I haven't seen the beach yet.

I just wanted to throw that out there. I've been close to the beach twice, but haven't actually seen it or walked on the hot sand. Things change when there's a baby in the picture.

St. Augustine

So, my in-laws were her last week. We met up with them in the oldest city in the US, St. Augustine, which is about 2 hours from Gainesville.

Scotty's parents

Besides the beach that I didn't get to, there is lots of fun architecture, pretty houses, shopping and a big Spanish fort. We wandered around in the hot sun without much of an agenda, other than to eat fried seafood and to modestly nurse in the foyer of the welcome center, which proved difficult as St. Augustine turns out to be a not-so-breastfeeding-friendly town. A bit of a challenge when both you and your baby are sweaty. But, the trip was fun overall.

On top of the fort.

During the week we ran errands together, read, played games, ate and generally enjoyed each other- especially the time all 4 grandparents were able to hang out with Natty.The ladies bowl at UF. Mom comes in 1st, Mims in 2nd and me, pulling up the rear.

At the end of the week, we drove down with Scotty's parents to the home of some good friends of the family, Tom and Marilyn. Marilyn is the hostess with the mostest- meaning gourmet salads, a pool, lots of personal touches in your room, a listening ear and great conversation. Tom is a character and loved playing with Natty and making her giggle.

Tom, me and Natty. We're trying to get Natty a spot in the next Chic-Fil-A calender.

Scotty's dad, whom we call "Papi", volunteered to stay with Natty Sunday morning so we could enjoy a care-free church service without worrying if she'd melt down on the nursery staff. His parents returned home on Monday and now we are starting to get into gear for visiting some of our supporters around here before time runs out on us...it always seems to pass faster than we expect.

"Hello little girl. Why aren't you blinking?"

Natalie is growing at rapid rates and astounds us with how quickly she is changing. We're encouraging her to crawl, which she seems very close to doing. If fussiness is any indicator of soon to arrive teeth, I'm pretty sure she'll have a mouth-full by the end of the week. But, she still is plenty sweet and adorable and is loving the summertime almost as much as her mommy. Public libraries are an indulgence that we sorely miss in Bolivia and have been able to visit twice now to find all the books that satiate our interest in home building and design, novels and board books for the baby. I also checked out a book on signing that will hopefully help us communicate a little better as time goes on. I love the idea of her being able to talk to me without words! So, the enjoyment of home continues...

Scotty, Lisa & Natalie, Home from Bolivia

We're now back in the US for six and a half months of Home Assignment (the new term for furlough) and currently enjoying some R&R in the Florida sunshine! We're thankful that we're not coming off the mission field feeling burned out and grateful that we're here to reconnect with family, friends and supporters. Please pray with us that our time back will further equip us for effectively ministering in Bolivia.

Easter church retreat
Since our last e-newsletter was way back in March, we need to catch you up on a major event in the life of our church, the retreat we took over the Easter weekend. Besides all the good relationship-deepening stuff like preparing food and eating together, playing games (like volleyball with a massive soccer ball), swimming in the pool and roasting marshmallows, it was our chance to share the church's vision with a majority of our regular attenders and plenty of guests, too. In one sense, our vision isn't that earth-shattering (because it's pretty basic and straightforward). On the other hand, it is profound stuff if we can really make headway as a church in these three areas: love God (worship & sound teaching), grow together (discipleship and community), and reach the world (evangelism, missions and meeting human need). The 3 talks during the retreat were just the beginning in the process of explaining and incorporating these values in the Mallasilla Bible Church. A story that best fits in the green circle came about because we invited a particular family from our small group to ride down to the jungle camp with us in our loaded-down Land Cruiser. We had a great time talking there and back, and they really enjoyed the retreat. Afterwards, they expressed their extreme gratitude to us, saying they wouldn't have been able to go if it had not been for our invitation to ride with us.

Men's book study
With a desire to encourage men in the red and green circles of loving God and growing together, I initiated a study of John Piper's book Don't Waste Your Life, bringing 20 copies in Spanish back after our brief visit last November. The books sold (at cost) like iPhones and were bought both by men who participated in the study as well as others from the church. In the book, pastor John encourages us to live radically as Christians, treasuring God in such a way that He is glorified in every aspect of our lives, from worship to evangelism to how we spend our money to how we work. We met to discuss each chapter and though attendance varied from 3 to 10 guys, the discussions went really deep and we were able to pray for one another in specific ways that the book applied to our individual lives.
There was a good deal of interest in continuing the study with another book during our absence, which is a huge encouragement to me! It is so important that the men of our church go deep with God and each other, step up in leadership roles, and guide their families in living for God's glory.

Being the church to one another
A man in our small group, Cesar Lozano, has been out of work for over a year. He and his wife, Teresa, and their two teen-age girls have been faithful and encouraging members of our Saturday Bible study and IBM for about a year. Cesar explains how it was always a chore to get the girls to attend any other church consistently, but his daughters and wife have found such a connection with other women in Mallasilla that they are the ones urging him now. A few months ago, one of the other men in our group, a very new believer, brought up the idea of taking a group collection of money to help out the Lozano family. Everyone was excited by the idea so the initiator followed up with each family and presented the Lozanos with a significant gift. We spoke privately with them several weeks later and found them very grateful but also admitting that their pride caused them to initially be embarrassed and reluctant to accept the money. However, God taught them all that He has much good to be offered from His hand, and to receive it with thanksgiving. We see that our group is growing so much in depth of knowledge of the Lord and love for each other. We've confidently left the group in the hands of our friends Hugo and Ericka Ramirez and saw the entire crew taking initiative in conversing with each other in order to change the meeting time to fit their schedules better and deciding on what they are going to study.

Being the church, part II
Last year we introduced you to good friends that live a few minutes from us, the Astorga family. They have been building a home on the same street as our land for around 2 years and have saved every penny possible, even when Javier was without a job for many months, to move in. About a week before we left, they were finally able to get the house to a point where it was livable- without showers and finished flooring- but livable. They are ecstatic to live on the same street as another Christian family from the church, and eventually, us too. In order to celebrate God's faithfulness in providing their own home (the 4 of them have been living in one bedroom at their parents' house for several years) and to say good-bye to us, they threw a pizza party in our honor. As we sat around their first fire in the family room's fireplace with several different families, watched all the kids running around, their screams bouncing off the cement walls, ate pizza, and sang karaoke, we realized what a gift we have been given in these relationships. The different individuals in the room that we are closest to spent half an hour or so thanking us for our service and friendship, sharing the things we have taught them, and laughing with us over the various language blunders we have made along the way. What a sweet way to be affirmed in God's call as we reflect on the ups and downs and joys and sorrows of ministry.

