It`s time to leave Pucallpa. We`ve had breakfast and celebrated Joe`s birthday. We had a wonderful cake made with jello. It´s about 11:30 am and we are leaving the hotel at 12:30. Our flight to Lima, Peru leaves at 2:30. Once we arrive in Lima, we have an extremely long lay-over. Our flight to Atlanta doesn´t leave until 1:30 am on Thursday. I`m hoping to sleep most of the time during our 7 hour flight.
I want to thank everyone at home for their prayers. We really experienced God in a practical way. We saw a lot of things and through his guidance we were able to help a lot of people. Our mission on this trip was to touch the lives of those in need. We definitely saw many who were starving for assistance. Whether it was extracting a tooth or giving antibiotic for an open wound, the people experienced the helping hand of the Lord.
As someone mentioned in devotions this week, our mission should not change when we return. We should be a shining light to as many people back home. There are many living in a world of darkness, whether it`s drugs, loneliness, depression, hunger, ...
Wednesday, February 24, 2010
Tuesday, February 23, 2010
Back From Boat Trip Down Rio Ucayali
We had a great time today. Took 1.5 hour boat trip to a restaurant this afternoon along the river and then returned. After eating lunch, we took another boat to visit a small zoo about 15 minutes away. Morgan and a few others held an anaconda. It was approximately 18 feet long and weighed about 150 pounds. They charged 10 soles (approx. $3.33). Morgan seemed to struggle to hold such a large snake. She seemed a little anxious throughout the whole experience (maybe that´s why I didn´t hold it).
Boat Down Rio Ucayali
We just had breakfast at the hotel and we are getting ready to take a trip down the Rio Ucayali. It sounds like its going to be a great adventure. Others have taken the trip and they said it was awesome. They had an opportunity to see sloths along the riverbank and anacondas at a "zoo" they visited. Scott, a leader of this trip, said we will have a chance to hold one while we are there. I'm not sure if I can build up enough courage to participate. I'll wait and see. I've already tried a lot of things on this trip. I've suprised myself!
Monday, February 22, 2010
Baptism in the Ucalyali River
After our last day at the medical clinic, we drove to the Ucayali River which is a tributary of the Amazon River. We were able to participate in a baptismal service. Morgan, Joe, and I took part in an awesome experience. Participating with everyone, especially my daughter, made it even more special. There were about 12 of us that were baptized.
Saturday, February 20, 2010
Days 8 & 9
These two days we spent in Neshuya which is approximately 1 hr. and 20 minutes from our hotel. We had a father, daughter, and son visit us after traveling for most of the day. They live deep in the jungle and was unable to get to us the day before because of flooding. They came in desperate need of immediate medical attention. The daughter had been bitten by something (not known) while working the fields with her dad. Infection had set in and tremendous amounts of inflammation was evident. The infection was going up her leg. The doctors gave her antibiotics and asked her to come back tomorrow.
Her brother´s eye was swollen shut. He had an infection too. I´m not sure if it was from a bite or not. It was spreading to his other eye. He was also given antibiotics. His swelling was going down before he left.
Each of these kids came to us without shoes. I can´t imagine not being able to buy my kids shoes. They work the fields each day, taking a risk of bites. I could sense the pain in their eyes and their father´s eyes. Before leaving we bought boots for each of them. They were very greatful.
Unfortunately the family did not come back the next day. I pray that everything will work out for them.
Her brother´s eye was swollen shut. He had an infection too. I´m not sure if it was from a bite or not. It was spreading to his other eye. He was also given antibiotics. His swelling was going down before he left.
Each of these kids came to us without shoes. I can´t imagine not being able to buy my kids shoes. They work the fields each day, taking a risk of bites. I could sense the pain in their eyes and their father´s eyes. Before leaving we bought boots for each of them. They were very greatful.
Unfortunately the family did not come back the next day. I pray that everything will work out for them.
Thursday, February 18, 2010
Days 7 & 8
We visited Campo Verde the last two days. We had to take a bus to this location. It took us about an hour to get there. I have found that as we get further from the city of Pucallpa, the way of life is more primitive. Many houses with leaf-type materials on their roof tops. This seems to work well for protection again rain and sun. We took a main highway out of Pucallpa. Many trucks, motorcycle buggies, and cars traveled along this somewhat busy highway. We were able to see more coconut trees and forest during our journey.
