Day 7 & 8 - Experiencing the Culture

“Now Jabez was more honorable than his brothers, and his mother called his name [c]Jabez, saying, “Because I bore him in pain.” 10 And Jabez called on the God of Israel saying, “Oh, that You would bless me indeed, and enlarge my [d]territory, that Your hand would be with me, and that You would keep me from evil, that I may not cause pain!” So God granted him what he requested.“ 1 Chronicles 4: 9-11

This morning arrived with tossing and turning as it was a humid night.  Yvonne, Wynne, Tara, Sharon & Allan headed out to the barrio out past Rivas.  They were invited to see what the Canadian group COMMIT is doing there with the families.  This group is sponsored by the Stratford Rotary.  They do similar projects to PAN Missions as teaching sewing, music and trades as well as organic gardening and digging wells.  They stay at an orphanage and then drive an hour into the barrios where they work.  

The rest of us at PAN had a more leisurely breakfast and discussed our plans for the day.  Ron led devotions this morning with the bible quote given at the top of the page here.  He spoke of asking the Lord to enlarge our territories and expanding your world as we feel we are doing here in Jardin Shalom.  Asking the Lord to be with you and keep you from evil is so important because we will all learn some day, some way that we cannot do this alone.  And in knowing that, asking for the Lord’s help allowed Jabez to accept God’s help.

The morning was spent doing lots of little odd jobs, like preparing the bags for the barrio walk later on, sorting clothes that we were giving out,  and doing a shopping list for later.  Dawn hobbled back from the build site with more damage to an already aggravated knee.  Ron and Kurt and Jennifer started on the kitchen chairs taking the seats off, scraping and sanding the rust off the metal frames and giving them a fresh coat of paint.  Once showered and changed, I went over to Pan de Vida to see how the work on the Pastor’s house has progressed.  I was very impressed.  They are doing a great job.  We chatted and I took photos and generally humoured them and made them laugh.  

This afternoon, we visited El Portillo, the barrio that is just down the road.  It is here that the children and crocheters are from that we have been working with this trip.  Some of our team have special connections with people here.  We also received an invitation to a party here for this coming Saturday.  Karen turned 15 today, Wednesday, and it is at this age that a young lady is celebrated as becoming a woman.   We had a card and gift for her but she wasn’t home, she was out with her mother.  

From there we went to the village of Nindiri.  There is a barrio just outside of the dump that earns their living from pulling out recycling and selling it to the trucks that come in.  We had a  good visit with the Pastor there, and delivered clothes, shampoos, lotions, soaps, etc,

There is water coming into their barrio, one tap per family.  The water gets turned on for 1 hour, every other day.  It was on while we were there so we saw one family filling buckets to save for use later.

That’s it for Wednesday’s news.

P.S.  Here is a beautiful Nicaraguan sunset for you to dream on.

Thursday, January 30th

We opened our doors this morning to a bright sunshiny morning.   Just a light breeze going through.  After breakfast, I popped out to the kitchen gardens and saw that shoots were up in the squash and cucumber beds that Sharon and I planted just 6 days ago (Jan 24).  Of course, I got excited as I generally do about gardens and insisted everyone come see my babies.  It was a delightful way to start the morning.

Yvonne gave devotional today rooted in the story of Jesus feeding the 5000 and a story about stone soup!  It was a reminder that we each bring what we have and yet, together we are so much more.

We had a bit of waiting to do before going to El Portillo to work.  While waiting, Jesika showed us the items that she had made (a small purse, a head band, a wrist band and lots of flowers).  Judy and Marta will work with the children and Jesika, Jonathan and I will work with the crocheters.  Jesika walks to Jardin Shalom from the house they are living in.   Jesika and her husband are looking after a property for someone who owns several properties so they are given the house to live in while they are here.  Their actual home is about 1-1/2 hours away.  She has advanced very quickly with her crocheting and has been a willing teacher to others.  She has quickly become the leader of these girls and has demonstrated her willingness to work with them.   The van delivered us with 2 tables about 10:30am and we got to work!  The five women around the table learned crocheting in the round and double crochet (punto alto).  Daisy, Jesika, Frances, Rosa and Karen started the base of a water bottle holder.  This will also teach them increasing and decreasing.   They experimented with different types of yarns and sized hooks and found what worked best for them.  After asking them all what their ages were, we finally realized that Karen is our birthday girl!  So we brought the children over and sang Happy Birthday in English and Spanish. There were also 2 puppies that were having great fun while we were there.

