Tegus -->El Paso --> Austin --> Tegus

The past two weeks have gone by extremely fast. It feels as though I should barely be getting ready to go home for Christmas. Yet, here I am, back to my home #3, getting ready to bring in the New Year. It's been a trip, literally. It was great to be back home for a little over a week. I was able to visit with some old friends and hang out with family. Being home feels so different though. I can tell more of where I've grown and notice areas in which I may still need to work on - but that's never ending, right? I spent a lot of time battling with thoughts from the past. Situations that I was in a year ago, emotions that I was going through, and all the questions that were being asked didn't help keep my mind off of those times. At the same time though, I was encouraged to follow my dreams, and encouraged to do all that I can, while I still can. 

     Family relationships have changed. Everyone is growing up and dealing with their own issues. It doesn't help that I only get parts of stories here and there while I'm away, but I'm left trying to plug in the missing pieces throughout the short time that I am there. I Love them anyway. The week in EP ended with a tragedy as well as a celebration. Andrea's grandmother passed away on Christmas night, but earlier that morning Bianca announced her engagement. To say the least, Christmas 2011 was very emotional. 

     Tuesday came sooner than expected, but probably at the right time. I said my good-byes the night before at Angelica's Birthday dinner and hopped on a plane the following morning Austin-bound. Besides the 2 hours of sleep that night and the exhausted, tired eyes, it was so good to be back in Austin. I was fortunate enough to be able to rent a car to use throughout my time in ATX and had the freedom to roam the city. I missed driving in general, but driving in Austin and visiting all of my favorite places was absolutely refreshing. I spent some time at Mozarts (drinking coffee and sitting by the river), I did a little shopping, spent time with Sarah, and went on a search for some TOMS. I had lunch with some of my greatest friends, and on my last night was shockingly surprised. There was a leadership gathering at the Lloyd's new house (when I went to see Aneiya) in which I was able to hug and see all of the leaders who helped me make the big decision to move and guided me through all of the tough decisions of 2010-2011. That was the best unintentional surprise party ever! I couldn't have asked for a better way to leave Austin. 

     Then came Wednesday and off I was to my home #3 - Tegucigalpa, Honduras. Early morning, crazy flights, weird weather, and an increase in baggage fees lead me to believe that the day was going to be rough. I was exhausted from another night of a 2 hour rest and was sad to be leaving Austin just when I was beginning to enjoy my old friends. Landing in probably the shortest runway ever, and after waiting in immigrations and customs, I was greeted by Richard. As we waited for Leslie to land, we came across two other teachers - Susie and Jenna. It was a sweet little reunion. Once I got home, I felt a sigh of relief. All of  the crazy travel over (for now) and I could finally rest. New Years is right around the corner - it's time to regroup. 

Waiting Patiently

As this year comes to a close, I am reminded of one thing. Where I was this time last year was a completely different me. Throughout the year God has taught me to be content in Him and learn to listen to His voice - even when He whispers. The road has been a difficult one, but through all of the potholes and detours, I can say that my relationship with God has definitely grown.
     I remember the big decisions that I had to make this time last year, and the conversation that I was going home to. I remember the feeling of anticipation for the next step, feeling as though everything was going to be okay. But little did I know, my world was about to be flipped upside down. I was going to enter 2011 with a clean slate and even more decisions to make. But here I am now. I have a job that I really enjoy waking up to and some of the greatest friends that I could ask for.
     The journey is not over though, there are still huge decisions to make and memories from the past seem to be haunting me. I have not been able to sleep very well the past few days, but I know that a breakthrough is on its way. My God is greater than the past. He is greater than my situations - and for that I am thankful.
     It's not going to be easy. In fact, I may be up for some really tough times, but I can always rely on Him for comfort and for protection. Waiting patiently, I feel, is going to be the theme for this next season. Waiting for the things that I most desire, waiting for His perfect timing, waiting, waiting, waiting. Patience. I'm a pretty patient person, but this is going to test my trust as well. Trusting that He knows what is best and when to reveal it. Whatever "it" may be.

So here goes, cheers to the new season.

