OUR NEW CO AND WIFE

We have a new circuit overseer and wife that we got to meet a couple of weeks ago while they were visiting our hall. Manuel and Ester Estevez. A lovely couple from Spain. They have been serving in Ecuador for 11 years and have been recently assigned to Cuenca. A great couple and lots of fun and, of course, very encouraging. We are looking forward to their tenure here.

The Kellys

Here's the picture of the new family in our congregation that I promised to post. From left to right: Amber, Amelia, Tanya and Brian. The Kelly family from Australia. They are a great addition to the congregation and very zealous in the ministry.

Update On RV

Remember I told you about the woman that I met and said she wanted more information about how a wife can fulfill her role? I got her home today. Her name is Rosa. She immediately invited us in and got the chairs out for us to sit down. I opened my Teach book to the chapter on Family and we started to read the information. She got out her bible and read all the scriptures. Then her two older daughters, Estefania 15 and Tanya 17, came down and joined the discussion. They all really enjoyed the information and they invited us back next week. Isn't that great?!!!!!

What a Day!

Yesterday was just a wonderful day in the ministry. Started out making return visits. Two weeks ago I met a woman and offered the Teach book. I emphasized the chapter on family and she wanted more information on how a wife can fulfill her role. We tried to go back several times, but without finding her home again. Yesterday, I met her two daughters who told me that their mom was really looking forward to my returning and for me to please come back. That was encouraging. So, we made plans to try to get back with her on Friday afternoon. Then, we made another return visit with Adelaide down the road. She wasn´t home either, but as we were walking up the hill to get back to the car, here she comes walking home. She recognized me and asked if I had come by to visit her. I said yes, and she invited us back to the house and we began the first chapter in the Teach book. Things are beginning to look up again!

Aimee and Steve are Off!

Aimee and Steve left yesterday for the international convention in Johannesburg, Africa! This will be Aimee´s first international and we are so excited for her. The only hiccup is that we couldn´t go with them. They will be gone 3 weeks. Can´t wait to hear all the experiences and see the pics. Hopefully, I will be able to share some with you.

New Faces

We are happy to announce that we have a new family from Australia that moved to our congregation. The Kelly family, husband, wife and two daughters. It is wonderful to have the help and they will make a great addition to the congregation. Tomorrow we have plans to go out together in the ministry and show them around the territory. Hopefully, I will then be able to take some photos so you guys can meet them, too.

Drought

We are officially in a drought. The rivers are low and barely flowing and the hydroelectric plant says the water at the dam is going dry. That means they will soon be turning off the electricity. To make things worse, the indigenious people are in the mountains burning wood hoping the smoke will produce rain. That makes the entire city under a cloud of smoke and making it difficult to breath. Let's hope it rains soon!

Dedication of the Assembly Hall Expansion

Saturday we were up at 4:30 a. m. to get ready to make the 3.5 hour trip to Guayaguil. Br. Guy Pierce was going to give the dedication talk for the Assembly Hall expansion and we weren't about to miss it.

We met Ivan, Mimi and Janeth Palacios and caravaned to Guayaquil. It is much safer to go in a group than try to go by yourself. Although, we really never have had any problems, we always feel easier with a group. Arrived about 12:00 p.m. and got a bite to eat. But, the highlight, of course, was the program.

The entire event was lovely, but a highlight I really appreciated was the history of the preaching work in Ecuador which started in 1935. They intereviewed some of the long time missionaries. In fact, the first Gilead Missionaries arrived in 1946. In 1947 the first Ecuadorian was baptized. 1948 12 new missionaries arrived. Some are still in their missionary assignments after 50+ years. What a wonderful example. Believe me, Ecuador 50 years ago was an entirely different place. Not only did they have to put up with the primitive conditions, language and culture, they were up against mob action that was stirred up by the clergy. These brave individuals carved the way for us today. In 1957 the first branch was constructed. The property was 200 meters wide and 2 km long and pure jungle. The brothers had to clear the property with machetes. 1984 the assembly hall construction began. 1987 a dedication. Publishers increased and a need to expand began in 1994 with a rededication. Again, in 2005 there was a 3rd expansion. That brings us up to October 31, 2009 with the redidcation of the assembly hall and new buildings. The assembly hall now has the capicity to seat 5,000.

As I said, the whole program was wonderful. Unfortunately, I didn't get any photos because of our time restraint. Immediately after the program we were on the road again trying to get back to Cuenca. We hit heavy fog, but arrived home safe, happy and spiritually refreshed to keep serving Jehovah whole heartedly.

Out of the Mouth of Babes

This is Mark, making a rare appearance on the blog, at least as the writer, but I really wanted to share this experience.

