Joy Dare v.2

The second installment of The Joy Dare...

Day 6 -  3 Gifts of Government

Religious freedom...so thankful for the opportunity to spend time with my church family every Sunday without fear of persecution

Opportunity to vote - am privileged to have a say in my government even if I don't always agree with it.

Land of Opportunity - blessed that we have so many opportunities.  Made me think of something I read in a Max Lucado study once about how those in other countries are just victims of latitude.  How different my life would be if I was born in a different place.

Day 7 - 3 Gifts from Your Window

First few flakes of snow - so many people hate winter but I LOVE it!

My deck - love just sitting out there enjoying some quiet time, or having friends over and lighting up the fire pit

Sunshine - after the last few days of dreary weather am so excited to see beautiful rays of sunshine coming through the window.  Especially after several days of work of going in to work in the dark and leaving in the dark.

Day 8 - Gift Sweet, Salty, Sipped

My niece Jenna - she has such a sweet spirit...love that kid and so thankful to be her aunt!

Nuts - one my no carb diet nuts, all kinds, are a staple and quick snack

Tea - my diet has ruined my coffee drinking days, so I'm learning to like tea

Day 9 - Going with my own theme today!

Saturday mornings to sleep in - after a long week of waking up early, I'm thankful for a few hours of catch-up sleep

Heated blanket - now that its getting cold, I hate going to bed cold...but a heated blanket is amazing!

Queen size bed - way too big for one person, but just the way I like

Day 10 - 3 Gifts Found in Bible Reading

Peace - knowing God has it all under control and that the times I lose my peace is when I'm taking on burdens I was never intended to bear

Armor of God - just finished reading a great devotional by Stormie Omartian on the armor of God and it totally changed my perspective on it.  What a great blessing to be protected by God every day.

Undeserved grace - oh how I take this for granted so often

Day 11 - 3 Gifts of Remembrance

Veterans - on this veterans day, no better thing to remember than the sacrifice of all those who serve or have served our country

Parents - My parents celebrated their 40th wedding anniversary this past weekend...what an example they have laid out for me.

Grandparents - I only have one living grandparent but am thankful for the time I was able to spend and learn from them.  Also sad I don't really remember my G-pa Nater though except for a few pics I've seen of him.

Day 12 - 3 Gifts at Noon

My job - at noon I'm halfway done for the day  :)

Food - having been in many places in the world where people are lucky to eat once a day, reminded how blessed I am to get to eat any time I want.

Calls to my mom - on my days off, I always try to touch base with my mom...and it always seems to be around noon!

Day 13 - 3 Gifts Behind a Door

Coats - I have more than any one person should have.  As it gets colder, its easy to forget how many people struggle without the warmth of a coat.  

Clothes - again way more than I need...

Car - thankful to have a dependable car that gets me where I need to be

Day 14 - 3 Gifts Silent

Sleep - I have always had trouble sleeping and every little noise wakes me up.  Silence is golden in my book for a good nights sleep.

Peace - its one of the first words I think of when I think silence.

God's Voice - Its in the moments of quiet, when I hear God speak most clearly...need more time to clear out all the senseless noise in my life.

The Joy Dare...

So our Ladies Bible Study on Friday morning is doing the 1,000 Gifts study by Ann Voskamp.  Honestly, with my work schedule I'm going to miss at least half of the study, but decided I wanted to take part in The Joy Dare.  Each day you look for 3 gifts that you are thankful for guided by the daily prompts.  Some are easier than others for sure but all of them make you think a little deeper.  The calendar prompts you to think of the big and little things that are such a blessing...and not always the obvious things.  November is a great month to start this, but I'm really going to challenge myself to keep it up for the year.  There is a great app I'm using on my phone that helps me keep up on the daily part of it.  I have no unreal expectations that I will update my blog every day, but hope to try to update it at least once a week. Will definitely be the most action my blog has seen in a long time, but what better way to use it.  So here goes nothing...


Joy Dare Day 1 - 3 gifts eaten

Coffee - can't drink it much any more but I sure do enjoy a fresh cup when I can to get me going

Green Bean Casserole - one of my favorite things my mom makes for Thanksgiving.  I can make it but its just never quite the same as when mom makes it!

Fresh fruit - especially when its picked right off the tree.  My travels to several foreign countries have allowed me to have some of the best FRESH fruit - mango, banana, papaya (not my fav), pineapple, guava...yum.

Joy Dare Day 2 - 3 gifts worn

Scrubs  - because they are comfy and means I get to go to work and do something I really enjoy most days.

That pair of jeans I've had forever - you know that pair that just fits perfect and are SO comfortable!

My running clothes - these days I spend almost as much time in them as I do any other clothes.  So thankful that I have the strength and health to get out there and run!

Joy Dare Day 3 - 3 gifts that start with N

Nature - I just love this time of year - bright leaves, gray/blue skies, crisp air...it just makes me happy!

Night out with friends - don't do it nearly enough.  Just this past weekend got to spend Saturday night with part of my church family celebrating my friends completing their 1st marathon...fun!

Notes of encouragement - I know hand-written notes are so old school, but I love sending and getting them.  Every once in a while I will run across one that someone sent me and it makes me smile and encourages my heart.

Joy Dare Day 4 - a gift gathered, given, good

Garden - Love in the summer being able to harvest my garden and eat the great stuff out of it.  Plus I love sharing the extras with friends and co-workers.

Forgiveness - for myself and others.  I have been given more than I deserve and am more stingy with giving it than I should ever be.

Friends - you know those ones who know just when to call because you need to talk, or the ones who you don't talk to nearly enough but pick up right where you left off the last time.

Joy Dare Day 5 - 3 gifts acorn small

Teeth - one of those things I take for granted until I crack it on Laffy Taffy!

Sand - nothing like walking on a warm, sunny beach and feeling the sand between your toes...reminds me of my travels as well as my time at PCC in Florida.

Medicine - mainly because during my mission travels, I've seen how many people don't have ready access to it like I do.  Can't imagine not having some Ibuprofen handy for a headache or sore muscles.

God's Mission is Outside the Bubble...

