South Brazil

The Blind Man at a Crosswalk

noreply@blogger.com (Maicol and Mandy) — Mon, 16 Feb 2015 16:45:00 +0000

One of the most stressful moments of my life. I was sitting at the light waiting for it to turn green. I could hear my heart beating in my ears and my palms were sweaty on the steering wheel. I had seven minutes before the rental office closed and I had in hand the final key to turn in and terminate our rental contract. It had been a long three days and I was ready to collapse, mentally and physically.

As I stared blankly out into the intersection, I casually glanced at those waiting to cross. The crosswalk turned green and the countdown was on. 45 seconds, and I was a free bird, headed to finish this tumultuous, time sensitive process.

I noticed a blind man approach the end of the sidewalk cautiously, with his walking stick just beginning to venture out into the street. He walked carefully feeling his way through the crosswalk as if he´d done this many times before and was aware of the busy chaos ensuing around him. The blind man used his stick as his guide and ventured out, half way across the street.

That´s when I noticed a man crossing in the opposite direction. He zoomed passed the blind man, at a confident pace, apparently with business on his mind. He got to the other side of the street, turned around, and noticed the blind man still struggling to get across. He quickly turned around, took a firm grip of the blind man´s arm, and whispered something in his ear as he embraced him. With one arm around the blind man´s shoulder and the other hand firmly gripping the walking stick arm, he swept the blind man across the crosswalk in the same confident pace as when he had walked alone. The blind man, without hesitation, picked up his feet and appeared to be almost running as he accompanied the man leading him, totally trusting every step and now at a pace he´d never known with his walking stick. The two men walked on and I saw them disappear into a crowd.

That´s when it hit me, I had just seen my entire life flash in an instant before my very eyes. I once was blind, but now I see. That is exactly what Jesus did for me so many years ago. I was lost, hesitantly using my crutches to support my weaknesses and stumble through life. Until Jesus firmly grabbed onto me, and never let me go. He takes me at His pace now, and I lean on Him to lead me.

He is honestly all I need.

Zombie Days & Flashforward

noreply@blogger.com (Maicol and Mandy) — Wed, 19 Feb 2014 15:19:00 +0000

She gnaws on everything in sight. I lay her down in her crib and her little arm stretches forcefully through the bars to grab onto me and hold tight to anything she can grasp. I'm not free until I gently pry the last thread of fabric from her little fingers. She hisses and babbles through the pacifier in her mouth and drool dribbles out. And finally, after months of a long awaited milestone, the reality that the baby is walking feels more like my greatest fear. She comes at me slowly, but surely, arms outstretched. My tired bones smile at her determination, and for a moment, I laugh that we both look like Zombies.

I cried when I saw her reach out from the couch and take 5 wobbly little steps, progressively faster and more desperate, into my arms. We've been practicing this for weeks, "walk to Mommy, now go back to Daddy". She finally did it! And she claps for herself with a big approving smile wiped clear across her precious little cheeks.

Now she's faster. I have to look when I shut the door because I realize her quick sneaky fingers could be exploring right in the door jam. I'm dreading that blood curdling cry as she's now into the fun of opening and slamming doors. I know from personal experience that the slamming gets increasingly stronger with each year that goes by, and peaks around 16. Whew, glad I've got 15 years to prepare for that.

And then I see her smile at me from across the room. She reserves those casual glances and pointed affection just for me, and Daddy too. I remember how she giggles in the morning when I open the door to rescue her from the great abyss we call her crib. I revel in that trained giggle she’s been refining for some months now, as she proudly wobbles herself across the sunlit floor. And as she falls into my arms with abandon, I realize 15 years is not enough time. She'll grow out of this soon enough. First grade will come and go and sloppy kisses and silly little grins will be old news. And I'll die a little inside, struggling between trusting this life cycle God has intended and wanting to change the mold and tell her 35 really is a more reasonable age to leave home and fly the nest.

I'll see that proud wobble again one day. I know her surrendered fall will be into the arms of a man she loves. And these Zombie days of Motherhood and so many life altering changes will seem like a piece of cake compared to releasing her on that day - her Wedding Day.

Her careful, slightly unsteady steps down the aisle, holding tightly onto her Daddy's arm will flood back memories. A bittersweet reminder of her first steps here in our home as she is exploring life and loving every knew accomplishment.

