Go With Me

August 23, 2009 - Re-entry

noreply@blogger.com (Michelle) — Sun, 23 Aug 2009 19:47:00 +0000

Well, we made it home safely! I've had a cold for several days, and it was worse for the trip home (yes, I imported a Peruvian virus into the US without being caught!) The trip itself, though, couldn't have been any more fantastic!! Thanks to Ryan's hopeful and persistent nature, I spent my birthday in business class with LAN (we got lucky again!) My parents picked me up at the airport and treated me to Gunther Toodies for lunch. I wanted to inhale the burger, but it seared my mouth, it was so hot. It was all such a flavor explosion, although the chocolate shake tasted just like Peruvian chocolate ice cream... hardly chocolaty at all.

It is so good to be with my family and friends again. My niece, Aydin, is walking, head banging, drumming, singing, and doing sign language. She even talks a little, and has some hair on her head.

Being home still feels like a dream. It's almost overwhelming. I look around me and see so much stuff, I can hardly stand it. The one thing that has become blatantly apparent is how very different our priorities are in the United states. Everything seems so important here, even if it's not about survival. It's a bit more tense, and a little stressful. I think I was away just long enough to really appreciate the cultural differences. The USA is very time and money driven, while Peru seems much more relational. I miss it already.

I guess my re-entry view of the USA is very much shaped by the Department of Motor Vehicles, which is the most horrible, taxing institution on US soil. In May, I was broadsided by a garbage truck. Though I am not at fault, I am required to take a diver competency test. I failed to take the test within the allotted time, because I was out of the country. Thus, my license was suspended. The DMV is booked until September 1st for a driving test, at which time I must also apply for a permit, which will allow me to operate a vehicle during the examination. Blah.

August 19, 2009 - Heading Home

noreply@blogger.com (Michelle) — Wed, 19 Aug 2009 16:22:00 +0000

Arequipa feels like home. I've only been here for 5 weeks, and I feel like I'm leaving so much behind. Yesterday, I visited the pediatric ward one more time. Anyella, the 14-year-old girl I mentioned previously, has begun cancer treatment. They're not positive that it is in fact cancer, but they're treating it. Anyella, who last week was sitting up in her bed smiling, looking so obscure in that hospital, is now exhausted and pinned to her bed.

"Are you coming back next week?" she asked, hopeful.
"No." I said.
"When will you return?" She asked.

She broke my heart. I asked her for her address, so I could write her in the future. Anyella is just one person who I so desperately want to visit next week, and the week after, and the week after.

I know beyond a shadow of a doubt that I will return to Peru. I’m not sure what steps I need to take before I return, and I don’t know how long it will be, but I know that this could very easily be home one day, even when I’m old and gray.

Reentry to the States is going to be difficult, I think. Here, I rarely know what day it is, and the time of day is based entirely on my stomach and sunlight. People all smile at one another in passing. When we greet one another, we hug and kiss. Prices are negotiable, and people aren't offended by bartering. There's always room for one more person. Peruvians may just be the kindest people on the planet. In the States, random strangers don't hand you their babies. You can't collect children on the streets, give them piggy back rides, and play games with them without parental consent. You can't catch a cab at any place and time and pay just $2 to get to the other side of town. You can't get a high-end meal for $2.50.

Coming home isn't all bad. I'm excited to see my family and friends. I'm eager to gain some weight. I'm weirded out by drinking tap water, but I think it might be nice. I'm excited to eat without wondering if it'll make my stomach cramp up. That's all.

August 18, 2009

noreply@blogger.com (Michelle) — Wed, 19 Aug 2009 16:20:00 +0000

Alright, it can’t be avoided. You know I’m gonna blog about poverty and about how lucky we are in the United States. How could I step outside the comfort of my own home and not be affected by the world around me? You can stop reading if you’d prefer to be numb to problems throughout the rest of the world. Do what I do, and turn the TV off, throw out the newspaper, do whatever it is that you need to do to avoid all the depressing hubbub that you can do nothing about. Hide under the covers if it makes you feel safe. It’s all the same stuff you’ve heard over and over, anyhow.

The truth is, it just as easily could have been you and me living in a 10x10 cement structure without running water or heat. The fact that we weren’t born in a third world country fighting starvation and disease is absolutely AMAZING. The United States contains only 2% of the world’s population!! The media, family vacations, and assumptions mold our worldview. We think our country is so large and so prevalent, yet in reality we make up only a teeny tiny percentage of the world.

I only make $13 per hour, but I am LOADED. I have nothing in savings, and when I return home my accounts will be empty. Actually, my parents sent some money down here for me, so I owe at least 100 USD. But I am wealthy. I make payments towards a phone, a car, and health insurance. I moved in with my parents to save for this trip. Normally, I would consider my living space to be small, but my room is the same size as some houses here.