The first day there were not many people at the facility when we arrived. John and I were limited to extractions because the generator (which is 110) was not able to work. The facility runs on 220 and the generator kept stopping after a couple of minutes. This happened the second day too. Many needed fillings, but we were unable to do those. The second day we arrived, the place was filled with adults and children. As we drove in, they began to rush in line in order to get a number. Each day the doctors and nurses are seeing over a hundred people. John and I saw approximately 35 - 40 patients. It takes a little longer for us because after each patient we need to sterilize the tray, change gloves, and get new instruments depending on what is needed for the procedures.
The Impact Team is doing puppet shows with them everyday which emphasizes the salvation message. They are doing an awesome job with the kids. They are playing soccer, using the parachute, and playing jump rope games.
It has been very hot. Please continue to pray for our safety and the HEAT. We are staying focus on our mission in Peru. We want to continue to show these people how much we care and how much the Lord loves them.
The first day there were not many people at the facility when we arrived. John and I were limited to extractions because the generator (which is 110) was not able to work. The facility runs on 220 and the generator kept stopping after a couple of minutes. This happened the second day too. Many needed fillings, but we were unable to do those. The second day we arrived, the place was filled with adults and children. As we drove in, they began to rush in line in order to get a number. Each day the doctors and nurses are seeing over a hundred people. John and I saw approximately 35 - 40 patients. It takes a little longer for us because after each patient we need to sterilize the tray, change gloves, and get new instruments depending on what is needed for the procedures.
The Impact Team is doing puppet shows with them everyday which emphasizes the salvation message. They are doing an awesome job with the kids. They are playing soccer, using the parachute, and playing jump rope games.
It has been very hot. Please continue to pray for our safety and the HEAT. We are staying focus on our mission in Peru. We want to continue to show these people how much we care and how much the Lord loves them.
Answers To Jeri´s Questions
1. What is Morgan eating? She is eating a lot of french fries and pizza. She doesn´t like the chicken. They usually have eggs, bread, juice in the morning. Someone sat out peanut butter and she ate that. For lunch some of the others make sandwiches (she doesn´t eat the meat). They had peanut butter for us. They also brought some snacks (like chips, cookies,...). She also snacks on some of the things we brought.
2. Have you seen any wild animals other than the monkey? We took a tour tonight by the river and we saw a small zoo. There were tucans, monkeys, parrots, various types of rodents,...
3. Is Morgan playing any volleyball? She plays soccer with the boys. She has been helping in the medical clinic the last two days.
4. Are your head and face burning or have you still been inside the entire time? I have not got very much sun because I´ve been inside the classrooms at the schools that we´ve visited.
5. Does Morgan look Peruvian yet? Morgan is getting a lot of sun (getting darker). I believe too much the first few days. She was not feeling well, but better now.
6. Tell us about the group from California. They are very nice. They have two nurses and a doctor. Another lady is a pastor. They brought their kids along too.
7. how many goals did she score? I have not been able to watch her outside, but the kids are very good.
8. is the peru kids brown or white? Most have a darker complection, with darker hair.
9. are the kids nice? They are very nice. They also help me with my limited Spanish speaking ability.
10. are they good at sports? The girls are very good at volleyball and the boys are very good at soccer.
11. is morgan good at volleyball I haven´t seen her play much volleyball.
2. Have you seen any wild animals other than the monkey? We took a tour tonight by the river and we saw a small zoo. There were tucans, monkeys, parrots, various types of rodents,...
3. Is Morgan playing any volleyball? She plays soccer with the boys. She has been helping in the medical clinic the last two days.
4. Are your head and face burning or have you still been inside the entire time? I have not got very much sun because I´ve been inside the classrooms at the schools that we´ve visited.
5. Does Morgan look Peruvian yet? Morgan is getting a lot of sun (getting darker). I believe too much the first few days. She was not feeling well, but better now.
6. Tell us about the group from California. They are very nice. They have two nurses and a doctor. Another lady is a pastor. They brought their kids along too.
