Some more news on this last Sunday in July. This morning at Los Pinos, there was five baptisms. One man started studying the Bible last summer with Perry. Perry pursued that study again this summer and the man knew what he needed to do. So what was already a great day in Honduras turned out to be an even better day.
Terri
Sunday, July 31, 2011
The Last Sunday In July
The last Sunday in July always brings back fond and happy memories. Eight years ago, the church in Los Pinos had its first worship service in its new building. Several people labored together for two weeks building that building. That church has been, and is still, a beacon in that community. There has been tremendous growth there, both in numbers and maturity. Marc and the Starkville group worshiped in Los Pinos this morning.
Two years later, the last Sunday in July the church in Santa Ana had its first worship service in a new building. Again, a group labored long and hard, for only one week this time, to build the building. Not having seen the same kind of numerical growth as Los Pinos, this church too has grown in maturity and persevered through some struggles and heartaches.
I worshiped with the children in Santa Ana and we were joined by the Mitchell and Nashville groups.
We were blessed to have first Noel as our preacher. And then blessed some more to have Dorian. The last Sunday in July is dear to my heart and most of the current church members don't even know when the church was built. Today, the last Sunday in July, began an exciting new chapter in the life of the church in Santa Ana. Our new preacher preached his first sermon. Full of energy and excitement. The building was packed. It is always packed when there are 30 extra gringros. But they were standing and the seats were still packed. With people we haven't seen in weeks and months. Some we had never seen.
I am thankful for the teams that helped build these two churches and for their desire to further God's kingdom. I am thankful for the growth these churches have seen. Please pray for these two churches, that they continue to grow and that Godly decision are made to help spread the good news of Jesus. Pray for our new preacher in Santa Ana.
It is only half over and it is already been another great day in Honduras.
Terri
Two years later, the last Sunday in July the church in Santa Ana had its first worship service in a new building. Again, a group labored long and hard, for only one week this time, to build the building. Not having seen the same kind of numerical growth as Los Pinos, this church too has grown in maturity and persevered through some struggles and heartaches.
I worshiped with the children in Santa Ana and we were joined by the Mitchell and Nashville groups.
We were blessed to have first Noel as our preacher. And then blessed some more to have Dorian. The last Sunday in July is dear to my heart and most of the current church members don't even know when the church was built. Today, the last Sunday in July, began an exciting new chapter in the life of the church in Santa Ana. Our new preacher preached his first sermon. Full of energy and excitement. The building was packed. It is always packed when there are 30 extra gringros. But they were standing and the seats were still packed. With people we haven't seen in weeks and months. Some we had never seen.
I am thankful for the teams that helped build these two churches and for their desire to further God's kingdom. I am thankful for the growth these churches have seen. Please pray for these two churches, that they continue to grow and that Godly decision are made to help spread the good news of Jesus. Pray for our new preacher in Santa Ana.
It is only half over and it is already been another great day in Honduras.
Terri
Friday, July 29, 2011
Road Trip
As I mentioned in the previous post, we sometimes take the store to groups. Marc set it up for us take the store to Campamento to see Bobby Moore's group. I spent most of the morning packing and getting ready. Luis arrived here at 9:30. I was expecting him at 11:00. He and I loaded the van and we left. We stopped out at the job site and Lanetta joined us for the rest of the trip. Lanetta is one of our board members. And she always makes everything more fun.
Lanetta and I had lots of things to talk about and probably kept Luis amused. Probably not. I doubt that he paid much attention to us. The time flew by. In more ways than one. Luis is able to make it from Santa Ana to Campamento in better time than I can.
There is not many places to stop along the way, but Luis and I both knew where the best place is. We stopped at the bakery for a delicious lunch. Then I bought some cinnamon rolls. Lanetta bought some bread. Luis bought some bread.
It is much hotter in Campamento than in Santa Ana. As we began to unload the van and unpack the items, I was wishing for my mountain climate. We set up in a room that only had light in one end, but I have learned to work with much worse situations.
We met some new friends and had a good time as we worked. We had the van loaded and were on our way back to Santa Ana around 9:00. As we were driving through Tegucigalpa, Luis came upon a motorcycle with two people on it. He got closer and closer. Lanetta said are we going to push them. I laughed and Lanettea laughed. I am not sure Luis thought it was as funny as we did. We were all so tired when we got back to Casa. As we put the last box in the dorm, Lanetta said I am not sure we sold anything. I agreed. There didn't seem to be any less boxes than there was when we left.
Much to my surprise, Marc and Byron were still up, when Lanetta and I walked in the door. I thought Marc was waiting up to make sure I got home safely. In reality, he was waiting on the cinnamon rolls. We had a cinnamon roll before we called it a day. A great way to end another great day in Honduras.
Terri
Lanetta and I had lots of things to talk about and probably kept Luis amused. Probably not. I doubt that he paid much attention to us. The time flew by. In more ways than one. Luis is able to make it from Santa Ana to Campamento in better time than I can.
There is not many places to stop along the way, but Luis and I both knew where the best place is. We stopped at the bakery for a delicious lunch. Then I bought some cinnamon rolls. Lanetta bought some bread. Luis bought some bread.
It is much hotter in Campamento than in Santa Ana. As we began to unload the van and unpack the items, I was wishing for my mountain climate. We set up in a room that only had light in one end, but I have learned to work with much worse situations.
