Nicaragua: I'm here.

So here I am in Leon, Nicaragua. It didn't seem like I would ever get here, but through your support, prayer and otherwise, I made it. Yesterday and today have been very laid back. Sandra and Preston have allowed me some time to settle in and relax which has been wonderful. One thing about Nicaragua is it's not nearly as fast paced as America. Everything is relaxing and it's almost as if you have permission to take things slow. At home I feel guilty for sitting down and watching a movie, or even laying down for a few minutes when there are other things to be done. So this has been a treat.

The pictures above are just a few shots I took around the home I'm staying in. The flowers are called birds of paradise and I'm jealous that we don't have them in the United States (Except maybe in Florida). When Preston found out I liked the flowers he brought them to me to put in my room. It's incredible, I have come to serve these people and they treat me as an honored guest. Jesus has truly given me a beautiful Nicaraguan family.

The boys have been keeping me on my toes already. Telling me I must say things in Spanish. I must repeat after them. Yesterday Noel came into my room and said: "Te gusta arana?" To which I replied: "Sure!!" Thinking he said: "Te gusta naranjas?" (Do you like oranges?) Which wouldn't make sense anyway because naranja is orange the color, the fruit is spelled (and said) differently. (Hey I never said I was good at Spanish). So I proceeded with him to the front porch where they showed me the most giant spider I have ever seen. A tarantula, I'm sure. After I flipped out, he stomped on it with his flip flop which scared me to death. Anyway, I think the boys are warming up to me. Freddie talked to me the whole car ride back to Leon, so we became instant buddies. Noel remembers me and keeps giving me hugs. Engel has been shy but is beginning to open up again. The other two have been tougher, but I'm working on it.

Israel is in the purple. Then there's Freddie being shy.

Freddie again. And lastly, caught a few pictures yesterday afternoon of Israel picking some mangos!

Absolutely loving the fresh fruit here straight from the back yard. Mangos, coconuts, bananas, grapefruits and more. So that's about it for now. This afternoon I'm headed into town with Sandra to get some things. I'm excited to see more and more of the way of life down here. Keep checking back here for updates!!