A few weeks ago, I was walking downtown toward the post office in the middle of the main park in Cuenca when I bumped into Irene, a colleague who works in another school whom I had met at a couple of seminars for English teachers. She told me she was in a hurry but she wanted to let me know about a seminar that was upcoming where she thought I might be interested in giving a workshop. As we sat there on a park bench, I was suddenly smothered by two young kids from our congregation-Michael and Angie. They are in the above photo- Michael with glasses and Angie in the yellow shirt. They were downtown with their mother Vielka, a sister in our hall, and when they saw me from a distance, came running and inundated me with hellos and hugs. Well, I introduced them all to Irene and after they left, she said, "Who were those children? They just love you? And, why did they call you Hermano Marco? (Brother Mark)." She asked me if I was some kind of minister, and I said yes, and that they were in my congregation. She said, "Well, I have never seen such affection lavished on a priest, but they obviously trust you and it is obvious that you love them too!" I explained that we were witnesses and that this was an example of the christian love that we enjoy, even though we are not from this country. Irene is from Canada. Well, what was to be a brief interchange with a woman in a hurry turned out to be a 2 hour long informal witnessing opportunity. She didn't know anything about Jehovah's Witnesses. But I was able to contrast our beliefs with those of the other churches. She is also a clinical psychologist and was asking my opinion on a situation about a young girl she had been treating. I mentioned some things which I had read in an Awake article on the subject and she was impressed. I told her that all the information was based on Bible counsel. She then said that a young girl had approached her in English in that same park and had invited her to the next meeting of the English group here. She had not really planned on going but said that she was very impressed by the sweet young girl who had talked to her. Now, she wanted to get the location of the hall and the date and time of the talk. I encouraged her to attend. if possible, and after that a couple of weeks passed and I didn't see her again. Well, about a week an a half ago I took a few of our friends to a little town called El Cabo to eat chicken. When we got to the restaurant there we saw several brothers and sisters. Among them were two large families that serve in the English group. One of the brothers asked me if I knew Irene, When I said yes, he said that she must have been talking about me. She explained to them about our conversation in the park and had attended the meeting and had apparently enjoyed it quite a bit. In fact, she had agreed to a study! I haven't talked to the family since then, but I am anxious to hear how it goes. Knowing Irene, who is quite a pistol, if she ever were to come into the truth, I believe she would take to it like gangbusters. I will monitor the situation and let you know what happens. But it impressed upon me once more the value of the "love for the whole association of brothers" which characterizes and certainly distinguished us from the rest of the world.

CHUQUIPATA

Last Sunday Mark gave a talk at a small congregation about 40 minutes from Cuenca. The congreation is called Chuquipata. A lovely congregation of 35 publishers. Sunday there was an attendance of 53. Although small, they sang the songs so well that they could be heard in the whole neighbor hood. I had to video a bit so you could hear. It may not seem like a big deal, but many times the brothers are shy or don't sing loud at the Kingdom Hall. Mark and I thouroughly enjoyed our time with them.

Jethro

Jethro is a new member of our little family. In fact, he and Baby got married two weeks ago and are getting along quite nicely. They have already started building a home for their future little ones. Here's a picture of our handsome guy.

My Morning With Luz

Let me tell you all about Luz. She is a 68 year old widow. Only one son that lives in the States. Took care of her mother until she died 3 months ago. Walks with a cane because she needs a hip replacement.

Luz started studying the bible about 11 months ago. But, because of taking care of an invalid mother, she wasn't progressing rapidly. That all changed when her mother died. It was very sad because Luz felt not only the loss, but also felt alone. The death of her mother made her appreciate the resurrection hope and she decided she needed to make progress, rely on Jehovah and become an unbaptized publisher which she did.

She had been in the ministry a total of 4 times. This morning was the fifth time and it was my turn to work with her. Let me explain that working in the ministry here is nothing like doing city territory in the States. You very often are in the country walking on dirt roads or paths and on very uneven surfaces many times without a car. Luz didn't let that stop her. With cane in hand, and arm in arm with me, she was determined to preach this morning. It was slow going, but what a joy. We had such a wonderful time together. She is still nervous so the first thing she tells me is that I will have to do all the talking. Okay, I said...no problem. But, just like Jeremiah, Luz couldn't keep quiet. Once I started the introduction, she jumped in and started preaching. It was so much fun to watch. We spent the morning laughing, talking and enjoying every moment together. She thanked me for being her partner, but I must say, I think I got the better end of the deal this time and I came home happy, encouraged and anxious to share the experience with you guys.

Unexpected Experience

Coming home from the meeting, we got on the elevator of our apartment with a young man. He noticed our meeting books and asked if we were Jehovah's Witnesses. He said his Mom and grandmother were JW's back in the U.S. and was wondering if we had the book about different religions (Mankinds Search for God). Of course, we know the book! He said he was thinking about looking into religion and that he needed something different in his life. He lives on the floor below our apartment and had noticed that we seem to go to meetings on Tuesday nights.

