Heather and I were sitting on our beds and we felt shaking and I did not think anything of it at first and Heather goes, We're having an earthquake! It was just a slight shake but a very noticeable one. So I called Kevin and the first thing he says is, yeah I felt that too! ha ha! It was far away from here so we just felt a tiny bit of what it was but here's a report on it that we found online today...
A 6.0 Richter scale rattled Northern Peru early today (May 18), at 11:15 p.m. Local Time (4:00 a.m. GMT), according to the Geophysics Institute of Peru.
The epicenter was located at 219 km of depth and 46 away from Bagua Grande, in Amazonas region.
The earthquake was felt in Chachapoyas, Moyobamba, Rioja, Cajamarca, and even in Trujillo, a Northern Coast city located 270 away, reported local media, but no victims have been reported yet.
However, there were reports of some power outages and some adobe (traditional mud-made bricks) houses may have been damaged.
The United States Geological Survey reported an official magnitude of 6 Richter scale and clarifies that it has not issued any tsunami warning.
Wednesday, May 19, 2010
Wednesday, May 12, 2010
Life changes rapidly
Sunday was Mothers Day! Happy Mothers Day to all! Heather and I bought gifts for all the moms here at the orphanage and gave them gifts after the service on Sunday. There was also a Mothers Day service on Friday put on by the kids and Heather and I helped with the 1-3rd grade and the 6-8th grade. It was hectic but good times. And then Sunday I celebrated my birthday with Brian, Daniel, Felix, and Heather! They surprised me with a cake and we all hungout. And then Monday was my 24th Birthday. I went in town and called people so they could wish me a happy birthday, ha ha! Heather surprised me with a cake and we had dinner at the pizza place with some of the missionaries from the orphanage. Then we played pool with some people.
We have a lot of new volunteers coming in here in these next weeks to come and we are all excited about some new people around here, ha ha!
We have a lot of new volunteers coming in here in these next weeks to come and we are all excited about some new people around here, ha ha!
Wednesday, May 5, 2010
Cinco de Mayo
I graduated from college on Saturday, May 1st, 2010 at 1 p.m. central time.
And although I was not there to walk across the stage, I was able to watch a live webcast of it, to see my friends walk across the stage and to celebrate with them from afar! And it was an honor. The speaker was amazing and had so much wisdom to offer and to share. I got a little teary-eyed because I was not there but I am where I am supposed to be so it is okay.
In honor of my graduation, Heather got a mock graduation together with the other volunteers at the Mexican restaurant and they celebrated my graduation with me. They gave me graduation gifts and they made sure I was the center of attention and it was a great blessing to share this time with them. I was very appreciative all they did for me.
Just been doing my normal routine these days. And enjoying my time with the kids, as always. They are so precious. I took some photos of the kids on the newly painted playground so I will get the pictures up as soon as possible.
Friday is the Mother's Day celebration. Heather and I are preparing gifts for the mothers here at the orphanage.
And Sunday is Mother's Day and although I hate to not be in the States to give gifts to my mothers and my sister who is a mother, I am grateful to share this mother's day with these amazing mothers here at the orphanage who are not with their children on this special occasion. And then we are going to go to Trujillo to begin the celebration of my 24th birthday which is on Monday.
I called Irving yesterday because it was his birthday and it was so great to hear his voice and to talk with Tiffany. Last year I got to take him out to dinner for his birthday but this year not so much. He was grateful for the surprise phone call though so I am glad for that. I sure do miss my family and friends, not gonna lie.
But that is part of being a missionary. And I would not have it any other way right now.
I have some decisions to be made here lately and I ask for prayers that God's hand would be upon everything and that everyone would see with Christ's eyes, that wisdom would be used and guidance would be received and that all would go according to God's perfect plan.
Thank you for your love and support.
And although I was not there to walk across the stage, I was able to watch a live webcast of it, to see my friends walk across the stage and to celebrate with them from afar! And it was an honor. The speaker was amazing and had so much wisdom to offer and to share. I got a little teary-eyed because I was not there but I am where I am supposed to be so it is okay.
In honor of my graduation, Heather got a mock graduation together with the other volunteers at the Mexican restaurant and they celebrated my graduation with me. They gave me graduation gifts and they made sure I was the center of attention and it was a great blessing to share this time with them. I was very appreciative all they did for me.
Just been doing my normal routine these days. And enjoying my time with the kids, as always. They are so precious. I took some photos of the kids on the newly painted playground so I will get the pictures up as soon as possible.
Friday is the Mother's Day celebration. Heather and I are preparing gifts for the mothers here at the orphanage.
And Sunday is Mother's Day and although I hate to not be in the States to give gifts to my mothers and my sister who is a mother, I am grateful to share this mother's day with these amazing mothers here at the orphanage who are not with their children on this special occasion. And then we are going to go to Trujillo to begin the celebration of my 24th birthday which is on Monday.
I called Irving yesterday because it was his birthday and it was so great to hear his voice and to talk with Tiffany. Last year I got to take him out to dinner for his birthday but this year not so much. He was grateful for the surprise phone call though so I am glad for that. I sure do miss my family and friends, not gonna lie.
But that is part of being a missionary. And I would not have it any other way right now.
I have some decisions to be made here lately and I ask for prayers that God's hand would be upon everything and that everyone would see with Christ's eyes, that wisdom would be used and guidance would be received and that all would go according to God's perfect plan.
Thank you for your love and support.
Thursday, April 29, 2010
Mix it!
Okay so if you want to get an idea of how things are here in Peru, you should just rent the musical West Side Story and you will get a good idea of my and Heather's lives in Peru. I mean minus the singing and all, it is pretty accurate.
The life in Peru is definitely interesting and never really dull.
Last night we realized that we have had too much of a regular schedule when it comes to being in the city. But ironically we changed our schedule up this week so it will all work out.
But when a moto driver that you have never seen (at least that we do not recognize) drops you off at the orphanage and says, are you going for a walk tonight? You know that there is a problem. Because we normally go to the beach every night. But as of Tuesday we stopped that for a while because, well, because we needed to change things up a bit.
But I love sitting on the beach at night, listening to the sounds of the waves crashing into the shore. I love having the opportunity to be walking distance from a beach and to just sit or walk and hear the beautiful sounds of God's creation.
Princessa started giving birth to her puppies from Blackie a few days ago but so far all 5 have died and we think there is one more and we are hoping that it will live. But we do not know if it will.
Danilo had to go to the hospital because of problems breathing. They think it was an allergic reaction to something he put in his mouth or ate. But he is fine and back from the hospital being his normal self.
Still no internet in our house.
Tonight is missionary night.
Not a whole lot to say. Just wanted to tell you about watching West Side Story mainly.
The life in Peru is definitely interesting and never really dull.
Last night we realized that we have had too much of a regular schedule when it comes to being in the city. But ironically we changed our schedule up this week so it will all work out.
But when a moto driver that you have never seen (at least that we do not recognize) drops you off at the orphanage and says, are you going for a walk tonight? You know that there is a problem. Because we normally go to the beach every night. But as of Tuesday we stopped that for a while because, well, because we needed to change things up a bit.
But I love sitting on the beach at night, listening to the sounds of the waves crashing into the shore. I love having the opportunity to be walking distance from a beach and to just sit or walk and hear the beautiful sounds of God's creation.
Princessa started giving birth to her puppies from Blackie a few days ago but so far all 5 have died and we think there is one more and we are hoping that it will live. But we do not know if it will.
Danilo had to go to the hospital because of problems breathing. They think it was an allergic reaction to something he put in his mouth or ate. But he is fine and back from the hospital being his normal self.
Still no internet in our house.
Tonight is missionary night.
Not a whole lot to say. Just wanted to tell you about watching West Side Story mainly.
Wednesday, April 28, 2010
Gossip is not cool. I know we all struggle with it at times, with certain things or people. But things that could change a person's entire reputation or make them look as though they are a completely different person, is just wrong. Especially when it is not true. I think all gossip is wrong but if it is the truth, then maybe it is not so bad in some ways, but when it is the farthest thing from the truth, that makes it twenty times worse.
Thank God though that people should know a person's character well enough to know the truth from a lie. Or that they respect a person well enough to actually ask them, rather than assume the gossip to be valid. A person should always check if the gossip is truth before believing it or before passing it onto another person.
Things have been good, busy with the kids and watching One Tree Hill and sleeping and getting better from being sick and going to the beach and walking on the boardwalk, watching and playing soccer, and going to church.
We bought Life in Trujillo and so we played that with the girls. And we made chocolate/vanilla/peanut butter milk shakes with the girls too. I think this week we are going to make biscuits, muffins, or pancakes with the girls.
My college graduation is May 1st and I have to be honest with you, I am a little sad that I will not be there to walk across the stage and to see some of those people for the last time or for a long time. A door is closing in my life and it is weird to not be there for it, to not be handed the fake degree when you walk across the stage. ha ha. And to not have your family there cheering you on and celebrating with you afterwards.
I think we are going to go out to dinner to celebrate and maybe Heather, Kat, and I will get a hotel room and watch movies into all hours of the night. I do not know. There really is no way to celebrate here, not the way I would have liked to celebrate at least.
