Good News -- Our Friend Mark P. is Coming!

Our friend Mark P. called Sunday to let us know that he is coming for a visit on January 22. We are so excited! A nice way to start the new year. (Hopefully we will be in he new apartment by then).

The Infamous Move

We were told by our new landlords that the apartment would be ready on the 21st. So, Mark and I started packing everything like crazy to be ready on time. We called our friends that volunteered to help and lined them all up. We wanted to be moved in and set up this week because Mark has the week off from work and next week we have our CO visit. It seemed to be the perfect time to plan a major move.

Well, guess what? The apartment is still not ready. I'm living in a disarrayed apartment trying not to lose my cool. We are beginning to think the owner is using the apartment to store merchandise for his bike shop (he has 20 bicycles in my living room) and he doesn't want to give up the apartment until the holiday is over. You would think that after 11 years of dealing with this culture and the "ya mismo" mentality that we would be used to it. But, we're not. So here we are twiddling our thumbs and waiting. It's a grand opportunity to work on our "gran paciencia."

Annual Pioneer Meeting

Last night we had our congregation's annual pioneer meeting. How cool is that pioneers in the entire world are having the same meeting this month? There are eleven regular pioneers serving in the Batan Congregation. Two of the three elders serve as pioneers and that is a real blessing for the congregation and the pioneers.

The theme of the meeting had to do with having insight not only in our pioneering, but also in all aspects of our lives. I got tickled thinking about the Spanish word for insight - perspicacia - a five syllable word to translate a two syllable word. And so goes the Spanish language. All of the information was interesting and helpful and gives us impetus to continue on this next year. Although some of the info considered had the pioneers baffled. For instance, talking about showing insight when we face economic problems the outline mentioned that we can save money by walking more in the ministry rather than use our cars. Well, as Beth can attest, we already do that. It won't be hard to continue. For those of us that have cars (the majority don't) the society suggested to work the territory in areas or zones instead of driving all over town. Again, our territory is small and that is not a problem. But, I think that these suggestions will be harder for brothers in more developed countries since the infrastructure demands that they use their cars in all aspects of life.

Here are a couple of photos of the meeting and you can see we have a great variety of pioneers in all ages and ethnic groups.

Here we are all 11 of us.

Mark and Becky McCleskey

Marianela and Pablo Suing

Alejo and Betty Palacios (Betty has more than 50 years pioneering)

Carmen and Cristiana Arevelo

Maria Once (La Cholita)

Marlene ? (I don't know how to spell her name)

Yolanda Cabrerra

Betty, Yolanda and Maria chatting after the meeting.

Marianla and Carmen preparing a little snack after the meeting.

La Merienda Cuencana (The Cuenca Dinner) consists of bread, cheese and tea or cola. We had a treat to get tuna with the bread!

Well, We're Moving Again!

This will be our fourth move in 3 years. Hmm. You think I would get used to this. However, this time it is our fault. You see right now we are living in a two bedroom apartment that is very noisy because of all the traffic outside our living room and bedroom. Recently an apartment became available that is two floors up and it is 3 bedrooms, faces a quieter side of the building and the owner is offering the apartment for the same amount that we are paying for our smaller one. So...no brainer. The only catch, we have to be out by the end of this month. OUCH! Keep us in your prayers.

Beth's Return Visit

For those who are keeping up with Beth's blog this will be old news. But, I'm including it anyway for those of you who don't know about her blog. I suggest you look it up though. It's neat to see things through a Kiwi's point of view. The address to her blog is ecuadorexperience.blogspot.com.

Yesterday Beth and I made arrangements to go out in service together. Actually this is my first real week of getting back in the swing of things since the surgery. We had a nice morning door to door and at 10:00 Beth made arrangements to call back on a woman she contacted last week. We were hoping that Esperanza would be home, but who knows for sure these days. We knocked on the door and guess what? Esperanza invited us in and had her bible ready for us to start the study. She told her that her husband had carried the Bible Teach book with him to work so I shared my book. (So cool that the Husband is reading it, too!) Esperanza has an adorable 1 1/2 year old little girl named Amelia. Of course, my first thought was that Amelia probably wouldn't be quiet long enough for us to study. However, Esperanza is an amazing mother who is training her daughter very well. Beth gave Amelia the Great Teacher book and immediately Esperanza told her not to tear or damage the book. And she was very careful and very obedient. In fact, she was quiet the entire hour of our study.

Beth did an amazing job conducting the study. She has only been learning Spanish a short time but is able to communicate. At one point, seeing that she was getting flustered, I told her to breath and relax. She did and she was able to get through the study with no problems. Esperanza seems very interested and invited us back next week. What a great morning.

