Lord, I am just so in awe of you. These moments of slow and calm have given me the time to ponder and remember. To your name be the glory. What an incredible thing I got to experience over these last few months - on soooo many levels. And now I get to return to an extraordinary family too! And for Christmas and the celebration of the birth of your son! Awww... Like I have said so many times before; you are so good.
Lord, as I was praying at take-off, bless Costa Rica. May your gospel catch fire and your Holy Spirit be at work in hearts there. Also, Lord, move in the hearts and lives of leaders in the country.
Bless Monse and Fede and the family. Give them rest and refreshment during the next month before Morgan (the next student) comes. And give them wisdom and peace about your future plans for them. Give them clarity and speak clearly about where they are supposed to be. Also, Father, refresh Fede and Monse. This is a big ministry they are carrying and I pray that they would feel your refreshing rain as they pause just slightly during these holidays. Be with Monse, Lord, and comfort her - give her inner calm despite a busy schedule and chaos with the kids. Be working in both her heart and Fede's. Continually teach them how to sacrifice to one another, support each other, and serve you through their marriage.
Also, Lord, as the kids grow up may they come to know you personally. I ask that they would sense you in their lives and see how wonderfully important, loving, gracious, and personal you are. I pray that they would learn to crave you, to take you at your word, and to fall at your feet in worship. Open Ignacio's heart and soften him to the gospel.
Father I also pray that the kiddos would mature in a way that they would stop fighting and annoying each other. I pray that they would develop into good friends. Despite the age gap may they know, sense, and be able to express their love for one another. Bring this transition quickly for the sake of Monse and that they may pass more of their lives developing a positive relationship. Lord, reign in their hearts this day and forever more.
I pray for the congregation of Olivo Verde. Thank you for bringing me into that community and drawing me closer to yourself by placing me with them. What a joy, honor, and eye opening experience to serve and worship in a Spanish church! I loved, week after week, how brightly I sensed your spirit and love. You are moving among those people and your truth and gospel is being spoken. To your name be the glory! Continue, please, to use its members to reach the community and bring peace and clear perspective to those who are truly seeking you.
And now Lord, in association with Costa Rica I pray about my future. Lord I give you my years, my heart, my education, and my time. As I rest in you and trust you, please give me a clear vision for June and the months to follow. I know you are sovereign and your path is the best path so I ask that you give me wisdom, peace, desire, and clarity about how you want to use me and where you want me to be. Costa Rica. San Luis Obispo. Africa. Chico/Magalia. Father the choice is yours and so is my heart. I trust you completely and without fear! You have so abundantly blessed me in this life. And I take you at your word. Father I also pray that you would give me assurance that physical therapy school is what you want for me (and which school you want me to attend). Help me with applications, finances, focus...
My flight is delayed, my baggage cost way way too much to check...but I am peaceful and at rest.
God has blessed me so abundantly in these last four months and the last few hours have allowed me to reflect on that.
This morning Monse cooked me two fried eggs, per usual, and Amanda ran to the corner panaderia for some bread. We all ate together just like it was any other morning. That felt really good!
But after breakfast, the tears started. Monse, being sick, was not coming to the airport and so said her goodbye early. She told me she loved me and hugged and kissed me like a Mama kisses her children. I was then told how much she has enjoyed having me and that she would miss me. To which I replied the same. I told Monse that the family was the hardest thing to leave and she smiled and told me I would always have a place in their family and home. She told me it really has been special to have a Christian as it is so different from when they hosted their other four students. Our hearts are connected. Monse also thanked me with deep appreciation for praying for the family. She said she had sensd my care and prayers. =) And how sweet, because I really had and have vowed to pray for the family and church.
Next, it was Fede's turn. Hah! He gathered the family around and prayed for me. Fede thanked God for my coming and the blessing I have been. Then he prayed for my safety and my future. I was a heaving mess as Monse and Fede spoke on either side of me and Amanda stroked my hair from behind. Even Ignacio grabbed my hand when he began to understand the weight of the situation. I was just overcome by the amazing grace of God. These four months, this family, the care and love they feel towards me, my future... As we all blubbered and huddled together I opened my eyes to smile at Ignacio and the next thing I knew he had let out a huge belch and then a "Perdon"! Hahaha! We all lost it! God's timing of comic relief was perfect. The laughter and joy reminded me that the tears signify a deep love and joy tht is only represented by sadness upon seperation. The gifts of God are endless.