And then 9 short days later is my 24th birthday. And although it is just another year to celebrate, and I wish my family was with me to celebrate. I mean I have family here now but you all know what I mean.
Life is a roller coaster here at times but God is faithful and I know He is teaching me so much and pushing me in so many ways. I just hope that He is using me more than I feel like He is.
Thank God though that people should know a person's character well enough to know the truth from a lie. Or that they respect a person well enough to actually ask them, rather than assume the gossip to be valid. A person should always check if the gossip is truth before believing it or before passing it onto another person.
Things have been good, busy with the kids and watching One Tree Hill and sleeping and getting better from being sick and going to the beach and walking on the boardwalk, watching and playing soccer, and going to church.
We bought Life in Trujillo and so we played that with the girls. And we made chocolate/vanilla/peanut butter milk shakes with the girls too. I think this week we are going to make biscuits, muffins, or pancakes with the girls.
My college graduation is May 1st and I have to be honest with you, I am a little sad that I will not be there to walk across the stage and to see some of those people for the last time or for a long time. A door is closing in my life and it is weird to not be there for it, to not be handed the fake degree when you walk across the stage. ha ha. And to not have your family there cheering you on and celebrating with you afterwards.
I think we are going to go out to dinner to celebrate and maybe Heather, Kat, and I will get a hotel room and watch movies into all hours of the night. I do not know. There really is no way to celebrate here, not the way I would have liked to celebrate at least.
And then 9 short days later is my 24th birthday. And although it is just another year to celebrate, and I wish my family was with me to celebrate. I mean I have family here now but you all know what I mean.
Life is a roller coaster here at times but God is faithful and I know He is teaching me so much and pushing me in so many ways. I just hope that He is using me more than I feel like He is.
Thursday, April 22, 2010
Confessions of the heart
Coming to Peru was a dream come true. In fact, I did not even imagine it possible. I mean I went to college and studied, but not to the best of my ability. And I told Jesus I wanted to travel the world, to be used by Him how He saw fit. And He put it on my heart to someday have my own orphanage. He is the one with the big dreams. I am just the person acting out His desires. And it is tremendously difficult. To sacrifice what one would call a normal life. And I find myself in Peru, taking back my sacrifice and living by the flesh. Being in another country, trying to be a missionary, is just as difficult as being in the United States, going to college, being a mother, working at a grocery store, etc, and trying to live and fulfill the dream that God placed in one’s heart. It is just as difficult because there are temptations everywhere. And there is complacency everywhere. And there are fears and failures and pasts everywhere. One would think that you could start fresh in another country. And in some ways you can. You can have the people call you by whatever name you want. And they do not know any of your past failures or mistakes. But what you do not really get to start fresh on is your character. Who you are will travel with you wherever you go. Whether you are a nice person or a mean person or a judgmental person or a kindhearted person. Yes, we always have the opportunity to grow and change and become a better person but will be take the challenge when we are faced with new things and new places. Daily I have to decide if I will allow for Peru to just become home, normal for me. And I try to not allow it become normal. Home, yes, in many ways I never felt more at home. But I do not want to become complacent. I do not want to just be another person in Peru. I want to be a world changer. Not because it will make me feel accomplished or worthy of God’s love. I just want this because I know no other way to bring glory to His name. I know no other way than to love with Christ-like love. I know no other way than to help bring healing and take away the pain than to live like Christ would live. And yet, I am nowhere near how Jesus must’ve been on this earth. I am selfish and rude and disrespectful and dishonest and manipulative and savage. I do not love always in all situations. I judge little things and do not want others to judge me. I do not give all my time and effort to helping, caring, and loving. And I think that the time and effort I do give is something to behold. When really it is not. I could be doing so much more. And I want too. I want to make a change and I am here to say that I am. It will not be easy and it will not be over night. I will not be able to make all the changes immediately and I will struggle with some things. But I am here to say that I am going to start today to live a better life here, not for myself, but for the people here that I came to serve for Christ. The people that are worthy of God’s love.
Tuesday, April 13, 2010
One Tree Hill
So all this time with the 9 4-5 year olds has been great but exhausting. And it is a challenge for me, not gonna lie. I love little kids, really I do. I mean I have the greatest nieces and nephews in all the world.
But for me, I am better with older kids. Especially when it comes to language barriers. So it is definitely a stretch but that is definitely not a bad thing at all. And these kids are precious and adorable and need all the love and affection in the world that they can be given.
And man oh man, times with Danilo are great. But they are adventures in themselves. We went to the playground outside of the orphanage, with Kat, and it went well, other than him wanting to pee out in the open for all the other kids to see. And then the next day we went to the other playground by the beach but he did not like it as much. Loves the moto rides. And walking along the beach but not near the water. We got ice cream and went and sat for a long while in the shade. And then yesterday we went and got something to drink along the beach, went to the playground by the beach, went up on top of the hotel on the beach and looked at the view and went in the elevator (Which he was amazed by) and then took a moto back. He loves those motos. ha ha. Anyway he started acting up yesterday so today we did not take him out and that was way more difficult than when we actually take him out. So yeah.
Sunday was our day off and we were pretty much at the beach the entire day, minus church, lunch and dinner. ha ha.
Heather and I have been watching One Tree Hill. We started about half way into Season 4 and we are on Season 5 now. We are trying to read a lot too lately. She reads more than I do. But anyway, we are moving into another house on the compound sometime within the next week. And my internet should be fixed within the week so I can use skype again. Praise God.
Please keep me and Heather in your prayers. God is definitely working in our hearts and distractions are near and far in between. But we are pressing forward and being there for one another. God sure is faithful.
Sending my love to everyone.
But for me, I am better with older kids. Especially when it comes to language barriers. So it is definitely a stretch but that is definitely not a bad thing at all. And these kids are precious and adorable and need all the love and affection in the world that they can be given.
And man oh man, times with Danilo are great. But they are adventures in themselves. We went to the playground outside of the orphanage, with Kat, and it went well, other than him wanting to pee out in the open for all the other kids to see. And then the next day we went to the other playground by the beach but he did not like it as much. Loves the moto rides. And walking along the beach but not near the water. We got ice cream and went and sat for a long while in the shade. And then yesterday we went and got something to drink along the beach, went to the playground by the beach, went up on top of the hotel on the beach and looked at the view and went in the elevator (Which he was amazed by) and then took a moto back. He loves those motos. ha ha. Anyway he started acting up yesterday so today we did not take him out and that was way more difficult than when we actually take him out. So yeah.
Sunday was our day off and we were pretty much at the beach the entire day, minus church, lunch and dinner. ha ha.
Heather and I have been watching One Tree Hill. We started about half way into Season 4 and we are on Season 5 now. We are trying to read a lot too lately. She reads more than I do. But anyway, we are moving into another house on the compound sometime within the next week. And my internet should be fixed within the week so I can use skype again. Praise God.
Please keep me and Heather in your prayers. God is definitely working in our hearts and distractions are near and far in between. But we are pressing forward and being there for one another. God sure is faithful.
Sending my love to everyone.
Thursday, April 8, 2010
Where You Go I Go
It's been a while. Sorry about that. When you really do not have good internet, it is like you do not have internet at all.
Plus, there for a while I was pretty busy, even though I was not with the kids much.
Last week was busy trying to get into the school some, get around the kids some, and then hanging out with people. Easter did not feel like it was Easter because nothing special happened here. It was just another day here in Peru. It was weird, not going to lie. And it made me miss my family not to be with them during Easter weekend.
I feel like God is trying to teach me how to see myself the way He sees me. To see how much He loves me.
Because I get hit on by all these people, and creepers, and they make me feel like a piece of meat, an object, nothing beautiful and lovely. Nothing that I want but that I have settled for in the past. And not anymore.
So it is somewhat ironic that God is trying to teach me that.
Because as my sister said, maybe if I had guys treating me the way I deserve to be treated, that I would not be able to see how much the Father loves me and how beautiful He sees me because I would be finding my satisfaction in the words and actions of people, rather than finding it from God.
So although I do not enjoy the attractions of men here, I need to not be stubborn and fighting the Lord in this. I want so desperately to know the depth of His love and how He sees me. So I need to let Him in and stop running.
We got a new schedule on Tuesday and started in on it on Wednesday.
We will be busy again, finally after almost 3 weeks of nothing but trouble, ha ha.
From 8-9 in the morning we play with the 4 and under kids outside.
From 3-4:30 we play with Danilo only. He is the one with disabilities. So we go outside of the orphanage with him.
From 5:30-6:45 we play with the older kids who have no homework.
And then optionally we can spend time with the kids in their houses from 7:30-9:15.
Monday and Friday we have activities with the smaller kids from 10:30-12.
And one day a week we are going to teach the preschoolers english for 30 minutes.
And then Saturday we have activities in the morning with the the younger kids. And in the early evening we have activities with the older kids, such as me cooking in the kitchen with the girls.
And Sunday is our day off.
On Thursdays we will help at school in Mike's class from 10:40-12
And we might get in the classes of Steve as well some days.
