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One Week Ago Today

This morning came early. Up, showered, and going before the school bell. Still have not needed an alarm clock.We had a late breakfast this morning. We all were up doing things, and I don't think anyone even thought about breakfast. But we had a good breakfast of oatmeal with cinnamon apples. We had a guest, too (http://soylori.blogspot.com).

After breakfast Jose dropped by and told me that Jorge Rodriguez (the preacher from Ocotepeque) had come to meet with him this morning. A little while later, we got together and discussed plans, activities, and goals for the La Palma and Ocotepeque congregations. I am even more excited about what we can do together than I was after Jose and I met yesterday. They have some great ideas, and I've shared some ideas with them. We hadn't really planned a meeting, but it went very well. We decided we need to have a more formal meeting when we can include Jesus (pronounced Hay-soos; the preacher at San Ignacio) and Marvin (another preacher living in San Ignacio). With God's help and guidance we have the opportunity to do great things as a united team.

Wednesday nights, the La Palma congregation does not meet at the building. They instead rotate who will host it in their own homes. Tonight's was at a sister's house who is about a 1 hour bus ride AND a 1 hour walk away. As we are not quite up to that we did not join them. Marvin coordinates these meetings so Jose was also free this evening. Since today was his wife's 25th  birthday (and their first birthday as a married couple), he wanted to surprise her with her first ever surprise party. So the Americans (as we are being called, which includes the Lalli 4 and Teresa) went to his house around 5:15. He let us in and then left to go escort Norma home from her day of teaching at the school. It was a good time (and good cake): http://ruthinlapalma.blogspot.com.

One week ago today we left the U.S. We have started to settle in, but I think we are still some time away from being in a normal routine. We are beginning to see how we will fit in to the work and plans of the local ministers, and I am beginning to feel the excitement that comes with a clear vision and a path to execution. As one of the preachers said today, "We have problems, but so does everyone." With God's help and His Spirit's guidance, we will solve, work through, or work in spite of the problems we encounter and still accomplish His will. Keep praying for our success.

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