We met some new friends and had a good time as we worked. We had the van loaded and were on our way back to Santa Ana around 9:00. As we were driving through Tegucigalpa, Luis came upon a motorcycle with two people on it. He got closer and closer. Lanetta said are we going to push them. I laughed and Lanettea laughed. I am not sure Luis thought it was as funny as we did. We were all so tired when we got back to Casa. As we put the last box in the dorm, Lanetta said I am not sure we sold anything. I agreed. There didn't seem to be any less boxes than there was when we left.
Much to my surprise, Marc and Byron were still up, when Lanetta and I walked in the door. I thought Marc was waiting up to make sure I got home safely. In reality, he was waiting on the cinnamon rolls. We had a cinnamon roll before we called it a day. A great way to end another great day in Honduras.
Terri
Thursday, July 28, 2011
Go Fish
Casa de Esperanza depends on the amount of money we are able to raise from the store. Since the groups are the biggest source of income for the store, we are always looking for ways for the groups to see more of the store. Some groups aren't at Casa much. Last year we decided one night for each group we would take the store to them. We pack up a fairly good sampling of our product and go set up at Julio's or wherever the group is staying.
I have been teaching Brayan to work in the store. He is learning quickly and is a good worker. Last night he went with me to take the store to Julio's. We loaded the car and drove over and unloaded. After everything was set up and displayed, we still had quite a while before the group was to arrive. We had a soda and found a deck cards. A couple of weeks ago, while doing the same thing, I taught him to play Go Fish.
I shuffled the cards and dealt seven cards to each of us. He is so fun to play with. When he asks for something which I have in my hand, he smiles so big. When he gets a book of four, he laughs. Not a mocking laugh, but a great big hardy laugh. I can't help but laughing, too. And when he wins a game, that laugh gets bigger.
When we get set up early, those few moments of playing Go Fish with Brayan are quite enjoyable.
Terri
I have been teaching Brayan to work in the store. He is learning quickly and is a good worker. Last night he went with me to take the store to Julio's. We loaded the car and drove over and unloaded. After everything was set up and displayed, we still had quite a while before the group was to arrive. We had a soda and found a deck cards. A couple of weeks ago, while doing the same thing, I taught him to play Go Fish.
I shuffled the cards and dealt seven cards to each of us. He is so fun to play with. When he asks for something which I have in my hand, he smiles so big. When he gets a book of four, he laughs. Not a mocking laugh, but a great big hardy laugh. I can't help but laughing, too. And when he wins a game, that laugh gets bigger.
When we get set up early, those few moments of playing Go Fish with Brayan are quite enjoyable.
Terri
Tuesday, July 26, 2011
Surprises
Sunday, I took some people to the airport. Then I ate lunch with some friends that were arriving. As I drove back to Santa Ana, I was thinking Sunday afternoon nap, a very rare event for me. I sat down in my chair to read before I took that nap. In just a few minutes, Byron showed up. I thought that was odd because I had just seen him at the airport. I had asked if he wanted to eat lunch with my friends and he gave an answer that made me think he had other plans. But as we all know, plans change in Honduras and I thought his had changed, too.
Then Armando showed up. Armando is a carpenter that makes all the beautiful pieces we have at Casa. Only he was at my house and not at Casa. And everything Casa has ordered is bought, paid for and installed. I was a bit confused, but nothing new there. In came this portable island. I have no work space or counter tops. And I mean none. Just a slight challenge. Or, I should say, I had no workspace. I do now. It will roll into the kitchen or wherever I need it. Thank you Byron. This is a beautiful piece of furniture.
Then, in came a bookcase. I had this place cutout that a washer and dryer would fit into. I have two of them, one on each side of the house. On one side, my books were stacked every which way. I could not find anything. Armando had to trim the bookcase a little and trim the wall a little (welcome to Honduras). The bookcase is beautiful. I said it looks like it was made to go there. Well, guess what? It was made to go there.
Today is my day off. I have spent the morning rearranging and moving and having all kinds of fun. I have arranged my books by subject and author and letting my o-c-dness show. I did find a book I had been looking for and was thinking I had lost it or it was in some box in Texas.
Thanks, Pat and Kim. I love it.
I love surprises. I am usually on the giving end. It was really fun to be on the receiving end. I love both pieces.
Terri
Then Armando showed up. Armando is a carpenter that makes all the beautiful pieces we have at Casa. Only he was at my house and not at Casa. And everything Casa has ordered is bought, paid for and installed. I was a bit confused, but nothing new there. In came this portable island. I have no work space or counter tops. And I mean none. Just a slight challenge. Or, I should say, I had no workspace. I do now. It will roll into the kitchen or wherever I need it. Thank you Byron. This is a beautiful piece of furniture.
I love surprises. I am usually on the giving end. It was really fun to be on the receiving end. I love both pieces.
Terri
Sunday, July 24, 2011
Hard-Working Hondurans
When arriving at the Tegucigalpa airport, you disembark into a modern airport. And then, see Church's, Burger King, and Pizza Hut across the street. The feeling is similar to any city in the United States. But travel just a few short kilometers out of the city and the scenery changes rapidly. No longer do you see American fast food restaurants and malls and Marriotts. There are hovels which people call home and hard working people. I mean hard working. This society is still a manual one. And in many ways that is good. There is 30% unemployment here. If things were automated, that number would soar to 50% or higher.