"Where you go I go
What you say I say
What you pray I pray
Jesus only did, What he saw you do
He would only say, What he heard you speak
He would only move, When he felt you lead
Following your heart, Following your spirit
How could I expect to walk without you
When every move that Jesus made was in surrender
I would not begin to live without you
For you alone are worthy you are always good"
--Where You Go I Go by Kim Walker
Plus, there for a while I was pretty busy, even though I was not with the kids much.
Last week was busy trying to get into the school some, get around the kids some, and then hanging out with people. Easter did not feel like it was Easter because nothing special happened here. It was just another day here in Peru. It was weird, not going to lie. And it made me miss my family not to be with them during Easter weekend.
I feel like God is trying to teach me how to see myself the way He sees me. To see how much He loves me.
Because I get hit on by all these people, and creepers, and they make me feel like a piece of meat, an object, nothing beautiful and lovely. Nothing that I want but that I have settled for in the past. And not anymore.
So it is somewhat ironic that God is trying to teach me that.
Because as my sister said, maybe if I had guys treating me the way I deserve to be treated, that I would not be able to see how much the Father loves me and how beautiful He sees me because I would be finding my satisfaction in the words and actions of people, rather than finding it from God.
So although I do not enjoy the attractions of men here, I need to not be stubborn and fighting the Lord in this. I want so desperately to know the depth of His love and how He sees me. So I need to let Him in and stop running.
We got a new schedule on Tuesday and started in on it on Wednesday.
We will be busy again, finally after almost 3 weeks of nothing but trouble, ha ha.
From 8-9 in the morning we play with the 4 and under kids outside.
From 3-4:30 we play with Danilo only. He is the one with disabilities. So we go outside of the orphanage with him.
From 5:30-6:45 we play with the older kids who have no homework.
And then optionally we can spend time with the kids in their houses from 7:30-9:15.
Monday and Friday we have activities with the smaller kids from 10:30-12.
And one day a week we are going to teach the preschoolers english for 30 minutes.
And then Saturday we have activities in the morning with the the younger kids. And in the early evening we have activities with the older kids, such as me cooking in the kitchen with the girls.
And Sunday is our day off.
On Thursdays we will help at school in Mike's class from 10:40-12
And we might get in the classes of Steve as well some days.
"Where you go I go
What you say I say
What you pray I pray
Jesus only did, What he saw you do
He would only say, What he heard you speak
He would only move, When he felt you lead
Following your heart, Following your spirit
How could I expect to walk without you
When every move that Jesus made was in surrender
I would not begin to live without you
For you alone are worthy you are always good"
--Where You Go I Go by Kim Walker
Wednesday, March 31, 2010
My brother wrote this for me....
To whom it may concern, and anyone that feels led to help out our foreign missionaries,
Hello, my name is Barry Rizzolla, I am a U.S. Army soldier currently serving my second tour in Iraq. I have been in the Army now for ten years and plan on doing at least twenty years of service for our great nation. That being said, the things that make our nation great are the people that live there and the people that fight to keep our freedom and principles alive not only overseas but also in own cities and states. I am writing this letter in regard to my younger sister who is a foreign missionary currently in Peru for one year starting in January of this year. She is there sacrificing herself without pay to do what she was called and loves to do, Gods will.
Rita Lee Lawrence is twenty-three years old and graduated last year from Oral Roberts University in Tulsa, Oklahoma. She is in Peru now spreading the Gospel to children and wants to continue doing this as her career but has ran into financial difficulties in doing so. Although Oral Roberts University is one of the most prestigious schools to attend as a missions major it’s one of the most expensive schools to attend as well. Rita is faced with right under $127,000 in student loans and has to return to the states in January 2011 to start paying them and doesn’t know what to do for work because her major puts her working out of the country for almost next to nothing as a salary or working for a non-profit organization stateside also not making a decent salary. Although Rita has been offered to teach in schools in both, China and Korea, she would like to keep working with the younger generation of kids around the world if this is possible because she feels it would make a greater impact on their lives. Rita is an extremely strong willed person and will do what it takes to continue doing these missions, this is a conversation I had with her just a few hours ago about this issue that I want to let you read for yourself:
[2:53:49 PM] Barry Rizzolla: what kind of job do you want?
[2:53:59 PM] Rita Lee: this is what i want to do with the rest of my life.
[2:54:08 PM] Rita Lee: i don't know.
[2:54:24 PM] Rita Lee: i might try finding a teaching job in china or korea. teaching english.
[2:54:25 PM] Rita Lee: they pay.
[2:54:48 PM] Rita Lee: i mean i want to open my own orphanage someday but i need to pay my loans off somehow too.
[3:02:11 PM] Barry Rizzolla: what are you qualified to do in the states?
[3:02:35 PM] Barry Rizzolla: and how much are your payments monthly for your loans?
[3:02:56 PM] Rita Lee: I will officially have an undergrad degree in May.
[3:03:31 PM] Rita Lee: So I do not know what that qualifies me as. My degree is Theology: Missions. So if I stay with my field, I could get a job with a church or some sort of nonprofit organization.
[3:03:35 PM] Rita Lee: I just do not know how much that will pay.
[3:03:43 PM] Rita Lee: My loans will be at least 1000 dollars a month.
[3:03:53 PM] Barry Rizzolla: wow!!!
[3:04:30 PM] Rita Lee: yeah a lot of money.
[3:04:38 PM] Barry Rizzolla: well if i graduate anytime soon and start in my career i'll help you out!
[3:04:58 PM] Rita Lee: thanks. I know it is scary to think about.
[3:05:13 PM] Rita Lee: But at the same time I know that God is going to take care of me no matter what.
[3:05:36 PM] Rita Lee: I can get a good teaching job in China or Korea that will pay for me to fly there, give me a place to stay and pay me a normal teaching salary. All I would have to pay for is my food.
[3:06:18 PM] Rita Lee: but I really do not want to go to China or Korea but I will do what I have to do. I prefer to be in another country or working with some sort of missions organization in the states or inner city or something. something with kids.
[3:08:00 PM] Barry Rizzolla: don't wish rita your doing a great thing and like you said God will provide a way... I'm going to talk to a few people and put some info out there on you if you don't mind because your sacrificing yourself for a greater good and someone might help you out
[3:08:38 PM] Rita Lee: thanks Barry. I will take any help I can get. I know God will provide. He called me, I listened, He's got the rest covered. I don't know how but I trust that it will all work out!
[3:09:59 PM] Barry Rizzolla: i like your attitude rita... your a great sister and an awesome person! i love you so much just keep this determination and willpower up and your going to do great things!!!
[3:11:25 PM] Barry Rizzolla: I'm going to log on to several church websites and write an article about what your doing your situation and what you want to keep doing if you dont mind!?
[3:11:54 PM] Rita Lee: Thanks Barry! You're a pretty great brother and I am very proud of you for the things you are doing for our country. It is a great sacrifice what you are doing! I love you so much too!
[3:12:02 PM] Rita Lee: no, i do not mind. I appreciate it a lot.
[3:12:10 PM] Barry Rizzolla: I'm going to put your facebook name on there also as a point of contact also if thats ok
[3:13:37 PM] Barry Rizzolla: I love what i do also rita and its the army that got me to where i am today both mentally and physically as well as opening doors for a career so i guess i have a love hate relationship with the army haha
[3:13:40 PM] Rita Lee: yeah that is fine.
[3:14:03 PM] Rita Lee: do you need my email law40009@oru.edu or just my name for facebook?
[3:14:22 PM] Rita Lee: ha ha yeah i can understand you having a love hate relationship with the army.
[3:14:26 PM] Barry Rizzolla: awesome your email would be better!
[3:15:06 PM] Rita Lee: my actual email is ritaleelovesyou@yahoo.com but the one above is my facebook email to be able to find me.
[3:15:08 PM] Rita Lee: so either one.
[3:15:56 PM] Barry Rizzolla: I'm going to do this tonight and get this out there, maybe God will provide a complete payout for you and you can keep doing His work!
[3:16:51 PM] Rita Lee: That's what I am believing for.
[3:17:07 PM] Barry Rizzolla: I'll put both on there... can you check both?
[3:17:39 PM] Rita Lee: I keep telling people that. I mean total it would be 120,000 (give or take some) which in my head is absurd but I know there are people out there that could help. I know it is possible.
[3:19:04 PM] Barry Rizzolla: well I'm going to put 120,000 in the letter, is that exactly what you owe or is it more?
[3:19:25 PM] Rita Lee: it is a little more but I do not know the exact amount.
[3:19:33 PM] Rita Lee: i can find out.
[3:20:51 PM] Barry Rizzolla: how soon can you get me that?
[3:21:58 PM] Rita Lee: i can try and find it right now. let me log into my oru account and see if i can pull it up.
[3:22:06 PM] Barry Rizzolla: ok
[3:24:27 PM] Rita Lee: I believe this is the total amount, assuming they do not try and charge me anything extra within this last month...$126,843.66
[3:27:09 PM] Barry Rizzolla: awesome! I'm going to write something for you now so I will talk to ya later rit... I love you and I will email you a copy of the letter when I'm done! :)
[3:29:39 PM] Rita Lee: Sounds great. Thanks so much! I love you! Take care of yourself. Talk to you soon :)
So now that you know what this is all about maybe God has placed it in your heart to help her out, I would pay it all for her if I could but I’m currently a senior in college as an industrial technology major and can’t afford that on the Army salary if you know what I mean. Anything that anyone could help with would be so greatly appreciated by both Rita, myself, our family, and most important our Lord and Savior because it would enable her to not only keep doing God’s will but also be close to the people she loves most, her family. I personally thank anyone for taking the time to read this letter and pray that God blesses you for all that you do.
