The Beginning of the End

The last 3 weeks of my time in Nicaragua began in a very memorable way, thanks to the onset of food poisoning.  On a Wednesday morning Anthony and I got up at 5 a.m. and took the five minute walk down the road to the fishing and tourism village of Playa Gigante.  We walked down to the water just as the sun began to peek over the horizon on our way to meet a local fisherman named Zack.  Anthony needed to experience the tour, ask questions, and see if the tour is suitable for guests at the resort.  It was a beautiful day with clear skies and a slight breeze gently rocking the waves back and forth. We helped launch the boat and shove off directly from the beach as there are no docks or marinas in our quaint fishing town.  The men literally put round logs under their boats (and using a lot of man power) slowly roll their rigs in and out of the water.  Their boats are of basic fiberglass model and require the men to manually lift the prop engine on and off each day.

We started our journey trolling south along the coast and immediately snagged a fish- a glistening 2 foot silver tipped tuna!  It was exhilarating to hear the whir of the pole, see the line spin taut, and then watch one of our friends nurse the line back and forth and back and forth, slowly reeling in our first catch of the day.  As we continued our expedition, the wind and waves picked up and the boat rose and hammered back down, showering us with a salty ocean mist.  Zack explained how the color of the water, flocks of birds, and schools of sardines help them “feel” where to fish and what kind of lures to use.  Along the way we spotted three sea turtles, two of which happened to be making sweet turtle love…  a very cool and rare sight to see J  Zack made a huge circle to get us closer so we could snap a few Kodak moment shots.  The rough waters on our journey did not provide good conditions for fishing, and for the remainder of the three hour trip we did not catch another fish.  Yet despite this turn of events,  I enjoyed sitting back and watching the views of rocky ridges, isolated beaches and the veiled Coast Rica coastline peeking through in the distance. 

That night, after consulting Zack, we boiled the fish and then fried it with onions, peppers and other tasty additions in our best attempt to make the specialty Nicaraguan dish Salpicon.  Tuna is a hearty fish that is more like eating steak rather than the light flaky white meat we are used to in the states.  We enjoyed our meal, but soon discovered that we would be reliving that meal over and over for the next two days.  I’ve never had food poisoning before, but the severe achiness, cramping, and constant feeling of the need to vomit (compounded together with my own current digestive issues) made the two days feel like a week.  My body hurt so bad I couldn’t rest much during the day on our extra firm mattress.  We did however weather the storm and even got creative in making some soup.  There is no buying canned soup or broth at the local store.  Thankfully, Anthony being the experienced traveler he is thought ahead and had called in an antibiotic prescription for traveler’s diarrhea before we left just in case. I can tell you I have never been so thankful for the marvels of modern medicine and the cleansing power of antibiotics!  Thank you so much Anthony for thinking ahead.  =) 

Now that we are both fully recovered I find myself continuing to struggle with my digestion, even though I have been faithful to my all natural digestive supplement regiment.  This is really nothing new, but I did have it under control before we left the States.  The diet here has made it impossible for me to function at my “normal” health level.  It has been so bad lately that we’ve even considered changing my flight and sending me home early. Nevertheless we are making as many changes that we can and I’m sticking it out until my flight November 21. 

As Anthony and I planned our time here in Nicaragua several months ago we had two goals in mind.  The first was for Anthony (with my help) to produce a quality and valuable product for Aqua that did more than just fulfill his internship requirement.  I can say with confidence even with a few weeks left we have been able to do that very thing. Anthony was even able to work on a special project directly for the owner and then present his research to a group of AQUA shareholders via skype.  He has earned the respect of the management here, and in my opinion, has given them more than they expected.  It has been a fun and fulfilling experience for me to work alongside Anthony and help him with some of the technical and graphic design aspects.  I’m so proud of how hard Anthony has worked, what he’s been able to accomplish and how he’s done this in the midst of a challenging work and unique environment. 

A couple of snapshots together during our last few weeks in Nicaragua, as we hiked the coast
with Juan our Spanish professor.

Our second goal was to get to know the people here on a deeper level while learning more about their lives, language, and culture.  This task has been especially more challenging and intimidating for me because I came in with very little Spanish language knowledge and experience.  Anthony and I had an opportunity to rent a house instead of living in the same accommodations as the resort staff.  Although in many ways living in a house and having our own private space would be easier, (and of course more costly) we decided in the end it would speak volumes and open up the doors to build relationships if we lived as the Nicaraguans did.  Overall, Gringos here don’t have the best reputation.  They tend come here to surf and party, living better (and separately) from the locals.  Some have lived here for years and refuse to learn the language.  Our hope was to convey an attitude of humility, care, respect, and to show the love of Christ.  Although living in just one room and sharing sub-standard common space with the resort staff has been extremely tough, we have been able to break down the barriers with many people and form friendships.  Anthony especially has earned the trust and respect of numerous workers at Aqua resort by learning their names, asking them questions, and hearing their stories.  Both Anthony and I are taking Spanish tutoring and the workers know we are working hard to learn the language.  Even if all I can do is put together a phrase or sentence, making the attempt and being willing to learn and ask questions has spoken volumes to them.  