This reminds me how wonderful it is to live in Ecuador serving where the "need is great" and how Jehovah's spirit helps us even with our limited language skills. But, no mater what our circumstances or where we live, He wants people to learn about Him and serve Him. All we have to do is make ourselves available and He will do the rest.

Anniversary Party

Saturday night we were invited to Pablo and Marianela's anniversary party. Mark and Teresa, can you believe they have been married 6 years? Marianela wanted to surprise Pablo and I made a little video of what went on. Enjoy.

This is an Ecuadorian complete cutlery set. You don't need anything to eat with, except a spoon. You will find one at every dinner. No fork, no knife, just the versatile spoon.

And it didn't matter what we ate with, the food was delicious.

First day Out

Today was my first real day out in the ministry since my surgery and it was wonderful to be back! And very encouraging. Mark and I went to study with Grecia. Grecia is now baptized and we are finishing up the Worship book. She has two children, Henry and Alex ages 13 and 12 and they also recently got baptized. So, I guess you can say I'm a spiritual grandma. Grecia's husband is working in the States and has been away for nearly 6 years. So it has been hard on the family not to have a husband and father around. But, Grecia is doing a good job with the boys.

Today, she was relating that her sister, Fanny, didn't want anything to do with the witnesses. Avoided them like the plague. But, Grecia recently invited her over for a meal. During the meal and after, both Henry and Alex helped Grecia in the kitchen, preparing the food, and cleaning up. This is totally not done in a Latin culture. Fanny was so impressed with the boys' conduct that she said to Grecia "I want my son to act the way Henry and Alex do. They are so calm and respectful and help out." What is cute about this tale is that Grecia didn't have to say anything. Before she could utter a word, Alex, the younger of the two boys, piped up and said "Tia, it's not hard. All you have to do is study the Bible and teach your children about Jehovah and they will help out too. We do this for Jehovah." Fanny was so impressed with this comment that she began her own study. Out of the mouths of babes.......

Donna's Doing Great!

Donna Nicoll called this morning from Salinas. She is on her way to Guayaquil with Bill and friends to pick up a couple from the Branch that are going to stay with them. She was all excited. Health wise she is improving and now can walk alone without her walker. Spiritually, she is blooming. She attends all the meetings, prepares for each meeting, comments and she told me she can't wait to preach. That certainly made my day!

What a privilege we have to preach. But, I must say that conducting bibles studies is certainly the cherry on top of the cake. Especially when the study makes progress and you can see the joy they have conforming their life to Jehovah's standards.

A Special Treat

Last night we had a special treat. Mary Guthrie, who has been in the country about as long we have been, invited us for dinner to meet some friends that are visiting from Santa Fe, New Mexico. The Martinez Family. They brought with them ancho chiles and made enchiladas. Kelly made chicken enchiladas. I made pulled pork and homemade flour tortillas. Que rico! It was a delight and one we don't get often here. Guacamole, Margaritas, Corona and good company made for a delightful evening. Unfortunately, I forgot my camera. So, no pictures of the delectable delights. You will have to use your imagination. But, remember for us it is once in a blue moon that we get to eat like this.

Look Who Went Bowling

Monday night bowling. There's not much entertainment in Cuenca, but what there is, is fantastic! We got together for a bowling game. These are some of the ones that participated.

Sarah is happy she just bowled a STRIKE!



This is AJ and Jordan. They are visiting spying out the land. They are from Cleveland and are planning on coming back. We hope they are able to fulfill their plans and make it back soon.

Dan gets a SPARE! YEAH! He actually bowled several strikes, but I don't want him to get a big head.

The Difference in Cultures

How do you feel when you are talking to someone and they won't look you in the face? For most of us it is a sign of shyness, deception, or rudeness. Or we start to think that the person is ashamed or hiding something. It can be frustrating. At times, walking down the street in Cuenca, you meet someone coming the other direction. My impulse is to smile and say hello. As they walk by you the head goes down and they say nothing. How rude. I know from the time I was little my mother always told me "look at me when I'm talking to you." Well, this training has made it a challenge for me in my preaching and teaching work here in Ecuador. You see, many times when I approach young ones in the ministry and try to talk to them, they keep their heads down looking at the ground. Even when I try to joke or break the ice, the face is always turned down. Mark has a study with a young man about 14 that to this day when they study he keeps his eyes lowered. So what is happening here?

Well, here's the thing. It is a cultural difference. You see, from the time some Ecuadorian children are born they are taught that to look an adult in the face is rude. This is especially true with the people who live in the campo and are poor. They are told to "baja la vista" (lower your eyes) when speaking to an older person or a person of better economic means. Of course, this isn't the case in every family, but it happens enough to be seen when we speak to different ones in the ministry and they won't look us in the eye. We have had to change our attitude and not jump to the conclusion that the person is ignorant, rude or not interested. This certainly has been a challenge, but we've learned to accept these differences. It certainly has been an interesting learning experience.

