Here are some new pictures of our little Critters. Believe it or not they keep us sane and happy. Hope you enjoy. Oh, by the way, the last one is Mark, he's not a critter. Smile.

It´s Finally Official

It's finally done. Today we received our Ecuadorian Citizen Cedulas (identity cards). After two and a half years in the process and another four months trying to get the names straightened out, we got them. We are now duel citizens. It is a glorious day.

Our Territory in the Campo

This is a scene from our territory. We have spectacular views, but it means walking a lot uphill. It's great when you go downhill, but you know what that means...you have to go up again. However, it is beautiful and it keeps us in shape.

I had the pleasure to be accompanied by these two handsome fellows. The one on the right is a regular pioneer. So precious.

Why Should I Learn the Language?

That is a good question, especially if you're not a studious person or you're up in age. However, anyone can learn enough of the language to get by and even form friendships.

Even if you do not have plans to socialize with the local population (personally, I don't know why anyone wouldn't want to get to know these lovely people) learning the language is essential to being a well rounded individual, happy and contributing to the society where you live. If you live in a Spanish speaking country, frankly it is ridiculous to expect to hear English when banking, shopping, taking taxis or buses, paying utility bills, etc. You live in their country as a guest, so why do you feel entitled that they should speak your language? Make the effort to learn the basics so you can communicate and get things done.

A very helpful book to get you started is entitled "Madrigal's Magic Keys to Spanish A Creative and Proven Approach" by Margarita Madrigal. It is available on Kindle. The copy I have was first published in 1951, 1953 and 1989. To make things fun the illustrations are by Andy Warhol. Yes, it may seem to be a bit outdated, but the book actually gets you speaking, reading and writing right away and instantly builds an extensive vocabulary. I still refer to it from time to time to brush up on my Spanish skills even after living here for 17 years.

Another practical way to learn is start practicing with the locals. They appreciate the effort and will correct your errors, in a very polite and nice manner.

So start learning the language, don't be shy and enjoy your new life in this exciting country.

Until next time...

Suggestion for Moving to Another Country

I decided to write some information about what to expect if you wish to move to Ecuador. This information can be useful if you're planning to go to another country other than Ecuador, but since I've lived here for so many years my expertise is, of course, on Ecuador and especially regarding the City of Cuenca.

People move for different reasons, some for economic concerns, others want to serve "where the need is great", others want a cultural experience. Whatever the reason you will face many challenges some expected and others not so obvious. Therefore, my next few posts will address some of the issues you will face and I hope the information will be helpful. First of all, do your homework.

Try to research the country or area you will be moving. But, be open minded and don't take everything you read on the internet as gospel. There is a lot of good information out there, but there is a lot of information that is misleading and downright false, so use common sense when researching and weigh the information carefully.

Next, make sure you know the country's travel and residency requirements. Here in Ecuador you can enter the country on your passport (from most countries) and receive what is called a T3 (tourist visa) which will allow you to stay in the country 90 days. If that isn't enough time you can request a type 12 tourist visa at an Ecuadorian Consulate in your country or if you are already in the country you can request it here before your 90 days expire. A visa 12-IX will allow you 180 days.

You should endeavor to learn the local language. Even if you plan to be part of an expat community or attend an English congregation where you will be speaking mostly English you will still be living in a country that speaks another language. You will be much happier and the people around you will be happier if you at least try to speak the local lingo. Don't think you are too old to learn, anyone can learn enough to get around if you just put some effort into it. In Ecuador, the Ecuadorian people are very patient and kind and love it when you make an effort to speak to them. So put your inhibitions aside and go for it.

Don't be afraid to try the local cuisine. Just because it's different doesn't mean it isn't tasty. Ecuadorian food is a delight. You have quite a variety of fresh fruits and vegetables, chicken, pork and beef. The pork is especially good and is some of the best in the world. I'm from Texas and take my pork very seriously. I'm not so crazy about the beef, again being from Texas...but there are places where you can get a pretty good tenderloin. That's all I'm writing about today. I don't want to overwhelm you with too much information at one time. Come back again soon for more posts.

Sorry I´ve Been Away So Long

Dear Friends, I haven´t posted now for almost two years. It seems that since Mark got ill I haven´t had the time or the strength to write. Hopefully, that will change now and I will try harder to begin posting again. At the moment I´m having trouble accessing my blog as I know some of you are having difficulty. I do not know what the problem is nor do I know how to fix it. Does anyone know how to get it to stop redirecting? Please let me know. Thanks to all my loyal followers for all your patience. Take care, Rebecca

Hello Again

It has been some time since I have visited this site. It has been a difficult year, very busy, dealing will illnesses, stress and well, extactly what everyone else is dealing with. But, things are looking up and there have been so many changes it's hard to know where to begin. So I will start at the change that has had the most impact on our lives recently. In July the branch in Ecuador decided to redistibute all the territories in Cuenca and this change meant that everyone was to attend the congregation that corresponded to where they live. Since we were assigned to a congregation on the other side of town this meant that starting in July, we had to change congregations. This was quite hard since we were very happy in our assignment and loved the brothers deeply. However, to be obedient we opted to say our farewells and attend the new congregation. This has been a blessing beyond belief. First, we are in the territory and live 3 minutes from the Kingdom Hall; 18 minutes from our front door to the Hall if we choose to walk. Our first meeting I was a bit nervous,you know going into a new place and not knowing anyone. But, we received the warmest welcome from everyone and soon we felt like we have always been in this congregation. To make things even better, I already have 6 bible studies, a lot of support in the ministry and inummerable new friends that are like family. The territory is very productive and the congregation is very sociable so there is always something to do. The challenge is this congregation is the largest we have attended since we came to Ecuador, 162 publishers and an average attendance over 200; so it is difficult to talk to everyone, but little by little we are getting to know the brothers and sisters. Mark is having fun trying to remember everyone's name in the WT study and this generates quite a bit of laughter. After a long day in the ministry this morning with 77 at the group, we arrived home tired and happy and grateful to Jehovah for this wonderful new experience He has given us. And to top things off, Mark just came over and gave me a big kiss and said "H

appy anniversary. Did you realize that today we have been in Ecuador 15 years?" How happy I am that Mark talked me into going to serve where the need is great. It has been the happiest years of our lives. Oh one other item of interest. Meet Boo, the new member of our family and the most spoiled animal in all of South American, maybe the world.