In The Middle - In Between

Yeah, yeah, so I'm the middle child. So what. That's not what this is really about. It's more so about being in that place in life where you are searching. There's such a world of opportunity out there that the options are literally endless. I'm not burdened by a house payment or car payment, yes, I have student loans to deal with, but my options are still wide open. I can move anywhere I want, and do something... anything.
     What I have learned from before is that when you take the time to listen to that small still voice, then He will direct your path. And where He takes you... man, the amount of joy and peace that comes with it is indescribable. Right now, I am exactly where He has called me to be. Even though I am currently visiting in the States, I know that when I return in a week I will feel like I'm home.
     Culture shock comes with big changes, especially with moving outside of the country. But for one reason or another, my "culture shock" has hit during my return home (my return to El Paso). It's not that I don't like being here, but life here is so much more fast paced and on the go that I feel a little overwhelmed. I never realized how busy we really did keep ourselves - how busy my life must have been before the big change. And now, I miss the pine trees, the runs, the hanging out and just enjoying the presence of others. Now, I know that all of that can be accomplished here as well, but when? In between the rush from store to store, during our one hour lunch break in which we go to grab some fast food, or once we get home only to do more work? There seems to never be enough hours in a day to fit in all that we set for ourselves to accomplish.
     Even though everyone here is still going abut their normal schedules, I'm glad to have the opportunity to be here. To visit with family and friends, and to just be. I'm still learning how to be flexible and "go with the flow", but it's coming along much more easily now than before. Two things that I realized I've been missing... driving and text messages. Weird.

Home for the Holidays

     I made it! Finally... after what seems like a whole day's worth of traveling, I finally made it home. I'm not that great at flying, so i usually don't get that much sleep the night before, and there was nothing different this time. Running on 4 hours of sleep, I woke up at 5 am, packed a little more, typed out my lesson plans for the first week in January, then packed a little more. I was glad to have had a brief breakfast with everyone before I had to head out on the 830am bus to the airport. i was the only one who left on the early bus, so I felt a little left out, but I was hoping to see them at the airport later on anyways.
     What seemed lie hours later, we arrived at the airport and quickly checked in our luggage, paid for the tax fees, and went up to the lobby area for coffee and to relax. We were about 2 and a half hours early. i did a little walking around in the souvenir shops and grabbed a Mocachino to comfort the anxious body. Then, once we got heard of the 2nd bus arriving at the airport (the bus that practically everyone else was on)... I slowly made my way down stairs to see my friends once more before the big departure. and low-and-behold... Diego popped up!! That was such a great surprise and a wonderful way to leave Honduras, even if it was just for  a short trip to the States.
     Emotions were all over the place. Really. It was kinda confusing. I wasn't sure whether to be happy to be going home, sad to be leaving a place that I was beginning to call home, sad to be departing from close friends, or excited to be able to see and catch up with old friends. A weird situation to be in. But yes, the reminder was that it was only for a couple of weeks. We can handle a couple of weeks.
     We eventually say good-byes, and the first group went out past our last security spot and to the gate where we waited once more. I was able to board early since i apparently was given the privilege of fling FIRST CLASS! My seat... 2A!! I plopped down in what felt like a giant lounge chair while the lady brought me a drink. Once in the air, i was able to watch the movie Crazy, Stupid, Love (FOR FREE!), and I was given a form star meal! They served steak with potatoes and veggies, (or shrimp with rice), a biscuit, a side salad... and the best part... CHEESECAKE!  I had it made on the flight back to Texas! It was awesome!
     Eventually I landed in Houston, made it through customs and to the next gate on time to head home to El Paso. A long day, but a great one because I was able to come home to my family and enjoy the crazy things they do and the laughter that comes with it. All I can say is that this week is going to be nuts.

A Love that NEVER Fails

Our God is such a gracious God. Even on days when attitudes flair up from all over, on days when students don't want to cooperate and on days when I don't even feel like teaching ... God is there reminding us that it is okay. He's reminding us that despite our circumstances, He still Loves us.

Yesterday was another rough day. Students are ready for a break - and they aren't afraid to show it, let alone tell us so. Not only did I feel the unwillingness to cooperate from them, I am also beginning to get sick again. Stuffy nose all day and little-to-no coffee intake - not a good combo. We also hosted the Care Group Christmas party in C3 last night (which went well) and had a relaxed evening with friends and desserts. But the best part of yesterday was when the seven of us were together in John's apt just chillin'.

The past two weeks or so have been extremely busy and full of stress (for me anyways). Progress reports just came out, the Christmas Concert was underway, projects were wrapping up, and I felt like I was getting questions from every angle. I was under pressure and was ready to explode. I ran to let the stress go - I ran A LOT, and I prayed. God reminded me not to take control of my life, but to let Him take the lead. He reminded me that everything was going to be okay and that no matter what He still Loved me.