Bolivian highs and lows
This country that God has called us to has its extremes: low altitude with high temperatures in the East and high altitude with low temperatures in the West. I experienced the latter pair with six adventurous friends as we tackled Bolivia's highest peak at 21,463 feet, Nevado Sajama, right before Lisa's and my return stateside. It was an appropriate farewell activity for two good friends in my men's accountability group that won't be returning to Bolivia. It was also among the hardest (and coldest!) things I've done in my life! At this point, you may be expecting the anology between ministry and putting one crampon-clad boot in front of the other to eventually make it to the top of that mountain. So I hope you're not disappointed that instead I share my decision to hang up the ice axe in mountain climbing retirement in favor of future vacation plans to chill by the pool in Bolivia's lower climes and higher temps with Lisa, Natalie and any other progeny God blesses us with. I guess this is more a reflection on priorities; deciding what's really worth putting my energies and resources into in work as well as in leisure. And priorites change, too. I'm grateful for the memories of two very challenging, very beautiful Bolivian peaks I've climbed with friends, and content to leave it at that. Other challenges await us in life and ministry in Bolivia. We experience extremes of cultural differences on a regular basis, as well as highs and lows in energy and in spirits, but we rely on God for the perseverance and joy to keep taking the next step.

Praises

We feel we finished our term well in Bolivia, handing over our primary ministries to capable people so that they will be continued and we can start some new things upon our return!

God is providing richly for our needs, including a pair of guys to sublet our apartment in our absence, a family to take care of our cats, and countless things here in the US from a high chair for Natalie to a place to stay in Charlotte for several months. We praise God for this season to be back in our home culture to rest and spend time with family, friends, and supporters.

Prayer Requests

Please pray for the Mallasilla Bible Church as they wrestle through some big issues in our absence, such as the role of the gifts of the Holy Spirit.

Please pray also for more and more people from the congregation to step up in ministry and leadership roles in the church.

Please pray for us as we try to raise more financial support in this tough economy, that God will provide and that we will trust in Him to do so.

Please also pray for us as we try to see and visit lots of people

Our time in the USA

We're enjoying time with Lisa's family in northern Florida and will be with my parents in TN beginning in August. If you live in Ohio, we'd love for you to come to an open house in Coumbus we'll be announcing for sometime in August. We'll arrive in Charlotte, NC in mid-September in order for me to take two more classes toward a master's in Christian Thought at Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary and be there through the beginning of December. In October, we'll fly out to Minneapolis to be a part of Bethlehem Baptist's missions conference and see friends and supporters there. Finally, we'll wrap up our time here in Florida again for Christmas and New Year's before returning to Bolivia on January 8. We hope we'll get to see you during our time here! But if we're not able to get together in person, we'd love to be in contact by phone or email. See our contact info below to set something up!

During this time of home assignment, we do need to increase our financial support. Please prayerfully consider joining the team of people and churches that make it possible for us to live and minister in Bolivia. If you are already support us, please consider increasing your monthly amount. Thank you so much for your support as friends, financial partners and prayer warriors on our behalf!

More on joining our support team...

God has graciously provided for all of our needs through your generous support ever since we (separately) hit Bolivian soil in 2003. Now, with a new fiscal year and little Natalie having joined Team Miser, we need to boost our support level with SIM. If you would be interested in joining our support team, please contact us or you can begin giving here!

Thank you! Scotty for the Misers

Pool- check. Blueberries- check. Home church- check. Relax- check. We are enjoying checking off a mental list of all the stuff we've been looking forward to upon arriving home. Mostly, we were ready to relax, sit around, eat good food and hang out with my family- which we are doing a lot of. We are in no rush to mix and mingle or even visit supporters...yet. There is plenty of time for that. The trip home went fantastically, even with a few delayed flights. As He always does, God answered our prayers by giving us an empty seat on the long leg of the flight between Bolivia and Miami for Natty to hang out in. Big girl in her own seat.

We had her up by 4am on Wednesday and she eventually fell asleep on the trip home from the airport at about 10:30pm. While travelling, she did a great job of playing, sitting, staring, napping a bit, eating, and making everyone fall in love with her (at least, that's our perception). Although it was a very long day, she was up at her normal time the next morning and hasn't skipped a beat in her routine. I'm afraid she takes after me. We were able to share the flight home with good friends from Bolivia, James, Julie and Maya. James, Maya, me and Natty waiting to board the plane.

The girls have just reached an age where they seemed to be enjoying each other a little, but we sadly said "good-bye" to the Bellinghams in Miami, not sure if we'll ever see them again.

Although Natty takes a few days to warm up to new people, my parents have really loved watching her at this new, fun stage.

Natty's "Papa" feeding her dinner.

She's getting much more comfortable with them now and it is a delight for me to watch them interact and give me and Scotty a chance to escape a bit and do some dating again. Our first date since Scotty's birthday in April was a trip to Border's and out to a local Mexican dive, where we were able to chat with our waiter in Spanish (which scored us some free chips). A few days ago, we crashed my best friend's parents' house (which was like a second home to me growing up) to soak up the sun and float in the pool. Natty had her first dip, surprising me and Scotty by loving it and happily splashing around. Poor thing has done a lot of sweating since we've arrived- a feeling she's not at all accustomed to in La Paz. Days like that are exactly what I have been dreaming about in the weeks and months leading up to our return. We can't wait to catch up with more friends and see Scotty's parents this weekend!

Friendly ladies, cranky baby

I had one of those afternoons where just about everyone wanted to talk to or touch Natty- and she wasn't having any of it. The first tooth just arrived last night, and with it, a heightened degree of fusiness that we have not experienced before. So, as we arrive at the pediatrician's office, I'm happy that she seems to be entertained by a young girl sitting across from her. Then, this old lady sits down next to us, practically on top of my diaper bag, and starts mumbling incoherently. Then comes the touching. There is no etiquette on baby-touching here- it was the same way with the pregnant belly...if you can reach it, you can touch it. So here come the hands toward the face- very dirty hands, I must tell you- and there was lots of face groping and patting and caressing, as well as hand grabbing. And all the while, mumbling. I wondered where this lady came from and who was responsible for her. She held out her hands several times like she wanted me to hand the baby over to her. I'm not too down with giving my baby to very old, dirty-hands lady that doesn't seem to know how to speak. I smiled and prayed that she was healthy (we were in a doctor's office waiting room) and shook my head, explaining that she scares easily- which is true. She was border line about to bawl but seemed rather fascinated with this cloudy-eyed woman. Then, up she went and back she came with her caregiver/daughter/younger friend (??), who sat down on the other side and started stroking Natty's head. Now they were coming from two directions and I thought I might just bust out of my seat and politely explain I needed to go to the restroom. The pair eventually moved to another row of seats where there were two open together, but the old lady would periodically come back, almost trying to take Natty out of my arms, and the younger one would say, "no, honey, you're going to drop her.". Oh, boy. So then, after a traumatic visit with the pediatrician, in which Natty screamed her head off the entire time like that little measuring tape they put around her head were squeezing her brains out, we went back into the waiting room to wait for the nurse to come and give her 2 injections- perfect. So, a little girl came over who appeared to have pink eye and started babbling a mile a minute about babies and how they eat and what her little sister is like and also interpretting every sound Natalie made..."She wants to eat the grapes whole. She wants to eat them faster. She's bored." Again, I wondered who was responsible for this child. Of course, Natalie likes small people, so she was trying to reach out and grab the girl's face, which had me a bit concerned about pink eye. But, at least she wasn't screaming...until the vaccinations. So, thankfully after that joy ride through the pediatrician's office, we came home and she was actually cute and happy and laughing until bedtime- which made up for all the screaming. God has given us a great gift in this little girl.

