to the country. Due to exchange rates (and not being on a deadline), I paid the equivalent of 15 dollars to send these important documents to the correct office, and it arrived in about three weeks. For the RFE, which is on a deadline, I sent through FedEx to guarantee its safe arrival.

The return messages were the downfall. While technically, the RFE was sent to me two weeks later, it did not arrive until 4 or 5 weeks had passed. "Or", because I happened to have been on vacation with my boyfriend when it finally made its way to my Argentine home. In addition, the rain had seeped through the poorly made mailbox and let's just say I used a hair dryer to get me out of that mess.

Moral of the story, what is your courier situation? If you are applying for your fiance while overseas, maybe the return address should be to someone you trust in the States who can send you the needed information must faster (the original RFE had to be included in the packet). Some information, as noted, is sent to email, but not all!

Now to the RFE. The RFE packet included:
- original RFE (made a copy for my records!)
- cover letter
- clearer information on circumstance of our meeting
- clearer information on on-going relationship
- subsequent proof

While the I-129F included a list of about 10 things as proof of our relationship, the RFE included 9 proofs from the meet cute alone, then 41 proofs of our on-going relationship. There were maps, credit card invoices (with a description of each purchase), more pictures (and this time with his family!), receipts, bus tickets, blogposts (practically like a diary!), and memorabilia from a conference we went to. Putting these in chronological order, labeling them well, highlighting the most important info (dates, proof that we were together in the circumstance described, etc.) took plenty of time. Not to mention, I made three copies of everything.

1 for the government, 1 for me, 1 for my (at this time) fiance.

Anything in Spanish was translated by a friend who majored as a translator, since I was not allowed to do them myself. She signed and dated all of the translations.

My debacle was due to the fact that I officially received the RFE after vacation; a mere two weeks before it was due!! Hence the further need for FedEx to get it there on time! Then, since you are given what is called a WAC number, you can daily check online for the status within the office.

In only 4 days, we were accepted!!!! In 3 weeks, we received the email about the next list of things to send, this time, to the embassy. In about 6 weeks, I finally received the letter explaining the acceptance. See what I mean about courier issues??

Thankfully, I had told Cristian about all of the vaccinations he would need and he had started all of this in October-November 2013. Our acceptance would last 4 months, or until June 27th, meaning the list they asked for would need to be turned in as soon as possible.

This is the list:
- DS-160 online confirmation (not the whole packet, just the confirmation)
- more passport style photos
- fiance's passport (any previous if they exist)
- birth certificate
- any previous marriage certificates/death certificates/divorce certificates
- any military record info
- police records
- court and prison records
- physical exam
- evidence of support
- evidence of relationship (again??)
- fee payment
- translations (this time outside of English or Spanish since it is going to the Embassy within the country)
- DHL registration

Once again, the embassy is really nice in this aspect. They thoroughly explain what they mean by each item on the list. Special notes include the need to legalize any official document (such as birth certificates or police records), so please include time to getting those signatures. Take note of how long a police record last. Some last for a year, some 30 days, and in our case, only 5 days. Passport style photos need to be current (don't send the same ones as for the I-129F).

MOST IMPORTANT!!!! Support and the physical exam. Let's go with support. Make sure you send in the document they ask for. There are two affidavits of support out there. One is for the visa process, one is for if and when the person already in the US wants to work. Include the bank letters, perhaps a letter from the employer stating how much one makes, life insurance policies (if necessary), W2s and the previous year's tax forms. Check the percentage of how much money will be needed to support the incoming visitor!

The physical exam. Will cost a little more money (as well as the fee.. woohoo... sarcasm..), and there are designated doctors for this kind of work. It will probably take a day to take care of this part of the list as there is a chest x-ray, blood tests, and a general look over. We were there from 8am to 3pm. It finishes with a packet that Cristian will have to carry with him on board the plane!

Two days after turning in our documents, we were sent an email of when the interview date would be. Other than the obvious of being on time, they might ask you for a few more documents. Bring a copy of the previous list any way.

Cristian described the interview process (as I was not allowed to accompany him). They get your fingerprints, double check your documents, ask you a few questions (in this case, focusing on how we met), and then hold on to the passport. Approved!

We were waiting for him outside the embassy, across the street. It was such a beautiful moment to yell for him and see him give us the thumbs up!!! We're gonna get married!!!!!

Full of surprises

Due to miscommunication and the long distance, my mom is coming to Buenos Aires for a couple of days. While the reasons (visa related) are unfortunate, I have a personal policy of making the most of our opportunities.

I GET TO SEE MY MOM SOON!!!!!!!

So please pray for the visa, my mom's safety, and our time together. I am sorta excited about getting to show her a little of the gigantic country capitol, Buenos Aires. And the fact that she gets to meet Cristian and his parents is also on the forefront of my mind. Fascinating...

One of a kind

Every day has become a tic mark. I have numbered the days, 99 till I am a Romero(!!!!), and in some ways it helps me make sure I get errands done--gifts for all supporters, check--but in others it has made me weary. Fridays and Saturdays are spent indoors with one or two souls, sharing a meal and maybe a movie. Going out means spending the money that I need to live for the next couple of months during the transition.

And then there are these unique experiences that I do not even know if I could explain them to you. The only other time where I had to get an official visa was when I went to Russia. The company with whom I went, took care of that paperwork. This time, my parents from afar, and I from more or less of a distance, without a lawyer, have to help not one, but three people obtain a visa for the very stringent US of A.

It has been a long process. A relief, that Cristian's parents now have theirs. But now we wait for at least 8 more business days to find out when Cris can have his interview and be given his first and only visa. We are on a clock, as the plane tickets have already been bought, the wedding date set, the approval for the visa lasting only until the end of June. I shouldn't worry, especially when verses like these, appear in my morning devotionals:

Trust in the Lord with all your heart..

The Lord is your security..

The Lord leads with unfailing love and faithfulness...

Nevertheless, I wait. We wait. And waiting, waiting while an entirely new world looks upon us in two short months. English, wedding prep and wedding, honeymoon (what?!), married life, first time on our own apartment, living by the sweat of our brow... culture shock and reverse-culture shock all in one. More paperwork.

This will be a ride, and it will require a new blog. But for now, I make comments on the day to day life in fast forward (and no particular order) mode:

Preaching about Michaelangelo and James Dean

Reading about Jesus with the girls in the institute (three weeks left!!)

Birthday party madness with Rocklet pancakes, great friends, Betos and Awkward

Bracelet making (55. my IQ?)

Visa configuring and meeting a woman from Mendoza

Hearing friend's testimonies for the first time

Pre-teens experiencing Jesus

love and chau!

Tranquilo che

And now, a little boring, but important account of the past few days...

Day 44: Saturday I tried to sleep in. Eva and I had watched Memoirs of a Geisha whilst (in her case) crochet-ing and making bracelets. We laughed, cried, enjoyed the beauty of that movie for a calm, popcorn and mate Friday night.

But the world was against my sleeping in. Various groups had gathered for ministries in the morning that I was not apart of this time, so I was awake by 8:30. Bleh!