Enséñame A Amar

     It's nuts to think that the act of loving is easy. I wish I could say that it was the easiest thing for me to show and do, but during times like this week, it's been very difficult. I know that God calls us to love one another - to serve each other. But when attitudes change with the weather and someone hurts you, how easy is it then to show love? This week alone has been a challenge in that area. With the winter break slowly approaching it seems as though my older students have developed this attitude change. It's not only with me, but with many of the other teachers as well.  There have even been behavior problems with some of my best students. As much as I allow them to have their time for creativity and socialization, when work is not getting done, then that's when Ms. Discipline has to step in and it's not always pretty. They've seen me serious before, and they've seen my more relaxed side, but do they see God's love shine through me? I hope so. I pray for them as if they are my own children. I want them all to be successful, but do I communicate that to them?
     With everything that has been going on, both at school and in my personal life, I'm starting to feel the pressure. It's like November threw-up on me (some of you will know what I mean by that - sorry it's kinda gross). One by one, things have been creeping up and I'm sure it's a reminder for me to stay focused on God and to let Him do His work through me. I was reminded of a scripture the other day from a friend, it was

I sought the LORD, and he answered me;

He delivered me from all my fears

Psalm 34:4

     What a great reminder that was to know that when we seek God, he will answer us. So during this time when it's difficult to Love, all I have to do is seek the one who IS Love and He will answer me. I pray that as the time goes on, that God will continuously teach me how to Love like He Loves. That God will show me ways in which I can best express His Love in the classroom. I am so thankful for the many ways in which God has displayed His Love for me this year and I don't want to keep it bottled up. 

That's all I have for now, but I'll leave you with a beautiful song I came across the other day ... enjoy. 

How do I describe my students...

It's easy to compare my students to the students I taught during student teaching (Spring 2011 - Austin, TX), but that doesn't do any justice. They rare a unique group of kids. Not only are they the children of some of the wealthiest families here in Tegucigalpa, they come with so much other baggage, experiences and responsibilities. Not to mention the bilingual portion of their education. The culture of this city for one thing does not have the most kid friendly atmosphere. There's an extra caution that comes with being free outdoors. But then again, these students have so much technology to keep them indoors anyways, why would they go outside?
     My students also come with many challenges. Not all of them have the close-kint family life that some of us may have enjoyed. These kids have hard working parents, maids, butlers, drivers, guards, you name it. I'm sure all of that has great influence on their lives. They ask many questions. Many. Over and over again. It can get frustrating, but God definitely has given me the grace needed to work with them day in and day out. Many of them don't know how to problem solve. They need to be walked through it, step-by-step - yes, even after explanations and demonstrations of some of the most basic procedures. There sometimes seems to be no independence.
     Lately I've been asking for prayer requests in some of my classes. I don't read them out loud to the class, but when I do go back and read them my heart breaks for them. They ask for change - in their lives, in their country, in their family. My biggest realization is that they have real needs too. What goes on behind the scenes is brought into the classroom, and their attitude that day is reflective of what happened at home the night before or even that morning. It's amazing. I Love it when I get to have real conversations with some of them. They have opened up to me so much, and it is definitely a blessing to be a part of.
     Some girls in my elective class asked me today if I was spoiled when I was younger. I told them that I did get away with a lot of things when I was younger, but that I was convicted in high school about taking advantage of my mom's giving. I explained to them how I went out to get a job at the age of 15, and how I have been working ever since then. They looked at me in amazement. Apparently it isn't very common (or at least among their economic status) for children to work until they graduate from college.
     Anyways, all this to say, the students here are a very unique group to work with. The challenges we all face in the classroom, although similar to that in the States, come with a twist and it's definitely a trial and error environment. It is my hope that they leave my classroom at the end of the year having experienced as much as they can within the art field while producing work that they can be proud of and keep for future reference. I hope to build deeper relationships with many of them, and to really see them grow and develop a deeper relationship with God.

One of my three 9th grade classes taking a group photo on my birthday. 

Valle de Angeles

Valle de Angeles - A little touristy town 23 kilometers out of Tegus.

We visited the little town yesterday. On the way over we passed by rolling hills and mountains of pure pine trees. It was absolutely beautiful. The sun was out and the sky was bright blue. It reminded me of a previous road trip with friends to San Luis Potosi and the surrounding cities - such good memories. I Love being in little towns with tons of local artwork. The central square with all of the cute shops are so welcoming and the people are very genuine. We arrived around 10am but as the day progressed more people came out and the city came alive. We had coffee, papusas and did a little pre-Christmas shopping - a good day I would say. I didn't take very many pictures, but I did enjoy my time there with friends.