And I hope he'll breathe in this huge gift God is preparing for him. I can only hope he is wise enough to take it all in deep and cherish this little blessing I kiss every morning and night, this beautiful little girl full of life named Stella.

See Stella Walking Here

It was wrong, right from The Part

noreply@blogger.com (Maicol and Mandy) — Tue, 18 Feb 2014 23:00:00 +0000

Anyone who has birthed a child can identify with this one. The wonderful, miraculous process of having a baby knit together in your innermost being has an innumerable amount of repercussions on your outermost person.

I don't know whose head of hair I carry around these days, but trying to become acquainted has been quite the annoyance. These lovely locks I've spent years getting to know have suddenly taken on the shape and temperament of the obnoxious little brother no one ever wanted (my little sister would never act this way!)

As if vacuuming wads of hair up every day wasn't bothersome on its own, now the hair that actually remains has been joined by new hair that behaves like a midlife crisis. So daily, I try to tame this new found friend who is actually more like a brother because you can pick your friends and NOT your family. I've realized that subconscious thought to do something radical has become more of a plausible plan to tackle this daily, grating problem. And in my frustration, I nearly succumbed to chopping it all off.

Yesterday however, I had a breakthrough.

It was all so very wrong, right from The Part!

How could I forget the fundamental importance of The Part! I tested a new Part and - Voila! I felt like a knew Woman. No,no. I felt like the Old Woman. The Young Lady. The Girl I worked so hard to grow up out of and now if I could get back to her, I'd be ever so grateful. Yes, Motherhood changes so many things. Outward and inward.

So I've got the Part right and I can get on with this "new-do". Sometimes that's all we really need. Get back to the Part, fix it, and see if every other strand doesn't just fall right into place.

Moving on Up

noreply@blogger.com (Maicol and Mandy) — Wed, 08 Jan 2014 13:27:00 +0000

Yes we are!

As I write this we are having our bed delivered, and oh my, we cannot wait to sleep like Royalty tonight. It's going to take some getting used to surely, our view from atop our new bed will be stunning!

You might remember when we set out on this journey from the U.S. we left with 22 bags and a guitar. Obviously, a bed wouldn't fit in the suitcases(if it had you bet we would have packed one!) However, we did manage to disassemble many other household items and bring those with us. The larger items we were lacking we were able to borrow from various gracious givers here in Brazil. So the mattress we are borrowing has been perfect! We just were not able to find a bed frame or even a box spring that we could afford. As is everything else in Brazil, box springs and bed frames are an investment.

So since January 17, 2012 we've been just 12 inches off the floor. It hasn't actually been so bad, minus pregnancy belly and post surgery. God has always provided what we've needed and your personal creativity and humor truly shine when you accept the way things are. For example, the first time Stella fell off a bed in the U.S. I was sure we'd be in the E.R. I mean, it's a whole 3 feet down! But here in Brazil when she slides off our bed, I pick her up and say "you know that was only 12 inches, suck it up!" Just kidding. Some of you are thinking "how many times have you let your poor baby fall off the bed Mandy?!?!" My answer is never! She pulled herself off head first both times!

Back to the point, you always have to look on the bright side. Today that side comes with a view about 2 feet higher with storage underneath! Woo hoo for the bonus storage space! (Closets don't exist here).

Maicol and I celebrated 4 years of marriage in August and this week was our first major home purchase. We've never owned anything new and it's exciting to take a few more steps towards building our home. That's not to say we've never had anything of value. We've always sought to be deeply thankful and in awe of the way God has moved the hearts of people around us. We've been given many nice things for free and bought used furniture and vehicles from friends for very reasonable prices.

It's always fun to celebrate and thank God for his graciousness. We found this deal almost by accident, and that's how we knew it wasn't an accident at all, but divine intervention!

Cookie Mania

noreply@blogger.com (Maicol and Mandy) — Thu, 19 Dec 2013 18:13:00 +0000

The timer will ding in 2.5 minutes and I'll be back to work! December is cookie month. We make chocolate chip cookies and wrap them up pretty to sell to friends and neighbors. They like to give this special treat to friends and family for Christmas, so far, it's proven to be nothing less than success! Welp, there's the ding, gotta run!