What makes us so special? Why do we have awesome transportation, clean hospitals, super cozy beds, air conditioning, and affordable peanut butter? “From everyone who has been given much, much will be demanded; and from the one who has been entrusted with much, much more will be asked.” – Luke 12:48.

We can ignore the news and sit on our couches, watching our bank accounts grow like a game of Monopoly. We can make painless automatic payments to some kid in a country we’ve never seen. That’s what I was doing. I’m not saying there’s anything wrong with sponsoring a kid… it is so needed. But why not go and do? Seek a need and fulfill it. Maybe you’re a painter, a nurse, a student, or a computer geek like me. Whatever it is, you can use it for the benefit of others. You don’t have to be great with language, you don’t even have to enjoy travel. Walk next door and help a neighbor. Each and every one of us has a specific purpose in serving others, no matter where we are.

This trip was life altering. To take one step in the right direction, to make even a small contribution to the world around you, to make a child smile who’s life is full of despair… that’s what this thing called life is about. Don’t become bogged down by the world’s problems. Don’t think you have to be a superhero. If you think you need to change the world, you’re just going to chase your tail in a whirlwind of frustration. Just love the people around you selflessly. You’ll have a bigger impact than you’ll ever know, and you’ll be happier than you could ever have imagined! After all, the tables could turn at any moment, and you’ll be wishing someone would take some time out of their busy life just for you.

August 15, 2009

noreply@blogger.com (Michelle) — Sat, 15 Aug 2009 15:36:00 +0000

Yesterday I worked at the construction site. I volunteered to grout the floor tiles that had been laid. As we prepped the floor by sweeping, we realized that many of the tiles were not properly laid. They didn't have a solid foundation beneath them, so if anything were to drop on them in the future, they'd easily crack. Rather than grouting, the construction team busted up about 65 tiles, chiseled the underlying cement and grout, and relaid them. Some guys were so determined to have the floor finished for the dedication of the building on Sunday, that they worked until 5:30 in the morning!

While many people were hard at work in the evening, others of us went out for impact activities. Ryan and I decided to return to the kids' home, where we played volleyball, basketball, and inevitably football (soccer). After the sun went down, we sat around a fire, roasted marshmallows, and sang songs.

Today the entire group is at the construction site, cleaning and prepping for the dedication ceremony tomorrow. Some are handing out invitations in the surrounding community. People here love parties, and tomorrow is going to be one big festival!

I'm sitting here blogging, rather than cleaning, because I stopped taking CIPRO and my tummy doesn't like the food here. I have 4 pills left, and I'm saving them for the trip home... I'd rather have stomach issues here than on the plane.

P.S. There are more new pictures on the website. www.gowithme.org

August 13, 2009 - The Hospital

noreply@blogger.com (Michelle) — Fri, 14 Aug 2009 16:47:00 +0000

It's kind of amazing to see the difference between the hospital for the insured and the hospital for those who can't afford insurance. Today we visited the a hospital in the middle of town. It was relatively clean, and there were only about 4-6 beds per room. The atmosphere was very different... much quieter. We began the day by sanding and painting cribs. As we worked away, curious little boys and girls would peek their heads around the corner to watch. We're used to kids running up and jumping all over us, so it was saddening to see their dampened spirits. When we busted out Rico the mascot, however, their faces lit up and they couldn't hide the smiles on their faces. We painted faces, prayed with them, and gave them balloons. The proceeded to ambush Rico in a mad frenzy of balloon beating. Their laughter was such a blessing!!

August 11, 2009 - Today I went to prison

noreply@blogger.com (Michelle) — Wed, 12 Aug 2009 16:45:00 +0000

The women’s prison in Arequipa is on the outskirts of town. I rode the bus to the prison with about nineteen other female volunteers. The prison staff, all female, processed five of us at a time. Processing included a pat down, peeking under our skirts, and hand washing. Standing in line, a lot of what-ifs run through your head. What if the prisoners don’t want to see us? What if a fight breaks out? What if the guards are strict and hostile towards us? What if someone tries to kiss me? What if, what if, what if?? Little did I know, as I awaited processing, that I was also awaiting the most amazing and profound experience of my life.

After processing, the guards immediately made sure that it was clearly understood how welcome we were, and that any rigidity from the guards was just them doing their jobs. They then escorted us into the common eating area, where all of the inmates were sitting around tables, awaiting our arrival. Immediately I noticed how normal they all looked… just like you and me. They wore civilian clothing and held knitting needles, working tediously but contentedly on their creations. Some were timid yet curious. Others were very forthcoming and welcoming. All of them had smiles on their faces. Some had children on their laps. There are seven children total living in the prison with their mothers. One is handicapped.