 

Singing in the Car

One of the things that I miss most from my life before the big move is singing in the car. I commuted from San Marcos to Austin often, and from one end of the city to the other just to teach. To say the least, there was plenty of down time whether it be in traffic or just distance. So I sang. No one really heard me, they probably saw me and made judgments, but for the most part that was my time. My time to really express my Love to the one who Loves me daily without fail. I miss that.
     It's not that I can't do that here. I sure can. This weekend I had the opportunity to go on a trip (location is still fuzzy to me) and take some time off. To get out of El Hatillo and travel a bit. It all sounded so great to me, but then within the past 24 hours over Thanksgiving, my heart felt heavy. Then today, when I woke up I read this devotional that spoke so true to my heart. This is the beginning,

     One of the blessings of the old-time Sabbath was its calm, its restfulness, its holy peace. There is a strange strength conceived in solitude. Crows go in flocks and wolves in packs, but the lion and the eagle are solitaires.

     Strength is not in bluster and noise. Strength is in quietness. The lake must be calm if the heavens are to be reflected on its surface. Our Lord loved the people, but how often we read of His going away from them for a brief season. He tried every little while to withdraw from the crowd. He was always stealing away at evening to the hills. Most of His ministry was carried on in the towns and cities by the seashore, but He loved the hills the best, and oftentimes when night fell He would plunge into their peaceful depths.

     The one thing needed above all others today is that we shall go apart with our Lord, and sit at His feet in the sacred privacy of His blessed presence. Oh, for the lost art of meditation! Oh, for the culture of the secret place! Oh, for the tonic of waiting upon God!

So here I am. I decided to stay back from the adventure, and just enjoy being in His presence. I have the entire apartment to myself and I am free to sing. (It's like being in a gigantic immobile car). Yes, there's plenty of work to do and some friends stayed here too, and that's great, but for the most part I am just enjoying the peace. The same devotion from this morning had this poem which is wonderfully written. Enjoy. 

 

     It is well to live in the valley sweet, 

     Where the work of the world is done, 

     Where the reapers sing in the fields of wheat, 

     As they toil till the set of sun. 

     But beyond the meadows, 

     the hills I see Where the noises of traffic cease, 

     And I follow a Voice that calleth to me 

     From the hilltop regions of peace.

 

     Aye, to live is sweet in the valley fair, 

     And to toil till the set of sun; 

     But my spirit yearns for the hilltop's air 

     When the day and its work are done. 

     For a Presence breathes o'er the silent hills, 

     And its sweetness is living yet; 

     The same deep calm all the hillside fills, 

     As breathed over Olivet.

I hope you are encouraged and don't forget to take the time that we all truly need to just bathe in God's presence and peace. And take your time to sing. Worship is the best, no matter what language it may be in, God hears it. I am so looking forward to worship tonight. To be in a community where God is the focus and where we can all life up His name and praise Him through lyrics is the best environment. 

P.S.

This is a link to the devotional's website:  Streams in the Desert Daily Devotional

 