Home Sweet Home

noreply@blogger.com (Maicol and Mandy) — Tue, 19 Nov 2013 11:45:00 +0000

One week ago we began our 24 hour journey back home to Brazil. 7 days has already seemed like months! We are settled in and getting back into the swing of things. We both caught a stomach virus en route. Maicol was nice enough to let me get sick the first day while he unpacked, and then he took his turn to hang his head over the toilet on day 2. Sharing is such fun :)

Our friends dropped meals by and Stella's god parents stocked our fridge with food. What a huge help. We found everything just as we left it. The white car we left parked in the garage for nearly 6 months however was black. A huge praise - our car started and runs beautifully despite sitting for so long.

Sunday at church was everything we hoped for and more. A big happy reunion. Of course everyone was happy to see Stella and how much she's grown, we were a side note. The pastors planned a lunch after church where we had lots of time to catch up with old friends and meet new people who have been coming to church. Sunday was the highlight of our week. We came home feeling so blessed to have so many caring friends.

Stella is still having a hard time with so many adjustments. Which caught me by surprise since her whole life as she's known it has been one big trip! I think part of the complication is that she is now at an age where she gets attached to people, places, smells, tastes etc. Brazil bananas are by far the best, but because she's never had them, she doesn't love them. She'll come around. A hunger strike can only last so long right?!? And the time change seems hard for her too. 3am brings this jolly little adventurer right to life!

Walking around the neighborhood in the late afternoon and grabbing a snack on the street has been a nice treat for all of us. Stella got her first taste of chocolate ice cream and based on her expression,her whole concept of "yummy" was completely overhauled. Surely she'll get used to all the new things, and if everything else fails, bribery with chocolate ice cream is definitely one idea I've tucked away.

From the moment the plane touched down we've been so thrilled to be back where we know we belong. It amazes me how God was building in me an anticipation to get here. Of course I was sad to say good-bye to my other home and definitely my family and friends, but when you know where you belong, it just feels right. Maicol has every reason to feel at home here; I on the other hand am delightfully amused how God has stirred in me the very same sentiments as if I'd also originated here.

As I sit in my living room - I hear the distant hum of honking horns, constant traffic, and the occasional rumble of diesel engines. There's a gentle breeze bringing in all the familiar smells of Home Sweet Home. Ironically, these same smells, sounds, and sentiments were the very things that felt like such a huge adjustment in the beginning. And in fact I try to imagine someone else sitting here and I realize, it's not everyone that would appreciate this ambiance. One more ironic and yet typical condition of pursuing the Creator of life itself. His ways are so mysterious and powerful and His simple yet immense existence boggles minds everyday - He is capable of creating amazing realities in the lives of those who will allow him. I'm astounded that my satisfaction and comfort today comes from the same source which brought me so much frustration and grief at one time.

Change is good, and so is God.

Blast Off!

noreply@blogger.com (Maicol and Mandy) — Thu, 07 Nov 2013 22:10:00 +0000

If you know me well, you know I'm a "Get Ready, Get Set..." kinda gal. I've got my checklists, my re-check lists. I've been meticulously packing for a week and making my final farewell visits to Starbucks. On my mini-breaks between packing and tidying up, I find myself checking the weather in Porto Alegre. Each time I'm ecstatic to see 85 and sunny. "Blast Off" can get here soon enough.

We ate churrasco today with family and I kept imagining we were at our favorite Churrascarias in Brazil. I had to imagine because the meat was just not salty enough to be authentic churrasco from the South. However, it was a delicious dining experience.

It has really amazed me how ready I feel. I'd begun to wonder about a month ago if I would dread the return date as it approached. But true to God's perfect timing, He's readied me at just the right moment.

I'm thankful for a God that can change my heart in many different circumstances. He knew September 18 would come and go and that I might feel worried we'd "missed the bus". Yet in His great compassion, He secretly showed my heart the blessings He had for me here. He tweaked my worry into a chance to humbly admire His perfection and compassion. He is truly a "right on time" kind of Wonder Worker.