We began our visit by talking with the women, giving them hand and foot massages, and painting their nails. Never in my life have I held a real, effective conversation in Spanish, but today I had many! The women were so eager to speak with us, and so understanding and encouraging. In fact, they did everything they could to accommodate us and make us feel welcome.

I accumulated a weight upon my shoulders as I got to know the women… a longing for their redemption and restoration. Many of the women were forced into drug trafficking as a means to purchase food and diapers. Others were caught in a downward spiral of alcohol and drug use.

As I massaged the hands of these women, I could feel rough, damaged patches of flesh beneath my fingers, permanent reminders of the pain and abuse they’d endured in their lives. There’s something intimate and vulnerable about sharing your scars with someone you’ve only just met. These women are courageous, and desperate for someone to understand their hearts.

Lana Vopat openly shared her testimony with the group of eighty inmates, plus the guards. Lana is such an amazing woman. I can’t even fathom the trials and pain she has experienced in her life, but God is using her in such an amazing way now. These women can relate to her, they can see that they’re not alone. They saw evidence in Lana that through Christ, they can be purified and made whole again. They can be restored! The scars on their hearts can be healed. There is hope for a future, and they do have a specific purpose. Cement walls and iron bars cannot separate them from the love of Christ.

Every woman in that room was teary-eyed, regardless of how hard they tried to suppress the tears. We prayed with the women and gave them care packages, which included Spanish bibles, soap, shampoo, lotion, and other toiletries. One woman, who I’d become quite acquainted with, asked if I would give her my phone number. First, I don’t speak Spanish, so a telephone conversation would be nearly impossible. Additionally, I wasn’t sure if we were allowed to share our contact information, and I was admittedly cautious with the women. Many of these ladies have giant holes in their hearts, and some understandably they try to fill those holes with partners, relationships, and love. I want so desperately to stay in contact with the girls I met, so I did give her my email address. She knew I was worried, and kept reassuring me, “I did no wrong to be here, I did no wrong.” I would return to the prison every day, if I could. Instead, I’ll maintain a spiritually encouraging relationship with them until I’m able to go back.

Before we left, the women and the guards expressed their thanks and even sang to us. It was so difficult to leave them. We hugged each and every one of them… not even the guards could escape our embraces. One woman I’d befriended waved goodbye and placed her hand over her heart. I did the same, then reluctantly exited the secure area with a heavy heart and watery eyes.

We weren’t able to take bobby pins, pens, sunglasses, pantyhose, or cameras into the prison. I wish I could have taken pictures of my Peruvian friends. I wish you could see the faces of these women who are imprisoned, utterly hopeless, separated from their families, and filled with despair. They’re just like you and me. We all make mistakes in our lives; you and I just haven’t been caught.

August 10, 2009 - The Pediatric Ward

noreply@blogger.com (Ryan Maier) — Tue, 11 Aug 2009 14:14:00 +0000

Imagine that your six-month-old, eight-pound infant is dying of kidney failure. You live alone in the dirty, run-down hospital, because your husband works hours away, trying desperately to afford the medical bills. You’ve been at the hospital for over a month, and you spend every night on the cold, hard floor of the hospital. The hospital staff has informed you that there is no hope, and that you should just give up, leave the baby to die, and return to home. You lovingly insist that you stay at your child’s side. The hospital has cut out the bottom of a cola bottle and placed it over your baby’s face, with a plastic tube feeding into it from an oxygen tank. The oxygen tank is empty. Last week, this was reality for a young mother at a hospital in Arequipa. Today, her child is dead. Two women in our group were blessed to be able to pray for this woman and her child before he passed, but this is just one of the many, many families who live at the hospital, awaiting death’s knock. Some of the children don’t have families.

Today we visited the hospital to talk with the kids, pray with the families, and paint some old cribs. When we arrived at the hospital, the head nurse informed us that she never received the letter of approval for us to be at the hospital, so we didn’t think we would be able to minister to the kids and their families. There was, in fact, a letter of approval, and everything had been prearranged and preapproved. While two people in our group went to talk with administration, we decided to pray that God would work his will in the situation, open the doors of communication, and move in the head nurse’s heart. As we prayed, we began to feel reassurance that everything would work out and that God had a plan for this place and this day. As we neared the end of our prayer, our two negotiators returned to inform us that the hospital administrator was excited to have us there, and couldn’t believe we were doing this for free. The other nurses were also very kind and accommodating.

We began by sanding the old paint down on the steel cribs. Some of us freshened up the cribs with a coat of periwinkle paint, while others of us went upstairs to the pediatric ward, equipped with balloons, Rico the mascot, prayer cards, and heavy hearts. We visited about 35 families, and left with 22 prayer requests. As we went from bed to bed, we attempted to communicate with our limited Spanish. We met the kids, gave them balloons, and asked them if we could pray for them. As I met with one young family, who were eager for prayer for their tightly bundled baby, another mother rushed to my side and insisted that I promptly come to visit her 6-year-old boy. He was so tiny for his age, and was in so much pain. He barely managed to utter his age, and his name was completely inaudible to me. I sat with the parents, and his mother gave him water by the capful; he couldn’t manage much more. As he drank, most of the fluid left his body via a tube draining from his nose. He began coughing, and I turned to another little boy who was tugging on my shirt, begging for a yellow balloon. When I turned back, the little boy’s bed was empty. I hope I will get to see him again.