Actual student loan debt for Rita Lee Lawrence: $126,843.66
Rita’s email contact: law40009@oru.edu or ritaleelovesyou@yahoo.com
My email contact: barry.rizzolla@yahoo.com or barry.rizzolla@us.army.mil
May God Bless You,
Barry Rizzolla
U.S. Army
Hello, my name is Barry Rizzolla, I am a U.S. Army soldier currently serving my second tour in Iraq. I have been in the Army now for ten years and plan on doing at least twenty years of service for our great nation. That being said, the things that make our nation great are the people that live there and the people that fight to keep our freedom and principles alive not only overseas but also in own cities and states. I am writing this letter in regard to my younger sister who is a foreign missionary currently in Peru for one year starting in January of this year. She is there sacrificing herself without pay to do what she was called and loves to do, Gods will.
Rita Lee Lawrence is twenty-three years old and graduated last year from Oral Roberts University in Tulsa, Oklahoma. She is in Peru now spreading the Gospel to children and wants to continue doing this as her career but has ran into financial difficulties in doing so. Although Oral Roberts University is one of the most prestigious schools to attend as a missions major it’s one of the most expensive schools to attend as well. Rita is faced with right under $127,000 in student loans and has to return to the states in January 2011 to start paying them and doesn’t know what to do for work because her major puts her working out of the country for almost next to nothing as a salary or working for a non-profit organization stateside also not making a decent salary. Although Rita has been offered to teach in schools in both, China and Korea, she would like to keep working with the younger generation of kids around the world if this is possible because she feels it would make a greater impact on their lives. Rita is an extremely strong willed person and will do what it takes to continue doing these missions, this is a conversation I had with her just a few hours ago about this issue that I want to let you read for yourself:
[2:53:49 PM] Barry Rizzolla: what kind of job do you want?
[2:53:59 PM] Rita Lee: this is what i want to do with the rest of my life.
[2:54:08 PM] Rita Lee: i don't know.
[2:54:24 PM] Rita Lee: i might try finding a teaching job in china or korea. teaching english.
[2:54:25 PM] Rita Lee: they pay.
[2:54:48 PM] Rita Lee: i mean i want to open my own orphanage someday but i need to pay my loans off somehow too.
[3:02:11 PM] Barry Rizzolla: what are you qualified to do in the states?
[3:02:35 PM] Barry Rizzolla: and how much are your payments monthly for your loans?
[3:02:56 PM] Rita Lee: I will officially have an undergrad degree in May.
[3:03:31 PM] Rita Lee: So I do not know what that qualifies me as. My degree is Theology: Missions. So if I stay with my field, I could get a job with a church or some sort of nonprofit organization.
[3:03:35 PM] Rita Lee: I just do not know how much that will pay.
[3:03:43 PM] Rita Lee: My loans will be at least 1000 dollars a month.
[3:03:53 PM] Barry Rizzolla: wow!!!
[3:04:30 PM] Rita Lee: yeah a lot of money.
[3:04:38 PM] Barry Rizzolla: well if i graduate anytime soon and start in my career i'll help you out!
[3:04:58 PM] Rita Lee: thanks. I know it is scary to think about.
[3:05:13 PM] Rita Lee: But at the same time I know that God is going to take care of me no matter what.
[3:05:36 PM] Rita Lee: I can get a good teaching job in China or Korea that will pay for me to fly there, give me a place to stay and pay me a normal teaching salary. All I would have to pay for is my food.
[3:06:18 PM] Rita Lee: but I really do not want to go to China or Korea but I will do what I have to do. I prefer to be in another country or working with some sort of missions organization in the states or inner city or something. something with kids.
[3:08:00 PM] Barry Rizzolla: don't wish rita your doing a great thing and like you said God will provide a way... I'm going to talk to a few people and put some info out there on you if you don't mind because your sacrificing yourself for a greater good and someone might help you out
[3:08:38 PM] Rita Lee: thanks Barry. I will take any help I can get. I know God will provide. He called me, I listened, He's got the rest covered. I don't know how but I trust that it will all work out!
[3:09:59 PM] Barry Rizzolla: i like your attitude rita... your a great sister and an awesome person! i love you so much just keep this determination and willpower up and your going to do great things!!!
[3:11:25 PM] Barry Rizzolla: I'm going to log on to several church websites and write an article about what your doing your situation and what you want to keep doing if you dont mind!?
[3:11:54 PM] Rita Lee: Thanks Barry! You're a pretty great brother and I am very proud of you for the things you are doing for our country. It is a great sacrifice what you are doing! I love you so much too!
[3:12:02 PM] Rita Lee: no, i do not mind. I appreciate it a lot.
[3:12:10 PM] Barry Rizzolla: I'm going to put your facebook name on there also as a point of contact also if thats ok
[3:13:37 PM] Barry Rizzolla: I love what i do also rita and its the army that got me to where i am today both mentally and physically as well as opening doors for a career so i guess i have a love hate relationship with the army haha
[3:13:40 PM] Rita Lee: yeah that is fine.
[3:14:03 PM] Rita Lee: do you need my email law40009@oru.edu or just my name for facebook?
[3:14:22 PM] Rita Lee: ha ha yeah i can understand you having a love hate relationship with the army.
[3:14:26 PM] Barry Rizzolla: awesome your email would be better!
[3:15:06 PM] Rita Lee: my actual email is ritaleelovesyou@yahoo.com but the one above is my facebook email to be able to find me.
[3:15:08 PM] Rita Lee: so either one.
[3:15:56 PM] Barry Rizzolla: I'm going to do this tonight and get this out there, maybe God will provide a complete payout for you and you can keep doing His work!
[3:16:51 PM] Rita Lee: That's what I am believing for.
[3:17:07 PM] Barry Rizzolla: I'll put both on there... can you check both?
[3:17:39 PM] Rita Lee: I keep telling people that. I mean total it would be 120,000 (give or take some) which in my head is absurd but I know there are people out there that could help. I know it is possible.
[3:19:04 PM] Barry Rizzolla: well I'm going to put 120,000 in the letter, is that exactly what you owe or is it more?
[3:19:25 PM] Rita Lee: it is a little more but I do not know the exact amount.
[3:19:33 PM] Rita Lee: i can find out.
[3:20:51 PM] Barry Rizzolla: how soon can you get me that?
[3:21:58 PM] Rita Lee: i can try and find it right now. let me log into my oru account and see if i can pull it up.
[3:22:06 PM] Barry Rizzolla: ok
[3:24:27 PM] Rita Lee: I believe this is the total amount, assuming they do not try and charge me anything extra within this last month...$126,843.66
[3:27:09 PM] Barry Rizzolla: awesome! I'm going to write something for you now so I will talk to ya later rit... I love you and I will email you a copy of the letter when I'm done! :)
[3:29:39 PM] Rita Lee: Sounds great. Thanks so much! I love you! Take care of yourself. Talk to you soon :)
So now that you know what this is all about maybe God has placed it in your heart to help her out, I would pay it all for her if I could but I’m currently a senior in college as an industrial technology major and can’t afford that on the Army salary if you know what I mean. Anything that anyone could help with would be so greatly appreciated by both Rita, myself, our family, and most important our Lord and Savior because it would enable her to not only keep doing God’s will but also be close to the people she loves most, her family. I personally thank anyone for taking the time to read this letter and pray that God blesses you for all that you do.
Actual student loan debt for Rita Lee Lawrence: $126,843.66
Rita’s email contact: law40009@oru.edu or ritaleelovesyou@yahoo.com
My email contact: barry.rizzolla@yahoo.com or barry.rizzolla@us.army.mil
May God Bless You,
Barry Rizzolla
U.S. Army
Tuesday, March 30, 2010
Your Life is a Symphony
So this past week life has been very different than I expected it ever to become here.
Time without the kids and time to do whatever. And although we've had fun, I've missed the kids more everyday.
I came here for them. So a day off a week is plenty. I like being surrounded by them almost all day.
And for a while there I felt like I would have to start all over with relationships because some of them were not being very nice to me but apparently it is because they were jealous that I was spending so much time with Heather. So Maribel and I explained that I have been with Heather through her recovery because she needed someone to be taking care of her and making sure she did not push it too much. So things are better now.
I am going to be in school again today for the first time since the Canadians were here. That's a long time.
Maribel and Kevin are putting together a weekly schedule of activities for me and Heather to do with the kids on the weekends. So I think during the week days I am just going to have to immerse myself with the kids and play with them outside and such.
Kat and I are starting to run on the beach because she is running the marathon in July and I am debating entering to do the 5K.
Heather will be walking for now, she has another 2 1/2 weeks before we'll allow her to run. ha ha.
And I have had some interesting cultural experiences as of late. Went to a Quinceanera for someone not in the orphanage and theirs was much more different than the ones we do for the girls at the orphanage.
