Friday, September 7
I have just completed my second week of my last year of school. Never knew that I would be here. Here in Abilene, TX, here in graduate school. Lots of things have been on my mind recently. Questions about my future seem to spark other thoughts about the world at large and my place in it all. Bear with me as I attempt to write about some of these things.
In no particular order, the political stirrings for the upcoming election, my babies in Zambia, friends leaving, and what to do when I graduate all play a role. I really have never cared for politics, but it is a topic that I have always talked to my Dad about. He is my role-model for many things and voting for government officials is one of them. My Dad listens to both "parties" and then being led by the Spirit makes his decisions. That should not be a surprise to anyone, because that's the way his whole life is. And that's the way yours and mine should be as well. If we ask God to be involved in and guide our other decisions, what makes voting any different. I have come to realize that no one man can change America. It takes all of us. That day may never come where we can all be united for a cause because greed has entered the world. I daily remind myself of who owns the world and that this is not my home anyway. I could go more into depth about religion v. politics, politics v. government, but I do not care to debate about it.
Everything has a connection in my brain. Politics makes me think about the other places in the world that I have been. The governments there, the people it affects, why I love that country and God's teachings about everything. I have been reading Isaiah. I am no Bible scholar, but a prophesy is something that is to happen in the future, good or bad. The people of Israel were told many times about turning their hearts to God. When they would cry out He would help them, but He truly wanted a relationship with His people. It was their choice to turn away all those years. I see many parallels in our country today. There were times of good kings and bad kings (good government/bad government). I may not be articulating all of this well, but it does tell you what rolls around in my head. Coming back this summer from Zambia and Peru, I was changed. It was this week that I found out that a third baby that I worked with had passed away. My heart was not prepared this time. My life is abundantly rich compared to these babies, but that doesn't mean they are any less deserving of a long, healthy life. Remember what I said at the beginning of this post, that I never thought I would be here...I am thankful now for each and every moment.
Last night I looked at all the babies faces again as I talked with some friends of mine. They would always be frozen in time at that age and that state of being. My heart still overflows with hope for those that remain and joy for the time I was able to spend with them. That leads into my friends leaving Abilene. I was born and raised here. Went to four years of college and two years of grad school here. So I have seen many people come and go, always wishing that I could freeze those years as well. God has a purpose and a plan for each person. He knows who and what I need, when I need it and His timing is perfect. So whether He calls me to a job here in Abilene, in Texas, in the U.S., or somewhere else in the world, I will be taken care of. I trust that friends will arise and relationships will form as they always have. He will use my gifts for His glory whatever the circumstance, as long as I choose love Him with all my heart.
Hope this was encouraging to someone even though it was my thoughts. Remember who you are and whose you are!
Friday, September 7, 2012
Thursday, August 23, 2012
Machu Piccu and Beyond
Final installment of my summer 2012...
Once our time in Lima was complete, some of the group went home and others went to Machu Piccu. I was really excited to be in the second group! We flew to Cusco and stayed there. Upon arriving I was not feeling too well due to the extreme altitude change...Lima is at sea level and Cusco is at 10,000 feet...but after sleeping all afternoon in a comfy bed, I was ready to explore.
I may or may not have mentioned the unique foods that I tried in Peru. Ceviche and alpaca were two of them. The first is a raw fish that is marinated in lemon juice and the alpaca is related to a llama, a meat without cholesterol. We were also able to finish our shopping in Cusco as well as a beautiful street market in Pisaq. Unlike the markets in Zambia, these shop keepers are willing to bring down the price and only sell you the item that you ask about. No stress for this buyer!
After finally getting our bearings, we were leaving again for the ruins of Machu Piccu. To get there you must take a train down to a town called Aguas Calientes at 6,000 feet, then take a bus on switchbacks up to 8,000 feet. Too much change at once is hard for the body. Despite that, we were all extremely thrilled to see this place that we had only seen in books. Out tour guides gave lots of information and took good care of us. My group went up onto the peak that overlooks the ruins first, then made our way down into them. Look at my pictures on Facebook. It was uncharacteristically warm that day and I did not dress correctly, but it was still worth it. There is one peak that they only let 400 people climb a day. The oldest person that our tour guide took up there was 82 years old...my sister and I want to go on my 83 birthday...haha! It will probably happen before that day but oh well.