12 o’clock came all too soon and we packed up and promised to see each other on Monday.  They were all given extra yarn to practice their trade.  Back to Jardin Shalom for lunch and some itinerary adjustments.  This afternoon Karen’s Pastor & his wife brought her over to visit us so we could give her our gifts and card.  When a young lady turns 15 in Nicaragua, she is given a great party to celebrate becoming a woman.  This is called a Quinzenera.  We had a lovely visit and asked the Pastor what advice he had for her.  He said he would give her 3 things as advice: Follow God, study hard and then, you can find a boyfriend!  We all thought this was great advice!

After a lovely meal of pasta and chicken, we each went to do laundry or blogging or Board work.  The Board members on their retreat have had several meetings.  They certainly work hard for the organization.  

Blessings to all,

Buenos Noches (Good Night!)

Suzie

Day 6 - Hard at Work!

Oh what a beautiful morning, oh what a beautiful day!  The rooster crowed, the world began and we started another day.  Here it is Tuesday and it seems that we have been friends forever.  Yet most of the team, I only met on the way down here!  We have experienced some truly moving moments together.  

Again we started with breakfast of pancakes and pineapple at 7am (toast and peanut butter is also an option) and then a lovely devotional by Sharon from John 15 about the vine and branches bearing fruit and the fruit of the spirit as described in Galatians.  Beware the vine that chokes rather than bears fruit, as a wolf in sheep’s clothing.  We prayed and headed off to prepare ourselves for the groups coming in.  Again, the build team  went back to Pan de Vida to continue working on the Pastor’s house.  I need to get back there and take a look at the progress they have made.  Yvonne and Wynne prepared for their second group of sewers to come for the sewing seminar.  

Today, Judy would have the children at the long tables in the dining hall and, since we would be sharing a translator today (Jonathan), we put our crochet group just in back at the patio of the kitchen gardens.  I had help setting up, that is always nice.  Those of you on Facebook will already know that I had 8 ladies today!  I shared Jonathan’s video of our work and the children’s activities.  Two ladies, Jesika and Ramona, returned and the other 6 were all new!  It was a busy time getting everyone started and showing the stitches to the new young women.  We began with prayer and thanksgiving for the opportunities that we are all given to learn from each other.  Jesika and Ramona helped with teaching quite a bit and I was very pleased that they did.  Some people catch on right away and others struggle longer.  I emphasized that it is new and not everyone learns the same way or at the same speed.  

The ladies were shown how to crochet onto an elastic band and add some extra touches.  Because of teaching the first steps again, we did not complete a granny square but they did learn how to join in the round and that is the beginning.  They were all sent home with yarn and hook and an extra elastic to work with...I need to get more of those.  I also gave them each a small cross engraved with “I am always with you”.  

Since everyone is working in a different area, we try to touch base with each other when we can, especially at meals.  The driver for my crocheters was delayed and so, I did not want to leave them to go eat lunch.  Instead, I bought them all a drink out of the canteen we have and we chatted and took pictures while we waited.  When someone was available to take them home, it was close to 1pm.  While I was eating, Jonathan and Judy cleaned up my work area for me and that was very nice of them.  We had a good visit then too.  Judy had a really good day with the children and they were very well behaved.

Tara, Sharon, Cecilio and Myrna went this morning to see a farmer in the area about seedlings and an irrigation system for the gardens.  It was very interesting and they came home with some great ideas and seeds and seedlings that he gave them.  Tara got to work right away planting things when they came back.