Turning 24 in Honduras

All of the excitement started two weeks prior to the "big" event. Beginning on November 7th, I began to ask the question "There's an important day coming up next week, what is it?" From then on they were drilled. Every time I saw them they knew what was coming - the question. When they responded with, "Thanksgiving?" I would respond with, "Try again. Think really hard." Eventually it would come out and pretty soon it became second nature. It came to the point, as the days approached the 17th, when they began to tell me, "Miss your birthday's coming up!" Everyone was excited! (Or I like to think that they were).
     The night before I of course couldn't sleep. I had just spent almost three hours baking cookies for class and banana bread for fun, and I wasn't the least bit ready to shut my eyes. The only problem was that I was practically alone in the apartment and really wanted someone to talk to. It was like my mind was playing tricks on me again. I began to reminisce - but it wasn't helping the situation any. I thought of where I was for my birthday last year, and who I was with. The people I loved most in Austin were all there, and now they were at least 1200 miles away. Not much for comfortable thoughts on the night before the big day. Thankfully though, Sarah came to my rescue (as she always does). We both hopped onto Skype and spent a good hour or so catching up and telling stories. I of course vented and got her up to date with what was going on over here - an enjoyable twist to the evening that I was dreading. Not only was it a nice long conversation, it got my mind off of thinking of other things and redirected it to the friendships that I do have now and how thankful I am for the people who God has placed in my life this far. I realized that my 24th birthday may not look anything like my 23rd birthday, but it was going to be filed with many new experiences and new company. I was very thankful for the conversation with Sarah. It definitely was a great end to the last day being 23.
     The sun rose and I felt as if I had been asleep for ages. I was well rested and ready to get the party started. No, there weren't streamers hanging from my door frame like my mom use to do when I still lived at home, but there was a whole other country out there and kids who were so excited to greet me awaiting. I got all dressed up (wore an actual dress for the first time since I've been here) and made a delicious breakfast to start the day off on the right foot. One by one, my roommates appeared and wished me a happy birthday, then off I went - cookies in one hand, grades in another, a full backpack, and a smile on my face. I made it to my classroom, then devotions, then headed back to begin the school day. Each class was very special. Some greeted me with big hugs and they all wished me a happy birthday. My 9th grade class had our Wayne Theibaud dessert party (with was perfectly planned). But my 7th graders were extra sweet. They walked in, some handed me a little gift (candy), and they all sat down like little angels. I greeted them and asked them how they were doing, then as soon as I turned around to take attendance they all began to sing to me! It was the sweetest thing ever. They sang the whole song, words that I don't even remember (I guess you could say, the Spanish version of Happy Birthday). After they were finished all I wanted to do was have a big group hug, so I offered. Everyone came in for the biggest group hug that I think I have ever been in. It was such a special moment.
     Once we all got settled in again, we began the lesson and continued on. And yes, we actually got work done!! I was amazed at their behavior and response to such chaos. It was awesome. The day progressed with many more songs, greetings hugs, smiles, candy, sweets in general, and some of the most encouraging cards. I left my classroom with arms full of sweets and encouraging words.
     That night, one of the staff made food for those who wanted (John gave me his second plate that he had ordered, because of course I forgot to order one) and we all gathered together to eat in C3. The food was delicious and the company was wonderful (I even had CCC's worship cd playing in the background). Then it was time to get ready for the final dessert party! I got my boots on and cleaned up a bit, ready to hit La Cumbre to see the most amazing view of the city with some of the coolest people here in Tegus. The ladies arrived all dressed beautifully (by my Facebook request) and we headed out to gather the boys and get down the mountain. To my great surprise, both of the boys got dressed up too!! John came out looking spiffy, with a tie and blazer, and Richard came out with a tie as well!! It was the icing on the cake no doubt. I didn't think it was going to happen, but they sure did surprise me. We all squished into the car (9 total) and headed over the the restaurant. Yes, Lauren called ahead of time to warn them that we were coming.
     We finally get there, they weren't ready for us. We eventually get our table, and they didn't have the deserts that we went there for. Service was bad, but the people who were there were awesome troopers. I think I was probably debby-downer, but the view at La Cumbre was definitely amazing. The perfect spot. Tegucigalpa truly is Cinderella. Well, to end the story of day one being 24 years young, the night came to an end after a couple hours of conversation and good company, I was able to Skype with my family when I got home and I could not have gone to bed feeling more blessed. My students were amazing, my friends made me feel extra special (whether they knew it or not), getting to see my family was great, and the best part was just thanking God for another year and looking forward to the year ahead of me.

P.S.
Yes, this is just the story, but pictures are coming soon. Promise.

It Truly is the Little Things That Count

It really is all about the little things. Like the fact that a tiny yellow rose was staring at me while shopping at the stadium market today. Of course I had to bring it home with me - after all, it is my favorite flower!! (I just hope it survives and begins to bloom more buds). Things like a smile or hug that lasts for more than one second. Or sitting next to a good friend (Lauren) sharing earphones and listening to some awesome worship. Or receiving delicious coffee from a friend (Keri) even though you're trying to quit. (Who am I kidding... quit coffee?) Or a sleepover with some of the coolest people and you don't even need to stay up all night, just being in the room with them is great. That is what life is about... the little things.

"Blessed be the Lord, for he has wondrously shown his steadfast love to me" - Psalm 31: 21

 

Clear Skies, Bright Moon

I took a walk after school today. The perfect time of day, when the sky is changing constantly and the chaos seems to cease. It's within that brief time of day when I can sit in one spot and just admire God's creativity. So I jumped out of the work clothes got into something comfy and headed out the door. I walked over to the playground over by the elementary buildings and just sat on a swing. I stared up at the sky and watched the clouds float by as if they were racing somewhere. I sat there so long that my hips began to go numb, so I relocated to the top of the jungle gym. Again, I stared up at the sky, but by this time the night had taken over and the moon was shining. The moon was so bright that I couldn't even stare at it for more than a few seconds at a time. It illuminated the entire playground - talk about natural lighting! One by one, stars began to peak out of the fading clouds until ultimately there were hundreds of them. All shining down with their unique personalities flickering and waiting for attention.
     I couldn't help but reflect. Reflect on God's grace and His blessings. I went back to November of last year (2010) and replayed the events that lead up to today, November (2011). What a journey! So yes, I talked to the moon - that one's for you Keshia Rae! I am just so overwhelmed with thankfulness for God's faithfulness. I can see where He was calling me, and where I was being stubborn. I can kick myself for not listening to His voice sooner, but am still thankful for the opportunities that He gave me to get back in line with His plans. Crazy things happen when we actually listen and follow through. Crazy things like pure JOY and EXCITEMENT. Things like SECURITY and COMPANIONSHIP. It's amazing and my prayer is that everyone will have the opportunity to reach this point or greater.
     Take a look at me now. I would have never guessed this.