On the ride to the airport Fede and I talked about my time in Costa Rica, my future, and God's plans for his family. He was so real and it was cute, like he was trying to tell me all the things he's been longing to tell me or wanted me to know before I flew away. He told me he's not really sure what the future holds for them as a family, but him and Monse both have the sense that their time at Olivo Verde may be coming to an end. Fede talked of his feeling like God may be calling them to bilingual ministry in the States! Wow! He asked that I pray, and I promised I would. =) As well, Fede mentioned what a blessing my presence had been in their home. Somehow my attitude and outlook had helped the family greatly over the previous 3 months.
When we reached the airport, Fede helped me to the curb with all my bags and then took me in for a big hug. He held me so solidly and spoke into my ear, "I love you" and "It's never been this hard to say bye to a student." He pulled away, kissed my forehead, nose and cheek and then gave me one more squeeze. I love that man! Our hearts truly are forever-bonded.
Praise God from whom all blessings flow.
God has blessed me so abundantly in these last four months and the last few hours have allowed me to reflect on that.
This morning Monse cooked me two fried eggs, per usual, and Amanda ran to the corner panaderia for some bread. We all ate together just like it was any other morning. That felt really good!
But after breakfast, the tears started. Monse, being sick, was not coming to the airport and so said her goodbye early. She told me she loved me and hugged and kissed me like a Mama kisses her children. I was then told how much she has enjoyed having me and that she would miss me. To which I replied the same. I told Monse that the family was the hardest thing to leave and she smiled and told me I would always have a place in their family and home. She told me it really has been special to have a Christian as it is so different from when they hosted their other four students. Our hearts are connected. Monse also thanked me with deep appreciation for praying for the family. She said she had sensd my care and prayers. =) And how sweet, because I really had and have vowed to pray for the family and church.
Next, it was Fede's turn. Hah! He gathered the family around and prayed for me. Fede thanked God for my coming and the blessing I have been. Then he prayed for my safety and my future. I was a heaving mess as Monse and Fede spoke on either side of me and Amanda stroked my hair from behind. Even Ignacio grabbed my hand when he began to understand the weight of the situation. I was just overcome by the amazing grace of God. These four months, this family, the care and love they feel towards me, my future... As we all blubbered and huddled together I opened my eyes to smile at Ignacio and the next thing I knew he had let out a huge belch and then a "Perdon"! Hahaha! We all lost it! God's timing of comic relief was perfect. The laughter and joy reminded me that the tears signify a deep love and joy tht is only represented by sadness upon seperation. The gifts of God are endless.
On the ride to the airport Fede and I talked about my time in Costa Rica, my future, and God's plans for his family. He was so real and it was cute, like he was trying to tell me all the things he's been longing to tell me or wanted me to know before I flew away. He told me he's not really sure what the future holds for them as a family, but him and Monse both have the sense that their time at Olivo Verde may be coming to an end. Fede talked of his feeling like God may be calling them to bilingual ministry in the States! Wow! He asked that I pray, and I promised I would. =) As well, Fede mentioned what a blessing my presence had been in their home. Somehow my attitude and outlook had helped the family greatly over the previous 3 months.
When we reached the airport, Fede helped me to the curb with all my bags and then took me in for a big hug. He held me so solidly and spoke into my ear, "I love you" and "It's never been this hard to say bye to a student." He pulled away, kissed my forehead, nose and cheek and then gave me one more squeeze. I love that man! Our hearts truly are forever-bonded.
Praise God from whom all blessings flow.
Tonight turned into a very somber night for us group of thirteen.
We started out the evening at Pops (as we should) and treated ourselves to our final triple scoop cones! We then took our cones to the park and hung out. We talked, hugged, laughed, and were just us.
After the park we walked around town, ate some yummy BBQ wings, and then headed up to the top of the hill by campus for a view of the town and final snuggles. We reached the stadium and found a patch in the grass. Without wasting time we laid down and made a snuggling and spooning mess. Haha! We star gazed, talked, and just chilled.
Once we were all cold and tired we stood up and resisted the goodbyes. We went for a group hug instead. Haha! Typical us...
No, but honestly, once we reached the bottom of the hill we knew it was time. We have all become so close over these four months. The goodbyes were tough, but they also reminded me of what an amazing thing I got to take part in by being here with these people. Not only has Costa Rica been outstanding, but this group of individuals is incredible and our group dynamic has created something extraordinary. We are all comfortable and free to be exactly who we are and in that know we are loved and supported. It's really the way families are supposed to work. =)
We started out the evening at Pops (as we should) and treated ourselves to our final triple scoop cones! We then took our cones to the park and hung out. We talked, hugged, laughed, and were just us.