Concrete is mixed by hand and hauled in buckets. The trucks that bring the sand to mix that concrete are loaded and unloaded by hand. All farming is done by hand, both the sowing and the harvesting. Grass is cut with a machetti. That makes my aging knees hurt just to think about. Most cooking is done on a wood burning stove and wood is hauled on heads or backs. Clothes are washed by hand on a pila. That water has to be hauled as well.
Oh yes, I have had to haul a water a few times here at Casa, but not often and not far. What I see here is a way of life I cannot imagine. My grandparents, yes and maybe my parents, but my generation has never had to do anything like this. Here in Honduras, everyone has to, including children and aging adults. One reason they have aged beyond their years is because they have to do all this manual labor.
I know people that might die, if they worked that hard. I include myself in that group. But most people in Honduras that have a job cutting grass with a machetti or harvesting are glad to have it. It puts food on the table. These jobs are hard, but the people I know and have seen hard workers and take pride in a job well done.
Terri
Concrete is mixed by hand and hauled in buckets. The trucks that bring the sand to mix that concrete are loaded and unloaded by hand. All farming is done by hand, both the sowing and the harvesting. Grass is cut with a machetti. That makes my aging knees hurt just to think about. Most cooking is done on a wood burning stove and wood is hauled on heads or backs. Clothes are washed by hand on a pila. That water has to be hauled as well.
Oh yes, I have had to haul a water a few times here at Casa, but not often and not far. What I see here is a way of life I cannot imagine. My grandparents, yes and maybe my parents, but my generation has never had to do anything like this. Here in Honduras, everyone has to, including children and aging adults. One reason they have aged beyond their years is because they have to do all this manual labor.
Terri
Friday, July 22, 2011
Dia de Lempira
Every year on July 20, children all over Honduras celebrate the "Dia de Lempira." Chief Lempira was a chief of the Lenca Indians. He led forces to resist Spanish domination and oppression. He died as a result of his efforts. But in Honduras, he is recognized as a hero and has a significant place in Honduran history.
The school our children attend had a celebration Wednesday, as did schools all over the nation. Most of our children dressed in native Honduran attire for the day. Karen, Dilcia, and Dilma spent hours readying the costumes. Pamela helped with hair on Wednesday morning. There was much anticipation as the kids left for school late. Late because everything costume had to be perfect for this big day.
The little Indians must have had a great time at school. Costumes and hair were pretty bedraggled when they returned home five hours later.
Terri
The school our children attend had a celebration Wednesday, as did schools all over the nation. Most of our children dressed in native Honduran attire for the day. Karen, Dilcia, and Dilma spent hours readying the costumes. Pamela helped with hair on Wednesday morning. There was much anticipation as the kids left for school late. Late because everything costume had to be perfect for this big day.
Terri
Tuesday, July 19, 2011
Walking (And Writing) In The Park
Saturday morning the kids were behaving really well. Dalys, our counselor, asked me about taking them to the park. She had an activity she wanted to do with them and she thought it would be fun to go to the park. We got water bottles and Kathy, Dalys and I headed to the park with seventeen of the kids. It is always fun to walk to the park.
When we arrived at the park, Dalys got right down to business of her activity. She began taping a piece of white paper to everyone's back and handed every one a marker.
She then sat them down and gave very detailed instructions. They were to get up and start walking. They were to write something nice about the person on whose back they were writing. They had to keep walking. And writing. No stopping.
There was a lot of talking and laughter and giggles. And more than once, one of the adults had to say, "keep walking." The kids did write nice things about each other.
Then they all sat down again and read everything that was on their papers to the rest of the group. Jackson and Sisi read for Josue, Reina, Rosy, Doris and some of the others that could not read yet. After each child read his/her paper, he/she had to say thank you for the nice things the others wrote. And for the children that did not read their own, they still had to say thank you. After that, they posted their papers all over the park.
The kids all played for a short while. They had some chips. And as rain threatened, we rounded them up and headed for home. Lucky me. I got to use Rosy's umbrella.
A walk to the park and back always makes for easier nap time.
Terri
When we arrived at the park, Dalys got right down to business of her activity. She began taping a piece of white paper to everyone's back and handed every one a marker.
There was a lot of talking and laughter and giggles. And more than once, one of the adults had to say, "keep walking." The kids did write nice things about each other.
The kids all played for a short while. They had some chips. And as rain threatened, we rounded them up and headed for home. Lucky me. I got to use Rosy's umbrella.
Terri
Monday, July 18, 2011
Another Never A Dull Moment Day
The kids love their bicycles. They ride every chance they get. Some can ride really well and some are a bit wobbly, to say the least. Yesterday before lunch, Cindy was riding down the sidewalk, like she was supposed to, and wobbled at just the wrong time and bumped into some of the equipment and within seconds the whole water system was down. We can't survive long without water.
Cindy does some pretty outlandish things, but she was horrified that she had knocked the water system out. She went into hiding.
Being Sunday, there are very few places open. This called for an emergency trip to town to the big hardware store. Two hours later I was driving through the gate with a few pieces of pvc and pvc glue and a couple of other needed items. Water was flowing again before shower time.
I know there are a few statements I use over and over again, but yesterday was one of those never a dull moment days.