Beth's Adventure

Sunday, we started our day with the meeting. Mark gave a very good talk if I say so myself. My little leaner (Nancy) was there to welcome me and keep me company. Here she is:

We made plans with Mark and Beth to try out the local cuisine. Beth wanted to eat Guinea Pig before she goes back to New Zealand. Those of you from Kiwiland that are following this blog and know Elizabeth are probably familiar with her adventurous spirit. I think she wanted something to brag about. So we took her to El Cabo a small town about 45 minutes away to a restaurant owned by a brother. We trust him to kill the guinea pig and bleed it correctly. And this is what happened.

As you can see, we had a lovely time, cuy or no cuy.

Friends Bearing Gifts

I recieved a visit from Irma and Vielca and they came bearing gifts. Look at the this beautiful fruit basket they put together. One of the things I love about this country is that fresh fruit is always available and is cheap. You can't eat like this in the States on a budget!

YouTube - jackeline gutierrez

For those who might be interested, I found this YouTube piece of my piano teacher playing. It's really shows her talent. Take a look.

YouTube - jackeline gutierrez

Irma y Vielca

Irma began to study the Bible in Machala (on the coast of Ecuador). She made changes in her life and this started to raise questions for her cousin, Vielca. You see Vielca was a party girl and in their family they always got together for Carnival, Christmas and other religious holidays. Suddenly, Irma stopped participating in the parties and instead babysat for the family especially for Vielca and her two children, Angie and Micheal. But, it bothered Vielca a bit that Irma was staying home caring for the children instead partying with the rest of the family. She thought Irma was boring. However, Vielca's curiosity got the best of her and she started to ask questions. Irma mostly told Vielca "you need a bible study." Everytime time Vielca had a question, Irma did her best to answer, but eventually ended up saying "you need a bible study."

Irma progressed, got baptized and moved to Cuenca. Vielca followed her to Cuenca and eventually started to study the Bible. She quickly made progress and now both Irma and Vielca are faithful sisters in our congregation.

Shortly after their studying the bible, both of their husbands traveled to other countries to work leaving Vielca and Irma alone with their children. Irma has one son named Jeferson and as I mentioned before, Vielca has two children Michael and Angie. Irma's husband went to Spain and Vielca's to New York. They have now been gone for 4 and 6 years respectively. However, both husbands are diligent to communicate and send money. What impresses me the most is how Vielca and Irma maintain their integrity under these dificult situations. They are both young and beautiful women, yet they remain chaste and faithful to their husbands. They deal with the frustration of not having their husbands near to help raise the children and of course they are lonely. Both husbands have noticed this and expressed their surprise and gratitude and both see how well Irma and Vielca are raising the children. The family reports back to the husbands and always mention how well behaved the children are and even comment on how they are able reason beyond their years on matters like why one shouldn't smoke, drink or steal. This, of course, sparks curiousity in the husbands and they ask questions. This gives both Irma and Vielca an opportunity to witness to their husbands.

Michael, who is 7, is quite the young man. A couple a weeks ago at the meeting Michael approached me and asked if he could talk to me. So I sat down and asked what was on his mind. He asked me "hermana, are you a pioneer?" I said "yes, why do you ask?" He said, "I know that if you are a pioneer, you must be wise and experienced and I was wondering if you could help me with a problem I am having at school." He then related that a boy at school was picking on him and he didn't know how to handle the problem. What made things worse is the kid was apparently the son of a witness family and in Michael's mind should know how to behave. So we talked about some suggestions about how Michael should handle the situation. Last week I asked how things were going and he said, "I applied the counsel you gave me and thank you very much. Things are much better now and the boy stopped bothering me." He added that because he did things Jehovah's way, they are now good friends. How precious is that? This is a testament of how well Irma and Vielca are doing raising their children and teaching them about Jehovah even though their situtations are difficult. What a good example for all of us.

Update on Donna Nicoll

I received a call from Donna (my English study). She is back in her hometown and getting into her routine. Her recovery is going very well. Most importantly, she is continuing her study and making progress. She is commenting at the meetings now even in Spanish. She is fighting with her health and getting rid of old habits, but Jehovah is blessing her efforts and she seems very happy. She told me her goal is to get baptized at the English Assembly in July. Won't that be grand? Her call was just what I needed to brighten my day.

Why is She So Special?