Worked on a surprise video for the birthday gal Eva. It's gonna be great! Then I met with Ale and two of her sobrinos to watch The Muppets 2. It was pretty good, but not nearly as fun as the first. Well, I might have lost in translation some of the jokes as all kids movies are only in our favorite castellano.

Walked home. Talked with Cristian, later the parents. Bed by 11 (a rarity these days!!).

Day 43: Church in the morning with Laura and her cousin Cami. Then I raced home as I had completely forgotten about the movie with the pre-teens at Mike and Andrea's! Quickly made all the phone calls, ate lunch and went over to set up. It was a fantastic time despite being rushed. The movie, To Save a Life, really hit home to the girls despite the major cultural differences!

Church and home.

Day 42: Trying to do all sorts of odd jobs. A major cleaning of the kitchen. As I was in the kitchen, I then took advantage for lunch:

you have no idea how delicious!

Then there was wrapping up some camp stuff. Putting visa paperwork in order. Sermon preparing. etc. etc.

I am thankful that my computer still works, so I can work and enjoy some good tunes mientras tanto.

love and chau!

How could I possibly..?

Here we go:

Day 58: An incredible day of teaching some important communication skills to our future missionary friends! Watched Downton Abbey surely!

Day 57: Rest to prepare for 3 long days.

Days 56 - Day 54: Said long days. English camp, that to be honest, WAS SO MUCH FUN!!! Here you can watch a glimpse.

Day 53: Rest to get over 3 long days. ha.

Day 52: Team Bible study and team meeting followed by random catch up work such as making bracelets for the wedding, finances and editing.

Day 51: An amazing time to watch our preteen gals have a personal encounter with God. Despite some rain, we enjoyed some away time in the Sierras concluded by silence time to listen to God. And he spoke!!!

oh Dara. jaja

Day 50: Church in the morning where I was once again inspired by some Bible translators. May it never be forgotten that God's word never returns void! Lunch with Laura, Eva and Samuel O. Mentor time and then I got to lead the worship solita on guitar at church!

Day 49: Slept in. Would have loved to meet with Noemí but I forgot to call. Spent some of the afternoon buying supplies for the girls. Then a meeting for CI camp to recall the good, the bad and the ugly... Prayer meeting in the evening.

Day 48: Girls' institute where we read the story of Jesus feeding the 5K and then walking on water within 24 hours! I loved when Talia said, "But how did he do it!?!"Lunch and prep work with Andrea G. Bracelet making with Mariela.

Day 47: Pre-teens Bible study followed by hanging out with Dara till she had to go to school. We are so alike and so dis-similiar at the same time! Nap and then girl's institute. I was going to hang out with Paloma but we moved it to the next day...

Day 46: A weird yet still good morning with one of the newest girls in the institute. We had a deep conversation about her past and how God wants to redeem the ugliness of the abuse she faced. I then quickly went to the center to meet with Paloma, and I realized yet again that we should have spent more time together. Very thankful for her!

More time in the center where I then could go to Laura's where we, plus Ale, did a very secretive thing!! I will share the secret in two weeks, when the work (the gift) is done. But for now...

Day 45: Today. I made it (though sadly too quickly in summary). We had our usual meetings. Except this time I asked the team to spend time sharing why they are thankful for a certain member. It was absolutely beautiful!! Perhaps I was most touched by Eva calling me her sister.

I must say, there are many times in my life where I do not realize things right before my eyes. Another one of those is that eventually, I have to go back to the States. Don't get me wrong, I am very excited. But I am sad about saying goodbye! This life is so amazing!!

love and chau!

It's already May

Well heck. (In my most southern accent possible)

Here I am trying to figure out how time is flying so quickly. It has something to do with trying to fill my days because I have so few left. It has something to do with trying to pass the time for when I see Cristian again. But this fast? Really???

Let's see.. there was Wednesday.. two Wednesday's ago. Pre-teens and girls' institute. The next day a thief tried to rob us. Everything is okay. They caught the guy 15 minutes later and we recovered the few items he had stolen. The main thing is that God protected us and that I stayed inside for the morning.

We had a meeting for the camp that starts this coming Monday. More meetings on Friday morning followed by an amazing motorcycle ride into the Sierras with my friend. I was meeting the rest of the CI team for some rehearsal camp schtuff.

Two AMAZING conversations with CI teammates followed by a two layered pizza created by yours truly for a Bible study prep with Andrea G. A Sunday of some rest before preaching about freedom.

A Monday morning of prep work for this week's OM missionary conference. Evening prayer meeting.

Tuesday, time with the gals reading the story of the Samaritan woman by the well. Then yet another meeting for CI (hey! there's a lot of preparation to do!). Wednesday morning pre-teen Bible study where everyone was absolutely too tired (and drained by the weather) to think. Another afternoon with the gals where we had our bracelet-making session.

What? Now it's May.

On Thursday (yesterday) I had the typical girls' institute time. Karla (1) actually stayed to work on a new invention of mine. Hers turned out very nice! For the afternoon, I was able to give a talk to the 9 participants about creating a support team for the missionary journey. Home. Bed.

Today, early to the conference to give a talk about writing your story. I had specifically mentioned that we shouldn't write lists about our lives. I recognize my hypocrisy. I also recognize that I am late in sending my update letter. This will unfortunately have to do for now. I hope you can understand. There will most definitely be more details at some time or another, because the Lord has been opening a certain person's heart lately!! Stay tuned!

love and chau. (Day 59)

Days 75, 74, 73... a whole heck of a lot of days

Hello blog. It's been a week. And for being so busy you can guess that I am still a little sick, but I will get to that. So here we go...

Day 75: Was a complete blast! Pre-teen Bible study in the morning. Girls' institute bracelet making in the evening. And then.. Mariela and I walked to the shopping mall to watch Captain America 2. We laughed so much together, which is saying a lot because I haven't seen her laugh a lot lately. I was very thankful.

Before I go so quickly past this day, I also want to comment that good conversation with Andrea G was had. We are very grateful for our girls in the pre-teen Bible study and we ask for your prayers for them. Pray for Dara, Aylen and Dalma. Pray for the future leadership of this group!

Day 74: Girls' institute in the morning equalled more bracelet making, and this time, EVERYONE was involved! I worked one-on-one with every gal, and it felt.. well it felt kind of like I had found a rhythm. That was a God moment for sure.

Afterward, Coco and the Greens and I made empanadas together. If all goes well, it will be featured in OM's blog. I'll keep you posted. Literally. hehe

Then I spent the short afternoon cleaning up and packing bags and watching the next tv series. Downton Abbey. And yes, I am hooked.

Stijn was able to take me to the bus terminal where I bought my return ticket and then was on my way to visit Cristian!

Day 73: Arrived in 30 de Agosto. It was cold, but a bear hug from Cristian got the blood flowing again! (too mushy?) I slept a little bit more before I could start the day. We decided to start registering for wedding gifts. Mostly we just soaked in each other's presence as much as possible (yep. more mush. can't help it).