At long last, it was time to return back to the U.S. or at least we thought. There is only one United flight that leaves Lima for Houston. Once our plane arrived that night, the rumored "strike" came across as a dud fuel filter in our plane. Four hours later, after waiting/sleeping in the terminal, the attendants told us that we needed to leave and come back tomorrow. Another 2 hours later, we were watching the sun come up as we stood in line for hotel vouchers and food vouchers. That was the least they could do for all the trouble. But wait...there's more. We had to figure out how to get to the Sheraton. A charter bus came to pick us up:
Problem 1: It was very old and should have retired.
Problem 2: Not enough luggage space
Problem 3: Not enough seats
Problem 4: As it pulled out of the parking lot with all but 10 people on it, it dropped its transmission never making it out the gate and everyone had to pile off again.
Now it was just funny!
We finally got into taxis (the VIP taxis if I'm not mistaken) and made it to the hotel (quite an accomplishment in Lima traffic). Running on naps that we took in the terminal and the taxi, we ate and fell into our beds. Whew! Never wish to do that part again.
The rest is history. We made it home a day late and my sister and I were surprised with new (to us) cars! I sadly was sick and waited another 3 days to enjoy it. All is well now and I am digesting it all. What I learned, what I enjoyed and what's next.
This "World Traveler" is tired and content. Who knows what this last year of school holds for me.
Thanks for reading!
Once our time in Lima was complete, some of the group went home and others went to Machu Piccu. I was really excited to be in the second group! We flew to Cusco and stayed there. Upon arriving I was not feeling too well due to the extreme altitude change...Lima is at sea level and Cusco is at 10,000 feet...but after sleeping all afternoon in a comfy bed, I was ready to explore.
I may or may not have mentioned the unique foods that I tried in Peru. Ceviche and alpaca were two of them. The first is a raw fish that is marinated in lemon juice and the alpaca is related to a llama, a meat without cholesterol. We were also able to finish our shopping in Cusco as well as a beautiful street market in Pisaq. Unlike the markets in Zambia, these shop keepers are willing to bring down the price and only sell you the item that you ask about. No stress for this buyer!
After finally getting our bearings, we were leaving again for the ruins of Machu Piccu. To get there you must take a train down to a town called Aguas Calientes at 6,000 feet, then take a bus on switchbacks up to 8,000 feet. Too much change at once is hard for the body. Despite that, we were all extremely thrilled to see this place that we had only seen in books. Out tour guides gave lots of information and took good care of us. My group went up onto the peak that overlooks the ruins first, then made our way down into them. Look at my pictures on Facebook. It was uncharacteristically warm that day and I did not dress correctly, but it was still worth it. There is one peak that they only let 400 people climb a day. The oldest person that our tour guide took up there was 82 years old...my sister and I want to go on my 83 birthday...haha! It will probably happen before that day but oh well.
At long last, it was time to return back to the U.S. or at least we thought. There is only one United flight that leaves Lima for Houston. Once our plane arrived that night, the rumored "strike" came across as a dud fuel filter in our plane. Four hours later, after waiting/sleeping in the terminal, the attendants told us that we needed to leave and come back tomorrow. Another 2 hours later, we were watching the sun come up as we stood in line for hotel vouchers and food vouchers. That was the least they could do for all the trouble. But wait...there's more. We had to figure out how to get to the Sheraton. A charter bus came to pick us up:
Problem 1: It was very old and should have retired.
Problem 2: Not enough luggage space
Problem 3: Not enough seats
Problem 4: As it pulled out of the parking lot with all but 10 people on it, it dropped its transmission never making it out the gate and everyone had to pile off again.
Now it was just funny!
We finally got into taxis (the VIP taxis if I'm not mistaken) and made it to the hotel (quite an accomplishment in Lima traffic). Running on naps that we took in the terminal and the taxi, we ate and fell into our beds. Whew! Never wish to do that part again.
The rest is history. We made it home a day late and my sister and I were surprised with new (to us) cars! I sadly was sick and waited another 3 days to enjoy it. All is well now and I am digesting it all. What I learned, what I enjoyed and what's next.
This "World Traveler" is tired and content. Who knows what this last year of school holds for me.
Thanks for reading!
Monday, August 13, 2012
Running Cry
Continuing my Peru adventure....
The mornings was when we had lesson times and in the afternoons there were special activities. Monday was the Rodeo...complete with roping, killing bugs, eating smores, singing around a campfire, herding pigs and dancing. Such fun!
Tuesday we were able to hang out with the girls. Paint nails and braid headbands is what I did. Erika and I can't resist playing soccer, so we played a little and promised to go to the fields with the boys on Thursday.