Terri
Cindy does some pretty outlandish things, but she was horrified that she had knocked the water system out. She went into hiding.
Being Sunday, there are very few places open. This called for an emergency trip to town to the big hardware store. Two hours later I was driving through the gate with a few pieces of pvc and pvc glue and a couple of other needed items. Water was flowing again before shower time.
I know there are a few statements I use over and over again, but yesterday was one of those never a dull moment days.
Terri
Sunday, July 17, 2011
Ligia
Today I had the opportunity to go to Valley of Angels with the South Baton Rouge group. Due to some unexpected events, I arrived out there around 3:45. Everyone was busy shopping and Marc and I sat in the coffee shop and had a granita. A beautiful little girl walked to our table selling candy. Her name is Ligia (Lee-hee-a). She is 11 years old. Her hair had the beautiful highlighting that in this country means not a trip to the beauty shop, but malnourishment.
Fortunately, Ligia is in school, in fifth grade. Her mother makes this candy and sends her to town to sell to the gringos that visit Valley of Angels every weekend. She can't go home until it is all sold. She lives between Valley of Angels and Santa Lucia, which is quite a ways. I am guessing she rides a bus into Valley and rides the bus home when the candy is sold. She only had two packages left and Marc talked some of his interns into buying that. She sat down at our table and Marc bought her a drink. We visited for some time with her. Once before, when Marc was there, he bought all of her candy. There was another little girl also selling candy. We bought her a drink, too. The South Baton Rouge people left Valley of Angels with a small bag of candy that they purchased from the other little girl.
It was a pleasure to talk to this little girl today. It is sad to me to think about a child so young having to work so hard so her family can eat. She didn't seem sad or resentful that she had to work like that. Today, she was glad all that candy was gone.
Terri
Fortunately, Ligia is in school, in fifth grade. Her mother makes this candy and sends her to town to sell to the gringos that visit Valley of Angels every weekend. She can't go home until it is all sold. She lives between Valley of Angels and Santa Lucia, which is quite a ways. I am guessing she rides a bus into Valley and rides the bus home when the candy is sold. She only had two packages left and Marc talked some of his interns into buying that. She sat down at our table and Marc bought her a drink. We visited for some time with her. Once before, when Marc was there, he bought all of her candy. There was another little girl also selling candy. We bought her a drink, too. The South Baton Rouge people left Valley of Angels with a small bag of candy that they purchased from the other little girl.
It was a pleasure to talk to this little girl today. It is sad to me to think about a child so young having to work so hard so her family can eat. She didn't seem sad or resentful that she had to work like that. Today, she was glad all that candy was gone.
Terri
Friday, July 15, 2011
A New House
This is summer. Groups are here. Several houses are being built every week. Each family that gets a house has a story. Nearly always the family gives thanks to God and says they have been praying for a new house. Some people have to pray longer than others.
In August 2007, when Tom Gilroy's group was here, we were distributing food to the houses near the dump entrance. We had never been to the dump. At that time, we thought some of those houses near the entrance were the worst thing we had ever seen. There was a house that stood out. Among the little shacks that were barely standing, was one with the words painted Dios es amor (God is love). I was amazed. Tears flowed from my eyes as I took a picture.
Yesterday, this little house got replaced. The man was so excited. He had most of the house torn down by the time the group arrived. Upon completion, he took some paint and wrote the same words on the side of his house.
Terri
In August 2007, when Tom Gilroy's group was here, we were distributing food to the houses near the dump entrance. We had never been to the dump. At that time, we thought some of those houses near the entrance were the worst thing we had ever seen. There was a house that stood out. Among the little shacks that were barely standing, was one with the words painted Dios es amor (God is love). I was amazed. Tears flowed from my eyes as I took a picture.
Terri
Wednesday, July 13, 2011
What A Day
I rose earlier than normal because I had a busy day. A really busy day. I left here before 7:00 with my hands full of stuff and that little nagging feeling that I was forgetting something. Not allowing for my own incompetence and the Honduran factor, I told Karen I was sure I would be back around noon. I went to the mission house in Ojojona. After I got all my stuff done there, I headed to the other mission house, arriving ahead of my predetermined schedule. That should have been my sign.
After doing what was needed there, Preston and I got in the car and left for the airport. We had a pleasant drive down and a nice visit. We parked and were pulling his luggage across the parking lot. I looked at my watch, thinking, "I am going to knock these errands out today." I was way ahead of schedule. Then the realization of having Preston's passport in my dresser drawer in Santa Ana nearly knocked me to the ground.
I left Preston at the airport rather than load the luggage back in the car and raced back up the mountain, praying all the while. I called Karen and asked her to go to my house and get the passport and meet me at the front gate, saving a few valuable minutes.
While in Ojojona this morning, David realized he had the truck key and Jenn needed the key. He wasn't going back to town and asked me to take the key. Jenn and I were going to meet at the airport. As I was racing up the mountain, I also realized I had the truck key in my pocket, thus making Jenn wait even longer.
With passport securely in my hand, I raced back down the mountain again. When I left the house this morning, I knew I had enough fuel to get to the airport, run my errands and fill up on the way home. The extra trip made my gas gauge a little lower than I like. Knowing there was no time for gasoline stops, I prayed to keep going.