I was also able to present his parents with their gifts--tickets to the States! They were very happy. Unfortunately, the video I took was too big of a file to send to my inbox so we'll see what I can do.

Day 72: (Saturday in case you are wondering) Consisted of house visits. His friend Hector, who goes by Colo (Colorado, for having red hair). My friend Alejandra M. My radio friend Karina. Then a birthday party for his friend Gustavo's son.

Day 71: Family asado as well as a giant Easter egg for me! Happiness in the form of a Milka's white chocolate plus chocolate chips hollow egg.

For the afternoon we had to take care of more business.. the visas that his parents will need in order to be allowed in the States to begin with! Too much computer time if you ask me, but thankfully Cristian had done a lot of prep work beforehand, so it didn't take up as much time as it could have.

Then church, lovely as usual. Then a surprise dinner date with Cristian at a new restaurant in the town. I enjoyed it so much because we finally got some good alone, deep conversation time.

Day 70: A little bittersweet as both Cristian and I knew it was the last day of our weekend together. The good news is we will be very busy in the coming weeks to help keep us distracted. On top of that, thanks to registering, we realized we have less than 150 days till we are together for good!!!!

He is also sweet to allow friend time. His nephew Jeremias came over while I made cupcakes. We watched a movie and then went to design our invitations for our going away party in July. Then we visited Karina and Marcela--both very valuable moments! Dinner with the family of his brother Jose before leaving for Trenque.

Time to go. To tell the truth, I was.. am exhausted. I arrived today, day 69, with one desire.

SLEEP.

From 10am (this after sleeping fairly well on the bus) till 2pm. I have done very little other than watch Downton Abbey and take care of emails. Sometimes the body just needs to stop, pull a GPS ("Recalculating") and then start up again. And seriously, these next three weeks will be done in no time. 21 days which I will aim to be consistent in writing. 21 days which will then put me in the less than 50 days mark.

Well how about that. "Teach me, oh Lord, to count my days..."

love and chau!

Days 79 (again?), 78, 77 and 76

Well hello again..

I am sick. So I have no more excuses for not taking some time to update the blog. At the same time, being sick means I don't have all that much to say (ha). (And don't worry, it's just a head cold that requires lots of rest. And yes.. I have medicine..)

Day 79: Needs to be updated, because a unique turn of events led to a 5 hour session of board games with David, Stijn and Esperanza! We played Jenga and the Spanish version of Yahtzee, and the Dutch version Settlers of Catan. To say the least, it was a most multicultural and hilarious evening.

Day 78: Work in the morning. I wanted to go to church, but I already wasn't feeling well at that point. So I stayed home and caught up on some things. Researched life for teenagers in El Salvador for some English camp activities and let's just say whoa. That country is in major need of prayer for the younger generation! See this website for more information.

Then I had an intense conversation with one of the fathers of our pre-teens. He too, is in need of prayer. He sees his daughters going down a dangerous path and is unsure of what to do. I encouraged him as best as I could, but said that mainly, it is his job to show more affection to them. He had confessed that he can't; I said he has no choice.

Researched what is needed for the paperwork for Cristian for when we enter the States. As well as Marriage License stuff. Say wha--??

Church was lovely, just cold. Thankfully we met in the salon a couple of blocks away as the house is currently under construction. We said goodbye to David, who will be returning to Mexico tomorrow. Waaaaa...

Day 77: Met with... NOEMI!!! Hooray! It had been way too long. We talked about life at the McDonald's on Colon. So fun. Perhaps we will continue to meet as well, which then brings reason as to why I can't meet with the girl's at the institute at this time. God knows.

Lunch with Davicho and the Greens. I broke the meat fast only because he wouldn't be here to cook for us on other days. Delicious stuffed chicken wrapped in bacon. Or panceta, a weaker Argentine version of bacon. Still counts. Homer's mouth would water.

Then the evening off which was probably a good thing. The mucus was coming on strong!

Day 76: Went to the institute in the morning. It's so hard for me to say no to a Bible study with them! We read the story of Jesus' first miracle and I shared about how even if we aren't that important in the grand scheme of the world, we are important to Jesus. BUT.. we have to accept him. The new girl Karla looked with wide eyes. Still need to get her that Bible...

Went home early as my head was aching. I've been mostly in and out of bed. Working on some wedding stuff. Going to buy some Las Leñas fries for dinner! Yum!!

love and chau!

Days 82, 81, 80 and 79

Day 82: (Wednesday) For the morning, we had the pre-teens Bible study where we surprised by such good conversation about being a disciple of Jesus. We had given the girls homework--a few stories from the Bible to read with their moms and to then answer a few questions. To no surprise, only one did the work, but we were still able to work together with the other characters that the students were to read about.

• John the Baptist
• Peter
• Philip

Next week, if all goes well, we will be interviewing the girls as a sort of Susana Giménez show (the Argentine equivalent to Oprah. sort of...) parody.

I spent the in between time looking up songs for the reception of my wedding! One, I get to pick the songs I actually like, thus avoiding Lady Gaga and the Black Eyed Peas. It's pretty great. Two, fun songs like Suit and Tie get stuck in my head for like.. days. I must admit, a fun tune while brushing your teeth!

Then I went to the institute to hang out with Gladys. We worked on a Pinterest inspired project that turned out pretty good for her. Afterwards, just chatting and making a bracelet. The new girl came in every once and awhile, so I taught her the basic bracelet.

For the evening, David, Esperanza and I played a game called Speed Jungle. New. Different. Hilarious. I left early to talk with Cristian, where we finalized some honeymoon plans (woo!). Also received a new charger for my computer so I can happily say that this post comes to you via Spock.

Day 81: For the morning, I had the privilege of being with all the girls as there was a bus strike throughout the entire country. Not just buses within the city, but to and from other cities as well. Bracelets, per usual.

During the afternoon, especially after a few intense days, I rested. I mean, a little bit of work on the English camps, as well as baking a cake for the Friday meeting, and doing laundry.. but a lot less thinking activities. Except for the baking because I went to Andrea G.'s house to do so, and there was a man from OM Sportslink visiting and we all got to talking.. and thinking.. it's a good thing, just that I was a little tired.

Eva and I watched Miranda whilst she knitted and I made, surprise, more bracelets.

Day 80: Once again, REST!!! Cleaning up my room and throwing away a lot of things. Watching silly Jimmy Fallon videos. Figuring out what I will give away. Watching the season finale of Suits. Perhaps I wasn't making the best of this day as I could have, I'll admit. We so rarely have Friday mornings off that I just didn't even know what to do. At least for the evening we had...

For the first time in at least 4 years, a workshop on evangelism. Different team members shared the ways that they feel most comfortable telling others about Jesus. We had a lot of fun (as you can see). Plus, with asado soon after, I think everyone could enjoy themselves.

Day 79: Today. Weird. I am catching up on various activities. It is a day to plan for the wedding, plan for the English camps, and review my lesson plans with the girls in the institute. Nothing too fancy. I'll go for a walk..

The sad news is I finished the book of Numbers. I actually liked it so much I didn't want it to end. Is that crazy?