7. how many goals did she score? I have not been able to watch her outside, but the kids are very good.
8. is the peru kids brown or white? Most have a darker complection, with darker hair.
9. are the kids nice? They are very nice. They also help me with my limited Spanish speaking ability.
10. are they good at sports? The girls are very good at volleyball and the boys are very good at soccer.
11. is morgan good at volleyball I haven´t seen her play much volleyball.
Jeri
I just saw the questions that you posted. I will try to get to those tonight. Tell Evan GREAT JOB! Tell Britton that we have a monkey that plays around on the roof when we eat breakfast. We will get a picture of it. I don´t think they would let me take it through customs. I miss you a lot. I wish you could be here. Morgan doesn´t think you would like doing what we are doing. We will let you try it next time if you want. Love you!!!
Answer To Nick´s Question
Do the adults seem more leary of the medical care than the kids? What is the split between adults seen and kids seen? The adults do not seem to be as leary of the medical care. Some have seen a dentist before. It might have been when they were younger. They do have a few dentists around the city of Pucallpa, but the cost is a lot for their monthly income.
The younger kids are very apprehensive. They are nervous when they first approach us. Especially when they see us with gloves and masks. Being unsure of what will happen makes it all the worse. Elizabeth, our translator, helps assure them that everything will o.k. Sometimes we have the opportunity to pray with them before the procedure. John tells them what will happen and that they will feel a little pressure or a pinch, but no pain (mucho presseon - a lot of pressure).
We do see more adults than kids. Adults´ages seem to be between 25- 40s. Most of the kids´ages seem to be between 8-15. More toward the 8 yr. old age. The kids´teeth we saw yesterday looked a lot better than the first place we visited. It seems that they do not drink as much pop and milk, especially before bed. We don´t know if its because they can´t afford it or they prefer water instead. A pop in the city of Pucallpa costs me about 1-2 Soles, which is about $.33 (1 Soles) or $.66 (2 Soles).
The younger kids are very apprehensive. They are nervous when they first approach us. Especially when they see us with gloves and masks. Being unsure of what will happen makes it all the worse. Elizabeth, our translator, helps assure them that everything will o.k. Sometimes we have the opportunity to pray with them before the procedure. John tells them what will happen and that they will feel a little pressure or a pinch, but no pain (mucho presseon - a lot of pressure).
We do see more adults than kids. Adults´ages seem to be between 25- 40s. Most of the kids´ages seem to be between 8-15. More toward the 8 yr. old age. The kids´teeth we saw yesterday looked a lot better than the first place we visited. It seems that they do not drink as much pop and milk, especially before bed. We don´t know if its because they can´t afford it or they prefer water instead. A pop in the city of Pucallpa costs me about 1-2 Soles, which is about $.33 (1 Soles) or $.66 (2 Soles).
Wednesday, February 17, 2010
Questions????
Please ask questions in the comment section. I will try to answer all of them as I post each day.
Day 6 Events
We appreciate all of your prayers! We are continuing to do God´s work. He has blessed us in so many ways. We visited Laura Bozo again today. John and I continued to do many of the same procedures - fillings, composites, and extractions. We are helping people of all age groups. Many have never seen a dentist before. We have worked on kids as young as 5 or 6 to those about 60. Elizabeth has done a fabulous job translating for us, but John is pretty good with his Spanish. I have to use my "Spanish For Dummies" book to help me.
During lunch I took a break and played volleyball with a lot of the girls. I was impressed with their unbelievable skills they have with jump serving, spiking, and bumping. Most of them were only 11 or 12. Perfect practice makes perfect execution. They practice a lot throughout the day. The girls play this like the boys play soccer.
In the evening, we went back to Laura Bozo to watch the Jesus Film. The story of the Lord in Spanish. A lot of people came and blessed our time together. Many were led to Christ for the first time. A pastor, from a nearby city in Peru, spoke to the everyone after the film. Even though I couldn´t understand it, I asked Elizabeth after he was finished. He spoke with passion and an obvious heart for Jesus. The people were very attentive. Many raised their hand toward the end of his sermon. I thought these were the people that asked the Lord into their hearts for the first time. I was right. It was awesome! This is one of the places our church is sponsoring.