We will keep you up to date if anything comes of it. It got me thinking that we can give a witness even when we aren't aware.

2nd Day of Convention

Wow. Our convention is just awesome! Attendance 8041 and 200 baptized! Quito had 21,000+ in attendance. Br. Estevez in his prayer for the baptism talk said that the angels were rejoicing. I know he is right. I willl post pictures later. Gotta go and enjoy our last day.

New Service Year

Mark and I had a very nice start for the new service year today. Although I had to work in the morning, we made arrangements to go out this afternoon. We are so happy to say that we were able to make contact with an old bible study that wants to continue to study. We stopped by her place of work and we talked about an hour. She just got back from a trip to Italy and happened to visit the Vatican. That made a big impression on her and she had so many questions about the practices and businesses she saw and what the bible teaches. What a nice way to start the new year!

Vilcabamba

We had the chance to get away for a few days and spend some quiet time with friends in a sleepy town called Vilcabamba. About 5 hours from Cuenca, but it is like a completely different world. Unfortunately, because of some stressful events at work, it was difficult for me to destress and relax. But, thanks to Jordanne, A.J. and Miha and our friends in Loja and Malacatos (towns close to Vilcabamba) I was able to have moments of extreme pleasure. Here are some pics of our adventure. There is nothing like our spiritual brotherhood. We even met some new friends along the way.

Do you think the luggage will fit in this small car? "Of course" replies Mark. "Toyota is Toyota."

Our little home away from home.

AHHH! Now we can relax.

This was such a surprise. My spiritual daughter and granddaughter are now serving in Malacatos. This made our day!

Friends we met serving in Malacatos and visiting from Canada and England. A very nice evening.

Orchids

Did you know there are over 4,000 varieties of orchids in Ecuador? I didn't either. There is an orchid sanctuary and cultivation center in Gualaceo about an hour away from Cuenca. Mark and visited and were amazed by the beautiful and unique flowers. One orchid actually smells like chocolate. There are orchids a little larger than a pin head and others that are like explosions of blooms. I put together a video of some of what we saw. Enjoy.

A Curious Bit of Trivia

For you Seinfeld fans out there that always wanted to know what happened to Bapu after being deported....well, he immigrated to Ecuador and set up shop. Here's the proof.

Our New and Improved Kingdom Hall

We had our first meeting in the remodeled hall Sunday. It is beautiful. The hard work and dedication of all the brothers and sisters is reflected in the finished product. We are so happy. As a new arrangement with the GB, the first meeting is dedicated in giving a talk about how to care for the new KH. Something that I really appreciated was that the speaker mentioned that we are preparing ourselves to live in the New System under God's Kingdom and the way we conduct ourselves, including taking care of our places of worship, reflects on how we will be in the new system and whether or not we are worthy of being there. It was very encouraging and throught provoking. Here are a couple of pictures of the interior.

Any of our friends that have visited us will see the difference. Look how clean and pristine it looks.

Evelyn and Luis' Wedding

Our dearest daughter Evelyn married Luis Cuesta last Saturday. I made a short video to share with you. Sadly her own mother didn't come to the event although Evelyn had hoped up to the end that she might change her mind. But, they had many friends and loved ones to share their happy day. We are happy that we were allowed to share this day as we feel like her parents. It was a simple wedding and she made a lovely bride as you will see in the video.

Evelyn and Luis are Tying the Knot

Our very dear, spiritual daughter Evelyn is getting married to a very nice brother named Luis Cuesta. We are so excited and happy for them both.

Evelyn is very special. She is a faithful pioneer that has overcome many difficult situations. She even graduated from the University (at the insistence of her mother) and pioneered the entire time. Evelyn has been a source of encouragement for Mark and I, our pioneer partner many afternoons when no one else supported the group, and our daughter. Mark is the Director of the Feast and I will be cutting the cake. We have also been asked to prepare the Sangria that will be served. Small tasks, but we are happy to be a part of this happy day. The wedding is on Saturday. I'm sure I will have some pictures to share. Stay tuned.

This Time Tears of Joy!

As you know, I've been sad that we couldn't make the English Convention. But, I received wonderful news yesterday. Donna Nicol called to let me know that she was baptized at the convention. You remember her? She was my English study while she was recovering in the hospital here in Cuenca. For a few weeks, I was privileged to start a study with her in the Teach book and watch her grow in appreciation. She moved to the coast a little later and I couldn't continue the study. But, she didn't stop. And she was baptized. Now she is our sister. I'm crying, but not because I'm sad but because I am thrilled that she progressed and that I was able to be a part of it, even if it was for a short while. Oh, I almost forgot...she told me that she is conducting two studies of her own! WOW!

Me and Donna in Cuenca after a bible study. Here she was still in the hospital.