In the afternoon, we planned out for the next few days as some trips were re-worked.  Tomorrow, 5 (includes Allan their driver ) will go to Rivas where another Canadian group called Commit works and they will learn what kind of projects that they have been working on.  This is at least a 2 -3 hour trip each way, so I am happy not to go as my back has been sore off and on.  

This afternoon, we were all invited to the Bethlehem Centre where the sewing ladies had out some items to sell and to see what they had accomplished.  Both Wynne and Yvonne were very pleased with their work and the efforts they put into the day.  They accomplished a great deal.  Their little girl dresses, boys’ shirts, pillows and pillowcases were very lovely and well done.  One lady brought some dresses she had crocheted and she was pleased to show me.  Big hugs were received from Sofia from my last trip here in 2018.

After supper, I led those interested in a relaxation exercise.  That took us to 8pm and most of us were ready for bed and quiet conversation.

Blessings to all,

Suzie

Words of the day:  Moy bonito.   Very pretty.

“ 10 Jesus died for us so that we can live together with him, whether we are alive or dead when he comes. 11 So encourage each other and give each other strength, just as you are doing now.” 1 Thessalonians 5:10-11

Day 3 in Nicaragua

“ So when He had washed their feet, taken His garments, and sat down again, He said to them, “Do you [b]know what I have done to you? 13 You call Me Teacher and Lord, and you say well, for so I am. 14 If I then, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also ought to wash one another’s feet. 15 For I have given you an example, that you should do as I have done to you. 16 Most assuredly, I say to you, a servant is not greater than his master; nor is he who is sent greater than he who sent him. 17 If you know these things, blessed are you if you do them.”  John 13: 12-17

Tonight after supper, I spent some time looking at photos and had trouble choosing just 2 to show you.  It was a very active day and very fulfilling.  This morning, after I got a handle on my headache, I spent some quiet time preparing my crochet area for students, separating hooks and yarn and practicing my Spanish terminology.  I wasn’t sure if I would have a lot of time with a translator so I felt I needed to be prepared just in case.  So I had 6 ladies come and Hiro translated for me as I introduced them to the basics of crocheting, with pictures of future projects and demonstrations of a slip knot and beginning chain.  It was a short intro and some had to leave early to finish cooking lunch for the children.  Hopefully they will all return on Monday as we begin our first project.  It is in God’s hands.

Then we set up the bins of water for the washing of the feet.  We had one church donate 90 pairs of shoes to be given to children before they begin/go back to school, which is next week.  In preparation of the washing of the feet, Jonathan told the story of Jesus washing his disciples’ feet in John 13.  This was very moving and well received.  Then they went around back to Pan de Vida and received their new shoes.   By the time this was all accomplished, it was time for lunch.  While others were helping with the shoes and children, I was helping with lunch. 

I was trusted with a knife and once I showed that I knew how to peel properly, I was given the task of cutting the peel off the lemons, then the next lady would cut them in half and squeeze the juice into a cup.  The cup was then handed to the next lady and she added it to the Gleaners mixture that was the base for lunch.  These are dried vegetable packages that are mixed up for a healthy lunch.

I mentioned earlier the Apoyo team and I wanted to expand a bit on what they do.  Yesterday, Winnie and Yvonne went to visit 3 co-ops in Ticuntepe area.  Apoyo means support so they go into co-ops to provide extra support.  A new co-op will get a serger and at the seminar they will teach new skills. And help solve problems that may arise. 

This afternoon we had the opportunity to attend the final games of the PAN Mission soccer league. In Spanish it is football sala.  It was very exciting and demonstrated very skilled footwork and energy.  Chippewa team at half time was ahead at 5 to 1, then in the second half, Elora team was able to come back and tie the game!  So there was a shootout of 5 shots for each team.  In the end, Elora prevailed and won the 1st place trophy presented by Annette Vickers, our Director.  2nd place trophy was presented to Chippewa and 3rd place trophy was presented to the Joy team.  Also, most valuable player and most valuable coach were also presented.  It was all quite enjoyable and I will share a video later on facebook from Jonathan and you will be able to hear me cheering in the background.

