Is how I knew I was getting closer to home. It was about a 25min walk into town to do the hospital visits, to attend church services, going to the market, or returning home from having dinner with one of the awesome and loving church families we got to do life with. Going into town never seemed long but coming home was always so daunting and hot or too dark depending on the time. I walked that straight path about twice a day sometimes 4 times a day, which was an excellent source of exercise and my reward was a $0.50 banana milk shakeJ
I am going to miss my walks, time, and more the wonderful people I was able to do life with in Jinotepe. I am preparing for my next month in Romania and am ready for the new journey God has for me and what new things He’s going to be teaching and showing me. Although I’m ready for the new I wasn’t ready to leave the family I had made. I felt such a part of their lives. The people of Jinotepe are some of the most sincere, genuine, and loving people I’ve met on the race. It’s hard to believe that relationships can be built in such a short amount of time but when you do life with people day in and day out and when they are so welcoming the ease of a friendship is such a natural progression. The beauty of not forcing it was so nice and comfortable to not feel like another missionary but truly feel a part of their family was so special. I had the pleasure of meeting a part of my extended family this September and I am truly blessed and Thankful for the goodness the Lord has brought onto me through these awesome folks.
Our last day there was spent on us making them dinner; we made enchiladas and red rice, and talking about the past month and ended with a bonfire and smores. Some of the girl with the kids pulled an all-nighter….yeah not me; this girl needs her beauty sleep! It was such an awesome time spent to close off the month. The next morning was hard on all of us, leaving Bonnie, the boys, and the families, leaving imprints on their hearts and them on ours. Lots of tears were shed by many, like a lot, but all so thankful that we were able to build relationships that made such an impact. Now off to Eastern Europe for more memories and relationship building with His Kingdom.
Us playing softball with kids during kids ministry
The garden we helped dig out and clean as part of one of ministries for the month
Nueva Vida, Our home for the month in Jinotepe