After the park we walked around town, ate some yummy BBQ wings, and then headed up to the top of the hill by campus for a view of the town and final snuggles. We reached the stadium and found a patch in the grass. Without wasting time we laid down and made a snuggling and spooning mess. Haha! We star gazed, talked, and just chilled.
Once we were all cold and tired we stood up and resisted the goodbyes. We went for a group hug instead. Haha! Typical us...
No, but honestly, once we reached the bottom of the hill we knew it was time. We have all become so close over these four months. The goodbyes were tough, but they also reminded me of what an amazing thing I got to take part in by being here with these people. Not only has Costa Rica been outstanding, but this group of individuals is incredible and our group dynamic has created something extraordinary. We are all comfortable and free to be exactly who we are and in that know we are loved and supported. It's really the way families are supposed to work. =)
This was what we thought was going to be our last full night together.
So, we gathered on campus in one of the classrooms, ordered pizzas, had a piñata (oh yeah, we go all out!), and hung out. As part of the night's events we had two videos (one with pictures and music and the other a compilation of videos from the past four months) and exchanged affirmation cards. It was really sweet time to savor what we've had and what we've done during our time here in Costa Rica.
After this part of the evening, we went to open mic night and then to what we like to call "the Juke Box Bar". At this bar they have American classic songs and we always enjoy belting them out and acting like fools. ;)
So, we gathered on campus in one of the classrooms, ordered pizzas, had a piñata (oh yeah, we go all out!), and hung out. As part of the night's events we had two videos (one with pictures and music and the other a compilation of videos from the past four months) and exchanged affirmation cards. It was really sweet time to savor what we've had and what we've done during our time here in Costa Rica.
After this part of the evening, we went to open mic night and then to what we like to call "the Juke Box Bar". At this bar they have American classic songs and we always enjoy belting them out and acting like fools. ;)
On Saturday Fede, the kiddos, and I went to Sarchi in the morning. I wanted to buy a few gifts and it was a good excuse to get the kids out of the house. Even though we were only there for about 2 hours it was a lot of fun...besides, these last days are precious. =)
Fede insisted I get a picture in the ox-cart, but I couldn't stay serious very long! Haha!
Fede insisted I get a picture in the ox-cart, but I couldn't stay serious very long! Haha!
Tonight at 7:45pm I was called to the door and serenaded with a Christmas carol!
My friends Ellie, Krysten, and Andrew were starting a night of caroling...Weeeee! Amanda and I grabbed our Christmas garb and joined them. We then began making the rounds to all the other USAC students' houses. After someone was sung to they were ordered to grab their Christmas sweater (or other clothing item from the Ugly Christmas Sweater party) and asked to join. By the end there was 12 of us, plus Amanda, and we sang to our Spanish teacher and Doña Claudia! They were thrilled, as were all the host families. Yay! The Christmas season has really begun. =)
My friends Ellie, Krysten, and Andrew were starting a night of caroling...Weeeee! Amanda and I grabbed our Christmas garb and joined them. We then began making the rounds to all the other USAC students' houses. After someone was sung to they were ordered to grab their Christmas sweater (or other clothing item from the Ugly Christmas Sweater party) and asked to join. By the end there was 12 of us, plus Amanda, and we sang to our Spanish teacher and Doña Claudia! They were thrilled, as were all the host families. Yay! The Christmas season has really begun. =)
Last night Fede and Monse and I sat in the living room and chatted over cups of hot chocolate (well, Monse enjoyed some Bailey's).
We talked about my leaving, how close that day is, and how much we would miss each other. It was as if we were savoring the moments together...we just hung on the couch mellow and relaxed.
I'm seriously going to miss this family and this experience when I leave. At one point Fede asked me what my favorite thing was about Costa Rica and my experience here studying abroad. I thought honestly about it and responded, "You guys and the natural places".
We talked about my leaving, how close that day is, and how much we would miss each other. It was as if we were savoring the moments together...we just hung on the couch mellow and relaxed.
I'm seriously going to miss this family and this experience when I leave. At one point Fede asked me what my favorite thing was about Costa Rica and my experience here studying abroad. I thought honestly about it and responded, "You guys and the natural places".