  So I just started reading the book, "Compelled by Love: The Most Excellent Way to Missional Living" and even though I'm only 2 chapters in, I can tell it will be challenging and convicting.  It's right where my head has been as of late.  The premise of the book is that we are all called to love others, not just other believers, but truly all those we come in to contact with.  When we truly see, experience, and live in the reality of God's love for us, how could we live any other way?  I really appreciate how the pages (at least what I've read) are full of scripture references and not just someone's opinion.  I love how the book presents the progression of the Christian life based on Galatians 2:19-20 - 1.  Christ's love in me, compels me  2.  Christ's love for me convinces me  3.  Christ's love at work in me, changes me.  I can not live a life of love on my...but rather the work of Christ and His love in me.  So often I try harder to love people, but in my own strength that will NEVER happen.  We are called to love as God does, which will never be accomplished while I'm living for myself.  This quote pretty much sums it up, "the lost are waiting to meet the believers who look like Jesus, not just talk about Him."  We will learn to love people (all people) when we learn to see them how God sees them.
  Chapter 2 goes right along with my previous blog post.  One of the sections is titled, "God's Mission is Outside the Bubble" and had some great food for thought.  "It seems we work hard to insulate ourselves from the very world Jesus says we should be focused on.  It seems we have created, without malicious design, a Christian bubble - an evangelical subculture - where Christians live surrounded only by other Christians, and as a result, there are few among the lost whom we get to know intimately."  I want to intentionally be involving myself with those outside the church.  To be living Christ's love in my neighborhood and workplace.  It's time to get dirty - get out the comfort of our church walls and make a difference.  Reach out to the hurting we see and love them - not for what they can do for us, but simply because we have been given great love through Christ.  What greater motivation do we need?  How many outside of my Christian circle can I truly say I show love to on a consistent basis?  Am I the one they come to when they have a need?   Is my life, every aspect, defined by love?  Do people know I am a Christian, not because I go to church on Sunday, but because of my love?  "The missional outworking of His heart in our lives refuses to allow us to sit still.  He drives us to the rocky places of people's lives."  Am I willing to go to the rocky places?
  One of my new favorite bands to listen to is a group based out of Oklahoma called Warr Acres.  While I was reading today, I started thinking about their song "Shadow of the Steeple" and how well it went along with this idea of loving others.  Here are the words and if you've never heard of them, you should totally check out their album.

Shadow of the Steeple

We’re stuck in complacency
We clock in once a week
The same routine
Some people put up a façade
Get by on a friendly nod
While inside hurting

We’ve been commanded to serve
We’ve been commanded to love
We’ve been commanded to go
These orders are from above
This isn’t too much to ask
This is the least we can do
Think of all He’s done for me
And all He’s done for You

In the shadow of the steeple
There are people who’ve lost their way
And in the neighborhoods surrounding
Hearts are pounding in great pain
Is there anyone to help them
And to tell them there’s a way
Is there anyone to love them
And to show them Jesus’ face

It’s time to be Christ’s feet and hands
Move from the sidelines and the stands, no spectating
It’s time to roll up all our sleeves
Kneel down and wash some dirty feet
And it might get messy but that’s okay ‘cause

We will go, we will go 


Am I willing to go??

Maybe its time to quit (or at least rethink this)

When is too much of a good thing bad?  That phrase is something I've been mulling over for a while, but especially this last week.  Several months ago I read a book called "Barefoot Church" by Brandon Hatmaker that started me thinking.  As a Christian, when does learning about the Bible get in the way of my actually living it out?  Don't I grow more when I stop just learning and start practicing?  Enough with soaking up information from sermons and Bible studies and instead start pouring out to those who need a helping hand.  Are my days/nights filled with church services, small groups and Bible studies so much so that I never have the time to engage those outside of my "church crowd."  Are my friends all brothers or sisters in Christ who feed my status quo lifestyle?  Am I INTENTIONALLY seeking out those who I can encourage and serve in my neighborhood, work, and social circle.    When does "act justly, love mercy, walk humbly" become more than a mantra on a t-shirt but something that impacts my interactions with all those I come in to contact with?  If I'm so wrapped up in "church world" how will I ever reach those who most likely will never set foot in my church. (or any other church for that matter)  Wouldn't it mean more to them if I walked hand in hand with them?  Why is service a scheduled event in my life instead of a lifestyle?  Aren't we as the church called to be the "hands and feet of Christ" and not just a building?  When did I last get out of my comfort zone of church and meet face-to-face with those in need - need of help and more importantly in need of Christ.  What would it take for what I say I believe, to change the way I live EVERY day?  How many times in the Bible do we see Jesus attending a church service or small group study?  Rather he was out meeting people where they were at - Zacchaeus in a tree, the Samaritan woman at the well, the "sinners" that he had dinner with, and the lame man at the pool of Bethesda - none of these people met Christ after a great worship service with a stellar power point sermon.  He met them where they hung out, lived, and shopped.  I'm definitely not saying church is bad...I love my Oak Creek Community Church family!  We all need to be fed spiritually and be encouraged by fellow believers.  But we are missing the WHOLE gospel if we forget there is a hurting world outside the 4 walls of our church that need the hope that we have in Christ.   As you can see I have WAY more questions than answers, but I want to work through them.  I don't want to remain unchanged just because I don't have all the answers.  The time to start is now.  I want my life to be interruptible so that I make the time to "do life" with others.  Read this great quote in a blog this week and here's how I want to start - "We are all just waiting for someone to notice - notice our pain, notice our scars, notice our fears, notice our joy, notice our triumphs, notice our courage.  And the one who notices is a rare and beautiful gift."   I want to be the one who notices!

Brazil trip - Day 11...