This is Nancy. Look at that face!. Isn't she cute? What makes her so special? Nancy is the niece of a bible study named Digna. Digna has six children of her own, no husband, and is raising two of her sister's children, including Nancy. Nancy's mother lives out of town and she doesn't get to see her very often. They are a very poor family and live in an old adobe house with dirt floors. However, they all are very faithful in meeting attendance and field service. Nancy here always sits with me at the meetings. (We split the children among different brothers and sisters so that Digna doesn't have so much to do and can enjoy the meeting.)

So why do I say that Nancy here is so special? Tuesday night was my first meeting of the Theocratic School and Service Meeting since my surgery. I haven't seen Nancy in three weeks. That night it was literally raining cats and dogs when we arrived to the Kingdom Hall. Nancy sees our car pull up and runs out into the rain with no umbrella and opens my door to carry all my meeting books into the Hall. She didn't want me to get wet or carry the books. Soaking wet she escorts me into the Hall and finds our seats and makes sure that I'm comfortable. Then she gives me a big hug and tells me how much she missed me and hoped I was doing better. During the meeting Nancy is quite a leaner and always ends up with her head on my arm, cuddling. I think she really misses her mother, but I don't mind standing in even for just a two hour meeting. She is very precious to me and I know to Jehovah.

Sunday Outing

Sunday was a very good day. I was able to attend almost all the meeting. The fist time in three weeks. After the meeting we went to a "Welcome Home Chad and Michele" party. It was held on the roof of the building where Beth and Mark live. Chad and Michele are back in Ecuador after working several months in the States and everyone is happy that are back "home" here in Ecuador. Beth posted some nice pictures on her blog (called the Ecuador Experience) if you want to see a short review of our good time. So progress is being made regarding my recuperation. However, I am still "squeaking" since my voice isn't fully restored yet. But, I won't let that stop me.

Deaf Pioneer School

This photo was sent to us by Veronica Molina, the first deaf person baptized here in Cuenca. She shared with us the good news that she just finished pioneer school. It's wonderful to see her progress. FYI, Veronica is second from right sitting in chair.

Fiestas de Cuenca

Oh how I wish I had my camera this weekend. Started out with the camera with hope of getting some really good pictures as this weekend are the Fiestas de Cuenca and what that means is that there are a lot of parties and artwork to check out. But woefully the camera ran out of batteries. So I'll try to describe some of the glory.

They close off the main streets and just allow foot traffic. As you walk there are rows after rows of artwork and artesanias. I can't believe how many talented people there are in this world. Artists that do water colors, oil paintings and drawings that are unbelievable. Then there are the textiles. Embroidery that is so beautiful. Hand made hats, scarves, sweaters, jewelry and wood carvings. If only I had a million dollars I would buy one of each. But, I settled for a couple of scarves (to cover the ugly scar on my neck) and a couple of jungle jewelry pieces made out of local seeds. They are beautiful and natural. I wish you guys could've been hear to see it. Then there is the food! Pork sandwiches that are out of this world and homemade candies, juices etc. It's like a mini State Fair of Texas but with a lot more interesting stuff that you would never see back home. The only setback is that the parties went on until about 3:00 a.m. this morning and we heard every bit of it from our bedroom. Needless to say we didn't get much sleep last night. I guess it's a good thing it only comes once a year.

Progress Report

I am doing remarkably well. The stitches came out on Thursday and the scar on my neck is healing. It looks like in time you won't be able to see it. I can move my neck without pain and can see a great deal of improvement in my movements. Today I started the physical therepy (I call it Physical Torture) and that will also be a big help. The only setback is that I still don't have my voice back and the doctor ordered me not to utter a word for at least a week to help the nerves heal. Mark is enjoying that part. It looks like the surgery is a big success. Yippee!

There's Nothing Like Good Friends

I must say that this has been a very difficult two weeks. Trying to make decisions about my health and whether or not to have the surgery. But, having the love and support of all our dear friends has been a life saver. You really don't realize how many friends you have until you go through something like this. First, Dan and Tina from the Galapagos Islands happened to fly in Sunday before my surgery and were kind enough to spend the entire day with Mark and I to try to keep our minds off the impending surgery on Monday. We ate lunch together (I was trying to eat all I could because only soup and mush allowed after the surgery) and we walked downtown Cuenca to see the sights. How kind of them to sacrifice their time to cheer us up.

Then Monday rolled around and Look who came to see me in the hospital. I can't believe all the love and support. Not to mention all the lovely flowers, visits and well wishers. Thank you everyone. Your presence and continued support really helped Mark cope with a difficult situation and I must say it did wonders for me to see all your faces as I came out of the anesthesia. When your family isn't available it's wonderful to have your extended spiritual family around for love and support. We both appreciate it very much. I'm doing well as you can see I am actually typing this blog 3 days after the surgery! And the stitches come out this afternoon. Who knows what I will be doing next!