Ryan met with another little boy, who has been in the hospital for weeks, ill with leukemia. When Lucas first came to the hospital, he was being treated with one pill per day. When we visited him today, they had started him on chemotherapy. The chemo has caused a very distended stomach, and Lucas has much difficulty breathing. The doctors want to transfer him to Lima for better medical care, but his parents can’t afford it. His parents seek comfort and hope in the Lord, and they are eager for your prayers. Please pray for Lucas seen below. Pray that he will receive better medical care, that his family will find comfort and rejuvenation, and that God will heal and alleviate pain, both physical and emotional.

The trip to the pediatric ward pried my eyes wide open and loudly impressed upon me how blessed we are, in so many ways. Sometimes I wonder, though, what the USA would look like if we weren’t billions of dollars in debt. Either way, I can’t help but appreciate that we can walk into a hospital and expect even slight privacy, sterile needles, efficient equipment, and flowing oxygen tanks.

That’s all for now.

Michelle

August 9, 2009 - Sunday's Festival

noreply@blogger.com (Michelle) — Mon, 10 Aug 2009 21:02:00 +0000

All of the Lovelanders attended church together at Zamacola today (the construction site). I love having so many of my church family here in Arequipa! Pastor Solano is working up north until Tuesday, so John, one of the volunteers from the USA, preached with a translator.

After service, we loaded onto a bus and headed to another church plant, Alto Libredad. There we enjoyed a pollada (chicken feast), a dance competition, games, and a concert. We even rounded up a team of gringos for the dance competition. No, I did not participate. If you know me, you know I flail when I dance. There were also several dance teams from different churches in Arequipa. They were all decked out in colorful Peruvian costumes with feathers and hats and masks… it was awesome… and maybe a wee bit scary for someone who is afraid of people in costume.

I’m really wishing I had Internet access right now… I’m actually typing this in Word, and then I’ll post whenever I can get a signal. I Skyped with Mom and Dad this morning, and they told me that David was admitted to the ER yesterday. For the past couple of weeks, he’s been sick with a severe cough and ear infection, and thought he had strep. Yesterday he had super low blood pressure, a rash all over his body, and he was really dehydrated. He spent the night at the hospital on fluids and steroids, and they did oodles of tests. So far they don’t know what’s wrong. Steroids freak me out. I’m hoping he’s better and out of there by now, but I’m worried out of my mind… last week when Bjorna was admitted to the ER all dehydrated, she died. Sorry to be so morbid bro, but please get better!!! Maybe you guys should call that number I sent you and just give me a status update, before I get on a plane to Lima, then to Houston.

August 8, 2009

noreply@blogger.com (Michelle) — Sun, 09 Aug 2009 14:38:00 +0000

“I’m going to cook you and eat you!” How many times did kids say that to me today? One group of volunteers, including myself, went to the Umocollo area today to do “impact” with the kids. Impact is just the usual games, face painting, puppet shows, and evangecube stuff. I had the privilege of being Rico Cuy, the mascot. Never in my life have I been a mascot, so I figured it was about time. If you’ve ever been a mascot, you know you’ve gotta be animated out of your mind. I think I was sweating in that guinea pig suit for three hours, but it was totally worth it. I got to hug, carry, tickle, and play with sooooo many kids today. I also got a little beat up, right in the gut, but Rico has about ½ an inch of foam padding. The older kids like to ambush Rico and try to see who is inside… “una mujer o un hombre?”. As the person in the suit, you really can’t see much of anything… so it’s difficult to anticipate the full-on tackles from any and every side. As you know, guinea pig is a delicacy here in Arequipa, which is why many of the kids kept telling me, “I want to cook you and eat you!” They’re such angels.

When we moved back to Santa Luisa for Arequipa 1, I was anticipating another two weeks of constant cold. While it’s still chilly at night, it seems to be a bit warmer here than it was during the first project. Much to my surprise, I have not had a single cold shower in the two days that all 80 of us have been here. I feel spoiled, really. Because there are so many of us, we can’t take a bus to Zamacola (the construction site) and eat there… the kitchen and dining room just aren’t big enough. Instead, we eat right at Santa Luisa, and enjoy larger portions. It’s fantastic! I also have awesome roomies, and although I think one of the girls holds conversations in her sleep, no one snores. The only downside to being at Santa Luisa most of the time is the lack of internet access. Therefore, my blogs will be less frequent.