We came home to a lovely dinner of spaghetti and meat sauce.  It was delightful.  Our evenings are spent sharing stories from the day with each other and sharing photos.  

Blessings to all of you.  I will back tomorrow to tell you whether I dare to try zip lining on our Sunday afternoon excursion.

Days 4 & 5 - Busy, busy

Oh what a labour of love this is!  It is exhilarating, touching, and moving.  It is sad to see the living conditions, yet the Nicaraguan people have such joy of life!  Their stories, their intense desire to better themselves, their strength as a community!  They are a beautiful people and I am both happy to help in any way I can and feeling so fulfilled to be a part of their lives.  It is humbling and deeply emotionally draining at times.  At night, we are exhausted and yet, excited to talk about our day.  

But let me tell you about yesterday.  First, I should apologize that I did not send last night.  Sunday was a full, busy day and we stayed up late with conversation.

We went to church at Pan de Vida which is directly behind our Jardin Shalom.  It is the newest project as the pastor’s house is being built right now as well as gardens for vegetables.  The church is an open air space with a kitchen at the back which doubles as a feeding station.    Pastor Cecilio spoke of our family of God and how he believes God is leading this church to be inviting and to encourage teaching others; that they share their gifts as we have shared what we have brought, that William would be able to teach music and guitar, that if one would know how to make bread that we share that knowledge with others.  It was a very moving service with beautiful music like I Want to see you (Holy, holy, holy).  I barely noticed the time go by.  about 1+1/2 hours.  This is what I wish for you back home, that you focus on the Word of God, sharing His love and glory and teaching others.

After lunch, we headed out for Mombacho Volcano and 5 of us chose to do zip lining while others did the coffee tour.  So surprisingly enough, I had a good time and only screamed a little!  This was great fun and what a view!  

On the way home, we were able to stop at Catarina Lagoon for the view and the market.  It is a popular stop on Sundays, family day.   From the top of Catarina, you can see the Lagoon and the Montombo volcano in the distance.  I believe it is Granada that is the town across the water.   As this area is also a popular tourist spot, there are plenty of little market shops up and down the hill and around the circle.  There is also horse back riding and music to enjoy.  

When we came home Sunday night, we had a quick supper and then picked up some others to go to POPs for ice cream!  Those of you that know me well, know that I was thrilled!  It was quite busy and the ice cream was good.  What a day!  We sure can pack a lot into one Sunday.  When we returned we helped Yvonne & Wynne set up for the sewing seminar in the Bethlehem Room and then went off to do our individual things and chat about the day and the week to come.

Monday morning came bright and early as we know that the coffee is ready by 6:30am and the breakfast bell goes at 7am.  There is a lot to get ready for, so we like to stay on schedule as long as we can.  For devotions, Pastor Ernan sat with us and spoke of making amends and growing as discussed in Titus.  It was a very good devotional and challenged me to work towards longer and more focussed prayer time.  

Afterwards, it was time to prepare for the day.  Some went to the build site next door at Pan de Vida to work on the Pastor’s house; others went to Bethlehem Multipurpose Centre to help out with the Sewing Seminar.  I was asked to set up for crochet at the breakfast area.  Ramona, Tanya, Jesika and Rosalina were my crocheters today.  Jairo (pronounced Hiro) was our translator.  We talked about the projects that we would try to finish and looked at project ideas that I had for them.  This always encourages them to try just a little harder.  The morning went well and then we packed up for lunch.  For most of them, it was a morning session only.  

Rosa was able to stay longer as her mother was in the sewing seminar until 3:30 and her father was the driver.  That worked out well for us.  We had a lovely afternoon crocheting together and getting to know each other.  Rosa spoke of the work their church is doing in Granada working with and feeding homeless children, it was very heartrending.  Jairo began to read from Psalms to us.  This helped us relax and also helped him practice.  I was able to help him with pronunciation and what some of the more unusual English words meant.  He read from a couple of different translations too.  