Woke up excited today!  I am ready to head home and catch up with my family and friends!  It's been 11 days since I've had contact with any of them.  The technology break was nice but now there are 10+ days of stuff to catch every one up on.  I was just thinking last night of all the things that happened in the world and we have no idea.  I'm sure the morning hours will tick by slowly since we are all so

ready to head home, but it will be here before we know it.  We had my favorite for breakfast this morning...manioc breakfast sandwiches and fried bananas, oh and sweet coffee too.  I must be becoming part Brazilian!  Since the morning was dragging, Jeanette and I set out to check our the zoo at the hotel.  Of course it didn't open promptly at 8!  It had a jaguar, a few types of birds, and monkeys. I guess since we didn't get to see monkeys in the wild, this was going to be the next best thing.  Jeanette and I decided to entertain ourselves by ad libbing what the monkeys were saying.  Exhaustion must be setting in but we were definitely cracking ourselves up!  It was still only about 9 am so we headed back to the mall to kill some time.  Of course we ended up finding more to buy!  Good thing I have plenty of space in my luggage.  It was finally time to head back to the boat for our final meal together.  Did my last round of dishes for the team and then it was time to pack up the bus.  Lynn and Julie weren't leaving til later that night so it was time for another round of goodbyes with them and the crew.  We couldn't have asked for better people to take care of us.  I don't think there was anything else they could have done to make the trip any easier for us.  CBM has a great ministry and I was privileged to spend a few weeks having a small part in it.  After the goodbyes, we headed off to the airport.  They only let you check in so far ahead of your flight, so Jeanette, Leann, and I headed off for some more shopping.  I'm sure I will be all shopped out for a while the last couple of days.  I did finally find my Havaianas with the Brazilian flag, so my shopping is now complete!  Once we checked

in at TAM we had to go through security, which is nothing like in the States.  They put your bags through the X-ray machine but then go through EVERYTHING!!  They unzip every pocket and through every baggie.  They didn't know what my Avon bug spray was so they confiscated it.  They empty everything on to the belt...so imagine bras, underwear, tampons, and anything you would rather the world didn't see spread out for all to see!  Oh well, I guess we can feel safe.  I was finally able to get wifi for the first time since we left Miami so I called a few people who of course didn't answer!  Also got to text a few iMessage users...it was great to finally be in contact with and hear from a few people.  Since Jeanette was flying to Rio tonight instead of Miami, she got put in a different security line and a different terminal...so I didn't even get to say goodbye except through the glass.  I'm going to miss that girl and all her craziness.  What will I do when she isn't around to cram herself in to my one person hammock while I was trying to nap!  Said a little prayer for safety for her as she travels along over the next 24 hours.  Was hoping I'd sleep the whole flight to Miami but instead finished "Wild."  Enjoyed the book so now I need to find someone else to pass it off to.    Landed in Miami, through customs and checked in to our hotel rooms.  Leann and I headed for a quick bite to eat and then off for nice HOT showers and then comfy beds for a few quick hours of shut eye!  Its been fun but nothing like being back in the good old U.S. of A.

Brazil trip - Day 10...

Part 1:

Spent the night out on the hedgies with Jeanette.  Have to say I slept about as well as I have any other night this trip.  It started out pretty hot even though we were moving, but by morning it had definitely cooled off, not unbearable, just a chill in the air - especially for any uncovered body parts!  In the morning, I woke up just as the sun was peaking over the water...it was a magnificent sunrise.  Sunrises and sunsets always seem just a little more beautiful on these trips.  Yesterday I noticed a res spot on my arm, but this morning, it looks like a blister in the middle.  Ruth Anne said it looked like this bug that is

irritating to the skin and then causes blistering.  Haven't really had too many bug bites, but at least when I do, I get the cool one!  We had a quick devotional this morning as usual and I'm going to miss hearing Lynn's words of wisdom to start the day.  Today he spoke from John 1 where Jesus asks 2 of his disciples, "What do you want?"  He challenged us to ask ourselves that question each morning, knowing that we might not always pick the right thing, but each day is fresh and new.  Time is dragging this morning without work to do.  We laugh ever time someone looks at their watch and says what time it is because it feels like hours later and is usually only minutes.  I'm trying to be present in those moments instead of wishing them away.  I know soon enough I will be back in my busy life and wishing for some down time.  The girls and I sat out front catching some sun and talking for a little while.  I'm also pretty far in to the book Lynn gave me to read.  Might actually have it done before we leave Brazil.  Jeanette gave me a book to read by Mark Batterson so I should be all set.  I'm actually looking forward to reading it.  I've read another book of his and really enjoyed it so this one has to be just as good as Jeanette has really talked it up.  I found Batterson's book "Wild Goose Chase" to be quite challenging.  Quite a few of us have been trading and recommending books to each other.  Going to have to start borrowing more books from the library or I'll go broke!  A few more hours to Manaus and then we get off the boat to go shopping!!

Part 2:

We just docked at our final port back in Manuas.  About 18 more hours and we will head back to the airport for the long journey home.  So today was our shopping day in Manaus.  Jander walked us through the port where we docked and then through the streets of Manaus.  First we headed to the Opera House in the heart of downtown.  I think some of the team was hesitant and a little scared, but I actually enjoyed it.  Its nice to get to experience the city this way, by walking the streets and being up close and personal with the people.  It was your typical town, lots of little shops and people walking around.  Jander walked us through this small warehouse sized building which was the fish market.  I can't even begin to describe the smell but one of my fellow ER nurses said it smelled like rotten crotch and that's pretty close!  (Sorry my nurse friends will truly appreciate this!)  It was neat to see but not sure I want to eat fish again for a while. Next we took a quick tour of the Opera House.  There wasn't a whole lot to it, but it was interesting.  After the tour, we headed over to the market for some shopping.  We were given an hour and well split up.  Jeanette and I decided to tag team and Caffe headed out with us.  Most of the shops were filled with trinkets you can find in most markets of the world, just with a different city/country on them.  A popular item that most of us bought were the Brazilian brand Havaianas flip flops.  A little more than I would spend in the States, but its true Brazilian!  Plus mine were on sale of course!  They do seem to have more cushion too.  I also found a Brazilian soccer jersey too, so I was all set.  The market was a little crazy but scary in the least.  We did have a funny

experience though.  Jeanette had told Caffe that she was looking for t-shirt that said "Brazil" so he took us to a clothing store.  Once inside, Caffe spoke to the lady and the next thing we know she is motioning us to follow her to the back of the store.  We follow her back where we expect to see t-shirts but instead she starts showing us bikini tops and bras.  Jeanette and I just look at each other puzzled then thanked the lady and walked away.  I wondered aloud what the store lady thought of the nice Brazilian bringing not one but 2 young white girls looking for lingerie!  Apparently sometimes Portuguese doesn't translate well in to Portuguese either!  Once we all finished shopping we started the trek back to the boat.  We took a quick detour through the butcher's area and I swear it smelled worse than the fish market.  There were slabs of meat just lying on the counters in the sweltering heat.  I'm trying to push that memory out of my head, otherwise I won't be eating fish or beef!  We loaded every one back on the boat for our final journey.  We are docked near a hotel so once we arrived, a few of us headed up to check out the "mall."  It was about 8-10 shops near the hotel.  Of course everything was marked up by about 50% compared to the market.  We were still on the hunt for the elusive plain Brazil t-shirt.  It did appear that 2 soccer teams were staying at the hotel.  We walked by as they were loading up the team buses.  Ruth Anne told me I could have probably gotten a picture taken with them, but I'm not sure that anyone would want to stand that close to me.  They must be trying to get us ready to head back to the States because we had hamburgers and fries for dinner tonight.  I finished packing up and LOVE how much I've gotten rid of.  Just one checked bag for me - so much easier to drag around the airport.  Home is sounding more wonderful!