She's O.K.

Hola Becky's Friends, it's the crazy kiwi reporting for Becky here. She wanted you all to know she is doing fine after the surgery! Of course still in pain but able to walk and move around fairly freely. I am pleased to report that she has not lost her sense of humor and can even crack a smile, if not quite laugh cause it hurts too much.

Mark is truely living up to the "Man Among Men" fridge magnet they have on their refridgerator and is at this moment giving her a back massage. What a good feller! I am sure Becky will keep him on a bit longer!

Regards to you all from a land down under

Beth

Tomorrow's the Big Day

I go in the hospital tomorrow morning at 7:00 a.m. The surgery is scheduled for 8:00 a.m. I wanted the early spot to ensure that the doctor would be fresh and alert.

Friday, Mark talked to the doctor to finalize some paperwork and ask more questions. The doctor informed him that the surgeon that invented this procedure and taught our doctor is flying in from Brazil to assist in my surgery. The amazing part is that he is coming as a favor to my doctor and is doing it all pro bono. The doc told Mark that since I need two levels replaced instead of one, he feels better having his mentor along for the ride. I must say that I feel better also. Eddie Orrellana a local doctor and brother who is on the Liaison Committee will also be present in the operating room He is doing this as a favor to help me feel easier and just in case an issue with the blood should arise. The chances of that are slim since this is not a bloody procedure. But, it is nice to have that peace of mind. Jehovah is really looking after us and we can see His hand in so much that has happened.

We will keep you updated on my progress. I'll write again as soon as the doctor gives me the okay.

Oh What a Week

This has been a very frustrating week and I am really trying not to freak out. I know that this is a minimally invasive procedure and I am trying to focus on that fact. But, I'm still having trouble with the idea of someone cutting on my neck and fiddling around with my spinal cord.

Oh well....The doctor told us two weeks ago that I needed to go ahead and have the surgery on my neck to correct the two herniated disks. He didn't want to wait any longer since the problem is getting worse and I am experiencing more and more pain and side effects. So, we set up the surgery for this coming Monday. During the week we had to take care of all the pre op tests, i.e. blood test, EKG and lung Xray. That wasn't too bad, everything came out normal, except my cholesterol is a tiny bit high. What do you expect since I haven't been able to exercise for a while? But, the doc said it wasn't too high and wouldn't be a problem with the surgery.

So you may ask what is so frustrating? Well we had to sell our assets in the States to pay for the surgery and have the money wired here to our savings account. Our bank in the States tells us we can't wire that amount of money from outside the USA. Then we came up with the great plan to wire the money to Mark's brother's account and he could then wire it to Ecuador from the USA. Our bank won't allow us to do that either. They enjoy making things difficult I think. All Wednesday we have been going crazy trying to figure this out. You see, the hospital will not allow me to check out unless the amount is paid in full. They will literally keep me prisoner until they get their money. Isn't that crazy? Fortunately, Mark's brother has kindly offered to wire the money from his account to ours and then we can just send him a check to pay him back. We finally got that settled. And another person has kindly offered to loan us what we need to make up the difference for which we are very thankful. So here I an making plans to go into the hospital on Monday and Mark made his plans at work to be off the two days necessary. Then our Doctor called last night to say that he is changing hospitals and that may change the day of the surgery. He now wants to do the surgery in Monte Sinai. We have been told that Monte Sinai is a more expensive hospital especially dealing with foreigners. I guess they think we are all millionaires. HAH! However, the doctor is trying to get us a discount. He seems to think it will be a bit cheaper. We have to wait and see.

I just want this to be over with and be able to get on with my life. Hopefully, this time next week I will be pain free and starting on a new life. Won't that be grand? I apologize for the pity party I'm indulging in, I just needed to let off some steam. Thanks for listening.

Farewell to Donna

Today we had a very happy and a very sad event. Donna, my English study, has made such a miraculous recovery that her doctors sent her home to Salinas. She was to stay at least another two weeks in the hospital. It is wonderful that she is better, but I am sad to lose her as a study. She will continue to study in Salinas with a sister.

The staff of the hospital came to give her a going away party. They brought balloons, streamers, gifts and everyone ate pizza. They even brought music to dance. It was interesting to watch even the doctors get up and dance. Can you imagine that in the USA? I don't think so. Everyone was very nice and they were all wishing her well. It was fun to see. Donna apparently made quite an impression on everyone at the hospital.

Donna promises to keep in touch and we will be communicating by telephone. She says she will leave the difficult questions for me to answer (funny). With tears in her eyes she thanked me for teaching her the Bible and giving her a foundation in the truth. Of course, we know all the thanks goes to Jehovah. I will miss her very much, but I am hoping I will be able to be present at her baptism at the English convention in Guayaquil. That is her goal. Wouldn't that be great? So, I guess is back to business and teaching again in Spanish. Oh well, it was fun while it lasted.