Too soon, our lovely afternoon came to an end.  Rosa finished a miniature dress (guided by photos only), started a purse and I finished my water bottle holder.  Since she would not be back (because of the distance and drivers), Rosa was sent on her way with extra yarn and hooks and pictures and a promise to messenger with her.  

After a good supper of chicken and rice, salad and plantain, we retired to our “porch” to do personal things, visit, FaceTime, WeChat, etc with family back home.  

Thank you all for listening.

Blessings to all,

Susan (aka Suzie)

Day 2 - Planning

So today, Friday, was a planning day for us.  We awoke to a new schedule, coffee from 6:30-7am, breakfast at 7am and after that a devotional time with morning prayers.  Then Annette reviewed the “house rules” and etiquette with us and then the planning of who would be going where.  The sewing team (Apoyo group) was dispatched for the day in one vehicle and the other vehicle did the city tour with the history of Managua and Nicaragua being woven in.  This city tour is great for new members to PAN Missions and anyone else who would like to go.  Tourism is a large industry for Nicaragua and it is important that we have a balanced view of the country when we go home. There was some shopping done today as well.  

Those working on the pastoral house at Pan de Vida (Bread of Life) headed out the back to get started.  

For me, I started to get organized for the crocheting that will begin tomorrow here in Jardin Shalom.  I will likely work out of the Bethlehem conference centre where there are washrooms available as needed.  

With the yarns etc organized, I headed back to Pan de Vida as well to see what was being done and to see the progress since my last trip.  The new garden beds back there are coming along and there was a load of dirt delivered by a horse and buggy.  It was shovelled off into a large screen to extract any stones.  I took off my shoes and shovelled and moved some dirt to get a feeling for the type of soil...ok I just wanted to get dirty.

The pastoral house foundation was already laid when we arrived and so the volunteers there were wiring up rebar and cementing in the base.  A good crew mixture of Canadian and Nicaraguans...

So the rest of my day, I spent planning the gardens with Sharon and Marta, deciding what was needed and wanted.  The mature vegetables will go mostly to the feeding station at Pan de Vida to balance out their diets.  

There are already lots of chile peppers growing that they use in the cooking.  After a rest during the hotter part of the day, we were able to get some cucumbers and spaghetti squash planted.  Google Translate helped me explain to the gardener to lightly water so as not to drown the seeds.  I knew he understood because he came back with a watering can and demonstrated.  

After supper of fish and chips, salad and rice, we had individual time to prepare for tomorrow, sort through some of the bags we brought and have some down time before bed.  I have pictures but I took them with my camera which is not uploading properly right now.

Hasta manana.  

Phrase of the day:  Besos y abrazos. Hugs and kisses.

Day 1 - Travelling Day

So here we are at the end of our travel day.  I was up this morning and on the road by 6am.  We wanted to make sure we didn’t hit noon traffic so moving out early made a big difference.  Lots of joking and laughing on the road, good travel day and no issues.  We were at the airport before 11am so I had time to find the ticket area/meet area, mail some cards etc before the others arrived.  Coming from London, Listowel, Guelph and Fergus there is a total of 11 of us travelling today.  

Everything went smoothly and I remembered how much I like flying Avianca.  They are lovely, professional and still feed you on the flight and the food is good too!  

So when we arrived at Jardin Shalom, the bags were delivered over to our deck area, instructions for the morning and off to acquaint ourselves with our roommates for the next 2 weeks and get ready for bed.

I am keeping this short today and will post pictures as we go tomorrow.

Blessings to all of you.

Suzie

For as the rain and the snow come down from heaven and do not return there but water the earth, making it bring forth and sprout, giving seed to the sower and bread to the eater, so shall my word be that goes out from my mouth; it shall not return to me empty, but it shall accomplish that which I purpose, and shall succeed in the thing for which I sent it.” Isaiah 55:10-11 (ESV)

    Here we go, off to Nicaragua.  Thank you for reading and following me.  PAN Missions has been very good about offering another opportunity to go in place of my cancelled trip in October due to a death in the family.

  We leave Thursday, so stay tuned!!

Suzie