Brazil trip - Day 9...

After a pretty sleepless night, I was up for good at 4am.  Flavia couldn't sleep either and ended up leaving the room about 4:30.  I laid there until a little before 5, then headed to the upper deck to catch the sunrise.  It was beautiful and quiet.  Quick change in to my running clothes and I met Dr. Robins for an early morning run through the streets of Sao Sebastian...how many people can say that?  The streets were quieter than I expected but there were some shop owners opening up for the day as well as couples getting an early morning stroll in.  We even came across another Brazilian runner.  I think that's one of the things I love most about running.  You don't need much, just some shoes and the open road. And I always seem to find a willing partner.  We had planned to run for 30 minutes then swing back and pick up some of the ladies to go walking in the park.  As we were about to finish up, Lynn caught us and told us he had something to show us.  We had met a gentleman last night who I can't remember his name, but he is the local baker.  He goes to Ronaldo's church and is very active there.  Lynn was stopping by to pick up bread for breakfast so we went along.  Lynn wanted to show us his furnace but apparently he didn't want to show it to us.  He had stayed late at the party and was behind for the day.  Lynn was going to wait, but Guy and I decided to head back to the boat to pick up the walkers.  We jogged back only to find out we had been stood up!  So after rehydrating real quick, we headed back to the bakery to help Lynn carry the bread home.  We met him a little ways from the shop.  We all ate some still warm, fresh baked bread on the walk back and boy was it good!  I skipped breakfast to get my cold shower in...needless to say I was sweaty!  We were going to have a few patients in the morning but I headed off to try to catch a quick nap, but with no avail.  I'm pretty sure I will sleep the whole way home and all weekend!  At 11 am, we headed to Ronaldo's house for our BBQ.  I have

loved all the food here, but this had to be the best.  We had grilled beef and sausage with some white sauce, rice and beans, along with fresh salad.  And of course dessert...but who had room for that!  We then toured the greenhouse project next to Ronaldo's house, which they actually use to help supply food to 3 local schools. It was so nice of them to have us all over and throw us a going away party.
 Then we had to say goodbye to Ronaldo, his family, and a lot of the crew.  Slowly we are dropping people off at their homes.  Not long after we got back to the boat, it was time to leave Sao Sebastian and head on to Manaus.  Ruth Anne leaves tomorrow for the States so we had to make sure we get back in time.  You can tell that every one is tired.  Most of us are just hanging out in the hedgies napping and reading as we watch the river slowly go by for the last day.  Most of our trip will be overnight tonight so there won't be much to see.  A few of the girls and I are going to sleep up top tonight.  Should be fun although a little cold we've heard.  We are game to give it a try though.  Probably will beat listening to snoring!!

Brazil trip - Day 8...

Today was our last day of scheduled clinic, of course we know that apt to change at any moment.  Apparently half the year this village is very large, but right now a lot of the people have moved away

until the waters recede some.  We ended up seeing only about 30 patients or so, so it made for an easy morning.  It appears this village has a contaminated water source as several of the people complained of recent trouble with diarrhea.  Sad that there is still this problem in the day that we live in.  Since the clinic wasn't busy, I went and helped Flavia while she was teaching Bible stories to the children and singing songs with them.  They sure enjoyed it and then they all got a whistle and another prize after...talk about smiles!  It was then time to head back to the boat but on the way we picked guava straight from the trees and ate it...yum!  After lunch we set sail for Sao Sebastian.  It was a bright clear day for sailing.  Once we got to Sao Sebastian, I saw there was a small park near where the ship was docked and asked Lynn if it would be safe to run there.  He said we should be fine, so Jeanette and I made plans to run together later in the day.  The whole team took a field trip down to the industrial area of town.  It mainly consisted of areas where they make and/or repair boats and also made made handmade furniture.  It was neat to see the boats in varying degrees of completion.  It was a super hot day today so I came back to the boat to cool off and rehydrate before our run.  Then it was off for my marathon training run.  It was HOT - probably 90+ degrees but it felt great to get out moving and sweat!  Plus Jeanette and I had a good time talking through some stuff.  God has big things in store for that girl!  Pretty sure the Brazilians thought we were crazy and a few young Brazilian boys kept yelling phrases at us like "hello" and "I love you."  Kept us laughing for sure.  I was actually hoping for a cold shower tonight, but unfortunately it was lukewarm...probably the only time I'll be thinking that.  We had Brazilian pizza tonight for dinner which was really good.  It had ham, sausage, tomato, onions, peppers, and egg on it.  Some of them had corn and peas too, but I opted for the less is more option!  During dinner, Lynn told us we were

invited to a surprise birthday party for Ronaldo, the local pastor.  We had to walk a mile or so to his house and also had to make a pit stop at a local ice cream shop to pick up some ice cream. While were standing there waiting, a group across the street started singing "As the Deer" in Portuguese of course, so we joined along in English which was kind of cool.  It was fun to saunter through the city streets and see all the shops, restaurants, and even the local hospital.  Once we got to Ronaldo's house we were able to meet some of his family and church congregation before he got there.  He seemed surprised when he finally arrived.  It must be a Brazilian tradition, but while he was preparing to blow out the candles someone popped a balloon above his head that was filled with flour, so he was covered in it!  Gave everybody a good laugh.  He had a soccer cake that was coconut and lots more other food of course.  Most us just had a little cake since it hadn't been too long since we'd had dinner.  The party was going strong when we left but we were all getting tired and still had the trek back to the boat.   My highlight of the day had to be seeing Jeanette get baptized in the Amazon!  She had made the decision earlier in the trip, but was waiting for the better waters of Sao Sebastian!  What a cool experience for her as well as us.  Well I told the team the next training run would commence at 5:30 am tomorrow so I guess I better get some sleep.  We will see if any one else shows up!  Tomorrow is our last day in Sao Sebastian and we are having a Brazilian BBQ at Pastor Ronaldo's house before we head back to Manaus for the last leg of the journey home.  I really started thinking today about how I wanted to call my family and tell them everything that has been going on...but only about 72 hours to go!