I have had a lot of time at the beach lately too and I am getting lots of sun and freckles :)
The electricity has gone out 3 times in the last 4 days. Always at like 8 at night and stays out until the middle of the night.
Heather and I took our post on the swings again and talked with Mike for a bit.
This week is Holy week here. No one has school on Thursday and Friday.
Prayer requests would be for Heather and I both to continue to have the strength of the Lord, wisdom of the Lord, discernment, and purity of heart and mind. Also that no deception would enter our minds or hearts.
Prayer for others would just be that we would be the salt and light to all we encounter, never forgetting our purpose here.
Time without the kids and time to do whatever. And although we've had fun, I've missed the kids more everyday.
I came here for them. So a day off a week is plenty. I like being surrounded by them almost all day.
And for a while there I felt like I would have to start all over with relationships because some of them were not being very nice to me but apparently it is because they were jealous that I was spending so much time with Heather. So Maribel and I explained that I have been with Heather through her recovery because she needed someone to be taking care of her and making sure she did not push it too much. So things are better now.
I am going to be in school again today for the first time since the Canadians were here. That's a long time.
Maribel and Kevin are putting together a weekly schedule of activities for me and Heather to do with the kids on the weekends. So I think during the week days I am just going to have to immerse myself with the kids and play with them outside and such.
Kat and I are starting to run on the beach because she is running the marathon in July and I am debating entering to do the 5K.
Heather will be walking for now, she has another 2 1/2 weeks before we'll allow her to run. ha ha.
And I have had some interesting cultural experiences as of late. Went to a Quinceanera for someone not in the orphanage and theirs was much more different than the ones we do for the girls at the orphanage.
I have had a lot of time at the beach lately too and I am getting lots of sun and freckles :)
The electricity has gone out 3 times in the last 4 days. Always at like 8 at night and stays out until the middle of the night.
Heather and I took our post on the swings again and talked with Mike for a bit.
This week is Holy week here. No one has school on Thursday and Friday.
Prayer requests would be for Heather and I both to continue to have the strength of the Lord, wisdom of the Lord, discernment, and purity of heart and mind. Also that no deception would enter our minds or hearts.
Prayer for others would just be that we would be the salt and light to all we encounter, never forgetting our purpose here.
Wednesday, March 24, 2010
Australians anyone?
So when the Canadians were here, we were greatly blessed.
It was a time of stretching and encouragement and prayer and seeing God work in great and mighty ways. And it was such an honor to be a part of their ministry opportunities. To become like family and to share hearts with one another.
And then they left and the testing began.
And I think I really failed in some areas but God's helping me out to getting things back on track and I am leaning on Him, His grace, love, and forgiveness and really trusting in Him to see me through any and all circumstances.
Saturday-Monday were tough days for Heather. Monday was when we got some laughs out of her and some shimmer of hope, that the pain was decreasing. Saturday I stayed with Heather all day except went into town for lunch with Kat.
Kat went to Trujillo and paid the rest of the money for the hospital bills.
And then Sunday was church and the beach and I went and did my thing and took care of Heather in between. I shouldn't have gone afterwards I Realized even though Heather told me to go. But we talked it out and everything is cool.
Monday night was the first night that Heather went outside of the compound.
We went into town for a walk on the beach and she was just taking it all in. Then we ate at La Estacion. It was so funny. We walked up as two Australians were walking out and we sat at our table and they were totally lingering so they could talk to us. We had some good conversation for like 10 minutes. It was so funny when they realized we were Christians. One of them was totally turned off and the other seemed to like the idea of us being Christians. And he was all like, so they actually let you out of the orphanage? And we laughed and were all like, yes, we are out of the orphanage right now, aren't we? ha ha!
After dinner we got ice cream and there was Jet peanut butter ice cream bar with chocolate on the outside and it was great!
Yesterday we played some Skip-Bo and then we ventured out in the evening for dinner at the Mexican restaurant with Steve and Mike, the two english teachers. We had really great conversation and yummy food. It was glorious.
And then we went afterwards to go to the grocery store and we ran into the Australians and two of their other friends and they waved and were like, they actually let you out again? And I laughed and was like, yeah. And told them about the Mexican restaurant and how good it is.
Then after the grocery store we went to get ice cream and came back to the surf shop for Heather to look for sweats and the Australians were in their again and they were like, so you're stalking us now? And we laughed and were like NO! ha ha! Because we definitely were not. It was all coincidental.
Heather looked around and I bought a hat in one of the other stores and then we came back.
Today is laundry day and we are going to try to spend some time with the kids later.
I miss the kids. I have not spent time with them since Thursday. On Sunday Lurdes had me sit buy her and she asked me if I was still her mom. And I said yes. But they have a new house mom now so I will not be in the house anymore I do not think. At least not as a house mom. The tides are changing once again.
Please be praying for me. I really need the strength of the Lord.
It was a time of stretching and encouragement and prayer and seeing God work in great and mighty ways. And it was such an honor to be a part of their ministry opportunities. To become like family and to share hearts with one another.
And then they left and the testing began.
And I think I really failed in some areas but God's helping me out to getting things back on track and I am leaning on Him, His grace, love, and forgiveness and really trusting in Him to see me through any and all circumstances.
Saturday-Monday were tough days for Heather. Monday was when we got some laughs out of her and some shimmer of hope, that the pain was decreasing. Saturday I stayed with Heather all day except went into town for lunch with Kat.
Kat went to Trujillo and paid the rest of the money for the hospital bills.
And then Sunday was church and the beach and I went and did my thing and took care of Heather in between. I shouldn't have gone afterwards I Realized even though Heather told me to go. But we talked it out and everything is cool.
Monday night was the first night that Heather went outside of the compound.
We went into town for a walk on the beach and she was just taking it all in. Then we ate at La Estacion. It was so funny. We walked up as two Australians were walking out and we sat at our table and they were totally lingering so they could talk to us. We had some good conversation for like 10 minutes. It was so funny when they realized we were Christians. One of them was totally turned off and the other seemed to like the idea of us being Christians. And he was all like, so they actually let you out of the orphanage? And we laughed and were all like, yes, we are out of the orphanage right now, aren't we? ha ha!
After dinner we got ice cream and there was Jet peanut butter ice cream bar with chocolate on the outside and it was great!
Yesterday we played some Skip-Bo and then we ventured out in the evening for dinner at the Mexican restaurant with Steve and Mike, the two english teachers. We had really great conversation and yummy food. It was glorious.
And then we went afterwards to go to the grocery store and we ran into the Australians and two of their other friends and they waved and were like, they actually let you out again? And I laughed and was like, yeah. And told them about the Mexican restaurant and how good it is.
Then after the grocery store we went to get ice cream and came back to the surf shop for Heather to look for sweats and the Australians were in their again and they were like, so you're stalking us now? And we laughed and were like NO! ha ha! Because we definitely were not. It was all coincidental.
Heather looked around and I bought a hat in one of the other stores and then we came back.
Today is laundry day and we are going to try to spend some time with the kids later.
I miss the kids. I have not spent time with them since Thursday. On Sunday Lurdes had me sit buy her and she asked me if I was still her mom. And I said yes. But they have a new house mom now so I will not be in the house anymore I do not think. At least not as a house mom. The tides are changing once again.
Please be praying for me. I really need the strength of the Lord.
Friday, March 19, 2010
Appendicitis?
So Thursday we slept in with the intentions of getting up and spending time with the Canadians. We were so exhausted we slept later than expected and went and had lunch at the Mexican restaurant with the Canadians, then we went to the surf shop before heading back to the orphanage.
Heather, one of the Canadian ladies that I got close to and now consider family, and I had a long talk. I needed an outside perspective and it was really good to have someone who was older than me to listen and give advice and wisdom.
Then I went to be a house mom but Gladys, Antonia, and Paula were all in there and the kids were doing homework so I was really no help. Since it was the Canadians last night I wanted to spend time with them so I got off at 5 to go and have lunch with them.
But the unexpected happened.
I knocked on the door to my house because Heather had my keys and I hear these horrible sounds coming from the house. And I am like, what is going on. And Heather appears in view and is bending over and moaning and saying, I am in pain, I am in pain. And I was like, open the door so I can help you.
I went and got help because she was in severe and serious pain and the ladies thought it was appendicitis. The nearest hospital being just about 2 hours away, Fred, Heather, Kat and I head to Trujillo at 6 p.m.
Heather is is excruciating pain and it was so hard to listen too because there was nothing I could do to ease the pain. I just kept praying and trusting that it was in God's hands even though it was so ridiculous in my mind that this was happening.
I mean Heather has not even been in Peru for 2 weeks.
So anyway we get to the hospital and they do a sonogram and take blood and a pee test to rule out any infections and they find a small kidney stone in her kidney and believe she has appendicitis. So she sat in pain at the hospital for HOURS. It was ridiculous. And I was getting angry. At 12:15 in the morning she went into surgery to have her appendix removed and it was a real test of the Lord for Heather. She is a nurse in the US and so she was really freaking out about being in a foreign country. In the end, the Lord gave her peace and she really trusted God to take care of her.