A few weeks ago we were invited to live in a luxurious, modern Gringo staff house on a ridge on the water right near the resort.  I can’t tell you how tempting it was at first to think of spending our last month here in such nice living conditions.  Yet again after thoroughly considering the offer, we decided to turn it down.  There were many reasons why living in this house would not have been good for us, but most importantly we didn’t want to send a message of living an easier and separate life from the Nicaraguans because we were “privileged Americans”.  The fact that Anthony and I have not only survived, but we have thrived living at hotel Brio has even impressed the owner, manager and other Americans who understand what it is like to live there and in Nicaragua. 

We have thrived here in Nicaragua for many reasons, but one of the most important is because we see our purpose here to be much higher than a simple internship.  We do not see the people here as inferior, but as people who are also made in the image of God.  While I have not been able to have a direct, thorough conversation with someone about my faith, I have been able to share a few things about what I value and about God.  There are a couple of the workers who I believe have a genuine relationship with Jesus.    It is exciting to see God work all over the world and He has definitely used this  experience to teach Anthony and I so much.  As my last few days here continue to slip away I’m soaking in the culture, the sights, sounds and smells of life here and the conversations with people we would now consider friends.  In the end I hope we have been an encouragement to everyone we have met and that God has used us as much in their lives as He has used this experience in ours.  

Top left and bottom right our pictures of the coast north (Iguana), south (Playa Gigante) from our hike.
Top right is Anthony with  Angel, (pronounced An-hell) a good friend we made here.  He helped us with our Spanish. Bottom left the national bird of Nicaragua that we finally get a picture of.  It was not easy.  

A Day in the Life...

Many of you have asked what a normal day looks like for me in Nicaragua, so I thought I would do post about that.  A routine here is a bit of an oxymoron, but here it goes.  Monday, Wednesday and Friday are resort days for Anthony and some days I accompany him.  We typically get up anywhere from 6:30 to 7:15 am, eat our breakfast, and walk the sometimes treacherous road to Aqua.  I say treacherous because it is filled with either lots of animals or large and deep puddles of water and mud! Seriously, in the rainy season every year someone will die from attempting to cross the rushing water on the road.  Anyway, it’s about a 35 minute walk on a good day.  These days we will eat a wonderful brunch or lunch at the resort if we have time and then work or skype at the resort, sometimes going out on assignment which takes an entire day. 

The other days I get up early, eat breakfast and start laundry.  You have to do laundry early if you intend to avoid the crowds and get it dry by the time the sun starts to set.  When it comes to clothes there is first world clean and there is third world clean.  Thanks to my sister Shauna who sent us Tide pods we are maybe at second world clean….the detergent here is not so good.  The wash machine died our second week here, but the repairman fixed it enough to partially work so this is my system:  I soak the laundry in cold water in the Tide for about 40 minutes and swish it around myself with my arm as much as I can.  Then, the water is drained and it spins and I take the laundry out to the outdoor washing basin.  Sometimes the hose is nowhere to be found so I fill a water bucket from a spigot and fill the side sink up several times.  Then I take our laundry and with powder detergent hand scrub each piece on a rippled stone surface- focusing on stains and other areas while rinsing the clothes using a small bowl to scoop out the clean water from the basin on my right.  After rinsing the soap out as best I can I wring the clothes and place them back in the wash machine filled with water.  I often use my hands in the wash machine to rinse any remaining soap and then they drain and spin.  They are now at least dry enough that they won’t stretch when hung.  I hang them dry on a line near our room and I often have to protect our clothes from horses and cows by using a stick.  When you work so hard to do laundry you don’t want an animal walking through it trampling it to the ground. 

This is where I scrub our laundry.  It also tends to be a dumping ground for trash and bottles.

We do wear our clothes as many times as we can, but with the mud, dirt, and sweat it’s still enough laundry to keep me and Anthony busy several hours and days a week.  While I do laundry, I sweep our room to keep the spiders and ants at bay.  Then, thanks to Jillian Michael’s 30-Day Shred, I do my work out in our clean room.  I packed hand weights in my suitcase so I can keep in some sort of shape here.   Tuesdays and Thursdays I have Spanish tutoring at 10:30 for two hours.  Each afternoon when I am at Brio I spend it eating lunch, studying Spanish, preparing food, and attempting to get on the internet.  Once a week I go into the small town of Gigante and enjoy a lunch at a Gringo internet café called Party Wave.  They have the most Americanized versions of wraps, sandwiches, smoothies and a few baked goods.  There I sit, eat and read by the ocean, or sometimes I am able to get up to the pool at our hotel to catch a few rays for a couple of hours.   Once a week Anthony and I often go down to the ocean to take a swim, watch the sunset or eat a Nica-style dinner at a local restaurant.  Saturdays I clean our only set of sheets and towels and clean our room, which is usually dirty because of the dust and open windows.  We do wear flip flops in our room all the time to try and help keep the dirt level down.  Sundays is more of our day of rest and we sleep in a little, have church and a focused time on prayer and scripture and then Spanish lessons in the afternoon. 