$5,000 Reasons to Keep praying

noreply@blogger.com (Maicol and Mandy) — Tue, 05 Nov 2013 01:55:00 +0000

We all have those seasons. Mine usually looks like winter - everything has a bleak and sad tone of blue overshadowing it. Snow is nice for a few hours, then I'm ready for summer again. So my winter was melted away today. I found myself singing, and leaping through the kitchen. Songs I forgot I knew! Songs thanking God for an awesome answer that ended a long, treacherous winter.

What do your long, grueling, at times confusing seasons of prayer look like?

The seasons that keep you begging - your heart staying above it's normal beats per minute for months on end. You think you're not worrying, but you realize when a sudden calm moment of peace overtakes you that it feels great to have forgotten what has been eating at you for so long and has estranged you from this surprising moment of calm in your soul. You begin to enjoy these fleeting moments of serenity since you've forgotten that pitiful worry which plagues your every to do list. And just as you settle in to the free feeling in the pit of your stomach, reality drops in and you remember that horrible worry. And to think you had mistakenly forgotten it for one glorious moment?!?!

Now the peace, tranquility, and freedom is real. The trial is over and the answer has come, and this time - it's THE answer I'd hoped for. Although this is not always the case, and God is still sovereign and perfect no matter what answer He gives, today I rejoiced with sheer amazement that what I'd pleaded for, He thought was a worthy request.

Blue Cross paid the bills from Stella's birth - in full! To some of you you're like - "yea, that's what insurance is supposed to do." But there were quite a few setbacks and lawsuit scares... so in the end - it's resolved.done.answered.checked-off. and I can't stop thanking God for the way He answered (so many details that would bore you to tears) and His perfect timing. I'm making up my own verses to "God is so good" because the ones I know are all played out in my head, I've song it all day.

Thank you to each of you who prayed us through. My knees may be calloused but my heart is full, my faith is bolstered, and my God showed Himself able, again.

"He's so good to me..."

Unplugged

noreply@blogger.com (Maicol and Mandy) — Thu, 31 Oct 2013 02:35:00 +0000

We had an awesome time unplugged. Well, mostly unplugged. We visited a few cabins in Tennessee and one of them had no cell service or WiFi at all.

Yea, you old folks are laughing like " you don't remember life without cell phones and internet do you!?!" Well we spent 8 days unplugged and really loved all the extra time we found and the clarity of thought we discovered. We liked it so much we came home early! - feeling refreshed, recharged and ready to plug back in to our ministry in Brazil.

The countdown is on. In 12 days we will be home. And we are so excited about all God has put in our hearts to do for his glory! We decided our retreat was so vital, we are going to "unplug" once a month from now on. And who knows when I'll reactivate my FaceBook, if ever.

Flour, Sugar, Salt

noreply@blogger.com (Maicol and Mandy) — Thu, 17 Oct 2013 16:51:00 +0000

We're looking forward to our return to Brazil. It's been too long. And yet, not long enough. The beautiful irony is that we feel wholly and completely torn between two homes, at all times. No matter if we are here or there, we're missing somewhere. Mostly someone's. Today however, we're missing some things. The simplicity of flour, sugar, and salt grocery lists. Fresh bread daily from the bakery across the street. Lunch buffets that make us full and feeling healthy afterwards. Parks full of friends walking around enjoying life. Walking to the bank. Chocolate mousse. Churrasco. Okay I realize most of these "things" are food. That's because Maicol and I have Lots of good memories with people that involved some delightful dish. So really we miss our whole lives in Brazil, food just puts an aroma to it. Saudades. We don't even have a sincere translation for this in English, but the idea is a really deep nostalgic remembrance. It means so much more than, "I miss you" or whatever you miss. It's like, thinking about it brings flavors, memories, and emotions right to the surface. Yep. Temos muitos saudades....

"In his shoes"?

noreply@blogger.com (Maicol and Mandy) — Fri, 11 Oct 2013 05:19:00 +0000

The first time I noticed beggars in the intersection I thought, "isn't that illegal?" Well, in the U.S. it probably is. Impeding the flow of traffic or something. In Brazil, it's the best way to expose yourself to lots of people with lots of money. If they're driving a car, they've got something to spare. Often times, I see people hand a beggar some change. I told Maicol beggars like that aren't so common in the U.S. Or at least I hadn't noticed them until today.