Mom and Dad – I think the prescription is working! I haven’t had stomach cramps at all today!

Tabs – I <3 U!! Go to the doctor. Please?

David – I hope you’re having fun in Houston/on the road, and I hope you fixed your car ☺

Aydin – Wish we could have Skyped!

Kristara – Hope you’re family reunion was AMAZING. Cheese curds? ☺

Integware - I can’t login to my work email. Hoping I didn’t get laid off, hoping my password just expired. Just sayin’… you never know! If you’re in the office and wishing I’d check my email, there’s a reason I haven’t. ;-)

August 7, 2009

noreply@blogger.com (Michelle) — Sun, 09 Aug 2009 14:37:00 +0000

Arequipa 1 arrived today!! It is soooo good to see so many familiar faces from home!! (Mom and Dad, thanks for sending the drugs and money!!) For this project we have more than twice as many people as in Arequipa 0. I’m impressed with how organized Extreme has been, but I think I foresee a bit of chaos. Either way, I’m totally excited, and I can’t wait for this project to get rolling!

Yesterday, Ryan and I spent our last day off walking around town and taking pictures. We wanted to get some good pictures of the market while we were out and about, so here you go. I’ll spare you the intricate, descriptive details.

We really enjoyed staying at the hostel. I loved having hot water and a room to myself. Santa Louisa is off of the river, so it’s definitely more frigid here. But, I’m excited to have roomies again (Megan and Brooke) and to compete over showers… the hostel was just too comfortable… too easy. ☺

Kristara, did you even notice my shout-out?

August 3, 2009 - Random Tidbits

noreply@blogger.com (Michelle) — Mon, 03 Aug 2009 18:57:00 +0000

People are very accepting of missionaries from Los Estados Unidos.
Taxi cabs are the main form of transportation.
The kids all have cell phones, regardless of living conditions.
Arequipa one of the driest places in the world... 2-3 inches of rain per year.
There are stray dogs EVERYWHERE. And almost everyone has a dog.
People embed shards of glass along the tops of their concrete walls to keep burglars out.
Huge, gorgeous mountains overlook Arequipa. Mount Misti, a volcano, towers above Arequipa at 19,000 feet high. You can see it from just about anywhere.
Don't flush the toilet paper. Don't flush the toilet paper. Don't flush the toilet paper.
The currency here is nuevo soles. 3 soles is approximately $1 USD.
People do your laundry for you. If it's air-dried, it comes back bleached by the sun. If it's machine-dried, it'll probably come back bleached anyhow, and you'll probably lose or gain a pair of undies.
Warm showers are luxurious.
If you want to cross the street, make friends with a child. Cars stop for children and pregnant women. :-)
In Peruvian buses, there is always room for another person.
There is a KFC, a Burger King, and a Pizza Hut, but no McDonalds in Arequipa.
Saga Fallabella is a big department store, like Macys. Apparently it's changing the culture of Arequipa. People are opening credit cards and buying things they definitely cannot afford (sound familiar?), and the merchandise is of poor quality.
Papas fritas and pollo can be found anywhere.

August 2, 2009 - Feels Like Home - From Ryan

noreply@blogger.com (Michelle) — Sun, 02 Aug 2009 21:16:00 +0000

After 17 days, Arequipa feels like home. I have never been away from home this long and I have never had the chance to feel like I am at home on vacation. It is great. Michelle and I have picked up enough Spanish to get around town on our own. We can even direct the taxis, which is quite the challenge.

I know I said it before, but I love this city. The weather here is like Colorado in late October, and the downtown looks like a Spanish version of San Francisco.

The hostel we are staying at is up and away from the river, so we are much warmer at night here.

I have become more and more daring with the food. After all, how often do you get a chance to eat different kinds of foreign food the way it was meant to be prepared? Last night we tried soup with chichen necks, liver, and feet (I'm now know I don't like liver), and today I had a cow heart and papas fritas (french fries) for lunch. If you ever get a chance to try it, do it... it tastes great!

Our time off between projects has been really nice. The first project was such a whirl wind that I am still processing it. As successful as we were with Arequipa 0, I see potential to be even more successful with Arequipa 1.

August 1, 2009 - RIP BJ

noreply@blogger.com (Michelle) — Sun, 02 Aug 2009 06:02:00 +0000

July 31, 2009 - A Day at the Beach

noreply@blogger.com (Michelle) — Sat, 01 Aug 2009 17:01:00 +0000

Not many people go to the beach during winter, so it wasn't too crowded. We took a bus down to the beach, and descended about 9,000 feet in 2 hours and 20 minutes. The bus ride was terrifying... we could have gone over the edge so easily. The drivers here like to play chicken... it's best if you don't look out the windows.