It's November! Finally.

Feels like I've waited 11 months for November to come around again ;). I can't explain what it is, but I just absolutely Love this month and all that it holds. I wouldn't consider it to be bias because it is my birthday month, but there is something about November, fall colors, cooler weather, and warm food that I absolutely adore about this month. Now, as much of a fairy tale as this sounds, the idea of snuggling up by a fireplace, or getting cozy in a room full of people drinking hot chocolate while the wind and clouds hangout outside is such a warming feeling. Not that this happens everyday, but when it does... it's magical. Or at least to me it is. Not to mention, but some of the coolest people I know were born in this month, and hence, this month is full of celebration and thanksgiving. It also brings anticipation for the next month to come... when family gets together and the life of Jesus is celebrated.
     Well, all of this sounds so great, and it's hard for me to not feel excitement when I think about this month and all that it has to hold, but in the season that I am in, there are also feelings contrary to what I am looking forward to.
     Monday, October 31st was the first time since I've been here where all I wanted to do was run, and keep on running. I missed a lot of people and a lot of things that were at one point comfortable to me. And here I was, in a situation that isn't necessarily uncomfortable, but it is so different that it made me really nervous and very anxious. It's like the words had escaped me and all I could do was run. The energy came out of no where and I literally ran four different times, about half an hour each time. When I thought I was done with a run, I would return home, but then feel this anxiety and uneasiness, so I would head out again for another run. It felt great, no doubt. The cool breeze and the swaying the the tall pine trees all around. It was actually a beautiful experience that maybe I never wanted to end. Not to mention the song that I put on repeat... Jars of Clay's "Safe To Land".
     I woke up, November 1, 2011, feeling refreshed, relieved and full of energy. It was a great way to bring in the new month with a new perspective. The things I was constantly reminded of just the day before still snuck into my thoughts throughout the day, but my heart had a greater sense of peace... and I am thankful for that. Now it's only day 3 into November and I feel as though this month is going to already be a huge challenge and growing point this year. I am truly thankful for the people that God has placed here with me. Without their smiles and encouraging words, things could easily be on the other end of the train tracks. But hey, there's still 27 more days in November, and I WILL make the most out of each one of them. I have come a long way and there is much to be celebrated.

Photo Update...

Here are more photos from the berry farm weekend and dinner at Eco de la Montana.  

 

 

 

 

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These are photos from my first concert in Honduras! We saw Juan Luis Guerra!
It was an awesome night out with great company.

 

 

 

This is the guy with the voice and all the moves... Juan Luis Guerra.

A Few Things I've Learned About Honduras and Hondureños (or at least here in Tegus)

This list I've been putting together for some time now, and thought it was time to post it. So here it is- 25 things that I've learned so far (although I'm sure there's more that I just haven't put down on paper). Feel free to comment, these are just observations that I've made since I've been living here. Enjoy!

1. For one thing, the H in Honduras (and any H for that matter) technically is silent (my dad taught me that one). 

2. When you hear a Honduran ask for a "gringa" in the cafeteria, they are really asking for a specific meal. It consists of chicken and cheese melted together inside a flour tortilla. They aren't asking for a person. 

3. "Por fa" is not Orfa (a Spanish name). They are abbreviating "por favor" which means please in Spanish. After hearing it over and over during my lunch duty in the cafeteria I realized... Oh, well aren't they polite. 

4. The rapiditto is not very rapid. You have to catch it on a good day I guess. (P.S. The rapiditto is a public form of transportation here on El Hatillo, a.k.a. bus, that will take you down the mountain in a pace convenient to the driver). 

5. There are a billion different kinds of cheese... queseo, mozzarella, yellow cheese, queso seco (stinky feet cheese) and many, many more. 

6. You can't drink water out of the faucet - or you can, but it might not agree with you later. 

7. Hondurans run on Honduran time. Not North American time, so be prepared to wait it out. 

8. There are also a lot of great ideas floating around, but maybe 25% of them actually will happen. 

7. Cabbage is used a lot here - and I am not a fan, but who knows, it might grow on me with time. 

8. Expresso Americano is the equivalent to Starbucks, but a third of the cost. Can someone say addiction? 

9. Hondurans use a lot of chicken (according to Richard). My response, "that explains why I like Hondurans". 

10. The beef here is very different - not a huge fan of cooking with it. 

11. Hondurans point with their lips. Just take a moment and imagine that. 

12. There really aren't any rules to driving here. Stop signs are a suggestion, and the lines on the road don't really mean that you have to stay in them... they are also a suggestion. 