It's been raining non-stop for three days. He was in a wheelchair, yellow poncho that didn't cover his head fully, dripping wet and no shoes. His socks were gray and dirty, and sopping wet. He held out a to-go cup and his head hung low. He appeared to have a disability of some type. My first thought many of you might relate to, "if I give him my money, he might waste it on drugs. he may even be faking it! maybe he's not really poor and disabled". And then my second thought, which I haven't had until recently. Maicol and I have been talking about empathy. Getting in someone else's shoes to understand their perspective better.

"In his shoes"? He didn't even have shoes! For crying out loud, the man was soaking wet and in a wheel chair. Even if he was a fake, he sure was working hard at it. If a man is willing to show his face in public and beg, that alone shows his desperation. What if someone recognized him? Most certainly, someone does recognize him, and he knows it.

I'm sure the glares and mocking looks can be enough to make you want to quit. But to see one healthy shopper after the next walk by and not offer a penny? That would make me too angry to even want the next person's penny. Forget that.

Begging. It's a weighty word. To put yourself at the mercy of apathetic, snide, better off than you strangers - that takes a lot of courage. And it takes giving up a whole lot of dignity. Sure, there are those who play the game and put on a show because they care more about drug money than dignity. But I imagine that wasn't the case today.

A hard day at work? You earned your wage, it was worth it. I may be out there a bit, but this man quite possibly musters more strength to get out and beg each day than many of us do on our most challenging work days. He puts it all out on the line, day after day, for PENNIES.

And to think I hadn't noticed him, or others like him before. Not because they weren't before me, but because I've been too haughty in my own shoes for too long. It may be time for me to take off my shoes.

I handed him 85 cents. I should have given him more.

As I was walking away, I heard a faint “thank you”, it sounded like he struggled to get it out. That should have been me, thanking him. Struggling to explain to him that he opened my eyes today to something God's been trying to teach me and my stubborn heart for some time now.

And whoever exalts himself shall be humbled; and whoever humbles himself shall be exalted.

time flies.period.

noreply@blogger.com (Maicol and Mandy) — Sat, 05 Oct 2013 22:21:00 +0000

You know how the saying goes, Time flies when you're having fun! Fun, doesn't do justice to the 18 months which have passed since our last blog post. We've had the perilous fights, the hopes bursting in air, our temper's red glare. Yet our faith filled, tattered banner still waves, with the wind of the Almighty lifting our sails.

"Um. Mom? How many did you say we can take?"

And even better, we have a gorgeous 8 month old gift which reminds us of God's abundant blessing and mercy. Stella has been nothing short of the sweetest delight! Stay posted. More laments and thoughtful scribblings are sure to come.

Ladies Retreat Day #2

noreply@blogger.com (Maicol and Mandy) — Wed, 29 Feb 2012 12:39:00 +0000

For our final February post.

Ladies Retreat is coming to an end. Today we walked, shopped, snacked, and laughed. What more could we ask? We've enjoyed a great couple of days to be women.

Maicol is surviving, even thriving, he made his own lentils! He is working on the kitchen cabinets with his brother and finishing up work for his seminary assignments.

Check back soon and we will periodically keep you updated! Thanks for following u in February!

Ladies Retreat Day #1

noreply@blogger.com (Maicol and Mandy) — Wed, 29 Feb 2012 03:15:00 +0000

On this ladies retreat we've enjoyed a day of retreating from the daily stresses of life and indulging in good ol' fashioned humor. Sleepovers don't change much with age. It's bed time and we're still giggling. And there is no one telling us to go to bed! Good luck to Teresa and Sarah considering I accidentally broke their bed trying to move it to find a plug. And while catching up on the news in the Brazilian magazine with Erin today, I knocked over Cherith's coffee while the waitress was delivering it, only to hear the loudest most embarrassing 10 seconds of silence I've experienced in a while. On the way back from the beach I managed to stay back talking with Cindy so long the group thought we were abducted. And at dinner Mindy, Teresa, Cherith, Erin, Cindy and Sarah enjoyed a great laugh when I misunderstood the waiter and accepted the vodka drink he offered. Before I actually drank it a few people shouted "vodka!" to my complete and utter confusion. What a great day. And this is still what happens when you but a bunch of girls together, even in our old age...

Enjoying a few days at the beach with beautiful, wonderful, godly friends.