I also had the opportunity to sit with about 20-25 kids during and after the film. I used my book that my daughter bought for me to help speak to them. I told them as much as I could about Jesus and the film. I´m sure I didn´t get too much across, but at least they heard a little. I had a little girl that helped. She didn´t know much English, but kept it simple for me in Spanish. I found out that they like cheeklay (not sure if its spelled correctly in Spanish). This is gum. They have it here, but it only lasts for a short amount of time. I also shared a little of my candy with them. They LOVED it.
Morgan does an unbelievable job working with the kids. It has been in the 90s with a heat index of over a 100 each day. I watch here playing soccer and other games with them. Nothing slows her down. I´m blessed to have such a wonderful daughter. She definitely has a heart for the Lord.
We are moving on to another location today. I will let you know what its called in my next blog. The Lord continues to work in our lives and I´m excited about a new opportunity to help lead people to our Savior.
During lunch I took a break and played volleyball with a lot of the girls. I was impressed with their unbelievable skills they have with jump serving, spiking, and bumping. Most of them were only 11 or 12. Perfect practice makes perfect execution. They practice a lot throughout the day. The girls play this like the boys play soccer.
In the evening, we went back to Laura Bozo to watch the Jesus Film. The story of the Lord in Spanish. A lot of people came and blessed our time together. Many were led to Christ for the first time. A pastor, from a nearby city in Peru, spoke to the everyone after the film. Even though I couldn´t understand it, I asked Elizabeth after he was finished. He spoke with passion and an obvious heart for Jesus. The people were very attentive. Many raised their hand toward the end of his sermon. I thought these were the people that asked the Lord into their hearts for the first time. I was right. It was awesome! This is one of the places our church is sponsoring.
I also had the opportunity to sit with about 20-25 kids during and after the film. I used my book that my daughter bought for me to help speak to them. I told them as much as I could about Jesus and the film. I´m sure I didn´t get too much across, but at least they heard a little. I had a little girl that helped. She didn´t know much English, but kept it simple for me in Spanish. I found out that they like cheeklay (not sure if its spelled correctly in Spanish). This is gum. They have it here, but it only lasts for a short amount of time. I also shared a little of my candy with them. They LOVED it.
Morgan does an unbelievable job working with the kids. It has been in the 90s with a heat index of over a 100 each day. I watch here playing soccer and other games with them. Nothing slows her down. I´m blessed to have such a wonderful daughter. She definitely has a heart for the Lord.
We are moving on to another location today. I will let you know what its called in my next blog. The Lord continues to work in our lives and I´m excited about a new opportunity to help lead people to our Savior.
Monday, February 15, 2010
Day 5 Events
We visited Laura Bozo today. It took a little longer to get there compared to our other place. The roads were nothing but dirt and rocks. It was VERY bumpy with tremendous amounts of dust flying everywhere. It cost 5 soles, which is a little less than 2 dollars to get there. It cost 5 soles to return too. Many wooden shacks lined the dirt roads as we ventured to a nearby school to set up for another day of God´s work. Dogs seem to be everywhere too. Many people were sweeping their front porch area. A lot of dirt needs to be pushed to the street as it accumulates throughout the day. We have not received any rain since we have been here. Some kids walked around with bare feet . Kids are not in school at this time. They don´t return until March. It is their summer break. This section of Pucallpa definitely has low income families. Worse than our other location visited yesterday. I tried to get a glimpse of their housing as we drove in the motorcycle carriages. I couldn´t see much, but from what I saw it was small and very dirt inside. Another suprising thing is that I have seen little smoking and drinking.
John and I were able to help about 14 people today. One girl touched my heart. She was there because she was having trouble with her tooth. Everytime she would eat or drink, pain would be a major problem for her. She did not come with a parent. She brought her 9 year old sister. I was impressed with her courage and fearless attitude about coming to a clinic and bringing her concern to a group she knew nothing about. I am very thankful for the Lord. I truly believe He brought her to us. Before we started, with the help of Elizabeth, I asked the little girl if I could pray for her. She said "Si", which "Yes". I asked the Lord to give her strength and to comfort her during the procedure that was going to take place. I asked Jesus to lay his hand upon her and to heal her. She had to have an extraction because a cavity was causing problems with a nerve under the tooth. She was brave throughout the whole process. First, I could not believe a parent would allow her/his child to come to a clinic alone. Second, I can´t believe a child would get a procedure done without a parent being present. This is just another example of how our culture is different from their culture.