An Unforgettable Night

We met with Greg yesterday to go over our end of term reviews that are part of what SIM requires before returning on home assignment. Filling out the review form and thinking about the last 3 years was a great exercise in being reminded of all that God taught and the continued need to be open to where He is leading and how He wants to change us. One thing that stood out to us as a continued frustration is how different we, foreigners, deal with time. I have realized how tied to the clock I have been all my life and we see how loosely most Bolivians hold onto time limitations...there really are few limitations when it comes to time. We see so much benefit in this, but it is so hard to conform to this way of living when you are used to punctuality and starting and ending times. Last night, God threw me a big test after talking through these things with Scotty and Greg- realizing that I was the one that needed to change my atitude about it. We were invited over by good friends who have been working on their house for several years- it's on the same street we will be building on. They still haven't finished, but they've gotten it to a point where it is livable and they wanted to throw us a going away party and celebrate the fact that they've finally moved in. Great idea! They invited other good friends who live at the end of the street and some of their family. I had talked with my friend on Sunday and we had planned for a little after 7, since Natalie goes to bed at that time. We called a friend to come over to be in the house while Natty sleeps and took off about 7:30, realizing that showing up on time would not be the best idea. We've been running hard these past few days and I was already tired, although looking forward to hanging out with these families. When we walked over to the house, there was no one there. Not too surprising. When we called our friend, she said, "can you come at 8:30?". 8:30??? I must say, that was the point where I totally forgot about the need to change my attitude. I was a bit upset, to say the least. We walked back home and spent the next hour chatting while waiting for everyone to show up. By the time we were ready to leave again, I had calmed down and wondered if I should bring up the issue at all. We went back and the house had been opened by another friend, but our friend still wasn't there. She came about half and hour later and explained the long list of things that had caused her to run behind in everything. After hearing her explanation, I realized how short of grace I had been and that I would want someone else to understand and be patient if I were in the same situation. Well, we all sat down, they cranked up the English ballads from the 80's, and we waited for dinner to be finished...I was getting pretty tired by this point. There was lots of excited conversation going on, kids running around, Air Supply crooning in the background, promises of karoke later in the evening and our friend promising us "an unforgettable night". Oh! Don't worry, I thought, it already has been.

Around 10 we finally ate, talked, started the first fire in their fire place, and out came the karoke videos. We sang a few and then Scotty and I reluctantly explained that we needed to leave to relieve the babysitter and also because he had to get up early this morning to head to Sajama, the highest mountain in Bolivia, which he intends to summit in the next 3 days. Then, as Bolivians are so skilled at doing, they blessed us by sharing how much we mean to them, how much we have affected their lives and how much they will miss us. We have been very humbled in the last week or so as various friends share these going-away thoughts and confirm what we sometimes wonder- that God really is using us here. Back to the house by 11:30- it was truly an unforgettable night.

The count-down

We leave for the US in 2 weeks! Because of this fact, I have been too busy to blog but I thought I'd throw a quick one out there to notify everyone of this. I also will not be adding pictures because I just let my computer do "updates" and it has wreaked havoc on my programs- including rendering me incapable of using the program I used to use to shrink pictures. I need to become more computer savvy. Anyway, it continues to get cold here- I am wearing a long sleeved shirt, sweater and fleece in the house. The air is crisp inside, even when it has warmed up considerably outside. Therefore, I am ready for the Florida summer, even though I haven't experienced that kind of humidity since 2006. I went through my wardrobe today and threw out socks I think I've had for 10 years in an effort to consolidate, figure out what I need to buy when we're home, and make room for the boys who will be living here while we're away. God has answered a big prayer in providing a family to take our cats! All we have left now is some more organizing, packing up a whole bunch of stuff and trying to get together with all our friends before we go. I feel like this is what has been going on in the last few weeks. I've thought many times about how wonderful it will be to be in the states with our friends and family, but how nice it is that we aren't leaving feeling burned out or that we're tired of this place. It is a good time to go and we are leaving things in very capable hands. We will miss our friends here but know that the break will be healthy and a great time to meditate on all God has taught us in these almost 3 years and seek out what He wants to do in the next phase.

Good stuff

Have you ever had a chocolate urge but there were no cookies or miniature Hershey bars or anything else remotely chocolate in the house other than chocolate chips? And you think, "I'll just have a little handfull to take the edge off." And then the next thing you know, you've emptied a "small" bowl full and you feel totally gross. Just wondering...





So, I'm feeling better (or was until that chocolate episode) and am praising God daily for my health and Natty's health and that her cute little smile has come back. She was even flirting with a little boy at church on Sunday- something I did NOT teach her. We're getting out often and my goal this week while Scotty is away is to organize my stuff (meaning, throw out a ton of junk that I haven't used since we moved back to Bolivia) and start packing things into boxes for when we're in the states and someone else is living here. I'd also like to visit someone each day, since that is what I love doing and haven't had a chance to do lately.

Yay for happy Natalie!

We've switched our Saturday afternoon Bible study to Friday nights. This is because it is much more convenient for everyone and allows them to hang out after study is over for as long as they like- in my experience, this is easily until mid-night. Because of that fact, I am thankful it won't be in my house any longer. This past Friday, we joined forces with another small group from church in order to have an open forum with Scotty and the pastor- a free-for-all, if you will. No question was off limits- we wanted to give everyone the chance to voice the doubts and questions they've had on their mind since our little church began a year and a half ago. Topics ranged from women preaching to spiritual gifts to worship styles (just how demonstrative can we be during praise time?) and then back to spiritual gifts. It was a good time for people to be really honest with where they stand, admit that they don't know where they stand, and to hear exactly where the pastor stands. It was good for the leadership to also emphasize that they haven't talked about everything or decided where we will stand as a church (on form issues, not doctrine). We talked a lot about love and grace and how those must trump differences in style and grey issues that will often arise. I feel like it was another time for us to grow as a body as we wrestled together with what it means to be a church and how that is practically played out. It could have gotten messy, but pastor Edgar did a fantastic job of reminding people that above all, we are called to love each other. And I think it made people feel like they really are important in the process. We've been told how much we will be missed in the time we are away. It is good to hear and good that we will miss them too. We're at such a tender age right now as a church- I can't wait to see where we are when we come back.