The skies were completely overcast, but it was still warm enough to get into the water and accidentally soak yourself up to the waist, which I did. I also discovered a freshly beached dead seal and an old, vacant castle. We walked around town a little, and I ate cebiche for lunch. It was a little more fishy than I'd anticipated, but still a flavor explosion of nearly raw fish and lime.

I was convinced that I would die on the bus ride home. The sun was beginning to set at 5:00, and a thick fog kept the driver from being able to see more than 15 feet in front of him. Add a game of chichen, curvy roads with sheer drop-offs, and excessive speed. I swear I was praying the entire ride home. In Peru, they pack the buses pretty full. We made periodic stops on the way home until even the isles were full with people. All of the locals were sound asleep most of the way home, so I just convinced myself that these buses rarely crash, even though a bus accident had just killed 15 people in Cusco that morning. :-(

Hi Kristara.

July 30, 2009 - First Day Off

noreply@blogger.com (Michelle) — Fri, 31 Jul 2009 05:13:00 +0000

Today was borderline boring. I kinda already miss having a packed schedule. Today I slept in until 7:20, accidentally ate a moldy pastry, enjoyed another achy tummy, walked around town, took a nap, ate lunch, walked around, bought groceries, ate pizza, walked around, and let Ryan watch the Twilight movie with me. He totally enjoyed it :-) Tomorrow I'm going to the beach. Ryan might come along, depending on how his back is feeling (it's a 2 hour 20 minute bus ride with no shocks and sketchy roads). After spending the day at the beach tomorrow, I may just need to do some painting at the construction site or something... I'm feeling useless and lazy!

Arequipa 0 Heads Home

noreply@blogger.com (Michelle) — Wed, 29 Jul 2009 21:53:00 +0000

Today was the last day for the first project, Arequipa 0. I'm sad to see everyone go... I really really liked them... all of them. It was such a great group! Two buses took them to the airport, and one bus brought a few of us to Hostel Fernandez, which is close to the Extreme Nazarene office in Arequipa, in a very nice part of town. Ryan and I have 9 days off here until the next group comes for Arequipa 1. We can't afford to go see Machu Picchu, so we'll just hang out here in Arequipa, which is totally okay with me... I love it here!

I finally ate cuy (guinea pig) today. It was delicious. I didn't take a picture for you, because it was only half of the animal, and he didn't have his head anymore... very uninteresting. We did visit the market yesterday though, and they had many very large live cuy, rabbits, turkeys, etc. They also had giant roosters, advertisements for cock fights, and prosthetic spurs. The market is an amazing place. One stand has a cage full of live frogs. You can pick out your frog and have him blended into a smoothie with caramel and milk. It's great if you have kidney failure :-) You can also purchase frog skeletons, bull penis and testicles, cow stomach, bloodwurst, chicken head, and puppies. The puppies are not for food... people love their dogs here. Then again, they raise cuy as pets and then munch on them... so who knows??

The hostel has wireless internet, so I'm sure I'll be on Facebook in the evenings, in case you feel like chatting!

P.S. My stomach still hurts every time I eat, but I'm getting used to it :-)

July 29, 2009 - Day Off!

noreply@blogger.com (Michelle) — Wed, 29 Jul 2009 13:18:00 +0000

Yesterday we took the day off and toured Arequipa. This place is so amazingly gorgeous... it's baffling. Here are some pictures... they don't do this place justice.

My Tummy's Funky

noreply@blogger.com (Michelle) — Tue, 28 Jul 2009 13:05:00 +0000

Apparently this is a picture of me hitting on Rico (Angela). Just a random pic of the day for you :-)

I didn't blog yesterday, because I stayed in bed all day with stomach cramps. I wasn't puking and I didn't have a fever, so I can't complain. There seems to be a 24 hour virus going around here, and people have been close buddies with the porcelain throne. So far, I've avoided it. Still, I have cramps every time I eat.

Today will be pretty laid back. We have the day off, so we're going to take a bus tour of the city and then shop at the plaza. Tomorrow, the Arequipa 0 group will head home, and those of us staying for Arequipa 1 will move to a hotel.

That's all for now :-)

Chicken Intestines Smell Delicious

noreply@blogger.com (Michelle) — Sat, 25 Jul 2009 21:32:00 +0000

Yesterday was such a super day. We visited two senior homes and hung out with old people. They're so little and adorable, I just love them. We sang songs, ate snacks, danced, and hit balloons back and forth with them. Woman couldn't see the ball until it was just right in front of her, but she was so enthusiastic about catching the balloon and tossing it back, rather than hitting it back up in the air. Some of the old folks had no clue what was going on, but others were so excited to see us. The old ladies just LOVE to give us hugs and kisses. Multiple men and women congratulated me and Ryan on our engagement, made him promise to not make me cry, and were excited to see our children next time we come down. Just smile and nod, smile and nod. :-)

Today on our way home from Huaczapata after a day of games, food, and a parade with the kids, our bus had to stop for a brief roadblock. I stuck my head out the window to see what was holding us up. All I saw was a pickup truck and some peachy, redish, brownish mess all over the road. As we approached the mess, we covered our noses. I peered into the back of the pickup truck. It was loaded full with chicken intestines, less the large amount scattered over the dirt road. The entire bus erupted with laughter. I can’t even imagine how many chickens contributed to that pile of intestines, which would later be sold and fed to other animals.