Every meal requires us to heat up purified water using the microwave in order to sterilize/disinfect our vegetables and also our cooking materials both before and at the end of our meals.   We do have our own place settings, bowls, a knife, and one pan, but if we need anything else we use what is provided in the kitchen- which is sometimes very dirty and always needs to be disinfected beforehand.  There is not hot water from the tap and it can’t be trusted to clean food let or drink so really the microwave has been a lifesaver for heating up water and killing germs!  The resort provides large bottles of purified water for the workers to use for cooking and drinking; however, we do run out at times and it is Anthony always reminds the front desk at the resort to bring us some more water.  So you can imagine at times I feel the need to conserve water and don’t drink as much as I need to.  Dinners take the most preparation time because they are more involved and we sometimes have to wait in line to use the stove.  We try and use dinner time to socialize with our hotel mates, practice Spanish with our friends, and learn about Nicaragua.  I brought a few card games and we have introduced Phase 10 to some of the staff.  It’s pretty fun (and a bit hilarious) playing it in two different languages as you can probably imagine.   After dinner, we are typically extremely exhausted from the day, and it’s time for my favorite activity.  A shower!  Thank goodness we do have hot water for our showers, but we often shower with cool water because of the heat and humidity. We often read before bed or watch a movie or an episode of Dr. Quinn on the weekends (special thanks to my friend Becky Stowers). Then it’s usually lights out for us around 9:30pm which often feels late since the sun sets around 5:15pm. 

Several times a week we walk into Gigante to buy our dairy products and buy fish (as a sidenote I can’t wait to have good dairy again).  The yogurt here is decent, but the milk is thin, tastes funny, and goes bad quickly.  Occasionally we can get a block of imported American cheddar (for a hefty price of course), but most the time the only cheese available is the local “squeaky cheese,”  which is a white feta consistency substance that makes a squeak noise when you chew it, but I digress J  Anthony has built some rapport with a local fisherman and we buy mahi, mahi, mackerel, and snapper for a great price.  We also try to catch the “Barrata” which is a truck that goes down the road in the early morning or afternoon with a loud speaker blaring the daily deals and the farm fresh fruits and vegetables it has available.  Many of the locals and even restaurants in Gigante buy from the truck. When Anthony and I hear it we drop what we are doing, scramble to get our money and grocery bag and run down the gravel hill to the road to wave down the truck before it passes us by- which I’m sure it’s a funny sight to see.  One time we missed it and literally jogged all the way to Gigante to catch it just in time before it headed north up the coast.   It’s the only way we can have fruits and vegetables throughout the week.  Supposedly, the Barrata is supposed to come Wednesdays and Saturdays, but it can come any day or not at all.  Often the little store in Gigante does not have fresh produce or it has produce but it is old and rotting. 

Our little fridge full of food we just purchased from the Barrata!

 

Last but not least every two weeks or so we catch a ride to Rivas with Aqua staff members to do our supermarket shopping.  I enjoy going to Rivas, because I have a chance to get out and about, but it is exhausting and requires the whole day.  Most of the time we squeeze in with several others in an air-conditioned vehicle and make the 45 minute drive up and down the extremely rough terrain.  We drop off staff members at their homes and then make various stops throughout the town of Rivas for people’s shopping needs.  At the edge of town is “Maxi-Pali,” a small supermarket where I find the shopping experience to be quite comical.  I hear old school music from the United States (Brian Adams is common) as I patrol the aisles. At check out the grumpy cashier (which is common at most grocery stores I suppose) literally tosses our food in a cart while we beg to get more plastic bags (we have to bag the groceries ourselves and the cashier controls the bags).  On the way out of town we stop at the local fruit and vegetable stands to buy the really good and cheaper produce. 

It took us weeks to figure all this out.  In retrospect it’s quite amazing to see how far we’ve come in learning the ropes of living in the jungle in a third world country.  Anthony and I have had to learn to adapt, be flexible and go without.  We plan as much as we can, but most times we have no control over things and we often have to stop what we are doing  and jump on an opportunity to get food or catch a ride, for example, if it presents itself.  Living in Nicaragua has made me appreciate a very long list of everyday things we take for granted in America.

Speaking of all this food is making me a bit hungry…one thing for sure is that I can’t wait to have a good salad and deli sandwich when I get home! 

Ready...Set...Go!