Heatlh update

Well, praise God, Scotty remains well and has not yet caught the monster cold that is going around. Natty seems to be mostly better, other than a nasty cough, but has retained a mostly fussy attitude, which I'm hoping is related to teething and doesn't mean she still has something that needs to be looked into. Poor thing eats like a mouse- good thing she has some reserves in her chunky thighs. I am finally on the mend, after seeing a doctor yesterday who prescribed some stuff for the congestion and some drops for a minor ear infection. I spent most of yesterday sleeping while Scotty took care of Natty, neglecting a whole lot of other things he's got going on right now...what a great husband! My Bolivian friend, Ericka, came over today to visit and made some chicken soup for us. Then Faith sent over some soup with Greg- so I'm good for the next few days. I can't even tell you what Scotty has been eating while I've been bed/couch bound. Did get in a good read by Chinua Achebe: "Things Fall Apart". Very interesting and simply written look into Nigerian culture. I appreciate all the well-wishing and prayers. God is always good and takes care of His children.

One more thing. This is a funny glimpse into how life changes once you have a baby...I know you know what I'm talking about.

Overheard (in baby monitor)
Scotty changing Natty's diaper

Scotty: "Good job Bo-D (don't ask about the nick-name, I have no idea)!

Natty: "Ma."

Scotty: "You're a rock star...a pooping rock-star...you're a poop-star!"

Yes, we might need to get out more.

Uuuuugh....

There will be no pictures today. There's nothing cute happening at our house this week. Natty and I have decided to have our first mother-daugther bonding time (besides the whole birth/breastfeeding/raising time, etc...)- we have the flu. I'm a couple days behind Natty, so I get to watch her to see what's in store for me. She's held on to a particularly nasty strain for a whole week now- most of that week with a low grade fever and lots of crying/whining. I, being an adult and very healthy, figured that this would not be an issue for me. Oh- was I wrong! My body also is not letting go of this one, or it's not letting go of me, and every day seems to make me feel a little more awful...I wasn't sure that could happen. So, that's been our week. A couple times, I've felt up for leaving the house and thought maybe a distraction would be good for Natty so we went to the park and into town once for sherbet. Bad idea. There was lots of crying and a few quizzical/judgmental looks thrown our way. I did have a melt-down yesterday after going into town, feeling not so hot, but determined to have my gyro and sherbet. Natty fussed as soon as we got her out, I lost something in the car, Natty cried through the gyros (which I couldn't really taste but left a nice, gritty film on the roof of my mouth), and then couldn't find my sunglasses upon leaving. Needless to say, we skipped the ice cream and drove directly home, Natty crying just for a minute before falling asleep, and me crying for a good while after that. Well, I suppose that is enough complaining for one blog. I did listen to an excellent sermon from John Piper this morning about John 3:16. He unpacks this well-known verse into the 7 most profound, important, life-changing truths you will ever hear or hope to understand. It was effective in making me see how petty my little sickness is and how great is the God who raised me from death to life through Jesus Christ.

And now, I shall put the egg casserole in the oven that Scotty prepared last night in honor of Mother's Day. This was a big deal for him, as cooking is #567 on his list of favorite things to do. May the Lord sustain us as mothers and bless us today as we celebrate the gift of our children!

Little. Yellow. Different.

So, Nattybear is fighting a nasty cold this week, so I'm inside a lot. Therefore, I decided to wander around the house while she was napping to capture a few, everyday things we live with that are different from the US. Not better or worse- just different.


There's no such thing as central heating and air in the homes or buildings of La Paz. 12,000 ft. can mean warm, if you are outside in the intense sun, or cold, if you are inside- at almost any part of the year. Now that it is coming on winter here, it is COLD inside. We cart this puppy around- a gas heater with wheels that warms up a room in no time. It's a must for heating up the kitchen for breakfast, Natty's bathtime, and sometimes even the bathroom when you don't want to come out of a warm shower into a frigid bathroom.

Bolivian builders are less than creative when it comes to light. The majority don't figure into the equation how lighting will affect a room and most rooms sport the classic lightbulb-hanging-from-a-wire look. Thankfully, our landlord has an artistic side and most of our other fixtures have nice iron work of some kind.

Hot and cold water coming from the tap is extremely uncommon (which, paired with the chilly temps of the city, makes for constantly icy fingers). But, if you have a magic box like we do, you can get hot water from the tap AND the shower. The other alternative is what is affectionately called the "widow maker"- an electric device that is wired to the spout where the water comes out in your shower. DON'T TOUCH. This is an electric water heater and I love it.

Dish washers are pretty much unheard of. I don't mind hand-washing, especially since we have the electric water heater.

There are no electric stoves/ovens, that I'm aware of. Gas is nice and heats up quickly.

They do exist, but we don't have gas lines that come from a gas source directly into the house. Most people don't. So, we (meaning Scotty) lugs a very heavy gas tank to and fro the shop down the street or from gas trucks that drive by to replace your empty containers. I'm afraid to change the tank on the stove because I'm convinced I will do something wrong and blow up the house. It's not out of the realm of possibility.

Drinking tap water is a "no-no". Here is our beautiful water filter that actually says "Stefi" on the side. I guess that's her name.


We drink milk from liter bags. No milk jugs here. Sometimes they spring leaks on the way home from the grocery store and you don't realize it until you start unpacking milky food products.

Fruit and veggies must be soaked in disinfectant for a few mins before eaten. It's even advisable to soak your eggs cause they come in the nice, little egg cartons with bits of poop still stuck to them. Don't want to crack that into your frying pan!

Yogurt is sold in liter bottles and labeled "Ready to Drink". That's right- we don't want any rich, creamy yogurt with big fruit chunks...right? This stuff is drunk (drunken?) from a glass.

220, not 110. Too bad we've blown stereo equipment, coffee grinder, telephone, Vonage system, and various other things forgetting that fact.

Hence- there are many converters littered around the house. This one is very important- for our imported coffee grinder and crock pot.

Bath tubs aren't so common- standing showers are. I haven't taken a bath in at least a year (but lots of showers, don't worry).

Plumbing is not up to the standard necessary to flush your toilet paper. So, you put it in the trash can...I know, a little yucky. It also messes with your mind when travelling to and from the US.