The system is all messed up though. We had to buy all the supplies for the bedroom and for the operation. And of course the antibiotics and medicines and the doctors fees and normally Peru is cheaper health care but not so much here. Please be praying for God's financial provision because only God can make a way where there seems to be no way and this is definitely one of those times.
She came out of surgery around 2:30 and I stayed up with her until 4:30 and then slept a little for 3 hours. Then we were up most of the day moving about. I mean Heather wasn't moving about at first but gradually. As they were trying to charge us more and more fees we decided it best to check out of the hospital.
Maribel brought us clothes and belongings from the house with the help of Kevin and Christina, thanks to all of them. And then Brian and Frank came to visit Heather and brought her flowers and it was good to have company to keep Heather distracted from the pain she was in. And then Maggie, one of the translators for the Canada team came and talked with her for a little while.
Tomorrow will be a long day. Taking care of Heather and possibly going back to Trujillo to pay off the rest of the bill.
Thank God that His grace is sufficient and that His mercies are new every morning. He is a faithful God and I trust in His healing power, His strength and provision and that He is my strong tower and that He is Heather's healer.
Amen and Amen.
We were both pretty devastated that we did not get to say goodbye to the Canadians. We got really close to several of them, felt the love from all of them, and loved our group that we were a part of.
We came home tonight and some of them had cleaned our house for us and had left gifts for us.
What blessings they were. I have more to write about them. For another time when I am less tired.
Heather, one of the Canadian ladies that I got close to and now consider family, and I had a long talk. I needed an outside perspective and it was really good to have someone who was older than me to listen and give advice and wisdom.
Then I went to be a house mom but Gladys, Antonia, and Paula were all in there and the kids were doing homework so I was really no help. Since it was the Canadians last night I wanted to spend time with them so I got off at 5 to go and have lunch with them.
But the unexpected happened.
I knocked on the door to my house because Heather had my keys and I hear these horrible sounds coming from the house. And I am like, what is going on. And Heather appears in view and is bending over and moaning and saying, I am in pain, I am in pain. And I was like, open the door so I can help you.
I went and got help because she was in severe and serious pain and the ladies thought it was appendicitis. The nearest hospital being just about 2 hours away, Fred, Heather, Kat and I head to Trujillo at 6 p.m.
Heather is is excruciating pain and it was so hard to listen too because there was nothing I could do to ease the pain. I just kept praying and trusting that it was in God's hands even though it was so ridiculous in my mind that this was happening.
I mean Heather has not even been in Peru for 2 weeks.
So anyway we get to the hospital and they do a sonogram and take blood and a pee test to rule out any infections and they find a small kidney stone in her kidney and believe she has appendicitis. So she sat in pain at the hospital for HOURS. It was ridiculous. And I was getting angry. At 12:15 in the morning she went into surgery to have her appendix removed and it was a real test of the Lord for Heather. She is a nurse in the US and so she was really freaking out about being in a foreign country. In the end, the Lord gave her peace and she really trusted God to take care of her.
The system is all messed up though. We had to buy all the supplies for the bedroom and for the operation. And of course the antibiotics and medicines and the doctors fees and normally Peru is cheaper health care but not so much here. Please be praying for God's financial provision because only God can make a way where there seems to be no way and this is definitely one of those times.
She came out of surgery around 2:30 and I stayed up with her until 4:30 and then slept a little for 3 hours. Then we were up most of the day moving about. I mean Heather wasn't moving about at first but gradually. As they were trying to charge us more and more fees we decided it best to check out of the hospital.
Maribel brought us clothes and belongings from the house with the help of Kevin and Christina, thanks to all of them. And then Brian and Frank came to visit Heather and brought her flowers and it was good to have company to keep Heather distracted from the pain she was in. And then Maggie, one of the translators for the Canada team came and talked with her for a little while.
Tomorrow will be a long day. Taking care of Heather and possibly going back to Trujillo to pay off the rest of the bill.
Thank God that His grace is sufficient and that His mercies are new every morning. He is a faithful God and I trust in His healing power, His strength and provision and that He is my strong tower and that He is Heather's healer.
Amen and Amen.
We were both pretty devastated that we did not get to say goodbye to the Canadians. We got really close to several of them, felt the love from all of them, and loved our group that we were a part of.
We came home tonight and some of them had cleaned our house for us and had left gifts for us.
What blessings they were. I have more to write about them. For another time when I am less tired.
Wednesday, March 17, 2010
Deborah?
Today was a trying day. In a good way.
The Canadians planned a trip to Trujillo to The Dump and to the Women's Prison.
So Heather and I went along because we are part of the group.
And it was a real day of ministry. I felt like I was in Australia again.
Going to the dump I was a little nervous about the smell because as many of you know, I do not smell through my nose pretty much ever because my sense of smell is so strong already that I do not have to be smelling through my nose to smell some things, they are just that strong. But even though the smell was horrendous, I breathed through my nose because Heather told me it was better too. And the smell was not what was so difficult for me.
It was seeing the houses made of nothing where people lived surrounded by nothing but trash. These men, women and children live and breathe trash every day and work on sorting the trash all day from like 6-6 everyday. Some do not live there but most of them do. And they choose to remain there. I think it is because of deception. They do not believe they are worthy of anything more. They do not see the beauty that Christ has placed inside of them.
Seeing the children, under the age of 5, in there with their parents, standing on so much trash and so many disgusting things. It was heartbreaking.
I felt like I should be crying. I mean my heart was broken and others were crying but I was not. I want more compassion. I feel like I used to have so much more compassion and because of things from my past, I have allowed myself to lose some of that compassion and I do not want that. So I pray God will give me eyes so I can see.
Then we went to the Pastor's land that he is currently building an orphanage on and showed us what they have so far. We prayed for him and shared in his desires and it made me think..."That could be me someday." And it was a beautiful, scary thought.
Then we went to the mall for lunch and I had Papa John's :) Enough said.
Afterwards was the women's prison.
We had to give them our passports when we went inside and they patted us down, like for real patted down.
We sang songs with them, prayed with them, handed out gifts for them, and then they sold us some of their things they had made.
When I went in, I could not help how much they just looked like us.
And I saw children there. Babies. 4 of them.
The babies of women who go to prison have to go with them to prison until they are 3. That broke my heart. Brian and I were like, why are they not in orphanages or something?
Wayne is one of the Canadians and he always asks me to interpret when he prays and it is so difficult and challenging but I am glad for it. I also was able to practice the small phrases I know in spanish that I say to my beautiful best friends, such as, Tu eres muy importante de Dios. Because these women need to know how loved and precious they are.
Afterwards we came back and had dinner at MaryAnne and Tony's. They made really great food and we had amazing fellowship and a time of worship. It was a great way to end a very emotionally draining day.
So much more to contemplate but I needed to write something before I could get any sleep..
Tomorrow is the Canadian's last day, please pray that God blesses it.
P.S. Here are some specific prayer requests that I asked of my church in Oklahoma. If you could be in prayer for these things as well, in agreement, I would appreciate it. Thanks so much...
Avis Goodhart, the founder of Go Ye Ministries, is traveling back to the States to not only go to a doctor to figure her health out, but to get funding for the ministry.
That God would send more godly men to help the ministry. Men that would be good examples to the men here who are trying to live a life for Christ but do not have good examples. And that God would use the men that are already here to make a difference.
That God would guide Heather and myself in what He would want us to do as the schedule will be changing and different opportunities will arise.
Financially the orphanage needs to make some changes but cannot afford it, so that God would provide.
Also, that God would guide me on what I am to do after Peru. I want to stay longer than a year and I am believing for a miracle that God will take care of my loans for ORU. So if you guys could believe with me, I would appreciate that.
For continued good health and God's wisdom, always.
That no deception would be inside of me.
The Canadians planned a trip to Trujillo to The Dump and to the Women's Prison.
So Heather and I went along because we are part of the group.
And it was a real day of ministry. I felt like I was in Australia again.
Going to the dump I was a little nervous about the smell because as many of you know, I do not smell through my nose pretty much ever because my sense of smell is so strong already that I do not have to be smelling through my nose to smell some things, they are just that strong. But even though the smell was horrendous, I breathed through my nose because Heather told me it was better too. And the smell was not what was so difficult for me.
It was seeing the houses made of nothing where people lived surrounded by nothing but trash. These men, women and children live and breathe trash every day and work on sorting the trash all day from like 6-6 everyday. Some do not live there but most of them do. And they choose to remain there. I think it is because of deception. They do not believe they are worthy of anything more. They do not see the beauty that Christ has placed inside of them.
Seeing the children, under the age of 5, in there with their parents, standing on so much trash and so many disgusting things. It was heartbreaking.
I felt like I should be crying. I mean my heart was broken and others were crying but I was not. I want more compassion. I feel like I used to have so much more compassion and because of things from my past, I have allowed myself to lose some of that compassion and I do not want that. So I pray God will give me eyes so I can see.
Then we went to the Pastor's land that he is currently building an orphanage on and showed us what they have so far. We prayed for him and shared in his desires and it made me think..."That could be me someday." And it was a beautiful, scary thought.
Then we went to the mall for lunch and I had Papa John's :) Enough said.
Afterwards was the women's prison.
We had to give them our passports when we went inside and they patted us down, like for real patted down.