Brazil trip - Day 7...

Happy Monday...hard to believe we have been here for a week now.  We headed back to the main river today for our next day of clinics.  It started pouring about 4am or at least that's when I woke up to hear it on the roof and then it rained most of the morning.  We reached our next destination about 10 am and thankfully the rain had stopped.  It made me wonder how the village we were at yesterday was

fairing as they didn't have much wiggle room as far as flooding was concerned.  The clinic started out kind of slow but we ended up having a pretty busy day.  Apparently this was only the 3rd trip that Amazonia has made to this particular area, and you could tell the people weren't as comfortable with us - especially the children!  We had quite a few screamers today.  When we first arrived at the village
today, you could see there was a small tributary that went back behind the houses.  I was saying how cool it would be to kayak down it.  Well after clinic, Lynn came and said one of the crew would take the smaller boat out and show us an area deeper in to the rainforest.  So LJ, Leann, Guy, Janet, and I all piled in to the boat for our jungle safari.  It was more what we all expected being in the rainforest.  Lots of lush green plants and trees.  There were all kinds of bright flowers and trees, and even saw a date tree.  Then we really started seeing the wildlife.  There were all kinds of birds that we couldn't identify Then several toucans flew just over the boat...so cool.  Then we heard a high pitched screech coming from the trees and

were hoping to get to see our first monkey, but it actually ended up being 2 of the brightest red/blue macaws.  Definitely very cool stuff.  Another part of our team went out after us and didn't see a thing...poor them!  Hopefully there will be more time for side adventures.  As on most trips, flexibility is the key.  We were supposed to stay in the general area to treat another village, but apparently they came down the river to see us instead, so we headed 3 hours the other direction for our next stop.  We had a nice sunset cruise to end the day. I swear the sunsets get more beautiful each night.  Enjoyed just hanging out up on the upper deck chatting with Leann tonight and then goofing off with the rest of the team.  Leann and I are planning on taking one of the younger girls snipe hunting one of these nights.  :)  Speaking of hunting, we are hoping to go alligator hunting before the trip ends.  Guess we will have to check with the guys soon.  I do know one of my biggest take aways from this trip will be that you never really know what someone has or is going through.  At night, during our devotional times, several of the ladies have shared some heavy, heart-wrenching stuff with us.  But thankfully it doesn't end there...they then shared of God's amazing grace in their lives!  Looking at these ladies, you would never know the burdens and heartache they carry, but God is merciful and gracious.  Made me think of the quote..."there but for the grace of God, go I."

Brazil trip - Day 6...

Happy Mother's Day...in the States and Brazil.  Once again I'm missing Mother's Day with my mom.  I'm thinking next year I better make sure I'm in the States or my mom is going to get the wrong idea!  I think this is my 3rd year of missing it.  Kind of sad I'm missing the family get together, but I'll have to make it up to my mom later.  We will just have to celebrate the mothers on our trip today!  Have to say that last night was my best nights sleep so far...which isn't saying much!  But everything is a little better after some good sleep.  It hit me today that I'm stuck on a boat with the same people for the next 5 days...and I haven't been able to run!  This may be bad for all of us!  Ran in to Lynn (the missionary/pastor) on my way to the upper deck this morning.  He said he wanted to talk to me because he had a book he wanted to give me but had to tell me about it first.  At the airport, he was browsing the books and a lady recommended a book called "Wild" to him.  He had read it and thought I would like it.  But he had to preface it by saying he couldn't give the book to just anybody because it contained a lot of vulgarity.  I wasn't sure if he thought I was used to vulgarity (thank you ER) so it
wouldn't bother me, or that he thought I could handle it...I'm hoping the latter!  Several of the team have  been ill with GI stuff, but thankfully I've been spared so far, even though I've rinsed my toothbrush multiple times in the "unsafe" sink water.  After breakfast, we took a leisurely ride back to the main river to a small flooded village.  There was no way to get from house to house except by boat or a few man-made walkways.  Once we get close to a village, the captain starts blaring the horn to let all the locals and surrounding villages know we have arrived.  The morning clinic went by fast and we saw 80 some patients.  Sounded like most of them were just coming for vitamins and de-worming meds so they were in and out fairly quickly.  I did manis and even a few pedis today.  There were a couple of girls hanging out in the waiting room today for quite a while so I grabbed the Noah picture book and had them try to teach me the Portuguese names of the animals.  They were super cute of course.  Since it was Sunday and such a small village we were done with clinic by 12:30.  A few of us were hanging outside waiting for lunch and got to see a toucan which was pretty cool.  Then after lunch Dudu took us on a small boat out to tour the river.  It was nice to see it from a different perspective.  We got to see some water buffalo and birds.  It was a pretty warm day and we all just wanted to jump in the water but Lynn told us it wasn't a good spot for that.  Hopefully later we will get to jump in.  At 3:30 we headed to church in the local village.  To get here, we had to take a 20 second boat ride and then navigate the plank walkways which were rickety in places.  The church was 90% kids but t

hey had a lot of fun singing and they colored pictures for us.  Before the service started, the Americans were sitting toward the back and as I mentioned it was hot!  One little boy, probably couldn't have been more than 10 yrs old, came and turned the fan so it would blow on us instead of the Brazilians.   He went back and sat down then realized it was still rotating, so it wasn't always blowing on us, so he got back up and fixed it so it wouldn't rotate anymore.  It was so sweet.  Dinner tonight was Brazilian chicken salad.  It was good but interesting.  It had everything imaginable in it...chicken, mayo, apples, egg, raisins, corn, carrots, and even olives and then you top it off with shoestring potatoes.  Definitely not a classic chicken salad.  The crew also made made us a chocolate/coconut cake to celebrate Mother's Day.  They sure do take good care of us!  Then to end the day, we had a communion service on the upper deck with the Brazilians and Americans.  We sang a few worship songs in English and Portuguese first then shared the bread and cup. We might not be able to completely understand each other, but we can all worship and take the Lord's Supper together...sweet fellowship with our brothers and sisters in Christ.  It was the perfect ending to a great day as we witnessed the beautiful sunset while we worshipped our great God!