Yesterday I spent most of the day on a horseback riding tour to La Paz waterfall. Eight of us from the USAC group went. We took the bus at 8:45am and were met at the La Paz bus stop by one of the other USAC students' tico friend. After just a short walk we arrived at the stables and were each paired with a horse. Because I had ridden before I was given one particular horse. Oh yikes. Haha!
The ride to and from the falls was about 1.5 hours long. Just on the trip to the falls my horse tried to buck me twice and was stubborn and refused to respond or take my lead at several other points! Knowing that fear or lack of control would portray to the horse that it was okay to do this, I reacted with confidence and calm...I was a firm hand and by the time we reached the falls he understood. Haha! The ride, even despite this, was absolutely gorgeous! The weather was misty and cool the whole way and the foliage was lush and green per usual. =)
To reach the waterfall we hiked in a half mile, across several little creeks and through some serious mud; boy was I glad I had my chacos!
The waterfall itself was spectacular! When I walked up to it I couldn't help but let out a "wow" and just stare at it. We sat at its base and munched our lunches while the cold spray hit our faces. Although it was freezing, I'm so glad we took the time to enjoy the spot and the sheer magnitude of the fall.
On the return trip from the falls my horse started out a bit skiddish once more - racing off and trying to buck me within the first 1/4 mile. After this incident however, I took a slightly different approach. In addition to being firm and clear in my authority I took time to talk to the horse, click in its ear, scratch its mane and neck, and give affirmation when commands were followed. The horse responded so sweetly to this it blew my mind. He was steady and perfect the whole rest of the way back! At one point he even stopped mid-trail and looked back at me as I scratched him on the neck. By the time we reach the stables once more I trusted and adored the horse. We had become friends. =) I really was a rewarding experience.
The ride to and from the falls was about 1.5 hours long. Just on the trip to the falls my horse tried to buck me twice and was stubborn and refused to respond or take my lead at several other points! Knowing that fear or lack of control would portray to the horse that it was okay to do this, I reacted with confidence and calm...I was a firm hand and by the time we reached the falls he understood. Haha! The ride, even despite this, was absolutely gorgeous! The weather was misty and cool the whole way and the foliage was lush and green per usual. =)
To reach the waterfall we hiked in a half mile, across several little creeks and through some serious mud; boy was I glad I had my chacos!
The waterfall itself was spectacular! When I walked up to it I couldn't help but let out a "wow" and just stare at it. We sat at its base and munched our lunches while the cold spray hit our faces. Although it was freezing, I'm so glad we took the time to enjoy the spot and the sheer magnitude of the fall.
On the return trip from the falls my horse started out a bit skiddish once more - racing off and trying to buck me within the first 1/4 mile. After this incident however, I took a slightly different approach. In addition to being firm and clear in my authority I took time to talk to the horse, click in its ear, scratch its mane and neck, and give affirmation when commands were followed. The horse responded so sweetly to this it blew my mind. He was steady and perfect the whole rest of the way back! At one point he even stopped mid-trail and looked back at me as I scratched him on the neck. By the time we reach the stables once more I trusted and adored the horse. We had become friends. =) I really was a rewarding experience.
Tonight I went to Angie's house for one last "girl's night". Ellie, Lindsay, Angie, and I spent the evening together, knowing it would be our last extended time to be together until Angie comes to visit in July.
Angie painted each of our nails (she is quite the little nail designer), Lindsay did our make-up and curled Angie's hair, I showed Ellie and Angie how to make the five-stranded headbands, we enjoyed snacks and homemade pizzas in the kitchen, and we talked with excitement about Angie's trip to California in July. Oh, and not to mention, we did all of this while listening and singing along to Christmas music. =)
It was really fun and I was just reminded how glad I am to have met these wonderful friends. =)
P.S. I don't know how much I have talked about Angie, but she is honestly one of the sweetest people I have ever met! She has a huge heart and cares so much and so well for others. She is also humble and willing to work hard. I guess what I am trying to say is I adore her. =)
Angie painted each of our nails (she is quite the little nail designer), Lindsay did our make-up and curled Angie's hair, I showed Ellie and Angie how to make the five-stranded headbands, we enjoyed snacks and homemade pizzas in the kitchen, and we talked with excitement about Angie's trip to California in July. Oh, and not to mention, we did all of this while listening and singing along to Christmas music. =)
It was really fun and I was just reminded how glad I am to have met these wonderful friends. =)
P.S. I don't know how much I have talked about Angie, but she is honestly one of the sweetest people I have ever met! She has a huge heart and cares so much and so well for others. She is also humble and willing to work hard. I guess what I am trying to say is I adore her. =)