Well, if anything more exciting happens, I'll keep ya updated! Love and chau!!!!

Days 86, 85, 84, and 83

Day 86: (Saturday) In the morning, I stayed in trying to prepare for the week to come. In the afternoon, I went with Ale (the same from day 85) to see the movie Noé. I have a lot of comments about the movie, and they probably aren't as bad as you think. I thought the movie was well put together, and as I have been saying to all my Spanish-speaking friends, "It had some great theological points, without being theological."

We also had good conversation before and after the film. And of course, I was chocha for the salty popcorn.

When I returned home, I avoided the house due to a womens' meeting. Not that I don't like women, but sometimes I still get overwhelmed with lots of people in the house (see day 83). So I went to visit Andrea G. in order to prepare for out pre-teen Bible study that will take place on day 82. Tomorrow. We are excited about it!

Then I came home to talk with mom for a little over an hour about the wedding. Yay! Then I ate veggie tacos and went to bed.

Day 85: In the morning, I went with a small bunch from OM to share at a church in the sierras of Córdoba about our trip to Anecon. Everyone was pretty tired and unwilling to speak publicly, so I stepped in. It was cool to see faces light up knowing that through their giving to the trip, God could do some pretty special things!

I also talked to the pastor to see if we could talk more one-on-one with the church members to support members of the OM team who need the financial help.

Came home, chatted with Cristian, slept. Then mentor time with Andrea K before coming back to surf the web a bit for cheap wedding ideas. Church. Communion. Phone. Bed.

Day 84: Due to all the crazy changes with the institute, I actually didn't go in this day. A few important house tasks were taken care of before I went to the local school that every once and awhile allows us to share a devotion. It was so cool, friends, because I had a message prepared, and then while I was waiting in the hallway, God put another message on my heart.

While I have heard about this happening before, I've never experienced it personally. But let me tell you, it was a message just for them, and many times I couldn't believe all the Spanish coming out of my mouth! And to think that within this 10 minute devotional time, I related scary movies to Jesus. God has his mysterious ways!

I stayed for a little bit in the center before I took a bus home. When I arrived, I was able to work a little on English camp planning before the prayer meeting we have each Monday evening.

Day 83: To the institute!!! One girl, distracted by homework. Another who stayed in her room. One new girl, and the other actually interested in the stories of the Bible. The other who stays because she has nothing better to do. We read about John the Baptist and Mary finding out she will be the mother of Jesus. There were a couple of interesting questions, but mainly I could see the new girl becoming more attentive as we started to read. She is interested in owning a Bible. She also said that she is from Las Violetas. Hmmm...

I had about 30 min in house before I left for the second of 2 devotionals in the school. I was surprised to see a lot of faces smiling at me and saying, "Aw yeah! You're back!" And this after a straight up talk about why they need to follow Jesus the previous day.

a few even wanted to take a picture! cute!!

This time I talked about Batman and Jesus; an appropriate follow up to scary movie and Jesus. They were much more attentive than usual. On top of that, my old friend Noemí said hi (we will meet up later, Lord willing), and that it was one of the best devotionals they've had. Now that means Jesus was really working because I don't think I realized half the stuff I was saying. So go God!!

Now, I forgot my money for food, but thankfully Marisol served me without even questioning. It's like she already knew I would be coming and in need of food. We had the first team meeting as well, and it was loads of fun. This year will be so challenging for them, but I think it's because there is an important message to be told!

Back to lots of people in the house. They are repairing the septic tank (since there are no sewage systems here). So um.. imagine the smell.. and then add 7 or more people working in the "mud" and on top of that they had to turn off the water. We will be creatively eating food without dishes or cooking for the next couple of days. Who knows about showers :/ oh well...

Any way, home to a raw fruit and vegetable dinner. Not too bad of a gig either I must say. But after a long and happy talk with Cristian, I must say. TIME FOR BED!!!

love and chau!!

Days 90, 89, 88 and 87

The whole, sometimes having a computer and sometimes not throws me off. Pardon my absence!

Day 90 (Tuesday): Taught the girls at the institute a new bracelet which they picked up rather quickly. Afterward, I met with Andrea G to plan the pre-teen Bible study. Then home to do some CI camp work. Then I watched the finale of HIMYM. tear.

Then dinner and bed. I must admit that a lot was accomplished on Tuesday, but it felt very systematic due to the strange changes going on in the institute.

Day 89: In the morning, a relaxing and great question-filled time with the pre-teens. I am thankful for their questions, because it means they are interested in truly knowing God.

For the afternoon, again in the institute, and to my surprise, all the girls were there! If there has been a week that challenges my flexibility, it's this one! So I taught some of the girls how to spell their names in a bracelet, while I played the Jesus film in the background. Gladys mainly paid attention to that, since her self-confidence to learn something new is rather low. Thankfully, the other girls too would comment on the stories about Jesus, so we had good conversation.

I came home to Samuel in the shed, so I asked for his help on an art project that would be simple for Gladys. I have a picture on Facebook of my version. Next week, I will try to post how hers turns out.

Day 88: Thursday morning with the girls again, and once again, all of them were there. This time though, I tried focusing on the Jesus film that we couldn't finish the previous day. There is definitely some spiritual warfare going on for her attention in the film. She kept asking when they were going to crucify Jesus. It's the part she remembers from a Catholic church back home teaching her.

When the later scene about the resurrection past, she was surprised. "Did you know that God is not dead?" I asked her. "Oh yes, of course," she replied.

In the early afternoon, I went to Mariela and Nieves' house. I taught Mariela the new bracelet, then did an interview with Nieves to try and get her talking about what she was doing. Both turned out very well, gracias a Dios, as we could talk about their current struggles.

Then we had a meeting with the group that had gone to Anecon, in order to recap the trip. Good comments and a good talk with David afterward. I am very excited for that kid (since he's still a teenager, after all!). He has a long journey ahead, but it is bound to be a good one!

Neither Eva nor I could sleep last night, so we ended up chatting like middle school girls until 2:30 in the morning. Though I suppose in Argentine time, that isn't so late. We are old. Joking...

Day 87: Team meeting day. We played a game outside in order to spice things up. We talked about a couple of ministries and then prayed for each one. Again, good conversation shared between the 17 persons that could come (a couple of team members can not be a part of the Friday meetings).

Edgardo dropped me off at the terminal so I could buy my ticket to 30 during Easter. I am excited to spend that time with family (or at least soon to be family!). Then I walked to the center to buy supplies for the girls. Then home, stopping to rent Anna Karenina in order to watch with Eva and Ale.

Finished the night technically writing this, but not until after a long conversation with Cristian!

love and chau.

Day 91

Today was what I like to call un lío. As I entered the girls' institute, I could sense said lío coming upon me.

"None of the girls will be there this morning," said one of the workers.

While anger was slowly stirring within me, it was as if a giant hand touched my shoulder. Slow down. Breathe.

This is only a test.

And in the end, I have one less day with the girls, and yet, I have an added opportunity to visit on weekends. So I can't complain. I dunno.