Brazil trip - Day 5...

Another beautiful day on the Amazon.  It kept looking like rain, but never did which meant it stayed HOT!!  I headed down to the clinic a little early to get set-up for the day.  Before we were even open for business, they ushered in the first patient of the day.  He had a cut his foot last night and needed some stitches.  I got his wound irrigated out and then set Dr Robins up to numb him up so I could really clean it out.  Dr Robins didn't initially want to put in stitches since it had been about 16 hours but we decided in the end it was better to close it up.  It had to be quite the scene - the patient was sitting in a dental chair, the doctor sitting on a paint can, while I perched on an old battery.  Oh and let's not forget Lynn holding a flashlight over head!  Seven stitches later, he was ready to go!  I did have to laugh because some of the Americans were taking pictures and Lynn tells us the patients wife pipes up

and says, "If I would have known we were taking pictures, I would have done my hair!"  I guess women are women every where!  Didn't take too much to get us excited for the day.  Lynn keeps laughing at how excited Dr Robbins and I get about blood.  All the excitement got the clinic off to a late start but it was worth it.  Before lunch, between Dr Robins and I, we saw 80 patients so not a bad start.  While we took our lunch break, boat loads of people kept showing up, so it looked to be a busy afternoon but actually only saw about 20 more patients, so I guess the rest just came for the festivities.  It was neat to see more patients coming with either prescriptions or lab work which shows they are able to get some level of care when we aren't around. We had the cutest down syndrome boy come through the clinic today and he was just adorable.  Also had a lady come in with what she called a lump on her breast for 6 yrs.  When I went to examine her, I was expecting something horrible (from past mission trip experiences) but just looked like scar tissue.  She said it itched and got red when it was hot outside. I had no idea, so I had Dr. Robbins take a peak at it.  He wasn't positive either...maybe a previous infection or herpetic infection that we wouldn't have meds to treat.  We decided to try a steroid cream and for her to follow up if that didn't work.  I also diagnosed a heart murmur in a 6 yr old boy.  Dr Robins took a listen and said it sounded benign so he should be fine.  Those were probably the most exciting cases of the day, other than the laceration.  I've really made it a point to pray with every patient and they don't seem to mind at all.  Apparently the villages we've been in the last few days all rose up out of religious differences.  I guess they have village splits instead of church splits.  Today we were in the Baptist village as well as all those who traveled over from the Nazarene village.  After clinic, many of the patients stayed behind and a rousing game of soccer ensued.  The boat crew versus the locals...it was definitely fun to watch.  Nathan and I were playing frisbee with some of the kids.  They weren't great at it and the frisbee made its way in to the water more than a few times.  After one such episode a little boy (probably 8 or so) bad to jump in the river to get it.  He obviously had no idea how deep the water was because he immediately disappeared under the murky waters.  You could see the panic on his face as he went under.  Nathan and I immediately ran over and Nathan pulled him out by his shirt.  I'm sure if we hadn't grabbed him, word would have gotten around that the Americans were drowning Brazilians kids in the river!  We actually ended up losing the frisbee in the water so that was the end of that.  Right after that, Ruth Anne called me over because a guy had a bloody hand.  So much fun for one day!  The man told us he was near our boat cleaning fish and that a piranha came up and bit his finger.  It was definitely

bleeding a lot but after cleaning it up, it wasn't too bad looking.  He had 2 superficial lacerations on each side of the nail of his index finger.  Probably would have been much worse, except the nail probably took the brunt of it.  We ended up just steri-stripping it and sent him on his way with some antibiotics.  Another happy customer!  Tonight was worship at the local Baptist church and it was standing room only.  Many people were even just outside the doorway listening, but as packed as it was, we still sang "Father Abraham."  The Brazilian crew puts on a skit at every service.  I might not be able to understand it, but it sure looks like fun and the crowd laughs non-stop.  It has something to do with sin trapping us and Jesus being the one that frees us from sin.  You can tell the crew really has a passion for what they do.  We did have a bat fly around the building for about 20 seconds...that was a first for me.  Thankfully it made its exit out the back door and the service went on .  Dinner tonight was chicken pot pie. (although it had mashed potatoes on top so kind of with a shepherd's pie flare) some type of beef and Brazilian potato salad.  It had quail eggs in it, so I guess I can cross that off my list.  After dinner, me and the roomies settled in for the night ad spent some time chatting with our Brazilian room-mate.   She has an interesting story, but I'll have to save that for another time.  I'm tired of writing by flashlight with snoring in the background!  My co-workers always joke that I need to write a book about my adventures around the world.  After this journal, maybe I'll have to give it some thought.  Too bad I haven't journaled on all my other journeys.  Tchau...

Brazil trip - Day 4...

I feel like by the end of the day I've already forgotten the stuff I wanted to write, so its a good thing I'm journaling!  I'm sure after this trip I'll up my paper and pen for a long time though.  I usually plan on getting up around 6 am, but am always awake by 5 am instead.  I make myself stay in bed as long as possibly so as not to wake my roommates up and listen to podcasts or read books I've got on my iPhone.  By about 5:45 I can't lay there anymore and start my day.  It gives me time to get some Bible reading in before the bustle of the day, so I don't really mind.  (That and since I get up at 4:15 am for work, its still actually sleeping in!)  After another great breakfast, we had our morning devotions with the team.  Also one of the Brazilian staff tries to teach us some Portuguese while she tries to learn some English.  Not sure how well we are doing, but we are trying!  We started clinic pretty early this

morning, but only had a few patients left to see.  Next we had to make a little detour to "dump our waste" from the boat...one of those things you don't want to dwell on too much!  Then it was on to our next village.  I was one of the "doctors" today, so it was nice to get to interact with the patients.  The best part was being able to pray with each patient and family that came through.  Most of the patients came with aches/pains/colds but also treated a lady for hypertension as well.  A few actually came with labs they had had done previously and I had a lady come in with prescriptions that a Brazilian clinic had written for her that she couldn't afford.  We were able to come up with the meds or similar substitutes and send her out with all her meds!  We also had a little girl come in who had been hit by a motorcycle and broken her leg.  She actually had an external fixator on her leg which was a first for me to see outside of the States.  She was cute and had such a precious smile.  I wish we would have had some crutches to give her though.  She walked in front of her mother who would hold her under the arms and swing her forward with each step.  Thankfully she was getting her fixator off in a week or so. It rained a lot and very hard in the morning so that seemed to keep some people away.  It ended up just being a nice steady day.