A Bit Sad

For 12 years we have never missed our English Convention in Guayaquil. Of course, we will be attending our convention here in Cuenca in September. This will be the first year we can't make the trip. I'm sad about it, but it can't be helped. Due to financial problems and health reasons, we just can't get it together to make the trip. So, to all of you that are going, enjoy! It is a wonderful convention and a great experience for the "need greaters." We will be missing you and thinking of you.

PS....For those of you going to the convention, if you would be so kind as to pick up the new releases for us. Otherwise we won't be getting them in English. It would be greatly appreciated.

Oh How We Change

My dearest childhood friend, Belinda, recently found me and wrote to me. We haven't talked since 1996. We have been chatting via internet and catching up on old times. Wow, how the time has flown. Can you believe she has some old photos of me and my brother Jamie? I'm sharing the photos with you guys...I told you I was a red head...

Signs

Walking around town, we often see American influences in the culture. Some signs are obviously taken from the States others are just different. I made a short video of some of the local scenery.

Enjoy.

Ministry of Health Advisory

This pamphlet was distributed in our building and this poster hung in the elevator. It is valuable information about "What you Should Know About the A/H1H1 Virus" (commonly known as Swine Flu) distributed by the Ministry of Health. Actually the information is very helpful and informative. However, I thought this particular page was cute. For those who don't read Spanish or these pictures are too small, I will translate a bit.

"Wash your hands frequently with soap and water, especially after sneezing and contact with sick persons." Good advice.

"Wash the soap in running water before putting it in the soap dish and/or using liquid soap." Okay.

"Cover your nose and mouth with disposible tissues when you cough or sneeze and throw the tissue in the wastebasket." Good.

"If you don't have tissue (this was the one that made me laugh) use the inside of your elbow." The picture shows a drawing of a child demostrating the method.

The Kids are Here!

AJ and Jordanne have arrived. They are from Cleveland, OH and just landed in Cuenca on Wednesday. We are delighted they have decided to serve in our hall (we did a little arm pulling.) Today was their first congregation meeting and all were happy to meet them. They both plunged in feet first and commented on the Watchtower. Very impressive. They are a great addition to our hall and we really appreciate the help. Who knows what adventures lay ahead?

Always Learn Something New

Yesterday, I had the privilege to work in the kitchen at the KH remodel. We were in charge of making a fruit salad for the morning break. I must say that I started out with a bad attitude because when I arrived at the place we were going to cook, no one was prepared to start. (It didn't help that my blood sugar was very low so I'm sure all was blown out of proportion.) I won't go into details, because it is not important. What I want to say, is I got myself so upset that I was crying and called Mark to help me calm down. What I learned from this experience is that it's not a big deal. With all my worry and stress, the snack turned out very well and the brothers appreciated the refreshment. I ended up having a wonderful time with my sisters. I learned that everyone is working hard for Jehovah. My stress only ended up hurting me and no one else. And the work got done anyway. I'm not too old to learn.

Another Day at the KH Construction

Yesterday I had the privilege to work again in the bodega. I had the mind-numbingly boring job of taking threads that have been unraveled from old cloths and form them into balls. These things are called "Waypay" (wipes). They will be used to wipe up spilt paint and splatters. I spent 3 hours on the project and although it was boring, I enjoyed the conversation with the fellow sisters working with me. Since I´m unable to do physical labor, I do what I can and it is all for Jehovah, right? I´m just thankful I can participate even a little. My next big day will be Saturday. I´ll let you know what happens.

Kingdom Hall Renovation

Because of my work schedule and taking care of an ill Mark, I haven´t really had much of an opportunity to share in the remodel of our KH. However, Saturday was my first opportunity and I had the privilege to work in the "bodega." Loosely translated that is the store room where all the tools and equipment are housed and where everyone signs in and out. It was a blast. I was assigned to clean all the ladders. I must say, that when I was through with the task, those ladders shined as bright as the top of the Chrysler Building. Needless to say, I didn´t shine much by the end of the day, but it was great to be with the brothers, sisters and construction crew.

At lunch I met Juan Carlos of the construction crew and he is from Guayaquil and has quite a sense of humor. He is constantly laughing and smiling and is a very pleasant fellow. He assumed that I didn´t speak Spanish, me being a Gringa and such, and started to talk about the foreigners. I responded in Spanish and he started to laugh. Then he asked me what food I liked best in Ecuador. I started to name off all the weird stuff i.e. guinea pig, fish soup, I even said that I like guata (stomach). He said that I was truly an Ecuadorian because he had never met a gringo that would eat guata. I definitely had his approval. He noticed that I didn´t eat all the rice. They give you a mountain of it and sometimes you just can´t put it all away. He said "rice won´t make you fat......only if you eat it." For some reason everyone at the table thought that was funny.

