Having Andrea was a huge blessing to me. Having her leave was a bit of a struggle. Since we arrived the same day I had a hard time understanding why she was able to leave, yet I was still in ministry. However, it seemed God was preparing me for this feeling. Although it was difficult to watch her leave, I am not ready. I have just gotten used to life in Bolivia. I have just gotten to know my ministries. I have just begun really looking into myself.
In the process of grieving the goodbyes of both Stephanie and Andrea Cochabamba was really embracing me knowing how hurt I was. Stephanie made me a wonderful scavenger hunt of goodbyes all over our home. Not only was it a blast, she had wonderful parting words. I laughed the whole time. Andrea wrote me a beautiful letter as well. I know that I have two wonderful friends at ‘home’ who are praying for me in a way that few can. Whether I like it or not, it is difficult for me to convey what I see in this blog. I thank you for being so faithful in reading it, but it is hardly able to convey my truest heartfelt feelings. They’ve seen it. They get it. God is good for brining me them.
The day that my sweet friends left Kristen and I stayed at a friends house. The Youngblood family works for the D.E.A. and attends the same church as us. The government is very grateful for the sacrifice they are willing to make by leaving home and moving to Bolivia; in turn the government is very generous to them. Mrs. Youngblood has taken it upon herself to make it her mission to take care of the missionaries. They take such wonderful care of us. They have a phone with Vonage, which means the cost is very cheap and the reception is excellent. I hope over the next few months to be able to call more. They practically beg us to use their phone and to take warm showers! I was able to talk to Lins and Lisa. It was wonderful. I took a wonderful shower and just about burned myself. It was great.
Kristen and I woke up to Mr. Youngblood’s famous chocolate chip pancakes. But I also must explain to you how rare and expensive chocolate chips are here in Bolivia. It was such a delightful treat. The Youngblood’s have six children. Three of them are back in the states and Rebecca (11), Thomas (5), and Eoin (2) live with them here in Coch. They are so wonderful and great to play with.
Not to even mention the fact that upon returning home from our little get away, Elsa and bought Sex and the City!!! I was so excited. (Obviously I hated the ending, but such is life). But it too was a wonderful blessing.
I have begun receiving mail from people. First, I thank you for your patience in waiting for it to arrive. It does take about 3 weeks. But Second, Thank you. Getting mail is such a simple concept, but I cannot express my pure and utter joy. If you get a free minute, drop a few lines in the mail. I will write back. Thank you so much for those who are taking such good care of me at home.
Having Steph and Rea leave was very difficult for me. But God is so faithful to me. Each day he is putting people in my life to continue to build me up and challenge me. I miss you both already, but thank you so much for all you have done for me and continue to do. I’ll see you in December.
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