I’ve been listening to Christmas music for almost a month now.  Before you throw up your hands and utter under your breath how ridiculous that is I’ll tell you Anthony thinks the same thing.  LOL!  My response is this:  “I can celebrate Jesus all year round if I want!”  Honestly, the songs are a great reminder of so many wonderful truths about God’s love and the freedom, redemption, hope and joy we have because of Jesus.  One of my favorites is “All is Well.”  It basically says that because of Jesus’ birth everything is okay.  We can have peace and confidence because Jesus conquered sin and death.  Right now I desperately need frequent reminders that everything is going to be okay and that despite all that is going in my life the bigger picture is that I have peace and joy because I can trust a loving, strong and faithful God. 
One American girl who worked at Aqua told Anthony and I that Nicaragua is an endurance test.  Lately, those words have been ringing in my ears and this verse came to mind: 

“Therefore, since we have so great a cloud of witnesses surrounding us, let us also lay aside every encumbrance and the sin which so easily entangles us, and let us RUN with ENDURANCE the RACE set before us, fixing our eyes Jesus, the author and perfecter of faith, who for the joy set before Him endured the cross, despising the shame, and has sat down at the right hand of the throne of God.  For consider Him who has endured such hostility by sinners against Himself, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart.”  Hebrews 12: 1-3

How appropriate!  Carrie, Shauna and Toby recently participated in a physical race in Columbus, Ohio, but all of us whether in Nicaragua or in America are battling small and big endurance tests while also running in the bigger race of life. 

Anthony and I have both participated in physical races, but we chose to and we prepared and trained for them.  In life, we don’t always get a choice nor do we always feel adequate for what we are facing.  Nevertheless, there are some miles you feel a rush of adrenaline, you have the wind at your back and you enjoy the beautiful scenery on your route.  Other miles your legs feel heavy, other runners get in the way and the scenery is boring and mundane.  Lately, the latter is how I’ve felt in Nicaragua.  At times I do feel as if I’m running out of energy and endurance and just wish I could skip the last few miles and cross the finish line right now.

One of the biggest challenges that constantly wears on me is the sharing of a dirty, smelly kitchen.  I’m tired of heating up water to disinfect things, fighting off animals from getting our food and standing in line to use the stove.  The rainy season has begun, bringing with it a solid week of rain and a lightning strike that took out our internet.  While I’m incredibly thankful to have power, the rain has contributed to an even greater feeling of isolation.  The storms and vast amount of rain have caused a greater difficulty in traveling by foot and car, getting laundry done and connecting with family and friends.   Learning the language and conversing with Nicas is also a daily struggle and source of frustration.  All of these “endurance tests” can indeed add up and wear my patience thin. 

I have competed in various races, games, and contests throughout my life, and thinking of this time in Nicargua as a competition or race is motivating to me. In my many years as an athlete I hated being taken out of the game.  Although it is safe and restful on the bench you miss out on the action.  You can observe and even feel the excitement of the game, but you don’t get to feel the taste of victory or experience the joy of a job well done from the sidelines.  So, while I am ready to throw in the towel many days, in reality it is not an option.  The race still goes one whether I choose to fully participate or not, so I might as well lace up my shoes and join in. 

How do I endure and run the race right here in Nicaragua?  It’s been a difficult process to figure out and not easy to put into practice.  Paul gives great advice though by telling me to throw off the sin and things that entangle me.  Fighting lies, fear, anxiety, doubt, and physical and mental exhaustion is easier said than done, but it’s possible through prayer, reading and meditating on scripture, journaling, thanksgiving, and celebrating when I finish even just one lap.  It is crucial for me to stop and think about even the smallest accomplishment like getting a load of laundry done despite the rain and traffic of other staff members or finding a new and fun fruits and other fresh vegetables to eat.  Then, I need to keep my eyes focused on just one day at a time while keeping in mind the bigger picture.  While I know that I’m learning valuable lessons, I don’t necessarily know the purpose of this journey or where it will lead.  I am encouraged by the fact that God has led us here; He is at work and Christ has given me a great example.  Finally, I think about the great “cloud of witnesses.”  I’m not the only one who has lived in another country and all of us have various trials and challenges in our own particular race.  It is important to draw from those various communities and listen and learn from the experiences and wisdom of others.  I’ve also found it to be essential to humbly receive from those who are willing to give and sacrifice to help me in my time of need. 

Cheering for Carrie, Shauna and Toby from Nicaragua.

We got to experience horse-back riding in the jungle and on the beach.

Our new favorite fruit: Guyaba. It's like an apple and pear together.

 

A specific example of this is receiving a box of both basic essentials and special treats from many members of my family two weeks ago.  A lot of coordinating, effort and money were put into getting this box to Nicaragua.  It took over three weeks to get to us, but the contents of this box continue to bring us joy and encouragement, and make life here easier for Anthony and I.  It is with such love and appreciation I say thank you to my parents Mike and Cheryl, my sisters Carrie and Shauna and their families, my grandparents the MacGillivrarys and Fabians, my great-grandma Mary Richardson, my aunt Beth and the Parker family and my Ohio parents the Schetters.

At the end of a hard day I have to remind myself that it’s all going to be okay.  I may get winded at times, my pace may slow, and maybe I’ll even suffer an injury, but I’m still going to cross the finish line.   When I do make it through a specific hardship or season of life it is going to all be worth it. I will experience a great since of accomplishment and joy for not only finishing, but running the race with endurance and focus.  Truly ALL is really WELL.  I have a great husband and support system.  My God is strong, faithful, loving and in control.   I know there is a reason for all that happens in life and I have the ultimate example for how to run the race in my Savior Jesus.