Meet Donna Nicoll

Meet my English study Donna. She is recovering from surgery and we study twice a week in her hospital room. She is an amazing study and is thirsty for Bible truth. We come away after every study just beaming because we can't believe how well she is understanding and applying what she learns.

It's also fun because Donna is from TEXAS! What a small world. It's been great to hear the accent and talk about things in common. But, the most amazing thing is that Donna truly believes what she learns and is applying it in her life. She expresses her appreciation for Jehovah on a daily basis and is overcoming many obstacles.

Please keep her in your prayers.

Today I made her a good old fashioned Texas Chocolate Meringue Pie and took it to her. What a treat that was and what a joy to see how much she enjoyed it. Brought back memories of Texas.

The Kiwi's Debut

There is an English group now in Cuenca and once a month there is an English public talk and Watchtower Study. This past Sunday, Mark James from New Zealand gave the public talk. It was the first time we heard him speak publicly. But, it wasn't quite fair because he gave the talk in English instead of Spanish. Okay, Mark, now you have to get with the program and work on that Spanish outline. Anyway, quite a few showed up for the shindig and a good time was had by all. After the talk, we all went to a French restaurant and enjoyed an afternoon of good food and good company. It was so nice to talk English and understand EVERYTHING! Here is a little clip of the talk.

Also, I'm adding a couple of photos of new faces. Franke is visiting from Germany. She speaks German, English and French. She lived two years in Cameroon, Africa. Now she is trying her hand with Spanish and doing a good job of it. She started learning Spanish just five days ago. I took her on my bible study and she asked if she could read a paragraph in Spanish. She read so well, that the bible student couldn't believe that she just started learning. (I secretly hate her. No I'm just kidding :) ). They say your third and fourth languages are easy to learn. I wouldn't know since I'm still working on the first two.

The Scarborough Family just moved to Cuenca from Atlanta, Georgia. We hope they enjoy their new life in Ecuador.

Now for an update on Soyla, the Bible Student who recently lost her one month old baby. Today, Beth and I visited her to study. What a wonderful experience. Speaking about the fact that we are living in the last days I asked her if she believed that we truly are living in the last days. She said "yes" but, just yesterday, she was talking with her sister about what she was learning. She said that her sister was saying that she couldn't believe because she wasn't sure that the bible was truly from God since it was written by men. Soyla started to preach to her sister using the book and the bible explaining the reasons why she believes that the Bible is from God. So, she has started sharing what she is learning. Also, talking about the fulfillment of prophecy regarding Matthew 24:14, I asked Soyla if she saw the fulfillment of Jesus' words. She said yes and she added with tears in her eyes "when my baby died, I felt that God sent you to me." We all started to cry. By the end of the chapter, we talked about what each one of us need to do to survive the last days and we read Hebrews 10:24, 25 about attending meetings. Soyla immediately asked where the Kingdom Hall was located and what days and times were the meetings. She said she was going to attend Sunday and expressed an appreciation for the necessity of attending meetings to learn more and please Jehovah. I think Beth and I were walking on clouds afterward.

Never Assume

I have a doorstep study with a young woman named Soyla. She has been a very consistent and interesting study. For the last two weeks, however, I haven't been able to reach her and I was beginning to think that maybe she was avoiding my visits. Finally, Tuesday I was passing by her store and decided to stop by to see what was up. She immediately invited me in and started to cry. She told me that her one month old baby boy, Cristian, died. I immediately broke down and cried with her. Apparently, Cristian was born with a defect that the doctors didn't catch until it was too late and he died while in surgery to correct the problem. Her husband, Andres, who always avoids me came out to talk to Mark and I as we were trying to comfort Soyla. We talked about the resurrection and that Cristian is in Jehovah's memory. They both listened and appreciated the comfort and asked us to come back. Today, I went by to give them the brochure "When Someone You Love Dies" and Soyla again asked me in and wanted the answer to some of her questions. First, she said that she was always told that when you die your soul returns to God. But, she was reading the Bible Teach book and noticed that the soul dies. So she wanted to know where was Cristian. We explained to her that Cristian was in Jehovah's memory and that he will resurrect him in the paradise. She then told us that her family was telling her that since Cristian hadn't been baptized in the church that he was condemned in Purgatory and that was very upsetting to her. Again, we explained that the teaching of Purgatory was not a bible teaching and that Cristian was simply resting until Jehovah called him. Soyla really appreciated the information and by the time we left she even smiled a bit. We go back on Monday to continue our regular study.