I read the Bible with Gladys. We read a little bit of everything, and I was once again able to share the good news with her. I pray the Spirit really moves in her to understand. We might watch the Jesus film this Wednesday, so who knows?

Worked on various life plans. Don't know any other way to explain that.

Met to talk with Marisol and Marco. Camp season feels like it's coming up so fast!

Home to work on details for camp and then prayer meeting. Now I must get back to chatting with Cristian (he's so fun!). Love and chau!

94 93 92..

Day 95 actually ended on a high note, sharing the evening with my long time police friend, Romina. She has another child now, Latauro, so it was fun to watch him crawl around and run into things. Oh kids, and how I have so much to learn for if and when that time comes to have a couple of my own (what?!).

Day 94: Friday once again, meetings. This week we talked about God's timing. How he often has to help us realize our need for salvation before he can offer it. Then in the meeting with the team as a whole, we caught up on a few ministries as well as talked about evangelism.*

A new volunteer-type came in to see what we're about. Had a good talk, and Lord willing, he will be helping out in the CI Camps!

Then for the evening I stayed home with Eva watching Miranda and chatting about life in general. Icing on the cake in talking with Cristian soon after that. mmhmm

Day 93: Spent my day off cleaning and taking care of various errands. I am trying to plan out all of the Bible studies for the girls in the institute to make sure I cover the bases about Jesus. We need to pray for God's covering over these times together. That the girls can learn, the Holy Spirit can churn.. I'm all out of rhymes. But basically, that Jesus would become real to them!

Andrea G came over and we had a great chat about the future. There is a lot ahead of us, and I am thankful for her friendship to help my mind process all the changes.

During the evening, I prepared some sloppy joes for my friends Ale and Laura. I also wanted to do something special, so I made a little scavenger hunt within the house where they ended up finding the treasure--an alfajor for dessert. hehe. It was fun to make and watch them frantically search for their clues. I don't think one is too old to look for treasure.

Day 92: Sunday. The official day of rest. Although, I still managed to find details to take care of. One thing on my list for today was to better organize the extra sheets and towels that we have for guests. In the middle of this, I found mold growing. Gross. Long story short, I had to add to my list, wash all the guest towels in extra hot water in order to kill the mold.

Later I met with Andrea K who challenged me to live out these last days in Córdoba to the fullest. I told her about the blog and she simply said, "Good." Nevertheless, her motivation is always an extra, and loving push, for me to keep striving for the utmost!

Which meant...

I then shared the gospel with a woman on the street who was outside with her dog. When she saw me, somehow it just naturally flowed to conversation, which naturaly led to Jesus. So yeah. Thanks God!

Aaaaand, I talked on the phone with one of the girls who formally lived in the institute. She promised to come to church next week!

OH.. and I might be preaching that Sunday. Time will tell...

Week of 91-86, here we come!!! Love and chau!

*I have already gotten a couple of comments saying that the meetings are much more interesting this year. I find that this is an important contribution to my service to OM. Please pray with me for someone to continue the format after I am gone.

A lot of catching up to do!

This is life without a computer.

Thankfully, Eva lets me borrow hers every now and then, and currently, I get the joy of playing on Samuel's MacBook Air. Not a bad gig. No worries folks, by April 9th I will be up and running again, Lord willing. In the mean time...

Day 101: Friday meetings. The Bible study was without our leader, so I had to step in. I invited everyone to share what they are reading, and it was neat to hear about what our team is learning from all over the Scripture.

The team meeting was also quite fun, as it was discussion driven over how we should improve the way we welcome new team members. For the evening, I stayed inside with Eva, watching a few episodes of Miranda and preparing for the girl' institute.

Day 100: Cristian would show up for day 100!! He surprised me on this visit, as he has a friend who is also dating someone in Córdoba. So yeah.. free trip. Which we celebrated by going to Aslan's 3rd birthday. It was Mickey Mouse themed, and it was awesome.

Afterward, we went bowling. It was the first time Cristian has ever played a true game! I had to teach him how to roll the ball, and then he beat me. What nerve! Haha. We had a great time.

Day 99: Cristian and I walked to Jesucristo Rey for the morning. The sermon was on nutrition and how we ought to eat better because God has already made things good. We have distorted them with things like cheetos and doughnuts. While I flippantly summarize the meeting as such, it was actually very convicting. Cristian and I continued talking about it all through lunch!

Then we watched Lone Survivor. Read, way too many emotions for one day. Good movie. Tough movie. You'll just have to see it for yourself.

Church in the evening was a get together at one of the church family's home. They ate chorizos; we played mafia like we were in high school again.

Day 98: I went to the girls' institute where we read about Joseph and his coat of many colors, as well as his time with Potiphar's wife. The girls' were able to compare what they had learned about David to Joseph, and distinguish that sins are not only committed against man, but moreso, against God. Fantastic!

For the afternoon, Cristian and I had some visa stuff to do (oh, we had also done a lot of this on Saturday morning). We reviewed all the paperwork that was lacking. Overall, we feel pretty good about it. We just have to wait until May for the last vaccination before we can really move forward. This gives me time to work on his parents' visas so they can come later for the wedding!

Later we had to go to the terminal where we said our bittersweet goodbyes until the next occasion. Still, I can't complain for all the moments we have been able to share together in last few months!

Day 97: Stop time, you are going way too fast!! Ah yes.. institute. A complicated story, but the short of it is I ended up playing with the kiddos the whole time. I think they are really getting used to me! Praise God. Seriously.

Tuesday afternoon was sleep and wedding planning. And perhaps another episode of Miranda. ha.

Day 96: For the morning we were able to officially have our first pre-teen Bible study. We loved it! We being Andrea and myself. The three girls we have prayed for most came, and are excited to continue. We noticed how each of them is at a completely different level of learning, but that they are all interested. Keep praying for Aylen, Dara and Dalma!

Then in the afternoon, I hung out with Gladys and we made a really cool bracelet together. I just love when she goes around showing everyone the things that we have made together.

I was supposed to visit a friend later, but she had to cancel. More wedding planning then!

Day 95: Today. Morning with the kiddos in the institute. I have noticed more and more of the details of their character. I try to bring simple games that we can all play together. At the same time, I try to adapt to their uber short attention spans. I think I will make for a very strange mother some day.

Lunch with the Greens, Laura and Eva. Then I finished reading a fantastic read, Pasión por las almas. Now I am here preparing for tomorrow's meeting(s) and catching up in the old blog. However, I do have some laundry to finish, and other chores to take care of! chau and love!!

Day 103 and 102

On Wednesday, I had to deal with technology issues.


Currently, I write from my friend's computer because on Tuesday evening, the computer, my precious MacBook Pro, died. Which meant Wednesday morning would be very full.


First there was Bible study where none of the girls came. In part to our driver waking up late, and perhaps in part to my phone also being dead (no worries, it's okay, just needed to be recharged). I didn't worry too much either, because I felt like maybe God was protecting me and giving me time to talk it out (and cover other interesting topics) with my fellow Bible study leader and friend, Andrea.