Update from Ryan

noreply@blogger.com (Ryan Maier) — Sat, 25 Jul 2009 21:24:00 +0000

Thank you for your prayers. The past 10 days have been the most physically intense experience I have endured in a long time. Although my neck and back are tight and sore, I haven’t experienced any nerve pain since my arrival in Peru. This is the longest period of time I’ve been this well in quite some time, and this is in the midst of jostling bus rides, and carrying my five pound camera with me everywhere.

I think the best part about being a photographer is that I get to be involved in nearly every part of our project. When I am not shooting, I can just jump in and work on the task at hand.

Today I am taking it easy and hanging out at the construction site; however, this is one project I cannot contribute to physically. Everyone here is working so hard. Most of the electrical work and painting has been overhead work. There’s so much to do that there’s very little time for breaks. All of the concrete has to be moved and laid by hand. This often requires local workers to carry five gallon buckets of concrete mix up two or three floors and then up rickety scaffolding.

It is lunch time now, and I am eating a fruit called chirimoya. Its texture is between that of a banana and a pear, and it tastes like a mix between a pineapple and a coconut. The fruit down here rocks! My next project will be to get you guys some pictures of the markets… they are just so amazing!

Our concert last night was a success and we had around 200 people in attendance. The performances went flawlessly. Next time, we hope to reach even more youth!

July 24, 2009 - Concert!

noreply@blogger.com (Michelle) — Fri, 24 Jul 2009 22:40:00 +0000

Tonight Extreme is hosting a concert right next door to some of the popular discothèques. We’ll have a couple bands, free food, and we’ll perform a skit. The skit sends a message of hope in the midst of a life nearly suffocated by drugs, alcohol, sex, abuse, and greed.

We’re ambitiously hoping for 500+ people to show at this event, but we have no idea what to expect.... maybe only 50 people will show. Either way, we need people to pray for this event tonight. This is an event that the local church may host on a monthly basis, if successful. We’re really just trying to offer an alternative to the clubs. Here, there is no cover charge to get into clubs, but once you’re in, your obligated to purchase drinks. If kids want to hang out with their friends out on the town, they have to drink. Of course, the result isn’t pretty. Hopefully this alternative will attract many of the youth and offer the young people a safe environment to hang out. I’ll let you know how it goes!

P.S. Ryan and I aren't feeling too great today.... our ribs are very out right now, and not moving much. Please pray for us. Thanks!!!

July 24, 2009

noreply@blogger.com (Michelle) — Fri, 24 Jul 2009 12:40:00 +0000

I'm getting a little tired of being cold all of the time. I get cold easily... not much body fat. None of the buildings are heated, and I didn't really come prepared. We take invigorating, cold showers, go to bed with cold feet, and its getting more and more difficult to wake up in the morning to the cold weather. But, I'll take it any day over hot, humid air infiltrated with swarms of mosquitoes!

Yesterday was actually pleasantly warm. We headed to a children's home in the morning. We don't refer to it as an orphanage, because the kids don't get adopted. They live there until they're old enough and prepared enough to go out into the real world and find work. The home is actually super nice, with 4 separate apartments: One for the young girls, one for the older girls, one for the younger boys, and one for the older boys. Each apartment has nice bedrooms, bathrooms, living rooms, and kitchens. They also have a common library/study room and a computer room. The kids here have nice living conditions, but they need lots of love. Some of them don't have parents. Others have parents who love them, but can't afford to care for them.

Julie, the educational director at the home, was telling me about the abundance of street kids in Lima. These kids are outcasts of society. No one wants anything to do with them. A couple years ago, several street kids just began to turn up dead.... murdered. The government claimed that it was gang activity, but the other kids knew better. The governemt was eliminating these kids to clean up the streets, just like we might put down misbehaving dogs and diseased cats.

A certain woman decided to offer shelter to a street kid one day. A few days later, she came home to find her home packed with frightened street kids. She eventually opened an official home for these kids, to give them a safe place to flee to at night. She was also attempting to speak out about the government's activity. Of course, the home didn't last long and was closed due to false implications by the government.

The woman later purchased a house near the coast, and opened an unofficial home for whoever wanted to sleep there at night.

There's so many stray dogs here... you can't look down a street without seeing a mangy dog wandering around. I wonder if the number of un-homed kids is as prevalent?