 The guys caught 2 alligators last night so we got to hold them and of course get pictures with them.  They also caught some very ugly fish that they told us are a delicacy...I'm ok with not eating them!  Later while I was walking around the lower deck, I saw the remnants of the alligator as the guys had filleted it so we could have it for dinner.  No worship service for us tonight but it did look like they were setting up the local church for a wedding.  Dinner tonight was fried alligator and it was delicious!  Even better with a little hot sauce...although honestly, what isn't?  It tasted like chicken but had a texture closer to fish.  I would definitely eat it again.  We also had passion fruit mousse today which was fabulous.  Edilsa sure knows how to cook!  We actually got the recipe so looking forward to trying to make it once I get home.  She also gave us her great home made bread recipe too...although I'm not

nearly as excited about that one.  We also got a new room-mate tonight.  Her name is Flavia, and she is a Brazilian who helps out on the boat trips.  She told me tonight that she has been on 26 riverboat trips with CBM.  I'm not quite sure what her exact role is but she did spend time at the school today.  Which reminds me, I took a tour of the school house today. Talk about stepping back in time.  It was a little one room school house with old wooden desks.  It did have a dry erase board though.  The kids artwork hanging on the walls was adorable.  After dinner, I got to enjoy a little quiet time on the upper deck before the bugs got bad.  (Not quite a roof in Haiti, but a close 2nd!)  There weren't many lights on in the village, so looking up you could see a billion stars across the sky.  I never get tired of views like that!  It's so quiet and peaceful, other than the hum of the generator, and I love seeing the villagers settle in for the night.  I think some of the team finds it odd how much time I can spend up there alone but I'd much rather be outside on the upper deck enjoying the beautiful night sky and sounds than any where else.  (Especially not hanging inside in the a/c)  Oh and there was a beautiful sunset this evening.  Now I need to get out there in time to see the sunrise.  I do have to say I am missing my family and friends a little...Its been weird not having any type of communication with them, and I keep thinking of things I want to tell them.  Am definitely praying for them all though.

Brazil trip - Day 3

Up early again...I have a feeling I'm going to crash at the end of this trip.  The Brazilians drink their coffee with a really sweet milk mixture...which I have needed to keep me moving!  We finished seeing the few patients left in Santo Antonia then had lunch, which was meatballs, cooked veggies and fruit.  They also have this grainy stuff they put on many of their dishes made out of manioc.  Doesn't add a whole lot of flavor, just crunch to the food.  After lunch, we had a 2 hour break before we jetted off for the next village.

 I read a little and took a quick nap in the hedgie...definitely one of my favorite spots.  It was super hot in the afternoon, so we are thankful for the a/c and being indoors instead of outside.  While we were waiting for patients to arrive, Chris and I went out and played futbol (aka soccer for you Americans) with the kids.  It was definitely muddy out and we had to dodge the puddles.  At one point, I went to plant my foot to kick the ball and stepped in a hole.  My whole foot fit in it and I sank up to my knee in mud.  The kids thought it was funny...and I got to go around with yucky pants the rest of the day.  Once we started the clinic, I was back to directing traffic and manicures.  I should be a pro by the time I head home.  In fact, I'm thinking maybe I could do manicures for our patients in the ED as they wait!! :)  We did have a little boy come in that had a lump on his head that we couldn't tell if it was an abscess for sure or not, so Guy attempted an I&D on it.  Unfortunately nothing came out, so Dr Robins thinks it is a fungal infection. The boy was probably 7 or 8 but was so brave.  During the clinic, some of the Brazilian crew were fishing and caught several piranha.  I have to say they weren't nearly as menacing looking as I thought...at least not when they are flopping around in a bucket!  We also saw a "Jesus lizard" today as well.  The lizard apparently gets its name because it appears to walk on water as it moves around.  Then while I was playing ball with a couple of the kids a very bright parrot sat perched on the electrical lines watching us.  I got the feeling the Brazilians don't like them since they were chasing it around whenever it flew too low. It started raining hard about 4:30p so that was the end of clinic as people headed to their houses.  I'm sure we will see a few more of the people in the morning.

Then of course it was snack time again.  I haven't figured out if they have so much food because of us Americans, or if its the Brazilian way.  Snack was popcorn and homemade smoothies today...strawberry/banana and avocado/peanut) which were delicious.  None of us will be wasting away on this trip.  After snack time, the team met for our nightly debrief time.  We started a little early so people could try to get to sleep a little earlier tonight if they wanted to.  You can tell some of us are dragging.  Then we trudged through the mud to head to service.  The kids were a little more stand-offish tonight but we had a great time singing the Portuguese version of "Father Abraham."  By the end, we were flapping our arms, stomping our feet, with out heads cocked to the side and our tongues hanging out while spinning around.  I'm sure it was quite a sight.  I actually thought one of the Brazilians was going to puke!  Every night at the service, the Brazilian crew does a skit which is always a big hit.  Even not knowing much of the language it gets us laughing.  After church, we had dinner...yes, more food!  It was mostly the same as what we have been having.  It still raining so everyone is settling in for the night.  Here's to hoping for a better nights sleep!

Brazil trip - Day 2

Woke up early of course and headed to the upper deck for my devotions.  Was nice to have a little quiet time before the day starts.  Got my first good looks at the river.  It is HUGE!  Lynn came up and was being our tour guide after a few other early risers made their way up.  It was amazing to see all the dolphin swimming nearby.  After a great breakfast of ham and cheese, fried bananas, and a "pastry" made of manioc, oh and sweet coffee, it was off to count meds.