We sang songs with them, prayed with them, handed out gifts for them, and then they sold us some of their things they had made.
When I went in, I could not help how much they just looked like us.
And I saw children there. Babies. 4 of them.
The babies of women who go to prison have to go with them to prison until they are 3. That broke my heart. Brian and I were like, why are they not in orphanages or something?
Wayne is one of the Canadians and he always asks me to interpret when he prays and it is so difficult and challenging but I am glad for it. I also was able to practice the small phrases I know in spanish that I say to my beautiful best friends, such as, Tu eres muy importante de Dios. Because these women need to know how loved and precious they are.
Afterwards we came back and had dinner at MaryAnne and Tony's. They made really great food and we had amazing fellowship and a time of worship. It was a great way to end a very emotionally draining day.
So much more to contemplate but I needed to write something before I could get any sleep..
Tomorrow is the Canadian's last day, please pray that God blesses it.
P.S. Here are some specific prayer requests that I asked of my church in Oklahoma. If you could be in prayer for these things as well, in agreement, I would appreciate it. Thanks so much...
Avis Goodhart, the founder of Go Ye Ministries, is traveling back to the States to not only go to a doctor to figure her health out, but to get funding for the ministry.
That God would send more godly men to help the ministry. Men that would be good examples to the men here who are trying to live a life for Christ but do not have good examples. And that God would use the men that are already here to make a difference.
That God would guide Heather and myself in what He would want us to do as the schedule will be changing and different opportunities will arise.
Financially the orphanage needs to make some changes but cannot afford it, so that God would provide.
Also, that God would guide me on what I am to do after Peru. I want to stay longer than a year and I am believing for a miracle that God will take care of my loans for ORU. So if you guys could believe with me, I would appreciate that.
For continued good health and God's wisdom, always.
That no deception would be inside of me.
Romancing the Stone
So I have not updated in a lifetime it seems.
Heather has been here along with the Canadians so I have been super busy. In a good way.
I have loved every minute with the Canadians. They are such great people and I have found friends in them.
Heather and I joined the team in most of the activities in the afternoon/evening every day so far. We joined a specific group that we sort of connected with.
We have done prayer walks, worship on the streets, they did a spa day, family photos, swimming with the kids, beach day, church services, lots of conversation and tomorrow is Trujillo, the dump, mall, and woman prison.
I was supposed to officially be done as a House Mother yesterday but now that will not change until April 1st.
I have been at the school in the mornings mostly, but not consistently, and then I spend time with the Canadians during my break and then work from 3-6 and then spend the rest of the evening with the Canadians.
And Heather of course. Jim calls us the twins or the sisters, because we are pretty much attached at the hip.
It has been so amazing to have her here.
She is getting settled in. It feels like she has been here a lifetime already and she has only been here since the early morning hours of the 11th technically. But we are loving every minute of it.
We did inventory today for all the things that the Canadians are donating.
Things are rapidly changing but I am liking the changes and embracing them and enjoying the company while I can.
I will have to update more soon.
Heather has been here along with the Canadians so I have been super busy. In a good way.
I have loved every minute with the Canadians. They are such great people and I have found friends in them.
Heather and I joined the team in most of the activities in the afternoon/evening every day so far. We joined a specific group that we sort of connected with.
We have done prayer walks, worship on the streets, they did a spa day, family photos, swimming with the kids, beach day, church services, lots of conversation and tomorrow is Trujillo, the dump, mall, and woman prison.
I was supposed to officially be done as a House Mother yesterday but now that will not change until April 1st.
I have been at the school in the mornings mostly, but not consistently, and then I spend time with the Canadians during my break and then work from 3-6 and then spend the rest of the evening with the Canadians.
And Heather of course. Jim calls us the twins or the sisters, because we are pretty much attached at the hip.
It has been so amazing to have her here.
She is getting settled in. It feels like she has been here a lifetime already and she has only been here since the early morning hours of the 11th technically. But we are loving every minute of it.
We did inventory today for all the things that the Canadians are donating.
Things are rapidly changing but I am liking the changes and embracing them and enjoying the company while I can.
I will have to update more soon.
Friday, March 12, 2010
Welcome Heather Belle!
So Tuesday evening at 9 Meg, Fred, Kevin and I went to Lima to send Meg off, receive Heather and Michael, along with the Canadian team and band from Lima. It was a surprise that I was going, to surprise Heather, that is why I did not write about it. But now that it is passed, I can tell you what happened.
Meg and I slept the entire time except when we were woken up at like 3 in the morning because we were so ridiculously hot! The air condition had stopped working and the windows were wet and fogged up because it was so hot and muggy in the bus. So we had to open the windows because it stopped working.
We arrived in Lima early, some time around 7 and took a long cab ride to the Oscar Hotel.
We went to find breakfast.
Afterwards we walked in the mall for like 20 minutes.
And then Meg and I went back to the hotel and took naps and watched tv shows in english.
That was my first time in 2 months to watch tv. It was nice. We went to Papa John's for a late lunch.
And it was marvelous, simply marvelous. I ate my entire pizza and two breadsticks and saved the other 4 for later.
And then we went back and watched more tv. ha ha. It was very relaxing.
We took showers at the hotel and OH MY GOSH, I had my first hot shower in 2 months and it was GLORIOUS!
Thank God for the small things in life.
I did not want to ever get out of the shower. ha ha ha!
And then we went to the airport at 10:30. We dropped Meg off at 10:30 and then waited for Heather to arrive sometime after 11:30. And then she got here around 12:30 in the morning. And then we sat in the airport until Michael arrived at 5:30 in the morning and then the Canada team arrived at 8 in the morning. Yes, we were in the airport this entire time.
We got onto our rented bus around 9 and it felt like the longest bus ride ever. I could not sleep hardly at all.
We listened to music mostly. It was so amazing to have Heather by my side.
When we arrived around 7:30 last night, they had dinner ready for everyone and the kids were all dressed nice and it was a good welcome.
Today we went back to school and it was hectic. But we got out at 10:30 so Heather and I went into town, I showed her the beach and it was a good walk. This afternoon I will be going back to work with the kids until the 15th when we have our new house moms and I will be able to be more involved with the Canada team, which I am looking forward too.
They had a time of worship last night that I joined in and it was amazing, to worship in English, I Really appreciated it.
I look forward to more of that.
Meg and I slept the entire time except when we were woken up at like 3 in the morning because we were so ridiculously hot! The air condition had stopped working and the windows were wet and fogged up because it was so hot and muggy in the bus. So we had to open the windows because it stopped working.
We arrived in Lima early, some time around 7 and took a long cab ride to the Oscar Hotel.
We went to find breakfast.
Afterwards we walked in the mall for like 20 minutes.
And then Meg and I went back to the hotel and took naps and watched tv shows in english.
That was my first time in 2 months to watch tv. It was nice. We went to Papa John's for a late lunch.
And it was marvelous, simply marvelous. I ate my entire pizza and two breadsticks and saved the other 4 for later.
And then we went back and watched more tv. ha ha. It was very relaxing.
We took showers at the hotel and OH MY GOSH, I had my first hot shower in 2 months and it was GLORIOUS!
Thank God for the small things in life.
I did not want to ever get out of the shower. ha ha ha!
And then we went to the airport at 10:30. We dropped Meg off at 10:30 and then waited for Heather to arrive sometime after 11:30. And then she got here around 12:30 in the morning. And then we sat in the airport until Michael arrived at 5:30 in the morning and then the Canada team arrived at 8 in the morning. Yes, we were in the airport this entire time.
We got onto our rented bus around 9 and it felt like the longest bus ride ever. I could not sleep hardly at all.
We listened to music mostly. It was so amazing to have Heather by my side.
When we arrived around 7:30 last night, they had dinner ready for everyone and the kids were all dressed nice and it was a good welcome.
Today we went back to school and it was hectic. But we got out at 10:30 so Heather and I went into town, I showed her the beach and it was a good walk. This afternoon I will be going back to work with the kids until the 15th when we have our new house moms and I will be able to be more involved with the Canada team, which I am looking forward too.
They had a time of worship last night that I joined in and it was amazing, to worship in English, I Really appreciated it.
I look forward to more of that.
Tuesday, March 9, 2010
Farewell Meg, You shall be missed!
SO Monday was school and then there was a birthday party for the birthdays in January and February. And then Meg, Kevin, Nelkhand and I went to La Estacion. Meg got sick, so that was really unfortunate and then we came back for the evening.
Today was school again, which was hectic I will go back to work with the kids before dinner at the Mexican Restaurant and seeing Meg off at 9.
Pray for Heather as she travels to Peru tomorrow and Pacasmayo on Thursday.
Pray for Meg as she leaves Peru to return to Canada.
And pray for me as I travel some these next couple days before Heather arrives!
Can you also be praying for me and guidance in a situation, that I will not be deceived and that I will trust in God no matter what the outcome.
He is faithful and I know that everything will work out how He wants.
I thank God for how appreciative He has made me for all the small things in life that we so often take for granted! Everything seems to be more complicated here, like every process that is simple in the US is not so simple here.
I am thankful for this opportunity to grow and be stretched in my character!
Today was school again, which was hectic I will go back to work with the kids before dinner at the Mexican Restaurant and seeing Meg off at 9.