Wednesday was the Scavenger Hunt....all running...but it was a blast. On Monday and Wednesday, Erika and I were in charge of a different group of girls than we have in the mornings, and loved them just as much.
One of my favorite moments was when they asked me to sing songs for them. As the "face" up on stage, I should of expected it, but I was still blown away by their overwhelming desire to sing with me. I can now thank God specifically for the gift of song in my life. I pray that he used me and the lyrics to convey a deep love that the girls can have as well!
Thursday, as promised, Erika and I went to play soccer with the boys. It was extremely hot, but worth it. We did not win, but held our own and enjoyed every minute we held the back line. :)
Friday was a difficult day. We had to say goodbye to our girls. They were like leeches the whole afternoon while we hung banners and took as many pictures as our cameras could hold. I was not expecting to fall in love as quickly as I did. We only spent a week there...not six weeks, not three months, or a year...a week and I almost couldn't hold it together. The tradition in South America is touching cheeks and giving a kiss, so that's what we did over and over until pulling away. The kids lined both sides of the path and I went down the entire girls side giving those precious kisses. It didn't help the matter that two of my girls followed me to the end, not letting go of my arms. I could not express my thoughts accurately in Spanish, so I quickly hopped on the bus as they held each other, waving to me.
I made it to the first row on the bus before I had a gut wrenching cry. What just happened, I thought? How did that happen?! Wait...I have a God who touched my heart again that week. Every time. Why am I so surprised? He is still working on me and going to Peru was just a small part. I learned a lot that I am still processing though and putting into words. All glory to God!
Stay tuned for a post about the tourist part of my trip....
The mornings was when we had lesson times and in the afternoons there were special activities. Monday was the Rodeo...complete with roping, killing bugs, eating smores, singing around a campfire, herding pigs and dancing. Such fun!
Tuesday we were able to hang out with the girls. Paint nails and braid headbands is what I did. Erika and I can't resist playing soccer, so we played a little and promised to go to the fields with the boys on Thursday.
Wednesday was the Scavenger Hunt....all running...but it was a blast. On Monday and Wednesday, Erika and I were in charge of a different group of girls than we have in the mornings, and loved them just as much.
One of my favorite moments was when they asked me to sing songs for them. As the "face" up on stage, I should of expected it, but I was still blown away by their overwhelming desire to sing with me. I can now thank God specifically for the gift of song in my life. I pray that he used me and the lyrics to convey a deep love that the girls can have as well!
Thursday, as promised, Erika and I went to play soccer with the boys. It was extremely hot, but worth it. We did not win, but held our own and enjoyed every minute we held the back line. :)
Friday was a difficult day. We had to say goodbye to our girls. They were like leeches the whole afternoon while we hung banners and took as many pictures as our cameras could hold. I was not expecting to fall in love as quickly as I did. We only spent a week there...not six weeks, not three months, or a year...a week and I almost couldn't hold it together. The tradition in South America is touching cheeks and giving a kiss, so that's what we did over and over until pulling away. The kids lined both sides of the path and I went down the entire girls side giving those precious kisses. It didn't help the matter that two of my girls followed me to the end, not letting go of my arms. I could not express my thoughts accurately in Spanish, so I quickly hopped on the bus as they held each other, waving to me.
I made it to the first row on the bus before I had a gut wrenching cry. What just happened, I thought? How did that happen?! Wait...I have a God who touched my heart again that week. Every time. Why am I so surprised? He is still working on me and going to Peru was just a small part. I learned a lot that I am still processing though and putting into words. All glory to God!
Stay tuned for a post about the tourist part of my trip....
Wednesday, August 8, 2012
Peru: 6th South American Country
Hey friends!
I am finally getting a chance to document my trip to Peru from July 14-25(26). It was exciting to be back in South America again. Can't believe its been almost 4 years.
This trip was on the mission trip side of things with some of my friends from Southern Hills. We met up with a group from Westover in Austin and some others from the Houston area. Cade Allen, my sister and I flew from Dallas to Houston first. We definitely had our fair share of airport time on this adventure.
The only two people we really knew were Cyndy and Malena (the ladies in charge) but we were excited to meet new friends. When we arrived it was time to get organized and see the area that we would be working in.
Another thing we had a lot of was bus time. Each morning we rode charter buses to the community for an hour and a half. Most people slept or listened to music but we also had time to talk with our Peruvian Partners. These were the friends that would be translating for us if needed and getting to know the kids as well. What a cool opportunity to work with kids and older students at the same time!