Tonight we came back to the hotel and had a time for praise and worship. We sang songs and had one of the Extreme leaders share during devotional time. It was a great message about being the light to help shine the way for those who do not believe. He gave us a real match to symbolize our ability to be the light for the world around us. We have the ability to help those who are in a world of darkness. Whether that is sin in their lives or feelings of despair or loneliness. We can help! That is what God created us for.
John and I were able to help about 14 people today. One girl touched my heart. She was there because she was having trouble with her tooth. Everytime she would eat or drink, pain would be a major problem for her. She did not come with a parent. She brought her 9 year old sister. I was impressed with her courage and fearless attitude about coming to a clinic and bringing her concern to a group she knew nothing about. I am very thankful for the Lord. I truly believe He brought her to us. Before we started, with the help of Elizabeth, I asked the little girl if I could pray for her. She said "Si", which "Yes". I asked the Lord to give her strength and to comfort her during the procedure that was going to take place. I asked Jesus to lay his hand upon her and to heal her. She had to have an extraction because a cavity was causing problems with a nerve under the tooth. She was brave throughout the whole process. First, I could not believe a parent would allow her/his child to come to a clinic alone. Second, I can´t believe a child would get a procedure done without a parent being present. This is just another example of how our culture is different from their culture.
Tonight we came back to the hotel and had a time for praise and worship. We sang songs and had one of the Extreme leaders share during devotional time. It was a great message about being the light to help shine the way for those who do not believe. He gave us a real match to symbolize our ability to be the light for the world around us. We have the ability to help those who are in a world of darkness. Whether that is sin in their lives or feelings of despair or loneliness. We can help! That is what God created us for.
How To Add a Comment
If you want to post a comment but firgure you need a blog to do that - never fear! If you have an email account and a spare moment or two, below is one way you can do it. I'm sure there are more, but I don't know them.
1. At the bottom of Bobby's entry, click on "comments". It will have a number in front of it. Here you can read what everyone else is saying, but this is where you need to start to post your own comment.
2. At the bottom of the comments there will be a white box that says "POST A COMMENT". Type your comment in that box. If it is empty, you will not be able to do the next step.
3. Under the white box it says "COMMENT AS". Click the down arrow by that box and choose GOOGLE ACCOUNT.
4. Click either POST A COMMENT or PREVIEW. This will throw you to a new screen. Don't worry, your comment will remain typed and waiting for you. Near the bottom right where it says - Don't have a Google Account? - click on CREATE ACCOUNT NOW (it is in blue). From there, enter the information they ask for (very painless) and follow the prompts. You will be good to go shortly.
Now you are set up to post on this blog, Fly With Me, and Searching 4 The Kingdom. (Anybody else find themselves singing the songs every time you open those other blogs?)
Hope this was helpful. Their posts are our link to Peru, and your comments are their link to home. Thanks for reading and all of your prayers.
1. At the bottom of Bobby's entry, click on "comments". It will have a number in front of it. Here you can read what everyone else is saying, but this is where you need to start to post your own comment.
2. At the bottom of the comments there will be a white box that says "POST A COMMENT". Type your comment in that box. If it is empty, you will not be able to do the next step.
3. Under the white box it says "COMMENT AS". Click the down arrow by that box and choose GOOGLE ACCOUNT.
4. Click either POST A COMMENT or PREVIEW. This will throw you to a new screen. Don't worry, your comment will remain typed and waiting for you. Near the bottom right where it says - Don't have a Google Account? - click on CREATE ACCOUNT NOW (it is in blue). From there, enter the information they ask for (very painless) and follow the prompts. You will be good to go shortly.
Now you are set up to post on this blog, Fly With Me, and Searching 4 The Kingdom. (Anybody else find themselves singing the songs every time you open those other blogs?)