I found Jenn and gave her the key. At least that job was complete, be it however late. I was walking Preston through all the steps and I learned that a minor traveling alone has to have a special form from immigration. Off we went as fast as we could go. We got the form and ran back to the American counter. There were still a few other people in line ahead of us checking in, but not many. And no one behind us.
As soon as that bag was checked, I bought his exit fee. We went upstairs and he went directly to the security line. Preston had wanted to call his mother to let her know all was well. He told me the number as he entered the line and I called his mother. I do hope the rest of his trip home was uneventful.
I went back downstairs and bought a granita de cafe.
Two people that arrived on Sunday, arrived without their luggage. American called yesterday and said the bags were in. With granita in hand, I walked bag to the American counter to claim the delayed luggage. Oh yes, the luggage was there. But, no I was not going to claim it. Even though I had the claim form, I did not have written authorization from the people to claim their luggage. Nor did I have a copy of their passport. I said ok, hasta manana.
I am certainly not ahead of schedule now.
I paid my parking and coasted to the nearest gas station. I asked for regular and was told all they had was supreme. A regular event here. I had no choice, but to buy supreme. Then the traffic delayed me more. I got to the bank. There was only one person ahead of me. That was good for another 30 minute delay.
More traffic and more delays. That hour going after the passport was sure ending up costing more than an hour.
It was a crazy, crazy day. But a house got built. People at the dump were fed. A group work on the construction site of a brand new feeding center. And we had an awesome devo time with the Unashamed Missions group.
Terri
After doing what was needed there, Preston and I got in the car and left for the airport. We had a pleasant drive down and a nice visit. We parked and were pulling his luggage across the parking lot. I looked at my watch, thinking, "I am going to knock these errands out today." I was way ahead of schedule. Then the realization of having Preston's passport in my dresser drawer in Santa Ana nearly knocked me to the ground.
I left Preston at the airport rather than load the luggage back in the car and raced back up the mountain, praying all the while. I called Karen and asked her to go to my house and get the passport and meet me at the front gate, saving a few valuable minutes.
While in Ojojona this morning, David realized he had the truck key and Jenn needed the key. He wasn't going back to town and asked me to take the key. Jenn and I were going to meet at the airport. As I was racing up the mountain, I also realized I had the truck key in my pocket, thus making Jenn wait even longer.
With passport securely in my hand, I raced back down the mountain again. When I left the house this morning, I knew I had enough fuel to get to the airport, run my errands and fill up on the way home. The extra trip made my gas gauge a little lower than I like. Knowing there was no time for gasoline stops, I prayed to keep going.
I found Jenn and gave her the key. At least that job was complete, be it however late. I was walking Preston through all the steps and I learned that a minor traveling alone has to have a special form from immigration. Off we went as fast as we could go. We got the form and ran back to the American counter. There were still a few other people in line ahead of us checking in, but not many. And no one behind us.
As soon as that bag was checked, I bought his exit fee. We went upstairs and he went directly to the security line. Preston had wanted to call his mother to let her know all was well. He told me the number as he entered the line and I called his mother. I do hope the rest of his trip home was uneventful.
I went back downstairs and bought a granita de cafe.
Two people that arrived on Sunday, arrived without their luggage. American called yesterday and said the bags were in. With granita in hand, I walked bag to the American counter to claim the delayed luggage. Oh yes, the luggage was there. But, no I was not going to claim it. Even though I had the claim form, I did not have written authorization from the people to claim their luggage. Nor did I have a copy of their passport. I said ok, hasta manana.
I am certainly not ahead of schedule now.
I paid my parking and coasted to the nearest gas station. I asked for regular and was told all they had was supreme. A regular event here. I had no choice, but to buy supreme. Then the traffic delayed me more. I got to the bank. There was only one person ahead of me. That was good for another 30 minute delay.
More traffic and more delays. That hour going after the passport was sure ending up costing more than an hour.
It was a crazy, crazy day. But a house got built. People at the dump were fed. A group work on the construction site of a brand new feeding center. And we had an awesome devo time with the Unashamed Missions group.
Terri
Tuesday, July 12, 2011
Christmas Ornaments
I know. It is only July. And too hot to be thinking about Christmas. But Casa de Esperanza has new Christmas ornaments to sell this year.
As with most of our suppliers for the store, there is a story. We met this man who does beautiful things with wood. As I looked at his things, I stood in awe at the intricacies of many of his products. We began to ask questions. I knew I wanted him to make something for the Casa de Esperanza store. He is a brand new Christian. He said he wanted to be able to make beautiful items for ministries to help them make money. He makes ornaments and other things for World Gospel Outreach, Shalom in Choluteca and other ministries. Now, he makes ornaments for Casa de Esperanza as well.
There are two different ornaments, both tear-drop shaped. Both have a starfish cut out. One ornament has Casa de Esperanza burnt into it. And the other Casa de Esperanza has been cut from another piece of wood and securely fastened onto the ornament. One child at a time is burnt into the back of both ornaments. They are polished and sanded and very pretty. Ornaments will sell for $5.00 each.
We also have some wooden keychains and bookmarks, all of which say Casa de Esperanza. We will also have more items from this artist soon.
Terri
As with most of our suppliers for the store, there is a story. We met this man who does beautiful things with wood. As I looked at his things, I stood in awe at the intricacies of many of his products. We began to ask questions. I knew I wanted him to make something for the Casa de Esperanza store. He is a brand new Christian. He said he wanted to be able to make beautiful items for ministries to help them make money. He makes ornaments and other things for World Gospel Outreach, Shalom in Choluteca and other ministries. Now, he makes ornaments for Casa de Esperanza as well.