Whirwind weekend

Frisbee... grocery shopping... cooking... cleaning... Bible study... friend's house... sleepover in the living room... church... friends for lunch... picking up furniture... sick baby. It was a full two days! The party in Mallasilla seemed to continue picking up speed and volume until it reached a crescendo Saturday afternoon. We had been invited mid-day on Saturday to visit some friends we haven't spent time with in a while and right before our weekly Bible study, we decided to invite ourselves to stay the night in their living room to avoid the drunken mayhem. It's Mallasilla's official birthday on Labor Day and one family each year throws a party for neighbors far and wide. What this includes, explained to us by our Bolivian friends, is spending tens of thousands of dollars on tents, sound equipment, and beer. Lots of beer. The families that participate in hosting these parties are the lower class and they are asked by the previous year's host, only to be completely rejected from the community if they are to say "no". No one says "no". Aymara are very communal and relational- there is no such thing as the individual, so to be rejected is basically the end of your life as you know it. So, what we know of construction workers, which would be a typical job for one of these men, we figured a yearly salary of less than $4,000. $4,000 yearly income and a 3-day party for $20,000= debt for years to come, or possibly the rest of your life. Besides being horrifically annoyed by the noise, we were extremely saddened to see so many living their lives for a momentary party that brings them acceptance from their neighbors. At one point, sometime late during the night before I had given up and put earplugs in (wanting to be able to hear Natty, who seemed to be waking from the music), I felt like I was in a scene from a movie. You know when someone goes to a fair and they get terribly sick or poisoned and the cameras pan to a close-up of a clown wildly laughing, children screaming with cotton candy in their hands, the merry-go-round whirling out of control- all with blurry, bright lights and blaring carnival music? Are you with me? This is how I felt lying in my dark bedroom- that's how ridiculous it was. So, we made the decision to skip night #3 of that all-inclusive party and work-it camping style on the living room floor of friends. It was SO quiet there.

So, after we had friends over for lunch today, we headed over to the house of a US military family who had offered us some old couches. Since they are moving, they also threw in a couple things they didn't want- a wooden rocking horse from Africa and a great, red kid's bike for Natty! As missionaries, we've learned the best things you can get here are from other missionaries (or foreigners) who are leaving. Natty looks too cute on her rocking horse!

Green pie and other stuff

I'm feeling terribly uninspired lately, which is why you'll note the lack of blogging. So, in order to not expend too much energy trying to summon my writing creativity, I will simply fill you in in list form. Maybe a few pics of Natty will make it better.

1. Can anyone tell me why the sweet potato pie I baked turned green on top the next day. Not just kinda green- GREEN. Thankfully, there was still a third of it that wasn't totally green that I could serve to our neighbors who came over for lunch- they're not so much into Dr. Seuss here.

2. Had the neighbors over for lunch- Edgar, Hortensia, and their 30+ aged kids, Pablo and Sylvia. Good food, loud conversation, family arguments over whether or not technology introduced in Bolivia brought alcoholism. Fun times.

3. Making my own baby food. Natty pretty much puts it all away the same, so I'm not sure what her favorite is. I'm partial to the prune apple oatmeal. She did cry the whole time I fed her carrots today, but she kept opening her mouth for more. She sends some mixed signals during meals. The bottom shelf of the freezer is full of ziplocks with frozen food cubes. It's pretty.

4. Fair amount of hosting going on. I'm starting to wonder if it'll be worth investing in a dish washer down the road. Favorite new salad is chinese cabbage salad- look it up on allrecipes- yum.

5. IBMers seem to be opening up since the retreat. More honesty about what people like, what they dislike, confusions they have, etc. Our small group times tend to be more relaxed with more conversation and more chatting afterward. This is great progress.

6. New family commiting to attend our church. The son says he thinks he's met some real Christians at this church (after attending a handfull of others around town). Awesome.

7. The summer is officially over! This causes even more of an urge to return to the states where people are wearing shorts. It's quite chilly at night and now stays cooler in the house than outside. Natty is getting a chance to wear all those cute jackets and hoodies we've been given (but only in the house- still pleasant in the sun). I really want to keep slippers on her feet to keep them warm, but the only ones I have look like little animals and she constantly pulls them off to taste them.

8. We've got plane tickets home! June 17th-January 8th- woohoo!

IBM Easter camp

So, we were back to the Yungas last weekend for our first camp as a church- for Easter! There was a ton of planning that went into this and a lot of praying that it would be a success. I suppose there are different ways to judge success when thinking of camp. For me, it meant that Natty slept most of the way there and back, that she slept well at camp, that the food cubes I had made to feed her didn't spoil and that she ate well, that she enjoyed the company of 100 different people grabbing, petting, cooing, touching, and holding her off and on throughout the weekend, that the kids program being held in our cabin didn't interrupt the naps, that I had someone to talk to while sitting inside the cabin waiting for her to finish her nap...I'm sure you get the picture. So, for me, it was a great success! The weather was beautiful, I had nice conversations with people who were in and out of the mission's cabin where we were bunked, and Natty was a dream. For other people, especially leadership, we found that there was a lot we would do differently next time. The turnout was amazing and had me continually in awe at how good God was to bring so many people to our church camp. Lots of people invited friends and family, many of whom are not believers. However, there were enough unexpected visitors to warrant smaller portions of food and even one run into town to buy more chickens. We also need to work on delegating more responsibilities, as there were 2 families who did the brunt of the work and really burned themselves out. I'm not taking credit for this, as we were not included in those running themselves into the ground, but for their sake, something needs to change there too. But, overall- the games were tons of fun, people seemed to be getting to know each other better, the messages were great, and I would rate the camp a success. A petty thought came to mind on Easter- outweighed by gratitude for the life I've been given through the death and victory over death by Christ- but it was there nonetheless: Natty celebrated her first Easter without a dress! Or a basket or any of those other things I grew up with. Now, living in Bolivia and potentially participating in camp every Easter in a remote jungly area that is a bit rough, I'm guessing a pretty new dress won't be part of the picture for our daughter. So, that got me thinking about what I would like to see as tradition in our family. I love traditions and I remember looking forward to specific ones when I was little. I want our traditions to first, point the way to Christ, and also be lots of fun. Scotty and I have some thinking to do- what are some of the traditions you guys enjoy at Easter?