Hope this was helpful. Their posts are our link to Peru, and your comments are their link to home. Thanks for reading and all of your prayers.
Day 4 Events
Today we went back to Yarinacocha. As we arrived men, women, and children were waiting in line to see the doctors. The Lord has brought many people from many places to see us. The three nurses and two doctors saw about 90 people yesterday and it was the same today. I´ve only heard a few of their stories. Some were centered around malnutrition, cysts that needed removed, vitamins being needed by most, and hygiene concerns. These are only a few things that I´ve heard from them.
As for John and I, we did complete many of the same procedures as yesterday, but performed many fillings today. Extractions seem to be what is needed most. These procedures involve working around the tooth with care until Dr. Stocker is able to grab it with a tool that looks like a pair of pliers (don´t remember the official name of the instrument - if he asks for it I´m able to remember). He is very good at applying enough pressure to cause a rocking motion that loosens the tooth enough to be able to pull the root from the socket.
The most challenging part was to help little kids gain enough courage to allow us to help them. Many times, Joe and Vince would help them through prayer. Through God´s help, fear finally diminished and our work was able to relieve them of their pain and discomfort. Even though many didn´t verbally thank us, we could tell that they were touched through the Lord´s assistance. Some gave hugs, but we all hope they understand God´s love through what we are doing.
With the help of the Lord, it´s similar to what it says in the Bible (Matthew 4:23- )- Jesus went throughout Galilee, ... proclaiming the good news of the Kingdom, and healing every disease and sickness among the people. News about him spread all over Syria, and people brought to him all who were ill with various diseases, those suffering severe pain, ...
God has used us to show His love. He has given us the ability to help many and introduce them to His healing power. He has used us as a way to reach His people and we are very thankful.
Later that night, we went to the local church. At the church, the pastor, Vince (our executive pastor), and many others led the worship time. It was an awesome experience to be worshipping together with the Peruvian people of Pucallpa. All worshipping to the same God for the same purpose - to save lives and to help them understand the healing power of the Lord. Some gave testimonies and the local pastor´s wife led the singing and praise time. Even though the spanish was difficult to understand, Elizabeth did a good job of being our interpreter. She made it easier for us to follow along. The Holy Spirit was there as our group worshipped together.
We are looking forward to moving on to a new village (city) tomorrow. I forget the name at this time, but I´ll let you know more details on my next post.
As for John and I, we did complete many of the same procedures as yesterday, but performed many fillings today. Extractions seem to be what is needed most. These procedures involve working around the tooth with care until Dr. Stocker is able to grab it with a tool that looks like a pair of pliers (don´t remember the official name of the instrument - if he asks for it I´m able to remember). He is very good at applying enough pressure to cause a rocking motion that loosens the tooth enough to be able to pull the root from the socket.
The most challenging part was to help little kids gain enough courage to allow us to help them. Many times, Joe and Vince would help them through prayer. Through God´s help, fear finally diminished and our work was able to relieve them of their pain and discomfort. Even though many didn´t verbally thank us, we could tell that they were touched through the Lord´s assistance. Some gave hugs, but we all hope they understand God´s love through what we are doing.
With the help of the Lord, it´s similar to what it says in the Bible (Matthew 4:23- )- Jesus went throughout Galilee, ... proclaiming the good news of the Kingdom, and healing every disease and sickness among the people. News about him spread all over Syria, and people brought to him all who were ill with various diseases, those suffering severe pain, ...
God has used us to show His love. He has given us the ability to help many and introduce them to His healing power. He has used us as a way to reach His people and we are very thankful.
Later that night, we went to the local church. At the church, the pastor, Vince (our executive pastor), and many others led the worship time. It was an awesome experience to be worshipping together with the Peruvian people of Pucallpa. All worshipping to the same God for the same purpose - to save lives and to help them understand the healing power of the Lord. Some gave testimonies and the local pastor´s wife led the singing and praise time. Even though the spanish was difficult to understand, Elizabeth did a good job of being our interpreter. She made it easier for us to follow along. The Holy Spirit was there as our group worshipped together.
We are looking forward to moving on to a new village (city) tomorrow. I forget the name at this time, but I´ll let you know more details on my next post.