13. I have yet to see a street sign. You must give directions based on landmarks or corner stores. My favorite is Puppy Corner (the Mc Donald's). 

14. Electricity goes out about once a week... at least if not several times in one day. And if it happens to be out then it's no shower for you, unless you're one of those who actually enjoys cold showers in the dark. 

15. Candles are a necessity, and card games. 

Back on food, 

16. You must put everything in a ziplock bag. It will last longer that way.

17. You have to clean ALL of your veggies and fruits before consumption or you're asking for a stomachache. 

18. I have noticed that a lot of groceries that you would normally have bought in a can comes in little pouches. This is mostly true for refried beans, spaghetti sauce, some cheeses and even soups. 

19. Gum here, or at least on the mountain requires a ziplock bag as well. It tends to get extra sticky if left out for the humidity. 

20. The children hiss at one another when someone does something impressive or answers a question correctly.  Sounds cool but it's kinda weird, especially when they do it as a group. 

21. They are also extra touchy-feely here. Not only is it common to greet with a kiss (as many Hispanics/Latinos do), but they can't stop touching each other - or at least my students can't. 

22. You must walk like you know where you are going. Walk with a purpose, or you're just asking to get mugged. 

23. Fruits and veggies here are so much cheaper than in the States. 

24. Winter is going to freeze your toes off if you're not properly prepared. All the windows are slats, which doesn't exactly prevent the cold wind from sneaking inside. 

and...

25. The bus drivers here have no fear. So don't get in their way. 

Overall, the culture here definitely has it's differences from the States. Life here is much simpler and day to day activity is just that. There are no definite plans when it comes to planning ahead, and plans that are made are more than likely to change. It's not that I prefer one culture over the other, each one has it's benefits and inconveniences, but it's that the priorities are different. Hondureños value relationship much more than most people in the States do. Things may take twice as long to get accomplished,  but in the middle of all that hopefully you've made a friend or two. 

falling in Love again

     Surprisingly, this time I'm not talking about relationships. But for the sake of not being preachy, I'll keep this short and just let my thoughts flow on the screen. 
     There was once a time when my heart was hurt - my first reaction was to ask for a time of testing. A time for God to renew my perspective. He did just that. Then there was a time when one after another people in my life no longer lived. A time in which I resented not being consistent in spreading the Good News and a time of grief over an amazing woman of God who had greatly impacted my youth. There was also a time of great anticipation for what lied ahead. A new beginning. Then that time soon followed by great experiences in which my plans overshadowed Gods. It was soon overcast and everything that I thought was in place, and that which was going to be amazing, was taken away. Again, I asked for a time of renewal. 
     In a heartbeat we move from one great experience to another. Some of those experiences may leave an awful taste in our mouths, but they are there for a reason. To learn some lesson. Life is so unpredictable. But the good news is that there is a God who stays the same and His Love is never-ending. 
     Yes, I have had those days in which I wondered how I was going to get through the storm on my own. Times when my faith was tested to the max. Sometimes it's a great reminder to just think of God as never leaving our sides. He is with us through our times of trial and our times of victory and rejoicing. 

What more could you ask for?

     So, to bring it back to falling in Love again. Life changes when you decide to stop doing all the talking and actually listen to what God has to say, and to listen to what He has to offer. As much of a listener as I am, I wasn't listening for God's voice until about a year ago. During a time when things were tough. Slowly I could hear the whispers and see the beauty in the relationship that God had for me. A renewal of my relationship with Him. Falling in Love all over again. And here I am, taking His word as Truth. Believing that He has it all under control. Knowing that He is there with me wherever I go. 

This was on my heart. Thought I would share.  :)

Another Weekend for the Books

     Another great weekend. For starters, on Friday we went down the mountain after school to get groceries but ended up having a pretty relaxing evening. If I remember correctly (this weekend was so jam-packed that it's hard to remember exact details), we stayed in for the evening played a few games and watched a movie. Nothing too extreme, but still quality time none the less. On Saturday, Pinares had the annual Game Day in which all students and families were invited to the campus to have a day full of sports activities, games, and of course typical Honduran food + Pizza. I slept in until 10am, which is very late here, and then headed off to the festivities. Surprisingly, the turn out was pretty good even with cool & wet weather. I saw several of my students there, jumped rope with a few of the 7th grade girls and held interesting conversations with a few others. It was great to see them outside of school and in a more relaxed environment. I assisted that day with the ticket booth and then went back home to get some grading done. But Saturday night... I went over with John and Richard to the Jovenes meeting (which I almost forgot about - but am glad I was reminded of) that happens down the street for the school. There I was able to see my friend Maria, her husband Juan Carlos and her super cute son Juan David. They are great. We played a ridiculous game involving a rubber band (I need to get the pictures from John), sang worship in Spanish, and listened to the message for the night. Afterwards, we stayed in yet again and watched Soul Surfer in John's apt then took the party up to my apartment for a few rounds of games and some good conversation. Sunday morning, of course we had a community breakfast and went our separate ways to church.