Our Natalie

I have to take a moment to brag on our baby. Everyone probably thinks their baby is the best, but I'm pretty sure our little girl is (or as one friend would say, best "on this side of the world"). She has reached this super fun stage where she chats happily in her crib in the early morning when I'm too tired to go in and get her, she smiles for strangers (which was definitely not the case a few weeks ago), she goes to sleep without any coaxing- naps and nighttime, she rarely cries, she loves to play by herself with toys, she's never afraid of dogs- no matter how big or loud they are and she gets a huge smile on her face when she sees me or her daddy. She really is such a joy to be around and is learning new tricks everyday. For example, I heard her whining in her crib just a few minutes ago, which is a bit unusual for her. I went in to check on her and she was lying on her tummy! This might not seem too exciting, but I've been trying to get her to roll from back to tummy for the longest time! Anyway, I could go on and on about our daughter. So, I will just sum it all up by saying she is a precious gift from the Lord and I am awed that He gave us the great responsibility of making her a disciple of Christ and getting to cuddle with her too!

The happy box

Last night we dropped Natalie off downstairs with explicit instructions on what to do and what not to do with her. As soon as we walked in, our landlord, Edgar, says, "I'll put her to bed." I wasn't into that. The point of waiting until 7 to go out to dinner was so that we do Natty's bedtine routine and hope that this would distract and calm her in new, scary surroundings. Then he told us not to worry, if she wakes up, they'll play. No again, I'm afraid. We explained that from this time on, she sleeps- no playing. He seemed a bit disappointed, but we left feeling like we had done our best to explain what she is used to and how to treat her if she were to wake up. And off we went on our first date since Valentine's Day- Scotty's birthday dinner. He had chosen one of his most favorite restaurants, Mi Tierra. It's Brazilian style, which means an endless supply of meat. And we're not talking chicken (unless you count the hearts), this is beef, pork, lamb. They bring around different cuts on skewers and you can accept or decline (I find declining hard cause they sometimes seem to take it personally). And then there's a large salad bar with veggies and various fried things that go well with red meat, and a dessert bar. You can see where this is going. Overindulging and very full bellies at the end. But, we had such a nice time catching up after a busy week and celebrating the life of a wonderful man. And then, the grand finale- the happy box. Scotty had to run out of the restaurant when we first got there and I informed a waiter it was my husband's birthday tomorrow. He said they play the "Happy Birthday" music and do a "happy box", whatever that is. I said that sounds great and he said they'd be happy to do that tomorrow for my husband. I was a bit confused at first and then explained that the man I was there with was my husband and I was hoping they could do it tonight...he readily agreed. So, as we sat down with our plates of rice pudding and crepes, the wonderful latin version of "Happy Birthday" came over the speakers and out came the waiters with a plate that had a little box made out of flat, square pieces of chocolate, filled with whipped cream and "Felicidades Scotty" nicely written in strawberry gel- a happy box! When we got back home, we found Natty asleep, after having been taken out, walked around and put back to bed in a lit room on a bed, watching soccer....mmmmm, I won't bother typing how I felt about that. But, I was thankful for neighbors we can trust and a good relationship with them.

After a busy morning, Scotty and I headed back into town for a small office party in his honor. One of our favorite traditions here is how everyone takes their turn during a birthday party to share what they love, admire, and appreciate in the birthday person. It was neat to hear Scotty's office co-workers and friends all agree that one thing they see consistently in him is a passion for Christ and the Word. I've thanked God many times for a husband that can explain Biblical ideas to me and to other people as well as a man who has a gift of faith and loves to grow in his love and understanding of the Lord. Scotty is a patient, fun, loving, affectionate, compassionate, generous, intellegent, friendly husband, father and friend- how grateful I am for the privilege of being his wife.

All-American morning

Scotty and Natty reading her Spanish Bible.

We found out recently that every Saturday morning at the American School, there is an English speaking group that comes out to play frisbee. The American school has a gorgeous campus, nicer than any I've seen in the states and is the educational institution of choice for embassy families and upper class Bolivians. Scotty goes every Tuesday night to play basketball in their top notch gym. If we get ourselves organized enough, we can get the other things done we need to before or after and enjoy a couple hours of playing frisbee with other foreigners. This morning, I set Natty up on a blanket in the grass, by herself, surrounded by toys, and far away from the action. She probably sat alone for close to an hour total without complaining once. She even fell over a couple of times and didn't seem to mind. That gave me time to play or chat with friends.

Mommy and Natty on the swings while Daddy plays Frisbee.

Unfortunately, I didn't get a shot of the action, but there had to be at least 20 of us this morning- it was great and Scotty was in his element. After frisbee, I had a hankerin' for a burger and fries. There is no where you can go for a decent hamburger and fries that is quick (so Natty could go home and nap), except Burger King. Now, I used to go off and on to Burger King in Cochabamba because the youth I worked with always wanted to go. Scotty, however, has managed to live in Bolivia for close to 5 years and has never eaten there. He has nothing against the establishment, just kinda had the bragging rights to say he'd never been there. We gave in today, also realizing that once kids come into the picture, there will be all kinds of fast foody type places we will probably go because they have playgrounds. So, it was fast and it was good. And, it was the first burger and fries I can remember having in half a year. So, for a few minutes, sitting in our kitchen with a brown BK bag in front of us, we felt a little like we were in the US. Now, we're getting ready for an all-Bolivian night. Bible study at 4 and church set-up after. It's nice to have the chance to do a bit of both.

Have it your way (is that the right slogan?).

Scotty & Lisa's March Update from Bolivia

It's our privilege to share with you what we continue to be involved in here, as well as invite you to look forward to some future events with us! As always, we'd love to hear back from you!

Carnaval Barbeque

February is the month of Carnaval- the time of age-old customs that began before the Spanish conquest and center around giving thanks to the Pachamama (earth-goddess) and warding off evil spirits by throwing water. Beliefs vary widely these days, but water-play is still a must and young people will drag it out as long as possible- lining the streets to throw water balloons at each other for the whole month, and closing down everything for the state holidays to splash, soak, foam, and generally have a raucous time. Not wanting to miss the chance to spend free days with our small group, we planned a barbeque for Saturday and were thankful to see the sun shining as we got ready for a fun afternoon. Everyone from the group came, plus the Hursts, pastor Edgar and his younger son, as well as a few extended family members. We grilled, we ate, we chatted, we played with water, we tried to convince Natty she could, indeed, sleep in an unknown place, we chatted some more, we soaked up sun, we relaxed. Although we had to go home early to get Natty to bed, we heard that most stuck around until late, enjoying each other and getting each other pumped up to attend the IBM first annual retreat in April. When the leadership team had asked key members of the congregation about their commitment to attending the retreat, the answers were doubtful at best. But God must have worked in the hearts of many, because we are now expecting a good number! Our hope is to present the vision for this year as a church body, as well as encourage and enable people to become more involved in church service. We'll head down to the camp in the mountainous jungle region called the Yungas to celebrate Easter together for this retreat.