We also have some wooden keychains and bookmarks, all of which say Casa de Esperanza. We will also have more items from this artist soon.
Terri
Sunday, July 10, 2011
The Brumley Cottage and Library
The new cottage that we fondly call the Brumley cottage has a long story. Parts of it has been told on this blog before. I will recap its history briefly and add to the the tale.
Money was raised by the Columbus Church of Christ to build a new house for children. The money was raised in memory of Bill Brumley, a personal friend of ours and a long time member of the church in Columbus. The group from Columbus was going to come build this cottage and was not able to come in 2008. They wanted the cottage built anyway and build we did. Before the cottage was finished, Michael Brumley, son of Bill, died of cancer. Again the family sent a memorial donation for the Michael Brumley memorial library to be part of the cottage.
The cottage and library were completed and we planned a dedication while the Columbus group was here in 2009. A political crisis that year prevented all groups from coming. We did dedicate the new building and library while we were in Columbus later that year. The entire Brumley family was able to be present.
We went through several houseparents, with none of them being what we needed. We prayed and prayed over houseparents as we knew there were many children to be rescued. In March of this year, we finally found Mirian Gomez. We hired her and she has been a blessing. She works without ceasing.
Just a few short weeks after Mirian's arrival we were able to take two children and place in the new cottage.
Mirian cares for Adonis and Guadalupe in the most loving way, as if they were her own children. Not only does she love and care for these children, she has turned the cottage into more than a house. Her skillful hands have turned it into a home.
In addition, we have recently purchased some needed items for this new home.
We bought bookshelves for the library. And Edna Cole, from Columbus, was able to donate the first books for those bookshelves.
In the library we had one little desk made. It folds up against the wall, when not in use and folds down at study time. This was a trial. We like it so well that we will be having more of these made.
A few toy shelves so that everything has a place and everything will be in its place.
You can also see the beautiful mural that Cindy Portell and crew from Overland Park painted last year. We also purchased some cabinets that will be kept locked for medicines and extra shampoo and toothpaste.
Thanks to the generous people that sent donations so these things could be purchased for the cottage.
All these additions are wonderful, but soon we will have even more wonderful additions. Two more children to call the Brumley cottage home and to call Mirian mommy.
Terri
Money was raised by the Columbus Church of Christ to build a new house for children. The money was raised in memory of Bill Brumley, a personal friend of ours and a long time member of the church in Columbus. The group from Columbus was going to come build this cottage and was not able to come in 2008. They wanted the cottage built anyway and build we did. Before the cottage was finished, Michael Brumley, son of Bill, died of cancer. Again the family sent a memorial donation for the Michael Brumley memorial library to be part of the cottage.
The cottage and library were completed and we planned a dedication while the Columbus group was here in 2009. A political crisis that year prevented all groups from coming. We did dedicate the new building and library while we were in Columbus later that year. The entire Brumley family was able to be present.
We went through several houseparents, with none of them being what we needed. We prayed and prayed over houseparents as we knew there were many children to be rescued. In March of this year, we finally found Mirian Gomez. We hired her and she has been a blessing. She works without ceasing.
Mirian cares for Adonis and Guadalupe in the most loving way, as if they were her own children. Not only does she love and care for these children, she has turned the cottage into more than a house. Her skillful hands have turned it into a home.
We bought bookshelves for the library. And Edna Cole, from Columbus, was able to donate the first books for those bookshelves.
In the library we had one little desk made. It folds up against the wall, when not in use and folds down at study time. This was a trial. We like it so well that we will be having more of these made.
A few toy shelves so that everything has a place and everything will be in its place.
Thanks to the generous people that sent donations so these things could be purchased for the cottage.
All these additions are wonderful, but soon we will have even more wonderful additions. Two more children to call the Brumley cottage home and to call Mirian mommy.
Terri
Thursday, July 7, 2011
Celebrating the 4th
When our kids were growing up, the fourth of July was always a fun-filled holiday. And even after the kids got big, it was still a fun-filled holiday. I was busy Monday. Buying groceries. Running errands. A in-town-all-day kind of day. But I still knew it was the fourth and was sort of missing the kids and the grandgirls and watching fireworks on the river and making ice cream and so many things. The fourth of July is no holiday in Honduras. But we have a group from Kentucky here and we decided to celebrate the fourth anyway.
Marc sent Richard to find some rockets. He had to go to San Lorenzo. But indeed, rockets he did find. We cooked hamburgers and hotdogs. And it rained and rained. And it rained some more. We did not shoot the rockets. Marc said we would shoot the rockets another night when it was not raining.
It rained Tuesday night.
Finally, last night after devo, we got to shoot the rockets.
As you can see, these are not your ordinary pop bottle rockets. These things were not safe. With almost no fuse, Marc suggested using an empty five gallon water bottle. Richard thought a better idea was to hold them in his hand. So we let Richard do that. And there were oohhhs and aahhhs as each one was lit. Someone started singing "The Star Spangled Banner" and someone else started "I'm Proud To Be An American." As I heard the beginning of both songs, that pride rose in me. That pride of being an American and having all sorts of freedoms, even to celebrate the independence of America on July 6 in a foreign country.