From there, I went to the center to buy a new phone line. We are switching companies because the prices of the one we are with have gotten ridiculous. This seems to be an international phenomenon. The woman at the desk was very helpful nonetheless, even when I told her that I might not be in Argentina for much longer. I asked her how I could suspend my line.


"Just tell them you got robbed," she says, without blinking an eye.


I asked her to write it down on one of the pages of my contract just to make sure I heard her correctly. That's right, ladies and gents, I have written confirmation that I have to lie in order to stop the company from continuing to charge me.


Any way, per usual in the Argentina waiting department, that took over an hour. Then I went to the one of two Apple stores in the city and that are quite small and scarce of merchandise. Nevertheless, the overall Mac feel of the place is genuine. An incredible peace bestowed upon me as I entered the door. Perhaps they had programmed the sound of the computer starting as I opened the door, or maybe I am just hearing things.


Turns out the computer is fine, the charger, however, no longer works. Long story short, I charged my battery with what they had and my only hope for getting a new charger any time soon is from a guy in England. But I promise, it's more legit than saying I got robbed. I will just have to wait a bit, and remember that things could have been much worse!


I had gone to the main office of the cell phone company that has not been helpful over the past year. They wouldn't give me my number to "liberate" the phone in order to put the new chip in it (and it`s the same reason I couldn't just use the phone my dad had given me at the beginning of my journey here). Only the one in charge of the phone lines (my mentor), could get the number.


Came home with just a small enough window to siesta the negative feelings of figuring out phones and computers before going to see Gladys in the institute. We had a lovely time actually. I had bought some more beads, since they seem to really like making this sort of jewelry. And I say 'they' because most of them were home instead of school for various excuses.


Afterwards, my mentor and I worked together to try to fix the phone issue. No avail. Had to wait for an unforeseen time. My chip for the other card just stared at me longingly, 'So much freedom when you use me!' I felt it saying. Once again, I have the tendency of hearing things.


Okay, way too much information for one day, but I figured I will want to read this and laugh about it at a later date. Or cry. Who knows?


Today, day 102 (what?!), was clean house and hang out with Mariela! I got to clean mold that I had found recently, so that was interesting. Super fan of bleach now. And rubber gloves. Eva and I had a nice vegetable and rice meal as she had just returned from her home visit.


OH! Super important. Visa info arrived in my email today! We are yet another step closer to wedding bells!!


Mariela and I were supposed to visit Ale. Yes, that Ale. But when I talked to her one more time to verify our visit, she said she couldn't. Not wanting to waste the opportunity, we decided to go to the movies. It is perhaps better for me to focus on the conversation before and after. I am very concerned for her these days. She has literally nothing to do for now while she waits for Pólice Academy to start in September. I have learned that boredom usually leads to sin. That and other factors in her life, causes me to intercede for her more than I ever have before.


So yes. Good time together, even if the movie was 300. The second one. 302?? Any way..


I came home to a phone that finally let me change chips so all is well again. Ha.


God is good and not just because He fixes technology issues.


love and chau!!

Day 105 and 104

I had the lovely surprise of Esperanza, one of the newest additions to the OM Córdoba team this year, accompany me to the girl's institute yesterday morning. We read the story of David and Bathsheba where we discussed how God is more than willing to forgive us, but we will still live with the consequences of our sin.

The walk back was a talk about the different experiences we've had in the different childrens' homes we've worked in. Fascinating.

Came back to an array of necessaries: English camp prep, cleaning house, wedding planning...

Then in the evening we had the weekly prayer meeting for the needs in the world.

Afterwards, I quickly gathered the bracelet-making materials for the girls for this morning, talked with Cristian, then went to sleep.

Just got back from the institute. We had a fun time, as the gals enjoyed the new "pulsera" look, where they don't necessarily have to work too hard to make the bracelet pretty. Each of them made 2 or 3 in our short time together.

The awkward moment, was seeing one of the other volunteers come for the first time since her vacations. She asked what days I come, and honestly, I thought she was already coming regularly on Wednesday mornings as has been her tradition. Monday and Tuesdays and Thursdays, for the morning, I told her.

With the girls gone for school in the afternoons, I dedicate one afternoon a week to Gladys solo. But even Thursday mornings are just to hang out with the kids and not the gals.

She asked if I would give up one of my mornings. I explained that I already have other plans during the other hours (and thought about what I had just written, that otherwise, it's hard to get the girls all at one time). Is this selfish of me?

I told her that I am leaving in a few months, so she will have more time later. The girls really like her too, so they will have something to look forward to? I dunno.. like I said, it was awkward for me.

Now I am about to meet to prepare for the pre-teens that gets together on Wednesday mornings (yet another planning debacle, as some students have classes in the morning, and others in the afternoon, where they don't arrive until 8pm).

Then Skype. Then planning and hopefully reading!!

love and chau!

Day 107 and 106

Saturday is officially my free day. I was supposed to meet with a friend, but unfortunately, that didn't work out. Nevertheless, I took advantage of the moment to buy certain things for the house. Carrying a few grocery bags home however, proved to be an intolerable task.

Then God blessed me with a woman who offered me a seat on the overcrowded bus. But then, a woman and her child got on board and while I was ready to offer my seat (as is the culturally appropriate, and just straight up nice thing to do), a man stopped me and offered his. I rested comfortably the rest of the way home.

Got to thoroughly clean part of the house that has been abandoned in the past couple months. And as the motto of "Leave things better than how you found them" was repeated several times this week, I felt like it was my way of helping out.

Talked with the parents, then Cristian..

Started watching The Wolf of Wall Street, but as it was way too inappropriate, I switched it off. Some things in life are best left alone. I did read about the protagonist's real life, and it seems the movie was spot on when it comes to his endeavors. "Can't serve God and Mammon," kept coming to mind...

Sleep.

Today, the "good deeds" come to dropping off all the recyclables that have been accumulating in the house as well as paying the latest cell phone bill for everyone. We plan on switching services this week, therefore the earlier to pay off the debt, the better. Oh, and there was washing the house linens.

Why do these details count? On Friday, the team talked about being stewards of our time. The teammate from Belgium talked about how he feels it appropriate to treat the mission work like a job; as if we need to clock in 30 or 40 hours a week in order to be faithful to those who are supporting us. The Argentine teammate talked about her busy schedule being her life, and not compartmentalized for things which are God's time, and things that aren't.

First, let's recognize the cultural differences in the treatment of time between the two. In a sense, both are right. In a sense, there are human fallibilities within them as well.

In the first one, we should consider how much time we are working. But our focus is not our supporters, our focus is God. We need to be faithful to him. At the same time, we are to be people of integrity, and recognize that money is helping us be here in the first place.

Personally, I lean toward the other perspective, but I see how some might take that in the wrong direction. One might give themselves too much personal time (free time), without feeling the urgency for the gospel.

And the final comment is to remember that certain everyday tasks from the States take longer here. Drying clothes depends on the weather. There is no dishwasher. No microwave. No carpet for which to use a vacuum. No car to get you to the shops/ministry locations/etc.

The temptation is to say that one way is better than the other. I even caught an Argentine complaining about "our" way of handling time. Rather, we should look at the advantages and disadvantages of both.