“Therefore we do not lose heart, even though our outward man is perishing, yet the inward man is being renewed day by day. For our light affliction, which is but for a moment, is working for us a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory, while we do not look at the things which are seen, but at the things which are not seen. For the things which are seen are temporary, but the things which are not seen eternal.” II Corinthians 4:16-18

A Thankful Heart

This past Friday marks a very big milestone for Anthony and I.  We have officially been in Nicaragua for one month.  The culture shock is wearing off and we are getting “used to” living in the jungle.   By no means is living in this environment ever going to be the “norm,” but we are more acclimated to how things operate here and are less surprised by the turbulent storms, power outages and the wide variety animals in our living space.  Anthony and I are getting used to the painstaking task of hand scrubbing our clothes (humorously enough our washing machine decided to break down the second week we were here) and how and where to get food.  We’ve been able to buy fish and lobster tail right off the boat!  I guess you can say I am more settled.  Now that I’m less worried about survival and able to let my guard down, I’ve become more contemplative and appreciative of many things.

It can be a challenge to describe the area in which we live, because it’s really a combination of many types of topography.  We live in a “dry forest” where the mountains are covered with tropical plants and deciduous trees.  It’s rugged and rocky, but there are beautiful flowers and even some random banana trees.  Several miles out from Tola (a small town to the northeast) the topography flattens into farmland and you can see a number of ranches and fincas dotting the landscape. A five minute walk from our doorstep will take you to the sandy beach of Gigante where we often have the privilege of watching the sun’s paintbrush light the sky in marvelous hues of crimson, gold, and cobalt blue each evening.  We often hear the crash of the ocean waves from our hotel. 

We really just have to chuckle at the hodgepodge of various animal sounds and scents of the farm and jungle wafting through our windows here at the “Hotel Brio”.  One morning I was awoken by the loud mooing of a cow followed by harsh “CawKOW” of Nicaragua’s version of the blue jay.  During the day it isn’t uncommon to hear the howling bark of the mono congos (howler monkeys) or the rustle of the caballos, (horses) eating anything green they can find.  At night, it’s the bark of dogs and the meow of this cat who is constantly begging for food near the kitchen, harmonizing with the random chirp of the colorful geckos on the wall- How’s that for a concert?  Then, there are the smells….  Growing up in the Midwest the stench of farm animals is nothing new, but when you have to avoid stepping in those smells up close and personal, it gets a little annoying.  The other slightly hilarious (or annoying depending on my mood) aspect of living here is trying to keep the super-tonto (stupid) cows away from our clothesline.  Finally, we can’t forget about the smell of trash that is prodrido (rotten) and moldy food that frequently wafts from the trash container down the road. However, those scents are offset by the sweet fragrance of the flowers (some type of delightful nightshade) that line the ramp leading to the cocina (kitchen), and of course, the great Nica food other staff members are making.     

Example of the beautiful and unpleasant.  Top left is a passoin fruit!  Bottom left is a simple bucket that holds the kitchen trash which is often scattered by dogs.  Bottom center and right are two of several thorn-ridden plants/trees.

There are days I pinch myself wondering if I’m really living in this place.  It’s a place filled with stark contrasts of the beautiful and unpleasant, tranquil and fierce, and fragrant and foul.  We have the ease of a slower pace and laid back society, but the constant challenge of trying to just live and the feeling of isolation.  It can truly be a jungle at times.  Sometimes the magnificence takes my breath away and other days I’m not sure I can make it through another day.   

Living in the Nicaragua and experiencing a new way of life has definitely made me appreciate all I have in America.  It will be interesting after returning to modern life which amenity will mean the most.  It is hard grasp how much you have until you go without it.  Even after just one month I have a long list in my head of what I’m thankful for that so often I took for granted.   Over this past week I’ve found myself giving thanks for some of the following things: a whole week without losing power, air conditioning in the vehicle that takes us on the rough 30 minute ride to get our groceries, oh and to have food in the cupboard and in the freezer is such a wonderful thing as well!  Side note:  On Tuesday we received a small refrigerator from one of the managers at the resort.  This will help us be able to keep our food, fresher and longer, and enable us to have cold water on a regular basis.  Another small thing I’m very glad and relieved to have. 

This is the longest I have ever been in a foreign country and I do have days of feeling very homesick.  The excitement and newness of Nicaragua is fading and I’m missing the familiar.  I’m yearning for the smells and tastes of fall in the Midwest, the cool nights, and the sound of the wind rustling the drying leaves.  I’m longing to be with my family and friends or at least have the ease of calling and texting.  Thank the Lord for technology and skype, because when I feel sad nothing lifts my spirits like talking and (sometimes) seeing my family- especially my nieces and nephews.  I hear Caris in her sweet and energetic voice tell me about her most recent activity and see Addy coloring a Hello Kitty picture and asking if this is my home. 