It really was a nice time and I hope that I will be able to continue to help out on my days off and, of course, keep you guys updated on the progress.

What is Corpus Cristi?

What is Corpus Cristi? A city on the coast of Texas. In latin it means "the body of Christ" and in Cuenca it is a week long regligous holiday. They line the streets around the public square, near the Catedral, with booth after booth of delicious looking pastries. Candies, donuts, cakes, any kind of sweet you can imagine and it looks quite tempting. At night the fireworks fly and they send brown paper bags lit with candles into the night sky and they are quite lovely. I enjoy watching from my bedroom window. In the morning about 5:30 the rockets go off (this I don't enjoy). Even the bees come around and try to get a taste of the goodies. They swarm around the booths. But, does anyone really know what it means or how it got started? Apprently not. I have been going around town asking different locals what exactly is this holiday. No one seems to know. But, everyone loves the treats. Today I was told that the celebration corresponds with the harvest of the indigenious people that worshipped the seasons, sun god and nature. They showed their gratitude by sharing the bounty of their harvest. The Catholic church thought it would be easier to sway the locals to allow them to keep their traditions.

I also talked to a taxi driver that told me that this particular celebration is unique to Cuenca and it is not observed anywhere else in Ecuador. He told me it started out quite innocent to show kindness and mercy to neighbors , friends and family by gifting sweets to one another during this time. The church piped in and decided to go along with the tradition and labeld it "Corpus Cristi" to show its approval. But, greed came into the picture, and different ones decided that you can make money by selling the goods instead of giving them away. The taxi driver was quite disgusted with how the festival evolved into what it is today. Of course, this is just one man's opinion and is a second hand account. But, I thought it was an interesting observation.

Work Trip to Riobamba

A few weeks ago, Mark had to travel to Riobamba (about 5 hours from Cuenca) to give a speech about public speaking. We saw the scene on the way and thought how this would never happen in the States. These two guys were hitching a free ride up the mountain.

The trip was lovely, switching from beautiful scenery to lots of fog.

Saturday morning at 10:00 a.m. was the first lecture. At 10:00 a.m. (as usual) not too many showed up on time.

But, by 10:45 a.m. most arrived for the end of the lecture. SMILE.

Unforturnately, immediately after the lecture we had to head back home. We were hoping for a long weekend to just get away and relax, but that wasn't possible since I came down with strep thoat. It was a miserable 5 hour trip back to Cuenca.

Service Shoes Bites the Dust!

Before we moved to Ecuador 12 years ago, we bought really good service shoes. The criteria was they need to last, be comfortable for walking, and not too ugly. The shoes I chose have been my favorite, constant companions and I have been using them for these 12 years, mostly walking up and down the mountains in the ministry. With that much use, they do wear out. So, time and again I have taken them to the shoe repair and just like that they were good as new. Until this last week. I noticed my feet were getting wet walking in the rain and low and behold there was a new hole in the sole of my shoe. This time when I took them to the shoe repair, they received a death sentence. I was informed they cannot be fixed any more. How sad. Where will I find a pair to replace them? Farewelll old friends. SIGH.

Some Ecuadorian Etiquette

In my job I am learning quite a bit about social and business etiquette for Ecuador. I have been given a book to read and I found some things rather interesting. Some I already know, having lived here for 12 years. But, other stuff was new or at least explained some of the customs I didn´t quite understand. Perhaps some of the information might be of use to some of you newcomers. So, the following are some things I found interesting.

1. Tipping. A tip is not required in restaurants. A 10% service charge is added to the bill and this amount should be shared among the employees. However, many businesses fail to give this money. So, if the service is good, you can give a 10% tip directly to the waiter. Taxi drivers are not tipped. Airport porters and hotel employees should be tipped $1.00.

2. Titles. These are very important to Ecuadorians. Señor is reserved for those who do not have a title. So use the title if you know it such as Doctor Fulano, Abogado Fulano, etc.

3. Race based labels. Names such as Gringos, Negro and Chino are a legitimate way to describe people and is not considered an insult. Don´t be offended if you are called one of these names.

4. Greetings. Kissing on the cheek is a common way to greet or say goodbye. Handshakes all around on arrival and leaving are customary among men. The handshake should be soft and brief. (None of that Texas grab and squeeze tight stuff). It doesn´t matter if there are 2 or 100 people at a gathering. You should make the rounds and greet all and say goodbye to everyone when leaving.

5. Ecuadorians are very polite and usually greet even strangers in elevators. You should always say a greeting when you enter a taxi or store before getting down to business. In restaurants it is customary to say buen provecho to diners as you pass their tables if they are eating.

6. Seeing people off. When you leave someone´s home, the custom is for the host to stand at the door to see the guest off or accompany them to their car.

7. Entering a home. When entering someone´s home, you always wait to be invited to enter. You pass through the door with the host following. This applies even if you are looking at property to buy. Once in the house, you ask before climbing stairs, opening closets, etc.