Proud

noreply@blogger.com (Maicol and Mandy) — Tue, 28 Feb 2012 01:31:00 +0000

Maicol Venter has one proud wife today. He preached Psalm 127 tonight and just knocked my socks off. The most astounding part is that when he spoke, I knew he was only challenging others to do what I see him challenging himself to do everyday. It doesn't matter we do as long as we have the right purpose and the right manner about us. It was so honoring to call him my husband tonight!

Courageous

noreply@blogger.com (Maicol and Mandy) — Sun, 26 Feb 2012 20:02:00 +0000

Today courageous was shown to a group of Brazilians dubbed in Portuguese. The turnout was great and it was a blessing to see so many people moved by this movie. Mandy met a daycare coordinator looking for an English teacher. We are getting excited about these different opportunities popping up! Maicol ran into a former team mate from a basketball team here in Porto Alegre. It's neat to run into old friends and get a chance to catch up.

High 88 F/New opportunities and old friends

New Desk

noreply@blogger.com (Maicol and Mandy) — Sat, 25 Feb 2012 20:00:00 +0000

Today we went to pick up a desk that a missionary donated to us. It's been a huge help because now we have a place to study and set up a work space whereas before we've been using the dining room table as a desk, kitchen counter top, eating place, and about everything else you need a counter/table for :) So glad to have this desk! Pictures coming soon.

Rain, rain, rain - still enjoying the 70's

Old Forge Pizza

noreply@blogger.com (Maicol and Mandy) — Sat, 25 Feb 2012 03:54:00 +0000

Enjoying the serious drop in temps to the 70's and rain. Ministry meetings today followed by some good ol' house work deserves some kind of reward. So we attempted to copy our favorite Old Forge Style Pizza. Regular pizza dough topped with simple tomatoes, black pepper, and diced onion, and throw the cheese on 5 min before it's done. MMMMMhhmm. Bring on the weekend!

The ties that bind, the waves that break...

noreply@blogger.com (Maicol and Mandy) — Thu, 23 Feb 2012 11:52:00 +0000

Ever been without a car? Struggled with the mundane chores of life? Faced a paperwork battle with a government entity for a piece of property, a financial mishap, or a legal situation?

These are the circumstances of life which bring us to our knees before God, where we meet some of you in the same place. Our greatest moments we recall as we go to bed at night always bring us back to the people we've met that have brought us reassurance, hope, laughter, or simply understanding as we travel this life. Knowing that some of you pray for us as often as we pray for ourselves gives us a sense of closeness that we need in a place and phase of life where it's easy to feel forgotten and out of touch.

Today is a day where we put final touches on our visa application paperwork for Maicol's hopeful return in April/May for graduation. Some verses we stumbled upon and now cling to in regard to this, are James 1:5-7. We're asking for wisdom with how to present our case to the consulate. We need to think of any paperwork we can show that will prove our return to Brazil after Maicol's trip to the states. Many of these applications get denied. We must ask and believe, because doubting will bring us nothing from God. Such a huge step of faith. So we are not doubting that he will give us the wisdom we need. If that means giving us the visa and strengthening our faith after 10 months of prayer, so be it. And if we do not receive the visa and our wisdom is gained by heavy consequence or possibly a trial of strength and perseverance, great. Either way, we have to trust God has our best in mind and that we will grow in wisdom, regardless of the outcome.

We love the waves of the sea on a breezy, sunny day. However, we don't want to throw oursleves in to be tossed uncontrollably and possibly detrimentally.

because the one who doubts is like a wave of the sea, blown and tossed by the wind. James 1:6

Did you say RAIN? And clouds?!

noreply@blogger.com (Maicol and Mandy) — Thu, 23 Feb 2012 03:32:00 +0000

We have never loved rainy days. Especially living in Clarks Summit, rain came all too often and usually it was bitterly cold. But here in "Forno" Alegre (forno meaning stove).. rain if it lasts long enough, is a reason for excitement! The clouds help too! Rain with sun is an even bigger mess. So today we felt the wind back in our sails as we stepped out to run errands and didn't feel our shirts stuck to our backs. The heat just zaps your strength and eventually motivation to do life :)

Praise God for 81F weather! It makes going to the bank for the third time and hearing the account still is not ready more manageable. Our bills are due next week, and this is cutting it down to the wire! Praying we can get it worked out.