A Home of our Own

Picture with us a modest, inviting home on a hill overlooking our side of Mallasilla and the mountains surrounding this community. A big, green lawn is full of fruit trees and kids playing soccer in the sunshine, while Scotty and the men grill steaks for a few families that have come over after church. I'm inside with the ladies, talking about what each of us learned from the sermon and preparing salad. Ok, maybe it sounds a little dreamy, but this is what we envision as we look out our windows at our property, one block away. Our hearts are filled with the desire to use this gift for God's glory, as a place where friends and neighbors can come and be encouraged, challenged, and prayed for. Building our home is not in the very near future, as we are waiting on the Lord for the funds to do it, but even now we are asking for wisdom to know how to build it, with what architect, and when. We'd like to invite anyone who can get excited about this project to contact us if you'd like to contribute in some way to making this dream a reality, from outright contributions to our SIM personal fund (not tax-deductible) to a no-interest loan, or being part of a work team to come and actually work on our house in the construction phase.

Home Assignment (what used to be called furlough)

We're coming home! Even as I type "home", I realize that we have two homes. It will be mentally and emotionally hard to tear ourselves away from our lives here in La Paz- to realize that we will be missing what God does in our church in the next 6 months and in the lives of our friends. We will be away for Natalie's first birthday, a date that is very important in Bolivian families and a time of great celebration for all who know the child. But, we also long to be with you, to catch up after more than 2½ years away, to know the particulars of what you have experienced in this time and for us to mutually encourage each other. We wanted to share with you our hopes for these 6 months in the states and also let you know of some great needs we have. Flying back in mid-June, we'll spend our summer in Florida with Lisa's family, while taking trips to Minneapolis, to Scotty's family in Tennessee, and a great sweep of the Midwest to visit supporters and churches in a handful of states. In the fall, Scotty will enroll in two classes at Gordon Conwell Theological Seminary in Charlotte, NC to continue working toward a Masters' degree in Christian Thought, while we have some time to live in community with a supporting church there where we spent our first year as a married couple. We'll stick around to celebrate the holidays and plan on returning to La Paz at the beginning of 2010. While in Charlotte, we'll need a vehicle and an empty home or apartment, or a place to rent for our home base. There will probably be a significant list of baby items that will be needed as well, so contact us if you are willing to help in any of these ways. As much of a temptation as it is to worry about these big details working out, we know and constantly experience the rich provision of our Lord, and trust Him.

Praises

Natalie is healthy and right on schedule developmentally. She continues to bring smiles and coos from perfect strangers around the neighborhood- opening doors for us.

Although there is a recession raging in the US and globally, God has greatly and faithfully provided for our needs through our supporters.

Our landlord, Edgar, has been asking Scotty more and more questions about God and the Bible.

Prayer Requests

We intended to obtain our permanent visas before leaving because we cannot be out of the country for more than 3 months without losing our current status (2 year visas). We've recently found out that is not possible, but will apply for special permission to be away without having to start from scratch upon our return to Bolivia.

That Lisa will be able to balance new challenges and needs of Natalie with ministry time. For Scotty's ongoing desire to prioritize the many responsibilities he has with the church, school and family.

That we will be able to prepare others to fill in our gaps during the 6 months we will be out of the country.

Especially for our church's retreat over Easter weekend as we share the vision for ministry and invite the members to participate more fully.

Thank You
We truly could not be here without you. Your prayer and financial support are our life-line, making it possible for us to live and minister here among Bolivians. We are eager to see you while we are on Home Assignment in a few short months!

Contact Information
Our permanent email address is scottynlisa@gmail.com
Our mailing address is Bolivia: Casilla 3-12052, La Paz, Bolivia, S. America

P.S. Please join our Support Team!
God has graciously provided for all of our needs through your generous support ever since we (separately) hit Bolivian soil in 2003. Now, with a new fiscal year and little Natalie having joined Team Miser, we need to boost our support level with SIM. If you would be interested in joining our support team, please contact us or you can begin giving here!

Day of the baby

This morning we chose to have Natalie's dedication- something we've been wanting to do for a long time, but finally put on the books before she outgrew the dress we wanted to put her in for the event! I have talked to other moms about what it means to dedicate your baby to the Lord and I wanted it to be something more than just a milestone or common occurence. It was special for us to stand before our IBM family in the country of Natty's birth and commit to living godly lives before her, teaching her the Word and of Christ's love for her, and asking the church family to hold us accountable to this. It also meant for me a giving over of her life (not that it was ever in my hands) to the Lord and submit to His plans for her, whatever they may be. This will be a daily discipline for me, as I know times will come and have already come where I don't want to let her go and let the Lord have control. And yet, He loves her so much greater than I can and knows her needs so much better than me. So, Edgar read some scripture on the importance of raising a child in the ways of the Lord, prayed for her, asked a blessing for her life and for ours. He handed us a sweet certificate with her name on it and a children's Bible with a note he had written inside. It was a neat time to be congratulated by our church family with lots of hugs and kisses for us and Natty.

Natty always falls asleep on the 5 min. ride home- she looked so cute half-asleep on my shoulder!

This afternoon, we heard the twins downstairs- the grandkids of our landlords. Two boys who were born three weeks before Natty, who are being watched by their grandparents this weekend while their parents move to a new house. We decided it would be a great time to go down and play with them, also realizing it was a perfect opportunity to spend more time with our neighbors, whom we've felt convicted about reaching out to lately. We had a blast watching the three together, comparing size, eating styles, nap schedules, physical advancements, etc... We will definitely go play more with Edgar and David- cute boys!

Oh, what a night!

So, I love Bolivia and never want to complain about the life that God has called us to here...But, sometimes I wish there were noise ordinances. Take, for exanple, the dude that opened a metal working shop at the end of the street- that clanging is not so bad unless your very tired baby is trying to take a nap, is bleary-eyed and crying, but is having a hard time because of hearing metal against metal like it's outside her bedroom window (oh, right- it is!). Or, the amazing parties that are thrown in the center or town (remember how small our town is) like the one last night where we could hear horns and drums in the distance starting around dinnertime. That wasn't so bad until the party decided to follow the asphalt and see where they ended up- only a loop, of sorts, is paved in Mallasilla. Of course, they end up in a perfect spot to continue their fiesta- on top of the hill at the Catholic church which is directly across from our bedroom window. The ladies were spinning, the men were marching and leading their women onward, the horns were blowing, the drums were thumping- it was oh, so much fun at 11:30pm. Then, just as we had resigned ourselves to living within the party for a few hours and covering our heads with our pillows, we heard some snapping noises and Scotty looked over to see our small transformer on fire. Now, I'm not sure if you've ever smelled an electrical fire...we have somehow managed to blow 3 transformers in the most spectactular ways- with sparks and flames. It's not a good smell. It starts sweet and lures you into believing it won't be that bad. Then it quickly begins to consume the room with acrid, sting-your-throat smoke that is absolutely impossible to withstand. So, around midnight we're throwing open the windows (getting a great view of the parade on the hill- very impressive for a cold, rainy night), grabbing a few things and shutting the smoke into our bedroom. Thank God we have a queen sized guest bed. The guest room becomes home for the night. This was all topped off by the frequent crying episodes that Natalie has engaged in for the last week- I ended up feeding her twice last night, which I haven't done since she was a few months old. I'm not sure if she's going through a growth spurt or I just thought that would be an easy way to get her back to sleep- I know, I caved! Anyway, it's raining this morning, which is a blessing because this rainy season has been dry and they've threatened water rations. Natty is "chatting" in her crib, we have water (which we were told we'd be without for 3 days), and we get to worship with our beautiful Bolivian family this morning at IBM. God is always good.