July 23, 2009 - A note from Ryan

noreply@blogger.com (Ryan Maier) — Thu, 23 Jul 2009 13:03:00 +0000

In the months before I came down to Peru, I prayed that God would guide me and show himself to me while in Arequipa. This is my first mission trip, and I really want to give it everything I have.

During my time here, God has shown himself to me more than I ever could have imagined. I see God in the people that He has brought here, in the culture around me, and in the lives He is changing. Our evangelism efforts have already helped to bring over 100 people to Christ! Most of these people have been kids, and I truly see God’s heart for the children.

My job here is to take pictures. I document the projects and capture people, but I also get to play with the kids and share God's love with them.

Several days ago., we visited Bedoya Forga, one of many small villages on the outskirts of town. The homes here are made of cinder block and rocks. They are stacked to make 10x10’ huts with rebar and metal siding for roofing. Those who are more affluent can afford concrete walls. Bed sheets are used for windows and doors. Because Arequipa receives very little rain, dust and volcanic ash linger in the arid air.

As we pulled up in our bus, the kids knew who we were and they came running towards us! The church has been visiting this village every week for Sunday school. The kids surrounded us and hugged us. They were grinning ear-to-ear, and so stoked to have us there!

It humbles me how blessed we are. You hear about poverty like this, but when you see it in person, it seems surreal. The culture shock is extreme, but I love it. Very few people speak English and Michelle and I are trying to learn Spanish as quickly as possible. Immersion is soooo much more effective than Rosetta Stone.

There are very few stop signs or traffic lights, and those that do exist hold little authority. Whoever enters the intersection first seems to have right of way. It’s a mystery to me that I haven’t witnessed any accidents. Even more thrilling is the total lack of suspension on the buses. You can feel every bump vibrate through your spine.

You can get 6 large rolls of bread for $0.30, and the local markets serve frogs blended with ice cream and caramel. Mmmmmmm! There’s no such thing as a personal bubble here. Lots of hugs and kisses are involved in greetings. People herd flocks of sheep down public streets. The kids are amazing at soccer, of course.

This is truly an experience I’ll never forget.

July 21, 2009

noreply@blogger.com (Michelle) — Mon, 20 Jul 2009 22:42:00 +0000

It's amazing how God opens doors to facilitate this ministry! Today we visited a church plant, which originated from the Zamacola church at the construction site. We headed to a lovely park area in front of the Municipal District Center, and planned to play games with the kids, do puppet shows, and just share Christ's love with them.

We sent a Spanish speaker to the office to ask for permission. The swine flu has affected very few people here and has proven to be far less severe than the regular flu; however, it remains a very prevalent concern in the minds of the people here. The folks in the office informed us that the govornment is advising children to stay inside, and public outdoor meetings are currently banned.

Instead, the people at the municipal district center decided to make an exception for us and invited us to convene in their extremely nice and upscale auditorium, out of the sun. What's more, they asked us how many children they could expect, so they could provide, at their own cost, refreshments, snacks, and candy for the kids! Additionally, they informed us that they would be building a second auditorium, and they invited Pastor Marco of Zamacola to use the auditorium in the future!

So, we decided to grab our battery-powered amp, microphone, and giant cuy mascot, Rico, and walk around the area to invite kids to come to the "Festival de Vida". Carla, a little girl who attends the Zamacola church, offered to announce for us. She was absolutely tireless, and did a fabulous job of inviting her amigos and amigas to the festival. As we were walking, we were approached by a police pickup truck. They invited us to ride in the back of the truck and drive us around town, so we could get word out to as many kids as possible. Later, we leared that they also broadcasted the announcement on the radio!!

The "festival" went so well. We met so many kids and parents, and at least 11 people gave their lives to Christo!

July 20, 2009

noreply@blogger.com (Michelle) — Mon, 20 Jul 2009 13:35:00 +0000

Wow, what can I say? I love Arequipa! The people here are so accepting of American missionaries, and very eager and enthusiastic. The climate is incredibly mild... chilly actually. I can wear a coat throughout the entire day and have goosebumps for the majority. Our accommodations are luxurious... we share rooms with only two other people. We have mattresses, wool blankets, toilets, and showers.. sometimes with hot water! For meals, there is plenty of fruit, rice, potatoes, eggs, and Inka Kola! Karen, you really taught me how to rough it back in the day, and now I just feel plain spoiled!

Every day we visit one of the church plants and play games with the kids and tell them about Jesus. We even have a mascot... Rico the cuy (guinea pig... we'll eat him later). The kids are so sweet. If you've ever been on a mission trip with a children's ministry, you know what the kids are like... very happy to see us and incredibly eager to learn! They are absolutely fascinated with Rico!

Looks like we're boarding the bus to go play with more kids... what a blast!