I have become even more grateful for my family, friends and brothers and sisters in Christ.  Anthony and I feel so blessed by the support, prayers and encouragement we have received.  It’s hard to describe the connection I feel several thousand miles away.  Many of the resort workers at this hotel live 2 to 3 hours from their families.  That may not seem like a big deal, but in Nicaragua it’s a heavy burden to bear when you don’t have a car, work 7 days a week, and it’s very expensive to travel.  It brings a whole new meaning to working away from home.  Many of the men and women here have spouses and children they rarely see, all because they are desperate for work.  Another example of how living here has given me a new perspective. 

I’m also incredibly thankful for a wonderful husband who I can learn, laugh and cry with, who works so hard and does all he can to take care of me.   You would not believe all that thought to bring here to keep us safe, healthy and to make our lives easier.  Hah, he even brought duct tape! 

Tears frequently come to my eyes when I thing of the love and prayers coming our way.  I get emotional when I read emails or comments from my blog.  You all make my heart full and my soul feel content.   To each one of my family and friends I say muchisimas gracias.  Te amo mucho.   Estoy entusiasmada para verte pronto.

Anthony making gallo pinto.  A rice and bean dish that is a Nicarguan staple.

Anthony kayaying and stand up paddle boating with the guide Ernesto.  I joined him later!

Living...No...Embracing the Moment

Thursday, September 20, marked exactly two weeks since arriving at Hotel Brio.  What better way to celebrate that mile marker with a really big storm.  That night rain, thunder and lightning raged.  It scared me enough to make my heart race.  Distant and sometimes not so distant thunder and lightning are a frequent occurrence here.  Anthony and I often sit out on the hammocks at night and watch the lightening- a breathtaking and humbling experience. However, this storm was the biggest we’ve experienced so far.  The power flicked off and on a quite a few times and at 6:30 a.m. Friday, the fans went off and everything went quiet.  Although we typically experience power outages here several times a week, we haven’t had one for this long….no electricity for over 30 hours. It was definitely hard to be cut off from the internet, limiting Anthony’s work and my access to the outside world. Probably the most difficult thing for me was that I couldn’t call my sister Shauna on her birthday which made me cry in frustration.

That evening Anthony and I had our first (romantic?) evening in the dark…scrounging up food and heating our meal on the gas stove by candlelight. We really didn’t notice how much cooler simply having a fan in our room made it, but that evening we discovered how critical the abanicos (fans) are for survival here. Although it was the same temperature outside, the sweltering humid air and lack of a breeze conspired together to turn our room into a mini sauna….a bit difficult to sleep in as you can probably imagine! As we rounded the 24 hour mark without power, another growing frustration became the preservation of our food. Food is a precious commodity here, and when you have to work so hard simply to obtain it in the first place (while of course protecting it from wildlife); it becomes all the more difficult to think it could all spoil and go to waste.  Saturday morning after not much sleep and a lot of praying, the lights flickered on and the whirr of the fans cooled us once again.

Everything about life in a third world country is so much more challenging than normal, and the most difficult aspect is that you are completely powerless to do anything about it.  I have found myself repeatedly wishing things were different or imagining I had the power to make things better.  I have a really hard time accepting things I can’t change, so often my response is to dwell on those frustrations in anger.  The ironic thing is this has become a frequent habit of mine over the last year.  It’s not something that has just happened to me this past month.  The transitions I experienced in Philadelphia were often so challenging that I lived (at times) in a state of discontent and anger over my circumstances.  

Now, I know there is always frustration and hardship with transition and things we can’t control.  It’s a part of life, but I don’t want to live so consumed with what I can’t change that I don’t enjoy it.  That has been the temptation.  I don’t want to live depressed, exhausted from fighting things I can’t change and then wishing time away.  I want to live in contentment and freedom and by God’s grace and the support of each other I will continue to choose to do so. 

Pitaya, a.k.a. "Dragon Fruit" - My favorite and as you can see it stains easily.

 

Well, in other news, I started Spanish lessons this last week which has got me thinking about the concept of living in the moment.  Let me explain.  I get pretty nervous for my Spanish lessons.  My perfectionist tendencies make me overwhelmed about learning the language and I feel self-conscious about my “inability” to know and speak Spanish as quick as I think I should.  I have even asked myself “what’s the point?  After 2 months or so of class I’m not going to be fluent-so why even bother?”  That is when it hit me:  “I don’t need to worry about whether or not I’ll be fluent in Spanish, but rather enjoy the fact that I can learn and enjoy this rich experience.”  It’s the process that’s important, not necessarily the end result.  I need to quit putting so much pressure on myself and take the time to celebrate knowing just one verb or having the boldness to say even one phrase to a native speaker.  Also, I’ve discovered that attempting to speak someone’s native language is very meaningful to others.  It’s not just about me.  We never know in life who we will affect.