Maicol is in and out between meetings and Mandy enjoying a break from Language school. We are preparing to be in Israel is a short couple of weeks!

“He changes times and seasons; he removes kings and sets up kings; he gives wisdom to the wise and knowledge to those who have understanding; he reveals deep and hidden things; he knows what is in the darkness, and the light dwells with him.” Dan 2:21,22

Thankful that our Sovereign God knows what we need and when we need it. Thankful that in his time and manner he sets up leaders and removes them, all in an effort to lead his very own. There are trials to strengthen us, and blessings to delight our souls, and in between, moments we feel the final blow right before we think we could break. But our God, our very present help, knows what lies in darkness and guides us by his side in the light. Thank you Lord for your mercy and grace to us.

High: 81F
Low: 73F/Bank issues

She has arrived...

noreply@blogger.com (Maicol and Mandy) — Tue, 21 Feb 2012 23:09:00 +0000

Mandy rode the train all by herself today to Sao Leopoldo to study Esther 5 with the teenage girls. This week she also started riding the bus by herself as well. So. grown. up.

She has arrived (in every sense of the phrase)! It's a big accomplishment to have the courage for all this so we are celebrating her independence and freedom from "Please Maicol, please don't make me go alone! What if...?"

Today we enjoyed a great time of fellowship with friends an co-workers in the faith. We are very excited for what God is doing here in Porto Alegre and just starting to get a glimpse of how we might feel lead to be involved.

Let us not forget to mention Carnaval is taking place today all over Brazil which gave us a holiday and empty streets! This is a final time for vacation and summer so Brazilian families are on vacation at the beach or perhaps crowding the major attraction sites for Carnaval!

In the beginning, there were the cabinets....

noreply@blogger.com (Maicol and Mandy) — Tue, 21 Feb 2012 00:59:00 +0000

The kitchen has begun! Maicol's brothers Pablo and Ramon are installing the backs of the cabinets today and hopefully Friday the project will be complete. It's exciting to think very soon we will get everything off the floor and finish the move process!

Today was a relief! High:95F/Kitchen Cabinets

Courageous

noreply@blogger.com (Maicol and Mandy) — Sun, 19 Feb 2012 22:55:00 +0000

We enjoyed a day to relax today. We watched a movie "Courageous" that had us bawling for most of the two hours. A church in the area is showing it next Sunday night so we figured we would check it out in English first. Great film, and also very convicting for all of us. Don't waste time and get caught up in today! You are not promised any length of time on this earth!

New record this month: 102F

Everything's Just Peachy..

noreply@blogger.com (Maicol and Mandy) — Sat, 18 Feb 2012 23:52:00 +0000

The only way to end this day. Peach pie. Maicol is working on an upcoming sermon and finishing reading for his projects. He is preaching on a Psalm of Ascent, it's neat what we learn as he studies.

Mandy is preparing for kitchen cabinets on Monday (yes!) and cooking some things up ahead of time as the kitchen will be tied up with the installation. On the menu for this Carnaval weekend: Yakisoba broccoli/beef, Mexican crockpot chili, homemade pizza, Peach cobbler, homemade Almond Joy ice cream and for dinner tonight: toasted tomato and bacon sanwiches.

Don't knock it til you try it! Our dear friends the Hunter's introduced us to these classic sandwiches in August - such a great summer food!

High:99F/Peach pie

It's like preparing for a hurricane...

noreply@blogger.com (Maicol and Mandy) — Sat, 18 Feb 2012 02:29:00 +0000

Sidewalks are crowded, traffic is piled up, and everyone in Porto Alegre seems to be in the grocery store. Glad we walked across the street so we don't have to do the parking lot confusion. Carnaval is days away and everyone is preparing for basically a city shut down as the party blares it's music and parades the streets. We are sitting this one out so we are stocking up food for the next few days and anything else we think we'll need as most places will close their doors for the final vacation time of summer. Mandy struggled through her final today but it's over! Maicol is trying to tie up lose end on his internship, 9 weeks to go! The heat is lingering so we took a dip in the pool to cool off. Thank you Lord for Fridays. We are ready for some rest.

Hottest day so far: 97F/weekend yea!