While we were having fun and being silly, we had another reason to celebrate. A reason worthy of the large rockets. Yesterday, Marc was able to enroll four children in school out by the dump.
The children's names are Angie, Alejandra, Katarine and Bryan. The mother of these children work in the dump. And the children hang out in the dump all day. The school AFE (Amor, Fe, Esperanza) is a ministry and was established to get some of the dump kids out of the dump, educate them, and give them a chance at a better life. The school does not charge anything, but they wanted the mother there to enroll the kids in school. It was Marc's third trip out there to enroll the kids. The mother was not showing up.
It finally happened yesterday. The mother was really hesitant about putting Katarine in school. She is 15 and helps earn the income. For a family that just barely ekes out a living, losing one of the income earners was very difficult. A decision none of us can even begin to imagine.
The people at the school talked so sweetly to the whole family and encouraged them with promises of catching them up with their school work.
As the rockets flew out of Richard's hand, we truly had many reasons to celebrate. Praising God for AFE and these four children that now have a chance at something better than working the dump the rest of their lives.
Terri
Marc sent Richard to find some rockets. He had to go to San Lorenzo. But indeed, rockets he did find. We cooked hamburgers and hotdogs. And it rained and rained. And it rained some more. We did not shoot the rockets. Marc said we would shoot the rockets another night when it was not raining.
It rained Tuesday night.
Finally, last night after devo, we got to shoot the rockets.
While we were having fun and being silly, we had another reason to celebrate. A reason worthy of the large rockets. Yesterday, Marc was able to enroll four children in school out by the dump.
The children's names are Angie, Alejandra, Katarine and Bryan. The mother of these children work in the dump. And the children hang out in the dump all day. The school AFE (Amor, Fe, Esperanza) is a ministry and was established to get some of the dump kids out of the dump, educate them, and give them a chance at a better life. The school does not charge anything, but they wanted the mother there to enroll the kids in school. It was Marc's third trip out there to enroll the kids. The mother was not showing up.
It finally happened yesterday. The mother was really hesitant about putting Katarine in school. She is 15 and helps earn the income. For a family that just barely ekes out a living, losing one of the income earners was very difficult. A decision none of us can even begin to imagine.
The people at the school talked so sweetly to the whole family and encouraged them with promises of catching them up with their school work.
As the rockets flew out of Richard's hand, we truly had many reasons to celebrate. Praising God for AFE and these four children that now have a chance at something better than working the dump the rest of their lives.
Terri
Wednesday, July 6, 2011
June 2011 Newsletter from Casa de Esperanza
Casa de Esperanza
Making a difference, one child at a time
P.O. Box 9222
Columbus, MS 39705
cdehonduras.org http://casastore.blogspot.com
Amigos de Casa,
A great big thank you for responding so generously to our needs list last time. Every item on the list has been completed or soon will be. We were also able to repair and freshen up some things that we had thought could wait a bit longer. We thank you from the bottom of our hearts.
Some of the improvements and repairs that have been made are purchasing a new front door. The old one was completely worn out. We covered the tables with formica, making them easier to clean and more sanitary. We had the stove cleaned and repaired. All burners are now functional.
Karen and Dorian have returned from their visit in the States. When they returned, they had exciting news. They are expecting a baby in December. Everyone rejoices with them as they had waited long and prayed hard for this.
We did receive the paperwork for Adonis to start school. The school is at capacity and he probably will not be allowed to start until next year. He is working everyday on reading and writing. We don't want him to forget everything he has learned.
The kids have been well. Adonis fell off a bicycle and cut his leg and had to have eight stitches. Shortly after the stitches were put in, he was bouncing around like nothing had happened. Jose got a ring stuck on his finger and had to go to the hospital to have it removed. Pamela is not released from the doctor yet after her minor surgery. We are hoping she is released soon. Karen got her to finally put away the crutches and start walking on that foot again. Little Josue has an intestinal infection. We have to be very careful what we feed him and he sometimes cries when he can't have what the others are having. He came here in poor health. We pray that some day he is completely well and his stomach can tolerate many of the things the others enjoy.
Karen has been diligently working on getting the last of the birth certificates. We have also been working on getting Lupe and Fernando into Teleton. Processes are slow here and don't work like they do in the States. We sometimes become frustrated by all of this, but continue to perservere.
The employee that was hired to take Rosy to school has been a wonderful addition to our staff. She is doing a great job and I can't even begin to tell how thankful I am that I am not driving that trip to school every morning. We have also hired a relief night person. Lesly works the nights Mirian is gone and has been able to work when Nadia or Dilcia need off as well. Karen and I both are glad for this, as this means we are not taking these night shifts with the kids.
The kids are taking 2nd quarter exams. This is always a challenging week for everyone. Please pray for the kids and the staff.
Fernando, Brayan and Antonio are still taking Tai Kwan Do. Fernando is doing quite well. The boys look forward to the class time each week.
In May, our intern, Stacey Hooper, went home. Stacey had been here a year and become an important part of our staff. Good luck to Stacey as she begins the next chapter of her life.