To me living in the moment means, to immerse yourself in the process and enjoy the victories no matter how small.  It is letting go of those thoughts of what should be or could be and not worrying about the end result.   In fact, I like the term “embrace the moment” better.  Embracing is a better description of going through life with my arms wide open, trusting God, having joy, and living in acceptance of my circumstances.  I want to embrace each moment because God gave it to me.   This is not an easy task for me, because quite frequently things do not happen the way I want them to- especially in Nicaragua.   It’s something I have to try and do each day, with God’s help. 

It can start by changing my thinking and reminding myself that when I am fearful, frustrated, uncertain, insecure, panicked or just plain angry about what is happening in my life, God is in it.  I’m not alone.  I may not always know the reason or purpose, but this day and this step is a moment God has given me (one which I’ll most likely never have again) and with Him I have everything I need to enjoy the here and now and embrace it.  Well that is all for this post friends, nos vemos pronto!

We have several of these little guys in our room.  They like to chirp.

"Cordobas" - Looks like play money.  170 Cordobas = almost $7

 

 

There's a Crab in the Bathroom

Anthony and I have been in Nicaragua now for a little over a week.  In some ways it seems like forever because the difference between life in the U.S. and Nicaragua is so different.  In other ways it seems like just a week, because although we’ve come a long way in just a few days we have a lot more to figure out. 

I’ve titled this post “There’s a Crab in the Bathroom” because that literally happened to me.    One day at Aqua resort I went to the bathroom and heard this rustling.  All of a sudden this crab, with his pinchers up, speeds from one corner to the other and behind the toilet.  It startled me at first, but I know these black, purple and orange colored crabs are harmless.  However, this experience is a good way to describe our experiences here.  An ordinary, everyday occurrence like going to the bathroom is not a normal experience here in Nicaragua.  In our hotel room we often have little geckos on the wall (one likes to hang out in the bathroom) and they do alarm me at times.  They also like to chirp at night.   A few nights ago I was walking back to our room from the kitchen.  It was dark and I heard a lot of stomping.  Sure enough four horses were being rowdy near the entrance of the building.  Fortunately my presence showed them away and they then decided to graze near our room door.

When you are in a different culture or even a different part of the country you have to have great deal of patience and no expectations.  In a country, such as Nicaragua, where the people operate at a different pace and the lack of modernization makes things slower or even impossible, you have to just roll with the punches.  Anthony and I are learning to take things as they come, change “our plans” and just make do with what we have or don’t have.  We are learning to make food with few utensils and ingredients.  I’m learning to not worry about the constant layer of dust and various critters in our hotel room.  I’m learning to try and dress a little differently or pack extra clothes because I sweat so much.  Wearing foundation is pointless.  We leave earlier now on our commute to Aqua because of the water and mud that covers the road and the herd of cows in the way.  Sometimes a meeting Anthony has scheduled won’t happen for another hour and we have to sit and wait.  The internet may go out completely or our electricity may flick off for a while.  I can’t get upset.  This is life in a third world country. 

I definitely miss many things we so often take for granted in America, and I’ve only been away for 8 days.  I’ll spare you the long list, but one thing is cold water and the ease and convenience of an American kitchen.  One of the hardest things I especially am dealing with is the feeling of isolation.  I miss family and friends and the ability to pick up a cell phone and talk to someone or send a text.  I miss church and Christian community.  We are listening to podcasts and having our own church here, but even if we had the ability to drive somewhere to go to church, it’s really hard when you don’t speak the language.  Even for Anthony, who can speak and understand Spanish well, the barriers in communicating and understanding can be very isolating. 

Some of the animals around and the biggest tree I've ever seen.

Living accommodations at Hotel Brio

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Through it all Anthony and I are learning a lot.  We are thankful for being able to have this experience together and know it will continue to be a growing time for us as individuals and as a couple.  Even though something unexpected may happen, like a crab in the bathroom or water covering the road, with God’s help and working together, we can get through a scare, problem or inconvenience.

Thank you so much for your prayers, messages and encouragement.  They mean more to me then you realize.  I have felt the support and strength of God’s hands carrying me through each day and sometimes each moment.  There is a confidence and peace amidst the unknown.  This comes only through my Savior and Redeemer and the prayers of His people.  

Culture Shock

The personal disorientation a person may feel when experiencing an unfamiliar way of life due to immigration or a visit to a new country, or to a move between social environments.  Yes, that sounds about right.  I thought I experienced culture shock moving to Philadelphia, which I did, but if someone offered to take me the 2 ½ hours to the airport this moment I would be packed in 10 minutes and on my way back to America.  It has been rough.

It’s not like I have no overseas experience.  I have been on 3 mission’s trips and we did go on our honeymoon here in Nicaragua.  However, I’ve realized that in all of those experiences someone else took care of showing us where to go and not to go, and providing for basic necessities, like food.  This is a whole different ball game.  Not to mention getting answers in a very laid back society where people typically do not think about where their next meal will come from is extremely frustrating. 