Saturday, February 13, 2010
Happy Valentine´s Day!!!
Jeri,
I wanted to wish you a Happy Valentine´s Day. I love you and miss you. Tell the kids I love them too. I will continue to give you guys updates as often as possible.
Love You Lots!!!
I wanted to wish you a Happy Valentine´s Day. I love you and miss you. Tell the kids I love them too. I will continue to give you guys updates as often as possible.
Love You Lots!!!
Day 3 Events
Rise and hine at 6:15 am. After typing a blog, I ate breakfast which consisted of eggs, rolls, banannas, and orange juice. After breakfast, the coordinators discussed our duties for the day in Yariacocha. At first I was going to help with the Impact Team, but that changed. They said they needed an assistant with the dentist. As a result, I volunteered to help Dr. Stocker. John was wonderful with the Peruvian people and knows a lot more Spanish than I do. I was able to assist him and learned a tremendous amount throughout the day. Many individuals came needing extractions (teeth pulled). Most people had infections that had set in which caused tremendous pain and discomfort. Each person seemed to need two or more teeth pulled. It was an awesome experience. God led these people to the clinic and we were able to help them through his guidance and grace. I was able to assist John by handing him specific instruments or tools while his procedures were taking place. Even though I was not able to communicate a bunch with each person, I´m sure they experienced a deep sense of LOVE that we were giving them. I also had the job of disinfecting the tools with rubbing alcohol. I was a little nervous at first, but the fear diminished as the day went on. I became familiar with what Dr. Stocker needed and when.
After cleanup about 4:30 pm., we rode the motorcycle carriage back to the hotel. Then I took a COLD shower (they do not have hot water) which was wonderful. Next a group of six of us went walking around town to find a good place to eat. Again, it was crowded and people were selling things at markets throughout the city. We found Sofias (pizza place). We bought a personal pan pizza which costs 14 soles. A soles is the type of currency used here. The exchange rate is about $2.80 U.S. per 1 soles. We really appreciate Lydia and Ray´s help. They speak fluent Spanish which makes it easier to order and talk to the individuals. We also found an ice cream store. We spent about 9 soles for ALL of us. This comes out to about $3.00 U.S. We couldn´t believe it. Morgan said we have to go there each night.
One thing that seems hard to get used to is how the people tend to watch you closely. I´m sure its because we look different than Peruvian people. They have been very nice. Some are willing to accept leftovers if asked. Some will approach you with handcrafted necklaces and beads. Most of these are descendants from the Inca civilizations.
Talk to you soon!
After cleanup about 4:30 pm., we rode the motorcycle carriage back to the hotel. Then I took a COLD shower (they do not have hot water) which was wonderful. Next a group of six of us went walking around town to find a good place to eat. Again, it was crowded and people were selling things at markets throughout the city. We found Sofias (pizza place). We bought a personal pan pizza which costs 14 soles. A soles is the type of currency used here. The exchange rate is about $2.80 U.S. per 1 soles. We really appreciate Lydia and Ray´s help. They speak fluent Spanish which makes it easier to order and talk to the individuals. We also found an ice cream store. We spent about 9 soles for ALL of us. This comes out to about $3.00 U.S. We couldn´t believe it. Morgan said we have to go there each night.
One thing that seems hard to get used to is how the people tend to watch you closely. I´m sure its because we look different than Peruvian people. They have been very nice. Some are willing to accept leftovers if asked. Some will approach you with handcrafted necklaces and beads. Most of these are descendants from the Inca civilizations.
Talk to you soon!
Friday, February 12, 2010
We Are Here
Hi Family and Friends!
Wake up call in Lima, Peru was 7 am. We had hot water (even though we won´t when we get to Pucallpa). Breakfast consisted of eggs, rolls, and orange juice. The orange juice was awesome. We were on our way to the Peru Airport at 8 am.