One of my jobs was to help Ricky up on stage in the mornings to lead songs in Spanish. While I am not fluent in Spanish, I can quickly pronounce the words and put them into the tuned songs that I know well. Some people even thought I was a translator because of it, which I politely had to explain was not true. With "Britney" mics on (awesome), we had a blast singing, doing the motions and seeing the kids faces light up each morning. There was a Bible lesson all together, then we split into our groups. I was with the Calcutta girls, age 14-16, for this time.
Most days looked the same, just related to the story of the day. The theme centered around how God will change our name. Abraham, Jacob, Esther, Paul and Peter.
So everything is not in one post, I will pause and write again....keep reading.
I am finally getting a chance to document my trip to Peru from July 14-25(26). It was exciting to be back in South America again. Can't believe its been almost 4 years.
This trip was on the mission trip side of things with some of my friends from Southern Hills. We met up with a group from Westover in Austin and some others from the Houston area. Cade Allen, my sister and I flew from Dallas to Houston first. We definitely had our fair share of airport time on this adventure.
The only two people we really knew were Cyndy and Malena (the ladies in charge) but we were excited to meet new friends. When we arrived it was time to get organized and see the area that we would be working in.
Another thing we had a lot of was bus time. Each morning we rode charter buses to the community for an hour and a half. Most people slept or listened to music but we also had time to talk with our Peruvian Partners. These were the friends that would be translating for us if needed and getting to know the kids as well. What a cool opportunity to work with kids and older students at the same time!
One of my jobs was to help Ricky up on stage in the mornings to lead songs in Spanish. While I am not fluent in Spanish, I can quickly pronounce the words and put them into the tuned songs that I know well. Some people even thought I was a translator because of it, which I politely had to explain was not true. With "Britney" mics on (awesome), we had a blast singing, doing the motions and seeing the kids faces light up each morning. There was a Bible lesson all together, then we split into our groups. I was with the Calcutta girls, age 14-16, for this time.
Most days looked the same, just related to the story of the day. The theme centered around how God will change our name. Abraham, Jacob, Esther, Paul and Peter.
So everything is not in one post, I will pause and write again....keep reading.
Sunday, June 24, 2012
Coming to America
Friday, June 22
My time in Zambia has come to a close and my HIZ-Path family is going to disperse. We have not really talked about leaving because we don't want these friendships to end. The world is a much smaller place and there is never truly a "good-bye" anymore. The people that I want to visit with again or that want to visit with me will be in contact. I have truly been blessed by these Christian brothers and sisters that I can now call my friends.
We will be flying from Livingstone, Zambia to Johannesburg, South Africa, then after a 6 hour layover we fly 16 hours to Atlanta, Georgia. In Atlanta we go our separate ways and I fly to DFW. Whew! Lots of airport and airplane time. I know my tears will be coming for the next week or so as different things hit me. Nothing is out of true sadness or regret, but out of sincerity for people who touched my life. Everyone has times in their lives that they wish could last forver. While I miss my home in Abilene, Texas there is something to be said about living in another country for any period of time.
Stay tuned for pictures on Facebook and a group PhotoBucket! Coming in July: Dara (and Erika) go to Peru!!
My time in Zambia has come to a close and my HIZ-Path family is going to disperse. We have not really talked about leaving because we don't want these friendships to end. The world is a much smaller place and there is never truly a "good-bye" anymore. The people that I want to visit with again or that want to visit with me will be in contact. I have truly been blessed by these Christian brothers and sisters that I can now call my friends.
We will be flying from Livingstone, Zambia to Johannesburg, South Africa, then after a 6 hour layover we fly 16 hours to Atlanta, Georgia. In Atlanta we go our separate ways and I fly to DFW. Whew! Lots of airport and airplane time. I know my tears will be coming for the next week or so as different things hit me. Nothing is out of true sadness or regret, but out of sincerity for people who touched my life. Everyone has times in their lives that they wish could last forver. While I miss my home in Abilene, Texas there is something to be said about living in another country for any period of time.
Stay tuned for pictures on Facebook and a group PhotoBucket! Coming in July: Dara (and Erika) go to Peru!!
On Parade
Thursday, June 21
Today is the day!! I am going to be riding an elephant! We had the free time to do any activity that we wanted. Some people chose to go whitewater rafting, zip lining, or a helicopter ride, but I wanted to do something I had never done before. I zip lined in Argentina and have whitewater rafted in Colorado. The helicopter ride was over my budget and I wanted something truly African.