I just got back from mentor time with Andrea. Next comes church. I am continually trying to be fully present in these moments (and not distracted by work, wedding planning, etc.) to best utilize the time here.

love and chau!

Day 108

Most Fridays will consist of the team meetings. I have been allowed to change the format this year, so I guess I can say that that is my contribution to the day. We had a great Bible study in the morning where we talked about man being made in God's image. To which, I responded later in the day by painting this:

I only have three colors...

The idea is that man seems to be (still not 100% on the theology) one half spirit, one half land. God formed him from the dust (land) and then filled him with air (spirit).

Any way, then came the team meeting as previously mentioned. Then I spent time washing house laundry and cleaning house. Found a few things that I could give away and did that.

Personal: watched Suits as well as a couple of episodes of a new favorite, BBC's Miranda.

Went to Mike's bday party where we hung out and played a type of Taboo/Catchphrase. We could never finish because people kept coming and leaving. The cool part was seeing people from the team who hardly come to these types of events, so that also made me happy!

Now I am off to bed. Love and chau!!

Day 109

A full one.

First stop--girls' institute, but this time with the chiquitins as I like to call them. Just me and two of the kiddos, Ian and Valentina, hanging out. On Thursday and Friday mornings they have team meetings and the girls are in another workshop, so they asked if I could be sort of a nanny, minus the diaper changing. I especially appreciated that last part (I can't lie).

But it was a blast! We played all sorts of random games as is the case for 1 and 2 year olds.

Then I went to Andrea Green's house to bake a little for the birthday party for Mike tomorrow. We made the dough for pizza, and I made banana cookies. We also watched a talk about mental illness and talked about what that might look like in a person. I definitely wonder about the spiritual aspect in those cases. I usually end up feeling very small for how little I know and understand of the spiritual realm, so I am glad we could chat about it.

Next came conversations with three of the OM teammates about their plans for the coming year. Each were done one at a time. It's exciting to think about so much potential for the coming year, even though I also know it will be quite the challenge!

I finally arrived home around 7pm. People are always in the house since we share the space with the local church. Can't lie number two when I say that this is a sensitive issue for me sometimes--when is your house ever your house? For example..

However, I looked to the brighter side of things! Since I couldn't cook (the worship team had to practice in the kitchen due to another meeting taking place), I went to Las Leñas to buy some of their delicious french fries with chimichurri! I realized how much I need to take advantage of this place before I leave!! ;)

Any way, the guy at the shop happened to ask how long I have been in Argentina. I told him, and he asked about why. He wondered if I didn't want to be in the United States. I said, "Honestly, I could live in either. I really like it here. But it also has a lot to do with what you feel God calling you to."

Per usual, we were interrupted, but he did smile. So you know.. more reason to stop by and eat those delicious Arabic empanadas once Lent is over!

love and chau!

Day 110

If I've done my math correctly, I am finishing my time with OM in only 110 days. Thinking about this reality (and how, Lord willing, a few more weeks after that, I'm getting married!), I have a new burden for how I want to spend my time.

To the fullest!!!!!

Which means, if I can, I will write down some God moments that have occurred in these final days. Why is it that when we know there's an end, it is then we want to do the most we possibly can? To squeeze out those final juices until there is absolutely no more to give? I dunno. But here I am.

I will start with Day 111.  Nope. Changed my mind.

Day 112: we had our very first Bible study with the girls in the institute!!! We read the story of David and Goliath, all 58 verses, together. It was awesome! They had questions; God helped me with the answers. Or straight up, was the answer to my prayer after so much time. Praise the Lord that we could read His Word together.

Yesterday, Day 111, I made some bracelets with the girls. In doing so, I was able to share the gospel not only with them (2 out of 4), but one of the educators that is there each morning. What I had read in the morning devotional was also the answer to the main question this educator had. Rock!

I was supposed meet with a friend later, but she had to cancel. Instead, we will be not only hanging out, but once again, READING THE BIBLE TOGETHER this Saturday. Please pray for that time.

Also spent a lot of time preparing for the English camps which start in May. Speaking of, my Day 110 has started off with a meeting with the boss of the camps. If everything works out, we may even have a trip to northern Argentina (La Rioja), where we can meet with teachers to encourage them in their work, but also have workshops on the side that would be specifically Jesus-centered!

This afternoon, I will be visiting with Gladys at the institute.

While these are little things that I can be a part of each day, I am trying to be more open to how grand my simple obedience in the greater story of God's redemption for the world really is. We shouldn't wait until we know the end is near to act this way.

God is merciful. At least he helped me recognize this now :)
love and chau!

The things we do for love

I have spent the last two weeks working at least 2 hours each day, preparing the RFE application for the visa for Cristian. This is my translator friend Tania, signing all the English translations she had done for me, since I am not allowed to translate myself. I was so appreciative of her work I wanted to take her out to eat.

She's sick. So I bought her a PowerAde and gave her the anklet that I had made over the summer:

I had liked how it turned out so much that I even took a photo! Just don't ask me to make one for you because they take FOREVER. Okay, maybe if you ask me nicely ;)

All I am saying is, visa paperwork takes time. Be prepared. But as we all know, it will be worth it in the end!!!

love and chau!

Catching up - Radio

Did I mention I had my own radio show? hehe

Things to put on my resume, perhaps, is that I recently was the host of a morning radio show where I gave a brief reflection time from the book of Proverbs.

It started out where I just wanted to make the most of my time while in 30 de Agosto, visiting Cristian. When he would work mornings and late afternoons, that would sometimes leave me at his home with little to do. I mean, I still was working too, preparing for English camp this year, and I had people to visit: Marisol, Teresa, Sole, Alejandra... Nevertheless, there's often something inside that just begs to do something new... and even if this sounds super missionary of me.. there's often something inside that wants to share the Gospel.

It's not always that I feel this way. Trust me, I am rather selfish.

But this time, it was very different. God reminded me of my former interview on the radio station FM Síntonia. Before it was 96.5 however due to new laws, it changed to 89.9. Random fact that I happened to find interesting.

Any who.. God caused Karina (pictured above with her back to ya) and I to cross paths. It seems she might have been reluctant to have me on the radio, but then God settled that matter through a good friend of hers named Marcela. I am going to fast forward to the details you probably care more about:

1. I got to share a little bit out of the Proverbs every day. Minus the last two days. The first of the two days, I shared my testimony. The final day, both Karina and I shared the gospel through the telling of the story of the Prodigal Son.

2. Karina, Marcela, and I fasted together. During that day, Karina and I were able to spend a good time in prayer and let me just say that I was moved. She is so hungry to know God and have her family know Him.

3. I started to get comments from people at church. One woman just smiled and called me beautiful, which made me blush. Another had gone up to Karina saying, "I like the space you've given to the North American girl!" Perhaps my favorite remark though, goes to Cristian's dad. Even if I stuttered a lot, or wasn't very clear (bound to happen), he always congratulated me, "Good word," he would say. "Very good the Word."