     I really enjoyed church service this weekend. Yes, the service is in all Spanish, but this time I had Richard there to help translate some of the words and he voluntarily translated some of the songs for me. I was able to see Maria singing in the choir, and once we made eye contact - it was all over. She cracks me up! The weather that morning was mostly overcast with fog coming in and out. I must say though, it was pretty awesome being in a church service and at the same time feeling like you are in a cloud (the service is held on the balcony of the pastor's home). The entire atmosphere was wonderful. I just felt so much peace and joy that it was hard to sit still. Well, after service, and from our conversation the night before, we all packed in the car and headed to the berry farm. The whole ride up the mountain to La Tigre was beautiful, and the farm was such a cute place. There were rows and rows of berries planted all the way down the mountain and we were able to pick our own berries right off of the vines! The berries were HUGE and tasted so delicious! We spent a good amount of time there, but due to the weather we skipped out on the picnic and left early. Of course we all got our hands on some of the fresh jam that was sold on the property. On our way down, we stopped at a nearby restaurant called Ecos de la Montana where we ordered coffee, hot chocolate and lemonade along with a couple of appetizers to share. We ended up playing table games like "Never have I ever..." and eventually switched up things a bit and played "I have..." It was definitely a great learning moment for all of us... the bonding was going deep. We stayed until about 5 minutes before they closed and headed back home where the party continued.
     More personal games were played in which we revealed some crazy things about ourselves to one another. The night was full of great stories I must say. Sarah made some homemade carmel corn, and we indulged - yes, to the point of ridiculous stomach aches (right Dibbly). We took some time out and played a few card games and then just sat around waiting for the next wave of energy to come our way. The night went on, more personal games including the game "The Game of Things" in which each person writes out an answer to a prompt "things that..." and we try to guess who wrote what. It was very interesting. We even took it to the level of, again, revealing information about our personal lives for everyone else to guess. It was great. Needless to day, the night went on and eventually we all ended up in one of the largest living-room forts made by 20-somethings that I've ever been a part of. It was a sleepover with great company.
     Monday morning, I woke up to the sound of the maid walking in the door, surprised at the newly decorated room full of adults in their PJs. What a night! We spent a majority of Monday just hanging out, grading, at a potluck, cooking, and at care group where we prayed together and worshiped Abba Father to the sound of the guitar. The weekend was truly a blessing, and I can't wait to get back to that berry farm to have a picnic.

 

                       

Laruen!! (aka. Dibbly)

My first official Canadian friend.

She's the bomb.com

 

The coffee sock being put to good use. 

 

Cocinar en Honduras

For some reason I have really enjoyed cooking here. The attention that some of the food requires during preparation makes me appreciate it all the more. I've really been taking chances with some of my meals here and I must say that the hidden chef inside me is starting to show. One of my roommates, Julie, commented one day that my cooking was half Honduran, half Mexican - that's exciting! I hope to learn how to cook more traditional Honduran food, but I definitely have time to perfect that. I did learn last week though how to bake banana bread - Honduran style. It turned out amazing! Thanks for the lesson Richard.

Here's a little food photography to hold you over. Enjoy!  :)

Pizza night! Made with Love, from scratch.  :)

One of mom's specialties... tacos. They came out almost perfect. Loved every bite though. 

My first attempt at guacamole without that  special Austin seasoning. The avocados are humungous! That seed there was lager than the lime I used - no joke. I'm gonna grow an avocado tree.

Honduran enchiladas. And I thought I was gonna get the Mexican version. Nope.

Baleadas... a Honduran thing. Not my thing, especially while on an egg boycott. 

Notice... my burger size versus John's burger size. :)

Peta pizza... yumm...

Taking it back to El Paso. Mom's classic nachos. Might I say, the jalapeños here are H-O-T!

My first attempt at teriyaki chicken. I will be making this again. Definitely. 

My first ever shrimp cookout. The only reason I tried it was because the shrimp was covered in bacon! 

It was delicious!

First official banana bread made the Honduran way. Thanks to Richard for the recipe!

Homemade Chamomile Tea  :) ... yes, from scratch