I learned a great lesson not to assume someone doesn't want to study just because you can't reach them. So keep trying to contact those who show interest even though it may seem like forever before you can contact them again.

More Scenes from Sunday in the Park

Sunday in the Park with Friends

Sunday everything in Ecuador was closed (including the meetings and field service) except the voting polls. The country is voting on a new constitution. While the locals were busy doing their duty, we decided to play. Here are some pics our our play day.


Look at that food! Yes, it was just as delicious as it looks!





We had a watermelon seed spitting contest. I think Beth won with her "bend over and spit backward" move.

Say "hello" to the nice man with the camera below and try not to spit. We promise not to throw anything!

What is everyone looking at? Could it be........a cow paddy? No. Just trying to take a silly picture.

We ended the afternoon with a tasty Banana Splif......

Here's Beth enjoying her Banana Splif....

English Study Progress

Donna Nicoll the 61 year old American (Texan) I mentioned earlier is progressing nicely.
Yesterday, Beth and I went on the study to find Donna bursting with energy and recovering nicely. She was able to get out of bed into her wheelchair so she could sit up to study. That is progress. She had prepared her lesson and said that she was sorry, but she couldn't resist reading ahead to the next chapter. Wow! We won't punish her for that. Anyway, Donna expresses herself very well and what she is learning is touching her heart. Talking about the paradise, we read Revelation 21:3, 4. Donna, reading out loud, started to tear up. What she read touched her heart, but more amazingly she said "I'm really beginning to believe this." Needless to say, Beth and I started to tear up also. How wonderful to see someone really appreciate the truth. I will keep you guys posted.

Something Completely Different

Bill Briggs who lives in Salinas (on the coast) called us this week to say that he is in Cuenca. His sister Donna who is not a witness just had a very intensive surgery on her neck and is recovering in a clinic here in Cuenca. The reason for Bill's call is that Donna (61 years old) wants to study the bible in ENGLISH! She doesn't speak any Spanish. I jumped at the chance and yesterday we visited Donna in the hospital. What a lovely person. She is spiritually starved and wants to study twice a week. This will be the first time in 13 years that I have a study in English. I hope I remember how it goes. I plan to keep ya'll posted on her progress.

A Disturbing Incident

We live on the corner of a intersection and our living room window faces the street. For the last two weeks the traffic light on one corner has not been working properly and this week it stopped working all together. This has been a concern because there is quite a bit of traffic on these two streets and it is very dangerous.

This morning tragedy occurred. As I was pouring my morning coffee, I heard a terrible crash. When I looked out the window, as predicted, there was a fatal accident. Two pickup trucks. One ran through the non working traffic light. Unfortunately, two people were on the street walking. A mother and her 18 year old daughter. The daughter was instantly killed. The mother was seriously injured. The person driving the fatal truck was seen hailing a taxi and fled the scene. It was very upsetting. The police arrived and taped off the area as a crime scene. Now the city workers are busy repairing the traffic light. It only took a death to get it fixed....how sad.

Second Installment in the Series "What Makes a Successful Need Greater"

Welcome to "What Makes a Successfull Need Greater" Part 2. Meet Mark and Beth James. They are very special because they came to Ecuador Cold Turkey. New Zealand is so far away and it is very expensive to travel, they didn't even get the chance to "spy out the land." Very brave indeed. Yet, they are adapting very well and they have a wonderful attitude worthy of imitation. Enjoy their interview.

Another Encouraging Morning

Went out in the ministry this morning. Came across a gentleman who called to us from his second floor window. Mark said that we only wanted to rob 2 minutes of his time. He said okay and came down and opened the door. Mark set the timer on his watch for 2 minutes and the man thought that was funny. Anyway, the conversation went well and the man said that his sister was studying the bible with the witnesses and she was sharing what she learned with him and he thought it was interesting, but had several questions. After 2 minutes of conversation, Mark said our time was up but the man wanted to talk some more. He even asked us where the KH was located and the times of the meetings. We told him that we have a meeting tonight and he said he wanted to try to attend. He also mentioned he would like to invite us up to his apartment to talk at length, but he didn't have the time this a.m.

I'm attaching some pictures of our group and a couple to photos of our lunch Sunday with friends. You look close at one of the photos and you might spy some tasty guinea pig roasting on a spit. Yummy....All the service group send their love and greeting to all our brothers and sisters reading this blog.....SALUDOS.
This Guinea pig (here it is called cuy) is a local delicacy. I really love chomping down on the crunchy feet!

Lunch with some friends. The first three on the left are visiting for the first time. We hope it won't be the last. The couple is from Orlando and Kathy from Pennsylvania.

What Makes a Successful "Need Greater?"