 They have a nice setup here so we didn't have to much prep work to do.  We were still several hours from our first stop, so we sat on the upper deck and played "Would You Rather," which is always good for a few laughs.  I also enjoyed talking books with Guy and Lynn.  We all agreed that "Unbroken" was one of the best books we've read.  Then came lunch time...we swear all we do is eat around here, but the food is good.  We had chicken, rice & beans, salad, and passion fruit custard - which is delicious by the way!  We were told we wouldn't have clinic today, so after lunch everyone settled in for reading and naps in the hedgies (hammocks).  Just as I was falling asleep, I heard Guy say we were stopping at an upcoming village to have our first clinic.  As tired as we all were, we jumped up and sprang in to action.  I think everyone was just excited to be doing something.  I got assigned to play with the kids while they waited for their turn to see the doctor, and thoroughly enjoyed it.  We colored, painted nails, played "Let's Go Fishing" and made paper airplanes...yea, I've still got skills!  It was a steady day, but nice for us all as we are getting adjusted to the flow.  Having a clinic on a boat has its own unique problems to say the least.  After we started cleaning up, one more patient showed up with a bloody foot.  He told Lynn he got bit by a fish.  With all the blood we saw, we were expecting a good sized wound, but it ended up not being that exciting.  I cleaned it out so Guy could steri-strip it, and off he went.  Closest thing to trauma for me today. Next it was "snack time" which consisted of bread and cheese.  I opted for just water since I realized I hadn't drank anything all day.  Then it was off to worship time with the local church.  It was great seeing all the kids from the clinic and worship with the village.

 The American team sang 2 songs that we had never practiced together, and I'm sure it showed.  I was able to say a few words on behalf of our group through a translator.  Jander (one of our translators) told the crowd I was single and would be accepting offers after the service.  I'm sure I turned 5 shades of red!  After the service, we passed popcorn out to the kids and gave out goodbye hugs!  Then back to the boat for dinner.  I told you all we do is eat.  Makes me think of "Lord of the Rings" when the Hobbits are discussing all their meals.  Tonight's dinner was rice & beans, chicken, some type of casserole, and a coleslaw type dish.  (not like my favorite Pikliz in Haiti!)  We also got to try a local soda called Guarana which tastes similar to cream soda to me with a hint of ginger ale.  We also tried cashew juice.  Apparently in Brazil they eat the cashew fruit and just throw out the nut, which are toxic until processed.  The Americans were laughing that we pay a hefty price for cashews and the Brazilians are throwing them away.  The juice was pretty good I have to say.  So funny thing tonight during our debrief time.  Nathan was trying to save Tiffany from a large beetle that was hanging around.  He jumped up off his white plastic lawn chair and as he did he snapped the 2 front legs off, and hit the ground.  Without missing a beat, he jumped up and stomped the beetle.  We got a good laugh out of it!  We are staying docked at the village tonight, so it should be quieter...which means I will hear my room-mate snoring for sure!

Brazil Trip - Day 1

Slept most of the plane ride after getting up early.  Excited to actually make it to Brazil after 2 days of traveling.  Going through customs was a breeze...such an answer to prayer.  They basically just waved us all through without looking at any of our bags.  We met up with Lynn and Julie, our hosts for the week.

 They were missionaries to Brazil and now help fill in on some trips.  Ruth Anne met up with us from the States where she and her husband are on furlough.  We took a quick bus ride to where the boat was docked and loaded up for the next 10 days.  We had a nice late lunch and then headed to the upper deck to take in the sights.
 We were docked in Manaus, which seems to be a typical city.  And then we waited...which on any mission trip is the name of the game.  Apparently we had to wait for some paperwork to go through.   I think it ended up being 8pm before we left the dock, so we were already a little behind schedule...not that there really was a schedule!  It was already dark at 8, so we couldn't see a whole lot as the boat adventure started, but we were all excited none the less.  We did get to travel under a bridge that connects 2 different areas of Manaus.  It lights up all different colors so that was neat to see.  Once we got passed the city, we were enveloped in darkness and everyone kind of wandered off to bed.  I share a cabin with 2 other girls and saying the rooms are small is an understatement.  We have 2 bunk beds, a chair, and a small dresser, plus our own bathroom.

 Funny thing is, its so small that you can sit on the toilet, take a shower, and brush your teeth all at once.  Not that I've tried or anything!  I laughed when I saw my bed...they come equipped with your own life jacket...I guess that's when you know you've arrived in the Amazon.  Hoping for some good sleep after 2 long travel days.  Our team is made up of Midwesterners.  Several are from the Indy area, 2 couples from TN, a nurse from Ohio and another from Philly.  Honestly, its kind of a quiet group so far, so will be interesting to see the dynamics of us all.  Everybody seems nice and ready to work, so let the adventure begin...

Top Ten Reasons I Miss Brazil...

So here is the next installment of the Brazil top ten...

10. Guarana - a local pop that tastes like a cream soda/ginger ale mix.

 9.  The hum of the generator at night to drown out snoring. (somewhat!!)

 8.   Marathon training runs with Guy and Jeanette...we runners will find a place to run anywhere!

 7.  Cleaning your dinner scraps off your plate in to the Amazon River.

 6.  Our wildlife boat rides where we saw toucans, macaws, water buffalo, and dolphins.

 5.  Sunrise/sunsets over the river.

 4.  Morning/evening devotions with the team.

 3.  Worship time in the villages.

 2.  Amazing meals prepared with love by Edilsa (especially dessert)...it was like having your Brazilian grandmother cook for you every meal!

 and 

1.  Hedgie chats (and afternoon naps) and great times with some amazing people!!

I could have written a lot more but didn't want to bore you all!!

Top Ten of Brazil

So I spent a lot of time in airports today, thanks to voluntarily being bumped from my early morning flight so I could get a $400 voucher toward my next adventure.  During my free time I came up with a couple of top ten lists for Brazil.  Here is the first installment...

Top Ten Reasons I'm Glad I've Left Brazil:

10. Replying only with a smile because my Portuguese was lacking.
 9.  Living out of a back-pack and duffle bag.
 8.  Cold showers.
 7.  Sleeping in bunk beds...especially ones you can't sit up in without whacking your head on the ceiling!
 6.  Lariam induced dreams.
 5.  The constant film of bug spray and sunscreen on your skin.
 4.  Snoring roommates.
 3.  That we seemed to eat every 3 hours...the food was great but we were constantly eating!
 2.  The phrase - "maybe or maybe not" - which was the answer to ALL yes/no questions.
 and
 1.  Having to fish toilet paper out of the toilet when you forgot for the tenth time it goes in the trash can nearby!!

Stayed tuned in the near future for the top ten reasons I love Brazil and also for my journal entries from the trip!