8. Being invited to eat out. BEWARE. You never offer to pay if someone asked you to dine with them in a restaurant. The term le invitamos (we invite you)actually means we pay. If you offer to pay you are inferring that they are unable to pay or making the point that you are economically superior. It is considered an insult.

9. Ecuador, especially Cuenca, usually uses the formal Spanish and you should use Usted when addressing new acquaintances, unless it is a child.

9. Parties. You never arrive on time. It is customary to arrive 45 minutes to an hour after the appointed time.

10. Yawning. Yawning is considered particularly impolite here.

11. Where´s America? You should identify yourself (if from the States) as from Estados Unidos, Estadounidense, or Norte Americano. Ecuadorians also consider themselves as Americans so don´t just identify yourself as an American.

I thought some of this was interesting and maybe you guys can use the info to help make your transition to Ecuador a little smoother.

Update

You guys remember Esperanza. She's the wonderful bible study I inherited from Beth. She is still doing great in her studies. She never misses and is a delight because she actually understands what she is learning. You may think that strange, but much of our work here is spent trying to go over simple points over and over again. With Esperanza she needs little coaching and applies what she learns.

She told me something very interesting a few studies ago. We were talking about how Jesus treated his disciples and was always loving. She commented to me on how different that attitude was from what she knows of the priests in her church. When she was 13 she went to confession which was obligatory. When she got in to the confessional, the priest told her she was too pretty to confess at that time and that she should come for a private confession in his quarters on the following Wednesday. This frightened her. She was too young to undertand why, but she decided not to go. Her father later commended her on her decision. Now she looks back and feels that the priest's motives were impure. Of course, we can't say for sure, but it does make one wonder.

CO Visit

This has been a very special week. Our Co visit. We had a supstitute this time around. Javier and Lorena Venegas from Sigsig. Sigsig is about 1 1/2 away from Cuenca. They are a young couple with an 11 year old son and serve as Special Pioneers. We have known them ever since thier son was only a few months old. Wow, how time flies!

The entire visit was great, but I really appreciated the Pioneer Meeting that was based on the article "How to Maintaim Joy in the Full-Timee Service" from the 9/15/97 WT. Some of the proplems touched on are how to cope with disappointment, getting along with others, when in poor health, dealing with apathy, etc. The article talks about the different circumstances that can make one start to think about leaving the full-time service. For me, it was opportune, since I have been dealing with these health issues for some time now. But, as the article mentions, some problems are short term and others are a bit longer. However, Jehovah is our stronghold and knows our circumstances. I think this was written just for me. Don't we all feel like that?

It was encouraging and, as usual, the ministry was great. The only problem is right after the Pioneer Meeting my fever spiked again and put me in bed for the rest of the visit. That's why I haven't been able to blog much. Today I'm much better and hope to be back on both feet soon. That's about it for now. Miss you all.

Computer is Back On Line!

We finally got the computer working again and we are back in business. Years ago it wasn't a big deal not to have a computer. But, once you get used to having it and comunicating with your loved ones so far away, it's like you can't live without it. How spoiled we get these days.

So, now that I am up and running (computer wise) I will try to keep up with the blog. It hasn't been easy lately. Working and trying to catch up with my pioneer hours hasn't been easy. At first I was doing okay, but I quickly became ill again and have been in bed most of my days off. Today I am feeling better and I hope to keep up the momentum.

Our studies are progessing nicely. Soon we will be losing two of our studies since they are now baptized and will be finishing their second book shortly. I guess we have to get busy to replace them with new ones. That isn't really very difficult here. What's is hard is limiting your studies so that you can take care of them. No, I'm not complaining. SMILE.

We are looking foward to our Kingdom Hall remodel. It is scheduled to begin about June 15th and the brothers mentioned that it should take about 6 to 8 weeks to complete. The end of July we will be going to Guayaquil for our English Convention. That is always a joy. You'll be seeing some photos of the event, I'm sure.

That's about all my news for now. Hope everyone is well and happy. May Jehovah bless your efforts wherever you are serving. Until next time. Chiao.

A Dangerous Chocolate Cake

My daughter, Aimee, sent this recipe to me by email. Well, I tried it since it looked so easy and I must say that it is an amazing treat. The only complaint that I have is that it is SO easy I am tempted to make it again and again. Not too good for the waistline. But, OH what a way to go!

In fact, I'm eating one while a write this blog....OOPS! I hope you guys enjoy it, too.

Let me know if you like it. I would like to hear your feedback. ENJOY!