I am reminded once again that we should give up our vacation times to God. After all, look how He had used a vacation to get me to 30 de Agosto in the first place? And now I'm engaged. hehe

love and chau!

Work

One of my last days in 30 de Agosto (name of the town, it's not a date), I am sitting with Cristian, and our friends Marcela and her husband. We are drinking mate of course, early in the morning, right after finishing my last broadcast on the local radio (story to come).

"Remember when we were younger," says Marcela's husband. "If we were bored over the summer, we were knocking on doors and asking if we could cut their lawn."

"We would collect cardboard," says Cristian.

He nods and says, "Yes, we would do whatever we could to make just a little bit of money for an ice cream or what have you."

Most likely the latest country project "Progress" is on their minds. While we contemplate, we observe several teenagers on their rollerblades managing over the broken roads. It's a project that says anyone between 18 and 24 years old who didn't finish high school and who doesn't have a job will receive 600AP a month in order to '"work" towards those things (e.g. finishing school, going to university, finding a job).

Go to the ant, you sluggard;

consider its ways and be wise!

It has no commander,

no overseer or ruler,

yet it stores its provisions in summer

and gathers its food at harvest.

The idea is good, in a sense. She sees that there are a lot who need jobs, so she's trying something. However 2 weeks ago, the value of the dollar went from 1:6 to 1:8 in a matter of two days. Since then there has been a "lío" (read, ridonkulous chaos) in all the supermarkets as well as anything related to gasoline. All prices going up, up, up.

Before said chaos, there was tremendous controversy over the head director of taxation (I'm not so great with titles) spending lots of money for a vacation where he met up with some suspect folk. He denied, denied, denied.

And maybe you remember the police strike in 19 out of 23 provinces where all of the police demanded higher pay?

To clarify, I'm all for police making money; I most definitely appreciate their protection*. I'm a little suspect for the other issues. What I'm attempting to express is that I think this country has been leaning toward the side of lazy much more than toward the side of hard work.

How long will you lie there, you sluggard?

When will you get up from your sleep?

A little sleep, a little slumber,

a little folding of the hands to rest--

and poverty will come on you like a thief

and scarcity like an armed man.

One student argued that you couldn't even rent an apartment for 600AP. And now, with the rising prices of.. everything.. we doubt you could do much else. Others say that this group of young "adults" will probably just find a way to take the money and run. They will get the proper signatures, do the bare minimum, but stay at home with their parents and their "earnings."

"No one goes around cutting grass anymore," the man said. 

"And it's a struggle to convince my brother to work," says Cristian.

Marcela adds, "And don't forget how much they pay you to have kids."

She is referring to how the government will pay teenage mothers for their "troubles."

I sip my mate and think. I'm not from here, so I mostly observe and internally reflect. While I have never cut grass in my life, I think I can say that I have worked. From refereeing/coaching, tutoring, selling theater tickets, typing while one dictates a book, watching over children (please don't ask me to do this), youth ministering, stocking boxes, selling books, selling bracelets, teaching English, etc. etc. I have done, and still do my share of time.

If you want work, you make it happen.

If you want to be poor, keep sitting. But here, it doesn't seem to be all that true.

I am so impressed by Cristian because of his willingness to work. He has been saving for several months now for the very expensive plane ticket to get him to the States. He makes me proud, even when he accidentally decides to work on our 6 month-iversary. (He later cancelled)

Where has this willingness to work fled? I listen to so many sermons about how important it is to give our children responsibility starting at a young age. However, the complaining generation who wants "something better" for their offspring would rather do all the cooking, cleaning, and so on, for them. And while the first 4 children of my future in-laws had to do their own dishes and make their beds each day (minimum requirement), the youngest boy was left to the father's whims. The boy would stay in his bed, drinking his milk from the bottle till.. well.. I'd rather not say. For his sake.

Yesterday I went to the local bookstore and noticed the lío inside. He had just come back from vacation so all of his orders were all over the place, leaving little space for clientele to even come inside. I asked the owner if he would like help putting things in order, since I have 4 years of experience in that sort of thing. 

"I'm serious," I tell him. "I'll come back tomorrow."

Today I found the same mess, and he found a willing worker. He can't pay me, so I said let's make a deal. "You let me make all the photo copies I want--without taking advantage of course--and we will turn this place around." 

He accepted. I smiled, because I am preparing all the visa paperwork for Cristian so I will greatly value this service!!

But then something else happened. The owner was so astonished by the efficiency of the work, that he thought out loud about hiring me. Obviously I could use the money to prepare for life's next major transition, but I will just take the photo copies for now. I dunno, I could change my mind.

"I will not let you go until you bless me," Jacob replied.

We might be shy, but if it's broke, you gotta fix it. You gotta be willing to work. love and chau!

*as long as that protection is not corrupt...

Los Reyes

January 5th is the day of gift-giving here in Argentina. Why? It commemorates the visit of the wise men to the young Jesus and how they came bearing gifts. And personally, after listening to one of Erwin McManus' recent sermons as well as reading a few commentaries on the story, I have never been so touched by the story of these earnest men seeking the Savior of the world.

While I will probably stick to the traditional North American way of gifts during Christmas, I would like to take a moment (albeit late. hey! like the wise men! insert inappropriate rim shot) to highlight what I have recently learned.

the gifts
It's not earth-shattering to be reminded that there are three gifts and for that reason we say there were only three wise men (a number which is simply unknown). It is mind-blowing to think about the significance of the individual gifts. Gold--showing the wise men's belief that this young child would be King. Frankincense--used in the Jewish offerings that give praise and thanks to God (incense was not used in the sin offerings). Myrrh--a rather offensive gift as it was used for embalming. Did they know that Christ had come to die?

And to whom are the gifts given? Lest we forget the gift-giving on Christmas is a symbol of that we should give to God--the One deserving of all our adoration. The wise men had travelled so far for that purpose only. To worship.

access
The wise men v. Herod. Here were men who did not have the same access to God as Herod, king of the Jews, representative of the Jewish people. To spell it out for us, Herod should have known. Not only is he surprised by the wise men's arrival, he doesn't do his own homework. He asks the others to read into what the Scriptures say about the Messiah.

But not having the same access does not translate to not having any access.

God gave the wise men science. The stars. And he specifically gave them THE star to lead them to the Savior. This should make our minds explode because it helps us understand a little more when God says to Elijah:

Meanwhile, I'm preserving for myself seven thousand souls: the knees that haven't bowed to the god Baal, the mouths that haven't kissed his image. (1 Kings 19:18 MSG)

Or when he says to Jonah:

But Nineveh has more than a hundred and twenty thousand people who cannot tell their right hand from their left, and many cattle as well. Should I not be concerned about that great city? (Jonah 4:11 NIV)

That "man on the island" question, that "how will they hear unless someone tells them" gets reduced to the fact that once again, GOD DOESN'T NEED US. To, GOD IS THE GOD OF MERCY.

He knows who are his, and he will claim them.

He doesn't need us, but he will use us because he loves us. May our hearts not harden to his call. May our hearts not desire the throne that He deserves.

love and chau