El Dia del Mar

Today is March 23, and it is el Dia del Mar, the day the Chileans took the sea from Bolivia. The kids at Frutillar were making art projects for school in honor of this day. However, I haven't posted in a while, so here's an update:

Kinder class, clase ‘A’, continues to go well at the center. Joana and I are having a blast with the little ones. They really enjoyed making macaroni flowers and are getting the hang of our brushing teeth routine. Joana has been a wonderful blessing to me. Not only is she a great teacher and role model, she simply exudes sincere kindness and the joy of the Lord in her life. I’m so thankful for her friendship and constant encouragement to me as I try to teach in my second language.

I can’t say enough good things about Frutillar. The kids at this orphanage have blessed me more than I could ever have imagined. Last week, we were all doing homework in the kitchen when a sudden case of laughter exploded! It was so fun to just be silly and laugh and make jokes during the normal day-to-day routine. Even as we were leaving, Elian still could not contain himself and was uncontrollably giggling and out of breath.

It’s been a while, but as in any situation or ministry, there are set-backs and disappointments and heartache. In our case, Villa Israel house has been in the process of dispersing the kids. The house parents had been under enormous stress from the misbehavior of the kids and our mom was even experiencing pregnancy troubles due to stress as well. For the health and well-being of everyone in Villa Israel, it was decided to send Miguel and Roberto back to their mom, Franz and Elian to Frutillar, and the four brothers (Jhoel, Brandon, Samuel, and Erlan) to an all boys’ home. Unfortunately, there has yet to be a place for Neydi and we pray that she is placed in a home where she can be loved and cared for in the special manner she needs and deserves. So far, we have seen and heard good reports from the moves and pray that each one will be able to grow, learn, and mature as a child of God.

Jeff, Craig, Jen, and I are really enjoying our time together living at the hacienda. Jeff starts great conversations and asks the best random questions. Craig cooks the meat (I mean, grills and eats as well) and is always willing to do any maintenance around the house. Jen serves so joyfully and has awesome timing with jokes and movie quotes! The Lord has provided such amazing people for me to live and serve with. I continue to learn from each one of my roommates every day.