These are a few of my favorite things

I asked Scotty if he would bake me a cake for my birthday if I were to find a box mix and icing. He agreed and the hunt began for the perfect combo. Growing up, and to this day, my favorite cake (and probably dessert) is a yellow cake mix with chocolate frosting. I'm pretty sure my mom made it for me every year. So, this was my goal for this year. If I were more organized, I would have picked up these items when I saw them in the store and put them away for this special occasion. But, I'm not. So, I started to look a couple days ago and it seemed that all the stores were getting was funfetti cakes and lemon icing-hmmmm, this does not measure up. Third time's a charm, they say. In my third attempt at the Achumani market (known for a variety of good imports), I came across vanilla cake and chocolate buttercream frosting- close enough! I had also picked up an envelope of blueberry muffin mix a few weeks ago and find that it will make a perfect addition to my breakfast/dinner tonight. My favorite birthday dinner was always smoked sausage, mac n cheese, and blueberry muffins (healthy, right?). Well, at least I have the muffin part. I've been wondering who the lucky party was that would share in the cake extravaganza, as it would not be prudent to consume the whole thing myself, as much as I would like to. I've decided, upon much contemplation, that our Saturday small group will be the ones to celebrate with me. They always look forward to the snacks I make for group and it will be a good way to share in my special day, even if it is a day late.

Wednesday nights

I can't resist adding a ridiculously cute picture of Natalie.

Every other Wednesday night Scotty has a men's book study at 8pm. It's a nice excuse to relax and go to bed early. I will be going to bed extra-early tonight, as Natalie kept me on my toes late last night when I should have been visiting Mr. Sandman (does anyone else picture that scene from Back to the Future where "Mr. Sandman" is playing in the background?). Anyway, I love the quietness of Wednesday night. I love knowing my husband is meeting with other men who all want to challenge themselves to live more radically sold-out lives for Christ. I love that my baby has been in bed for an hour and a half and I had a relaxing dinner with my husband. I love that I just had a bowl of vanilla ice cream with chocolate ribbons. I love catching up on friends' blogs. I also usually spend some time before going to bed praying for friends- the sweet, Bolivian women and families in my life, missionary friends, others going through hard times. I am reminded again of how blessed my life is, how amazingly wonderful and adorable my baby is, how grateful I am that God has chosen to shower down goodness on my family. The beginning of my week is usually slow and gradually builds in intensity. This week is no exception. Tomorrow I must run several errands that will take up the majority of Natalie's "awake" time. Friday is my birthday, beginning with SIM team meeting and ending with a "Grease" themed birthday party. One of my good Bolivian friends is also having a scheduled C-section that day- the birth of Natalie's future husband. :) Saturday is Bible study and prep for Sunday. Sunday is church and then an all day church leadership lunch/hang-out time/prayer time at our pastor's house. So, tonight I rest. If I had a bathtub, you know where I'd be.

4 a.m.

Natalie: Waaaaa!

Me: Could this be the 16th time she's cried tonight? (obviously overexaggerating in my tired state)

Natalie: Waaaa!

Me: Scotty? Are you going to go?

Scotty: Should I bring her in here so we can question her?

Me: What?? (Did my husband just suggest that we interrogate our daughter?)

Scotty: Should I just put her paci in?

Me: (Wondering if I awoke him from a dream) Yes.

Thanks for all the encouragement after the last post. The week was full and challenging and I think I cried more when Natalie got her vaccinations than she did. But, God's grace is sufficient and either she is having a better week, or I am accepting that she is going through a more difficult time right now. I think she's teething, poor thing. We're gonna start cereal when we get back from our retreat this weekend, which I'm pretty excited about. Still trying to figure out how I can squeeze one more breastfeeding into the daytime so that maybe she won't need to get up at night. Not too worried about that, as I've found that pushing her to do something she's not ready for is more trouble than it's worth. I love my daughter.

thoughts

I find it hard to blog these days. Not because I have no time, but I can't seem to put two interesting thoughts together... However, I'm home alone tonight, with Scotty leading the men's Bible study and Natty sleeping away in her crib. It's dark and quiet, the cats are fed and happy, it's too early to go to bed (if there is such a thing as too early). I should start our next prayer letter, but I'm not feeling inspired. However, I just walked out of the computer room to make some tea and had this sense of longing to see my little girl. I didn't dare open the bedroom door cause it is poorly constructed and very hard to latch closed without making a considerable amount of noise. So, I just thought about her cute, little, round face and how I miss her smiles. She's had a few tough days= I've had a few tough days. Coming back from Cochabamba last week meant trying to get Natty back into a normal routine. She started waking up several times in the night, crying for us to put her paci back in...this sounds like a sleep association to me. So, I get the hairbrained idea that we should try to introduce new sleep associations (a "lovey", music, finger sucking, etc...) and maybe wean her from the paci at the same time. Well, our baby is still swaddled cause she wreaks all kinds of havoc when her arms are free and she seems to highly dislike the feeling of loose limbs. So, we've had a few full-blown melt-downs while Mom tries to implement these new ideas and a couple shortened naps for other reasons, leading to much crying. I gave our downstairs neighbor a ride into town today and he said, "You're little girl is quite a little cry baby, huh?". Well, no...she didn't used to be. Anyway, all this to say that I have been frustrated and sad that she is sad. Scotty prayed for joy tonight at dinner, that Christ would be our joy. Between my baby issues and his overly busy schedule, I think we are leaning toward the not-so-joyful side. It's easy to get distracted by life and forget the One who gives true life, and joy. These challenging circumstances should serve to bring us closer to our Lord, our Father who cares for us and knows our needs. And yet, I pick up Super Baby Food instead of the Bible, and don't move any closer to laying my burdens on Him. I told Scotty I'd start our prayer letter tonight, but I think I'm going to go have some coversation with my good God.