Pray for Heather as she travels to Peru tomorrow and Pacasmayo on Thursday.
Pray for Meg as she leaves Peru to return to Canada.
And pray for me as I travel some these next couple days before Heather arrives!
Can you also be praying for me and guidance in a situation, that I will not be deceived and that I will trust in God no matter what the outcome.
He is faithful and I know that everything will work out how He wants.
I thank God for how appreciative He has made me for all the small things in life that we so often take for granted! Everything seems to be more complicated here, like every process that is simple in the US is not so simple here.
I am thankful for this opportunity to grow and be stretched in my character!
Sunday, March 7, 2010
Beach Bum!
Today we had church. Then I finished my laundry and went to lunch with Kat, and Wendy sat with us and we all talked and I had my breakfast burrito, french fries, coke, and chocolate chip cookie cake for dessert. We had dessert first, so it was an ideal lunch. And then Kat and I headed back because we went to the beach with lots of people today.
We sat and talked and had ice cream twice and made a sand castle (well Meg and Brian did), and just enjoyed each other's company for 2 1/2 hours and then we went and walked on the pier. Which was my first time since being back and it is still just as scary as always. ha ha. And Aimeeta, you have to go on the pier this year!
Maybe by the time you come, I will not be so scared to go on it, ha ha. Probably not.
And then we went and walked for a little while longer before going to church again.
After church we all went and walked on the beach again and got snacks to eat and played different guessing games and took lots of random pictures and then walked back. It was an eventful, but fun and relaxing day off.
Tomorrow is school. And the regular routine starts again.
Why am I awake right now?
We sat and talked and had ice cream twice and made a sand castle (well Meg and Brian did), and just enjoyed each other's company for 2 1/2 hours and then we went and walked on the pier. Which was my first time since being back and it is still just as scary as always. ha ha. And Aimeeta, you have to go on the pier this year!
Maybe by the time you come, I will not be so scared to go on it, ha ha. Probably not.
And then we went and walked for a little while longer before going to church again.
After church we all went and walked on the beach again and got snacks to eat and played different guessing games and took lots of random pictures and then walked back. It was an eventful, but fun and relaxing day off.
Tomorrow is school. And the regular routine starts again.
Why am I awake right now?
Karaoke Superstar
So last night was a special service at church for the youth-young adult aged people. And so I went with some of the kids from the orphanage because they asked me to go with them. I normally go every Saturday anyway so it wasn't unusual. Except that we did karaoke the whole time to spanish worship songs so it helped me learn the words. I had no intentions of getting up and singing but Daniel, the same kid from Chiclayo decided it would be a good tradition for me to sing Open the Eyes of My Heart in like I had to do at the concert in Chiclayo. So Brian and I sang the song. And then the girls wanted me to go up and sing with them so I went up to 3 other songs I think. But at least I was not alone. It wasn't so bad. I had a good time. ha ha.
And then afterwards I went back to the house because Wendy was already there hanging out with Meg and our new roommate Christina.
We had spaghetti and get this, we have mastered indoor smores! And they are yummy! And then today we are going to the beach since it is my day off and Meg's last day to really hangout with people outside of the orphanage.
Heather will be here on THURSDAY! WOOT-WOOT!
And then afterwards I went back to the house because Wendy was already there hanging out with Meg and our new roommate Christina.
We had spaghetti and get this, we have mastered indoor smores! And they are yummy! And then today we are going to the beach since it is my day off and Meg's last day to really hangout with people outside of the orphanage.
Heather will be here on THURSDAY! WOOT-WOOT!
Friday, March 5, 2010
School.
Things have been busy around here lately.
School started on Wednesday. And so since the teacher who is teaching 6-8 grades is still in the US, I have been the teacher for that class everyday since then and will remain teaching them until he arrives here on the 11th. So I am at the school everyday from 7-12 and then I take my break and go to the kids house from 3-6. Yesterday we had Missionary Night in our house though and so Meg and I had to cook. Steve, one of the new English teachers, helped, along with Kevin.
We made pancakes, eggs, bacon, toast, hash browns, had assorted fruit, a variety of juices to drink and I made Chocolate Chip Cookies. Yum. It was a great success despite the hectic schedule of it all. There were 15 of us total.
And then tonight Meg, Vanessa, possibly Kat, and some of the guys are going to the fair/carnival that is going on here in town with music and food and I believe rides. So that will be fun.
A new girl came today to be the teacher. Her name is Christina.
So the fair last night..
First of all, it seems to be made for kids. Most of the rides are those big fun jump ships that you climb up and slide down and big closed-in trampolines that have giant balls that kids jump around in and kick the balls at each other and stuff. And then there are foosball tables and all the little individual things, like throw darts at balloons and get a prize. They had candy apples, cotton candy, and ice cream. And really loud Peruvian music playing, along with little bars where people were drinking under tents.
And then there was this train-like car ride around the city with music blaring and we rode on that before we left.
Today Meg and I went to the restaurant for our breakfast burritos and an American, named Daniel came in and sat with us all and we (Wendy, her mom, me, Meg, Daniel, Auden, Milagros, and Olinda) talked with him and everything. We had a good time.
Anyway, I need to go back to work but wanted to give more information on things going on around here.
School started on Wednesday. And so since the teacher who is teaching 6-8 grades is still in the US, I have been the teacher for that class everyday since then and will remain teaching them until he arrives here on the 11th. So I am at the school everyday from 7-12 and then I take my break and go to the kids house from 3-6. Yesterday we had Missionary Night in our house though and so Meg and I had to cook. Steve, one of the new English teachers, helped, along with Kevin.
We made pancakes, eggs, bacon, toast, hash browns, had assorted fruit, a variety of juices to drink and I made Chocolate Chip Cookies. Yum. It was a great success despite the hectic schedule of it all. There were 15 of us total.
And then tonight Meg, Vanessa, possibly Kat, and some of the guys are going to the fair/carnival that is going on here in town with music and food and I believe rides. So that will be fun.
A new girl came today to be the teacher. Her name is Christina.
So the fair last night..
First of all, it seems to be made for kids. Most of the rides are those big fun jump ships that you climb up and slide down and big closed-in trampolines that have giant balls that kids jump around in and kick the balls at each other and stuff. And then there are foosball tables and all the little individual things, like throw darts at balloons and get a prize. They had candy apples, cotton candy, and ice cream. And really loud Peruvian music playing, along with little bars where people were drinking under tents.
And then there was this train-like car ride around the city with music blaring and we rode on that before we left.
Today Meg and I went to the restaurant for our breakfast burritos and an American, named Daniel came in and sat with us all and we (Wendy, her mom, me, Meg, Daniel, Auden, Milagros, and Olinda) talked with him and everything. We had a good time.
Anyway, I need to go back to work but wanted to give more information on things going on around here.
Sunday, February 28, 2010
Stalker?
So we have been battling internet.
So Meg got back on Saturday and we watched The Time Traveler's Wife. I watched it in theaters but it is just so sad. A really good movie though. And then I got the message from my mom about the earthquake in Chile, which I knew nothing about, and went and read the news and confirmed that everything in Peru is just fine and dandy.
And then there was the tsunami warning as a result but they called it off in Peru and we have not had any sign of a tsunami. So no worries with that. God is watching over me here and knows the plans He has for me. So I am not really concerned.
Today was my dia de libre, so I went to church and then Meg and I went to the restaurant and had yummy breakfast burritos and french fries for lunch. And then we spent basically the day at the beach. And it was lovely.
Minus the stalker dudes.
Seriously. I mean we have problems with massive staring or whistling or honking the horn but never have we had a problem with guys following us. We literally were being followed. And they would not let up. We even left the beach for a little while but as soon as we returned, there they were following us again. It was two guys.
We were getting uncomfortable so we got ahold of a friend who showed up at the perfect timing and they stopped bothering us for a while and in the end they approached us and were saying we were beautiful or something in spanish and so we left.
Evening church was good.
And now that we have internet again, we got on once we got home.
11 days and Heather will be here :)
So Meg got back on Saturday and we watched The Time Traveler's Wife. I watched it in theaters but it is just so sad. A really good movie though. And then I got the message from my mom about the earthquake in Chile, which I knew nothing about, and went and read the news and confirmed that everything in Peru is just fine and dandy.
And then there was the tsunami warning as a result but they called it off in Peru and we have not had any sign of a tsunami. So no worries with that. God is watching over me here and knows the plans He has for me. So I am not really concerned.
Today was my dia de libre, so I went to church and then Meg and I went to the restaurant and had yummy breakfast burritos and french fries for lunch. And then we spent basically the day at the beach. And it was lovely.
Minus the stalker dudes.
Seriously. I mean we have problems with massive staring or whistling or honking the horn but never have we had a problem with guys following us. We literally were being followed. And they would not let up. We even left the beach for a little while but as soon as we returned, there they were following us again. It was two guys.
We were getting uncomfortable so we got ahold of a friend who showed up at the perfect timing and they stopped bothering us for a while and in the end they approached us and were saying we were beautiful or something in spanish and so we left.
Evening church was good.
And now that we have internet again, we got on once we got home.
11 days and Heather will be here :)
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