On our safari elephants were the most frequent animals sighted, but being right next to them was amazing. They had us paired on the elephants and there was a guide/driver on each as well. I rode on a middle age bull named Marula and our driver was named Kennedy. He was very informative and asked us about ourselves. I asked him how he came to work with the elephants. That led to him telling me that he stopped his education at grade 4...he appeared to be in his late 20s and has two kids and a wife to support. That is not uncommon because education is not free. It must be paid for each year. Citizens of Zambia realize that education is important for getting a well paying job but it is difficult. I felt almost selfish when I confessed that our school is free until college and that I was in my Masters degree program.
The elephants had so much personality! They sat down so we could feed them through the trunk or mouth and they saluted us as we left. I was absolutely amazed. We then saw the video that was made of our ride before heading back to our hotel. Worth every penny (or kwatcha) that I spent!
Last evening together before flying home and separating. My roommates and I had agreed to do a "Secret Santa" gift exchange and we gave our gifts. They were all we hoped they'd be! It will be weird to leave everyone tomorrow....
Today is the day!! I am going to be riding an elephant! We had the free time to do any activity that we wanted. Some people chose to go whitewater rafting, zip lining, or a helicopter ride, but I wanted to do something I had never done before. I zip lined in Argentina and have whitewater rafted in Colorado. The helicopter ride was over my budget and I wanted something truly African.
On our safari elephants were the most frequent animals sighted, but being right next to them was amazing. They had us paired on the elephants and there was a guide/driver on each as well. I rode on a middle age bull named Marula and our driver was named Kennedy. He was very informative and asked us about ourselves. I asked him how he came to work with the elephants. That led to him telling me that he stopped his education at grade 4...he appeared to be in his late 20s and has two kids and a wife to support. That is not uncommon because education is not free. It must be paid for each year. Citizens of Zambia realize that education is important for getting a well paying job but it is difficult. I felt almost selfish when I confessed that our school is free until college and that I was in my Masters degree program.
The elephants had so much personality! They sat down so we could feed them through the trunk or mouth and they saluted us as we left. I was absolutely amazed. We then saw the video that was made of our ride before heading back to our hotel. Worth every penny (or kwatcha) that I spent!
Last evening together before flying home and separating. My roommates and I had agreed to do a "Secret Santa" gift exchange and we gave our gifts. They were all we hoped they'd be! It will be weird to leave everyone tomorrow....
Setting Sun
Wednesday, June 20
Wednesday was fairly laid back. We were able to hit up the market in the downtown area for our last gifts for going home. I used the last of my pens and hairties to bring their prices down but they weren't nearly as agressive as the market at the Falls. Still don't like bartering very much....
I ate my lunch while sitting out by the pool at our hotel. Even though it is winter there, it is still very warm. That evening we took a sunset cruise on the Zambezi River on a three deck boat called "Lady Livingstone". It was a great way to relax and enjoy the beauty surrounding us. There was food served and we were able to see an active group of hippos on our ride. The sunset itself was absolutely gorgeous! I really don't know if it beats a Texas sunset, but it comes extremely close :)
While this was not the most missional day of our trip, it allowed me to look back on what I had experienced and how my life had been changed for the better. I like to think that I seized every opportunity to learn, watch, and listen to the hearts of Zambia. God will continue to be at work in the children and adults that work with them.
As I wrap up my posts concerning this adventure, I want to express my thanks for your support and prayer. I could not have done this without each and every one of you! May the adventures continue, abroad and at home!
Wednesday was fairly laid back. We were able to hit up the market in the downtown area for our last gifts for going home. I used the last of my pens and hairties to bring their prices down but they weren't nearly as agressive as the market at the Falls. Still don't like bartering very much....
I ate my lunch while sitting out by the pool at our hotel. Even though it is winter there, it is still very warm. That evening we took a sunset cruise on the Zambezi River on a three deck boat called "Lady Livingstone". It was a great way to relax and enjoy the beauty surrounding us. There was food served and we were able to see an active group of hippos on our ride. The sunset itself was absolutely gorgeous! I really don't know if it beats a Texas sunset, but it comes extremely close :)
While this was not the most missional day of our trip, it allowed me to look back on what I had experienced and how my life had been changed for the better. I like to think that I seized every opportunity to learn, watch, and listen to the hearts of Zambia. God will continue to be at work in the children and adults that work with them.
As I wrap up my posts concerning this adventure, I want to express my thanks for your support and prayer. I could not have done this without each and every one of you! May the adventures continue, abroad and at home!
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