5 MINUTE CHOCOLATE MUG CAKE

4 tablespoons flour

4 tablespoons sugar

2 tablespoons cocoa

1 egg

3 tablespoons milk

3 tablespoons oil

3 tablespoons chocolate chips (optional)

A small splash of vanilla extract

1 large coffee mug(Microwave Safe)

Add dry ingredients to mug, and mix well. Add the egg and mix thoroughly. Pour in the milk and oil and mix well.. Add the chocolate chips (if using) and vanilla extract, and mix again.Put your mug in the microwave and cook for 3 minutes at 1000 watts. The cake will rise over the top of the mug, but don't be alarmed! Allow to cool a little, and tip out onto a plate if desired.EAT ! (this can serve 2 if you want to feel slightly more virtuous).

And why is this the most dangerous cake recipe in the world? Because now we are all only 5 minutes away from chocolate cake at any time of the day or night!

AY DE MI

Alas, the time has come that we have been dreading. The beloved computer has conked out. I am writing you on my computer at work, but I don´t know how long I will be able to do this. Someone unknowingly sent us a particularly virulent virus that has completely destroyed the computer. Since we do not have the funds to repair it at the moment, it may be a while before I will be able to contact you. So please be patient and I will let you know as soon as we are able to get the darn thing fixed.

I wish we could charge those computer geeks that have nothing better to do than ruin other people´s lives the cost of the repairs. Oh well, that will never happen. Don´t forget about us.

We're a New Congregation

The time for the Batan Congregation to split and form another congregation has finally arrived. Although Batan has only been formed for about 2 1/2 years, there is a necessity to split once again. So, one week ago, it was announced that a new congregation was organized and we will be attending La Florida.

This is exciting and sad at the same time. Exciting that there is growth in our territory and it obviously has Jehovah's blessing. Sad because we will be losing some of our beloved brothers and sisters that have been assigned to another congregation. Also, we received news that the plans for our building a new hall are in the hands of the GB in New York and we are awaiting approval. In the meantime, we will be helping with the remodel of our current KH which is in great need to be fixed up. Currently, there are four congregations meeting in the one hall and you can imagine the wear and tear that causes. So, we are looking forward to the project and will be very busy.

Other news, the Assembly Hall in Guayaquil will soon be finished. We are told that there will be a dedication of the Hall in October and those who have 30 years or more baptized are invited to attend. Can you believe that Mark and I qualify? I hate to admit it (I'm aging myself) but in October I will celebrate 37 years baptized and Mark 36. There are only 6 in our hall that are invited because we of many years in the truth are few in this country. A guest speaker from the GB will be down for the dedication and will give the talk. I'll be sure to write you guys about the event.

That's about all for now. Until next time.....

What Makes a Successful "Need Greater?" (A Continuing Series)

One more interview for you to listen to. Barbara came on her own to Ecuador and has been here about a year. This is what she has to say. I apologize for the background noise, we were actually at Barbara's "going away party" at the time. Regardless of the noise, maybe you will be able to catch some of what she says.

My First Week of Work

I finished my first week of work and I must say it was much less stressful than I anticipated. Mostly due to the fact that Sarah is still on board and showing me the ropes.

To give you an overview, I am working for Nelson Idrovo and Grace Velastegui, a husband and wife lawyer team. Their principal occupation is as immigration lawyers for foreigners that wish to live in Ecuador. They also dabble in real estate. It seems a great number of retirees are immigrating down south and Cuenca is a very good place to make that SS check go further. Since the majority of the clients are English speakers, my main duty is serving as translator between client and lawyer or notary and translating documents from Spanish into English and vice-versa. My background as a legal assistant is coming in handy after all these years. Who knew I would ever use those skills again especially in a foreign country? The work is very interesting and Nelson and Grace are extremely nice and easy going. They have made me feel very welcomed. I believe that this could actually be the easiest, most rewarding job I have ever had. And did I mention the schedule? 1/2 day Monday, all day Tuesday and Thursday. Perfect for a pioneer. And as salaries go in Ecuador, the pay is very good. So, we will be able to pay off some of that debt we accrued during my illness.

I'll let you know how it goes once Sarah is no longer around to hold my hand.

Our Election Day Play Day

Sunday was election day for Ecuador. That means that everything shuts down, no meetings, no ministry, no liqueur for the entire weekend. So what does one do? Well, our congregation decided to have fun. We got together with some of the young ones and took a trip to Gualaceo a little town about 30 minutes from Cuenca. We went to a park and had a great time. Here are some highlights from the trip.

First we all met at the "Parque del Dragon" (the Dragon Park) So called because of the metal statue of a dragon. It's kinda cool. Then we took the bus to Gualaceo where we found a nice park by the river. I think the following video will give you an idea....

Rainy Day Turns to Sunshine

As I woke up this morning I was so sad because the dawn brought another ugly, cloudy day. It seems that it has been raining all year. So the dilemma, do I go out in service and give into my desire to stay in the PJ's and curl up in my warm bed or do I go out in this muck? It took all my energy to make myself get up and get ready and drive to the group. But, I'm happy I did for it turned out to be a great day.