Jackson is the child I would like you to meet this month. Jackson is nine years old and has lived at Casa for three years. He came from another children's home that closed and before that had lived on the streets of Tegucigalpa. He is very smart and does well in school. Jackson is a master at disappearing, especially when in trouble. He always reappears. I don't know if he is hiding under the bed or just a few steps ahead of us as we look for him or what. But he can disappear and reappear at will. He likes to ride the bike and jump on the trampoline. He is all boy and can think of all kinds of stunts. He can get really angry and throw some awful fits, which gets him into trouble and then he disappears. Please pray for Jackson, that he will continue to do well in school and that some of the anger issues can be resolved.
Thank you for your continued love, prayers and support.
Please feel free to share this newsletter to anyone you feel might be interested in Casa de Esperanza. Any concerns or questions can be directed to me at terriltindall@yahoo.com
Sincerely,
Terri Tindall
Monday, July 4, 2011
A Big Loving Heart
The OP/Skillman Road team left yesterday. A brand new group from Murray, Kentucky is here this week. After church the team took the Casa kids to the mall for lunch in the food court, followed by a movie. Marc and the children rode the bus with the team, which is different than we normally do things.
I was standing there giving instructions about who had a few special needs and telling the kids to listen, listen, listen, and telling everyone to stay with their assigned person. Dennis and Marta and their boys were still hanging around after church. They were watching our kids get on the bus for this fun outing.
Byron was taking his own car to town and meeting the group. As I was finishing my instructions, I glanced over and saw Byron asking Dennis and Marta's boys to go with him. Those two boys never get the opportunity to do things like that. I was so touched that Byron included them.
The bus left. I was not far behind. I was going to the airport to get Sean. After Sean arrived, I drove him to the mall to meet the group and grab a quick bite of lunch before heading back to Santa Ana. Of course, our kids were having a wonderful time. I looked for Byron and when I saw him he had not only Dennis and Christian, but three other kids. I said something about finding a few more and a huge smile lighted Byron's face and he said I love it. It was hard to tell who was having more fun, Byron or the five kids he had with them. One of the many reasons we love Byron.
Terri
I was standing there giving instructions about who had a few special needs and telling the kids to listen, listen, listen, and telling everyone to stay with their assigned person. Dennis and Marta and their boys were still hanging around after church. They were watching our kids get on the bus for this fun outing.
Byron was taking his own car to town and meeting the group. As I was finishing my instructions, I glanced over and saw Byron asking Dennis and Marta's boys to go with him. Those two boys never get the opportunity to do things like that. I was so touched that Byron included them.
The bus left. I was not far behind. I was going to the airport to get Sean. After Sean arrived, I drove him to the mall to meet the group and grab a quick bite of lunch before heading back to Santa Ana. Of course, our kids were having a wonderful time. I looked for Byron and when I saw him he had not only Dennis and Christian, but three other kids. I said something about finding a few more and a huge smile lighted Byron's face and he said I love it. It was hard to tell who was having more fun, Byron or the five kids he had with them. One of the many reasons we love Byron.
Terri
Sunday, July 3, 2011
A Great Ending
Groups come here to work for a week or ten days and friendships are formed and/or strengthened. The last night of every group is a special time of sharing as people relate their feelings of the things that have seen, heard, smelt, touched and sometimes even tasted. I love to be part of every group's last night.
Last night, I was really tired and briefly considered not going to the last devo with the Overland Park/Skillman Road group. I was not going to the airport this morning and it was the last opportunity to say good-bye to those folks. I was so glad I went.
The devo began and young lady decided it was time to accept Christ as her Lord and Savior and be baptized. It was beautiful. And it was a great way to end another great week in Honduras.
Terri
Last night, I was really tired and briefly considered not going to the last devo with the Overland Park/Skillman Road group. I was not going to the airport this morning and it was the last opportunity to say good-bye to those folks. I was so glad I went.
The devo began and young lady decided it was time to accept Christ as her Lord and Savior and be baptized. It was beautiful. And it was a great way to end another great week in Honduras.
Terri
Saturday, July 2, 2011
The Big Soccer Game
Soccer is the national sport in Honduras. Everyone watches and/or plays this sport. The soccer field that was built at Casa last year get used almost daily.
This afternoon Reina and I both were working. It is rare for either of us to be working late Saturday afternoon. The kids were playing soccer. Reina started playing goalkeeper. I watched this for a while. Reina is about as athletic as I am. I decided to level the playing field and go into the other goal.
Thankfully, the goal was small and I had a good defender (Antonio) in front of me. Antonio kept most of the balls from getting to me. I stopped a few. Certainly not all of them. One of the high balls, I just put my hands over my eyes and ducked. My teammates were impressed with that. The other goalkeeper laughed at me. The kids laughed at me. I laughed at me. It was better than getting hit in the face.
It didn't take too much playing time for Reina and me before we gracefully bowed out.
Terri
This afternoon Reina and I both were working. It is rare for either of us to be working late Saturday afternoon. The kids were playing soccer. Reina started playing goalkeeper. I watched this for a while. Reina is about as athletic as I am. I decided to level the playing field and go into the other goal.
Thankfully, the goal was small and I had a good defender (Antonio) in front of me. Antonio kept most of the balls from getting to me. I stopped a few. Certainly not all of them. One of the high balls, I just put my hands over my eyes and ducked. My teammates were impressed with that. The other goalkeeper laughed at me. The kids laughed at me. I laughed at me. It was better than getting hit in the face.
It didn't take too much playing time for Reina and me before we gracefully bowed out.
Terri
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