That is a good question. Of course, you have to have the right circumstances or count the cost before you build your tower. Planning is essential, but that is not all. There are some things you just can't plan ahead for...Many have the desire to serve where there is greater need, but what obstacles do you need to overcome? Here are some insights from ones who decided to take the big leap and come to Ecuador where there is still a great need. If after seeing some of the interviews, you have questions or concerns, let us know and we will do our best to answer your inquiries. The invitation is set before you "Step Over to Ecuador" where there is a great opportunity to serve! By the way, you don't have to have the perfect circumstances to serve where the need is great. You do need the desire and the faith. And as our many friends will attest....you need to be a little bit crazy.

A Look at Our Territory

Our service group. Today the group is a bit small. We average about 25 or more every day. Today we were 19. The brothers here are zealous preachers and support the groups. Although we cover our territory about every 3 weeks we are still seeing growth. And there is a lot of new construction in the area that brings new people so there is still work to be done.

Our faithful sisters preaching. This man was very busy, but took the time to listen.

This is our territory in San Joaquin.

More of the service group from a different angle.

Isn't he cute? Just cast your vote and let us know what you think.

What Happened to Mark's Hair?

Woke up this morning and Mark has a new look! Imaginese! After 48 years of wearing the same hairstyle (Judy Clark don't faint) he finally did something drastic. Is he a Bruce Willis look alike (without the smouldering good looks) or a Yul Brynner wannabe? You decide. Just take the poll at the right and cast your vote.

A Great Start

Mark and I are back on the pioneer list after a very difficult year. Some of you know that I fell and broke 2 vertebrae in my back and it has been a long and difficult recovery. However, I am doing much better and we both decided to give pioneering another try. So starting with the new service year, we started also.

At first we were scared about getting in our time because I still have days that I just have to rest. We have been begging Jehovah for the strength and ability to pioneer. So, let me tell you about our first week in service. How Jehovah knows what we need!

Monday, Sept. 1 met with the group and set out door to door. Found a bible student who wanted to continue studying. Wow....

Then we met a woman at her place of business reading her bible. What question did she have? Can you tell me "who is the faithful and discreet slave." She listened and accepted the explanation we gave her. Another big "WOW." She invited us to come back on Mondays to continue our conversations.

Tuesday, Sept. 2 again we met with the group. Made return visits and started another bible study with a woman who works at a hardware store. She gave us her home address and we will be visiting her on Wednesday nights for the study.

Thursday, Sept. 4. Met with the group and went preaching in San Joaquin. This is a small town on the outskirts of Cuenca that most of the food for the city and country is grown. A lot of agriculture. Met a young lady who just moved from the coast to San Joaquin. She was very interested in what the Bible says about having a happy family life. She accepted the Teach book and invited us back to show her how to study the book. She wants her husband also to sit in on the bible discussions.

Saturday, Sept. 6. Mark goes to work at the institute. On his way out of work, he sees Gino (a young man we studied with 3 years ago) waiting at an intersection directly in front of the entrance of the Institute. After greeting he invites Mark to get in the car so that they can catch up. He is now married and in town to pick up his wife. He says "Mark, I was just taking about you yesterday. My wife's family are involved in a religious group called The Brothers of Christ and we were talking about the book of Revelation." He said his wife was afraid of the book of Revelation, but Gino had said that Mark the man he used to study the bible with really knew the bible and if anyone knew about the book of Revelation, he would. And here he was the day after. So Mark rode with him to get his wife and met her and invited Gino to our house to see me and present his wife and Mark had mentioned that we had a book which discusses Revelation verse by verse. She was very interested. So, when they got to the apartment, after meeting me, we placed the Revelation book and 2 Teach books. Gino had only studied in the Knowledge book. She had many questions and was very sincere. They live quite a ways out of town, but we hope to study with them during the week when they are in town because he is studying in the local university and she is working one block away from where Mark works.

All in all, we started 4 new studies and in total gives us 9 studies. Not bad for the first week of pioneering, huh? Jehovah is good.

Meet New Ones

Cuenca has had such an increase that the branch has been sending new ones to serve here. We have 3 new families serving in the Cuenca area. This is the couple from New Zealand, Mark and Elizabeth James. They go to the Banos Congregation. They have been here 5 months and are doing very well learning the language.

As you can see, we get along just fine.

Pictures of Our Life in Ecuador

Evelyn and Rebecca preaching in the campo. This elderly woman was drunk (yes, she is small and looks like a child. But, she was about 80 years old).
We had quite a time talking with her.

Congregation picnic. We are dressed in the local costume and we performed a local dance. We got an encore. How about that!

Aren't we cute! Really look local with all that blond hair huh?