Where do I begin?  We are staying in a hotel that is rented out for workers of the resort Anthony is interning for (Aqua Wellness Resort-Nicaragua).  Hotel Brio is about a 20 minute walk down rough roads from the resort.  As far as I can see we are the only non-Nicas living in this hotel.  There are a few Americans in houses owned by the hotel.  Our room is nice and fairly clean, but the AC doesn’t work, some of the lighting is out, the locked drawers don’t work (which it is muy importante to lock up our valuables) and our sink is semi-plugged.  We share a large kitchen with the other workers, which we have and will enjoy the opportunity to get to know them while making food.   Many of them speak English.  However, this is not an American kitchen, and because of that Anthony and I are a bit hesitant to use what few appliances and utensils they have and ingest what we can't see.  I’m sure you can guess what I’m saying.  

The biggest issue upon arriving is how do we get food?  The power bars we packed can only go so far and you cannot of course drink the tap water.   We’ve definitely managed, but in order to get some fresh food that doesn’t cost an arm and a leg we found we have to catch rides with other workers to the nearest town, Rivas. This can be a bit tricky when you are new.

Anthony’s internship responsibilities are also a bit muddy.  We met the GM of Aqua for 3 hours.  He’s a nice older Dutch guy who loves to tell stories….and another story….and another story.  We sat so long in the same spot on Friday my feet and toes swelled up.  That has literally never happened to me before.  In the end we got a general idea of where to start and found out Gerardo is not too fond of “trainees” he calls them.  We hope to prove to him that his experience with us however will prove to be valuable for Aqua. 

If I’m seeming to be a bit negative about our experience so far I’m not trying to be.  I am trying to paint a realistic picture of what it is like to go and try and figure out life in a culture that operates pretty much completely opposite from what you are used to.  I will tell you it is absolutely beautiful here.  While I know I’m going to miss many things about America I am appreciating the diverse beauty in God’s creation.  I’m sitting atop a hill right now looking at the Pacific Ocean, which is a five minute walk away, and watching cows wonder around the pool.  Which I found today is safe enough to swim in.  Yay!  On our walk to Aqua early this morning we watched a wood pecker, saw a unique looking squirrel and watched five mono congos (howler monkeys) play in the trees and howl when cars went by.  I’m sure once we get things figured out we’ll be able to fully enjoy the beautiful landscape and the ocean.  I’m looking forward to that.

Until then we are doing our best to stay positive and stay cool.  I have lots more to share, but that can wait until another time.  We are taking one small step at a time and learning to have lots of patience.  I miss you all very much and covet your prayers.  I'll try and post some pictures soon.

Nicaragua Here We Come

 “Sometimes only the step I’m on, or the very next one ahead, is all that is illuminated for me.  God gives just the amount of light I need for the exact moment I need it.  At those times I walk in surrender to faith, unable to see the future and not fully comprehending the past.  And because it is God who has given me what light I have, I know I must reject the fear and doubt that threaten to overtake me.  I must determine to be content where I am, and allow God to get me where I need to go.  I walk forward, one step at a time, fully trusting that the light God sheds is absolutely sufficient.”  Just Enough Light for the Step I’m On, Trusting God in the Tough Times by Stormie OMartian

In December of 2000 a dear Christian lady gave me this book as I embarked upon my first semester at Cedarville University.  Over the past 12 years I have picked up this book several times and passed it on to many friends.  This past year I found the words and truths from scripture to once again touch my heart and life as I experienced many changes including: getting married, moving away from friends and family, leaving a job and several activities I enjoyed, living in a city on the east coast, finding a new church, and taking on a very challenging job.  The funny thing is I was just starting to get settled here in Pennsylvania and it is once again time to pack our things and leave the familiar to spend 3 months in Nicaragua.  We have no idea at this point where God will take us come December or January.  For a person who loves to plan, be in control and pour deeply into relationships all these changes and uncertainties have been very difficult. 

Now please don’t think I’m complaining, despite the many hardships due to transition, our first year of marriage has been filled with wonderful times and great adventures.  What Anthony and I have and continue to experience is life.  Everyone goes through seasons of change that test their faith and character.  The past year has indeed been that very thing, but the changes and challenges are teaching me many things about life, God and myself. 

As I look back over the last year God’s faithfulness is abundantly evident.  I could literally write a page at least about the small and big ways God has provided and the wonderful blessings.  These are the things however I tend to forget at the very time it’s most important to remember them.  This past winter and spring I studied the book of Ruth with my women’s Bible study at Grace Chapel.  The women and the Bible study were a very real example of the truth I learned from Ruth, that God is always working even when we don’t see it.  It is unclear to me what God is doing exactly in Anthony and I’s life.  All we know is that we are following the light He has given us for the next step. Nicaragua is that next step.  Despite fear and uncertainty I choose to believe the truth that God’s hand is at work and He will guide and direct us, even if it's only a step at a time. 

Thanks for reading my very first blog.  To be honest, it is with reservation that I write one.  I’m not one to “publicly” express some of my thoughts and feelings for others to read nor am I confident in my writing skills.  Nevertheless, I think writing and reflecting on challenges, new experiences and more than likely funny culture differences will be good for me.  Hope you enjoy it!