The trip to the airport was an eye - opening experience. We were able to truly see the Peruvian culture. I can say that WE don´t know how lucky we have it. Even though some are better off than others, low income (poverty) seems to be a terrible obstacle for many in this culture. The housing or lack of seemed to be most evident while traveling down the busy streets. To me, it looked chaotic, but to them its their way of life. The streets were busy with people, small cars, and motor carriages. These looked like motorized buggies. Morgan and I had the opportunity to ride in one with the directors wife. We went ahead of the others to get the church ready. These motorized buggies (motorcycle in the front and carriage for three in the back) is their way of transportation. They go at high speeds in a limited space. There are no lines on the narrow roads and they zoom in and out of traffic, trusting one another. In Peru, these have the ride away, not people. So its important that you pay attention while walking.
After landing in Pucallpa, they had small cars for each group of three. Joe, Morgan, and I took car #2. It felt like I was on the Amazing Race. Again the trip showed us how poverty has a strong grip on many people here. The city streets were lined with "Market" type vendors. Many were selling fruits, handcrafted items,... A lot of small businesses were lined throughout too. Life seems to move at a high rate here.
After checking in, we took the small motorized vehicles to a nearby church. Once there we met as a large group to discuss how the medical mission trip would work. This orientation took about an hour and IT WAS HOT! They described how the day will be on Saturday. Many will participate with Impact group, while others will help with medically meeting the needs of others. We will set up a clinic at a nearby school. Many with chronic or acute illnesses will come for help. We have three doctors and three nurses with us. Some of us will assist them, while others will minister throughout the group.
Last night we were able to sort all the medication and supplies. Then we went to a nearby restaurant. We ate chicken and french fries.
Talk to you soon.
Wake up call in Lima, Peru was 7 am. We had hot water (even though we won´t when we get to Pucallpa). Breakfast consisted of eggs, rolls, and orange juice. The orange juice was awesome. We were on our way to the Peru Airport at 8 am.
The trip to the airport was an eye - opening experience. We were able to truly see the Peruvian culture. I can say that WE don´t know how lucky we have it. Even though some are better off than others, low income (poverty) seems to be a terrible obstacle for many in this culture. The housing or lack of seemed to be most evident while traveling down the busy streets. To me, it looked chaotic, but to them its their way of life. The streets were busy with people, small cars, and motor carriages. These looked like motorized buggies. Morgan and I had the opportunity to ride in one with the directors wife. We went ahead of the others to get the church ready. These motorized buggies (motorcycle in the front and carriage for three in the back) is their way of transportation. They go at high speeds in a limited space. There are no lines on the narrow roads and they zoom in and out of traffic, trusting one another. In Peru, these have the ride away, not people. So its important that you pay attention while walking.
After landing in Pucallpa, they had small cars for each group of three. Joe, Morgan, and I took car #2. It felt like I was on the Amazing Race. Again the trip showed us how poverty has a strong grip on many people here. The city streets were lined with "Market" type vendors. Many were selling fruits, handcrafted items,... A lot of small businesses were lined throughout too. Life seems to move at a high rate here.
After checking in, we took the small motorized vehicles to a nearby church. Once there we met as a large group to discuss how the medical mission trip would work. This orientation took about an hour and IT WAS HOT! They described how the day will be on Saturday. Many will participate with Impact group, while others will help with medically meeting the needs of others. We will set up a clinic at a nearby school. Many with chronic or acute illnesses will come for help. We have three doctors and three nurses with us. Some of us will assist them, while others will minister throughout the group.
Last night we were able to sort all the medication and supplies. Then we went to a nearby restaurant. We ate chicken and french fries.
Talk to you soon.
Wednesday, February 10, 2010
Are You Called? (Video)- May take a couple of minutes
http://www.extremenazarene.org/media/1000/100040.mov
Tuesday, February 9, 2010
What's Happening In Pucallpa?
This blog will give me an opportunity to keep all of you updated on how God is impacting the people of Pucallpa. I'm sure He will do UNBELIEVABLE things through us over the next two weeks. Keep us and the people of Peru in your prayers!
Soon I'll Be On My Way...
On Thursday, Feb. 11 my daughter and I will be on our way to Pucallpa, Peru. I have always been interested in participating in a mission trip, but never knew the Lord would give me an opportunity. This life-changing call from God will definitely have an impact on those who I come in contact with throughout my next two weeks. Through His guidance, I hope to grow stronger in faith and help many learn more about a God who LOVES, HEALS, and FORGIVES.
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