First, when I arrived at the service group, I was actually the youngest member of the group. Our dear older brothers and sisters faithfully came out in service in spite of the ugly, rainy, weather. This is remarkable because unlike me, they had to walk to the group in this nasty weather. The oldest, 84 years old and me the youngest at ????? (I'm not telling though I'm getting up there.) The conductor was late so we all started talking about the weather and how much the rain was needed for the crops. That conversation turned to asking me about the planting, sowing and harvest schedules in the States. All started giggling when I told them how much I always loved having my own garden and how we learned to can or freeze our produce to get us through the winter. They were amazed at that concept because no one in Ecuador knows how to do canning because there is always plenty of fruits and vegetables all year long. Finally, the conductor arrived and we got organized for the ministry. I was assigned with Ester and she said she had some bible studies. So off we went. The first study was with a young mother and she was prepared and waiting for us. I got to conduct the study since Ester was busy keeping the child quiet which was quite a chore. As we knocked on the door of the second study, the husband opened the door. He said they were about the leave but invited us in for a quick "saludo". He called his wife and invited us to sit down. Ester explained to him that we come every week to visit his wife and we study the bible with her. The husband, named Eddie, was delighted and said that he fully supported his wife's desire to study and would we mind if he also sat in on the study. Once again, he mentioned that they were about to leave and as we were getting ready to leave he said, "but I have another question...." Okay, we listened and answered the question. We rose to leave again, and he said "one more question..." Again, we answered the question using the bible. This went on about 30 minutes more and every time we tried to leave, he came up with another question. We ended up having and brief bible study with the whole family. Mom, Dad and 2 children. As we were leaving he said that maybe next week we could arrange to stay 2 hours to really answer his questions. Why not? He invited us. I came home feeling very refreshed and happy that I decided to go out on this rainy, miserable day.

YIPPEE!

FYI everyone....I got the job. I start April 30. 18 hours a week and the bosses seem nice and easy going. This is going to be fun.

Something New

Some of you may know that Mark and I have been struggling for a while with our finances. We have been praying a lot and trying to decide what we should do. Mark is taking on more work at the University, but my situation is a bit more complicated with my health issues. Thus, many heartfelt prayers to Jehovah as to what we should do. Guess what? Sarah Rulla from Greely, CO is serving here with her parents Dan and Kelly. Sarah has been working for an immigration lawyer part time in downtown Cuenca not very far from where we live. In fact, it is within walking distance. Sunday night while the Rullas were over for dinner, Sarah mentioned that since she and her family will be returning to Colorado, her bosses were desperate to find someone to take her place. FLASH! Why not me? Sarah mentioned the possibility to her bosses and I have an interview with them this afternoon. After much reflection and prayer could this be the answer we have been waiting for? It's translation work, part-time and they are very flexible about the hours and willingly let you off for vacations and assemblies. I will be able to continue my pioneering and the money will help pay off the debts incurred with my surgery. Sounds like an answer to me....I will let you know if I get the job. Wish me well.

Memorial Update from Batan Congregation

How was everyone' memorial? Ours was very nice. We had a total of 310 in attendance and that included Esperanza and her husband which made me very excited and happy! Esperanza had told us the week before that they wouldn't be able to attend because her husband had a medical conference the evening of the Memorial. Thursday, Beth and I went to her study to go over the appendix of the Teach book about the Memorial. We had a wonderful study and at the end I mentioned the possibility of Esperanza coming to the Memorial with us since her husband couldn't be there. What a surprise when she told us that her husband decided to go with her and sure enough they were both there! We hope the information touches their hearts and continue to make progress. I'll keep you up to date.

Meet my Spiritual Children

I received wonderful news! My spiritual grandson just got baptized today. It is an amazing event. Jonathan is the son of a bible study named Diana. Diana studied a few years ago and when she started her study her husband left her and took her two boys with him. He then petitioned to court to take custody away from Diana. The only reason he was able to win the case is because he knew the judge and bribed him with money. There was absolutely no evidence at all against Diana. All through this terrible time Diana remained firm and faithful to Jehovah. We shed many tears together about the loss of her sons. Many bibles studies were just crying sessions because that was all Diana could do, but she never missed a study. With time, she was baptized. Soon after she won custody of the boys and they came to live with her. Jonathan, however, was very opposed to learn anything about the truth and was rebellious. Time went on and he was impressed with the friendliness of the local congregation and soon started studying. Today, he symbolized his dedication by water baptism. Once again Diana and I shed tears together, but this time they are tears of joy.
Jonathan, right before he entered the baptismal pool. Here I am with Diana, Jonathan and Diego. My child and grandchildren.

And here I am with my entire family. including Grandpa and Grandma. What a lovely family I have.