Inspiration.

The rain has let up a little...instead of raining every day for most of the day it now rains every other day. It's getting colder, but nothing compared to the northern hemisphere which I've heard is getting quite chilly. I miss the brilliant fall leaves, but not the inevitable cold that will follow. The month of October passed by so quickly I feel as though it will be no time before I'm back home for Christmas. Rebecca and I had a great month taking care of the house, getting tutoring classes started and continuing our standard mode of trying to communicate with people. My name is pretty difficult for most of the kids to say, but I'm sure they'll get it eventually. Apparently, my name is also "demasiado comercial" according to Tito, one of our neighbors, who said it reminded him of dish detergent. He then proceeded to write the Joy logo on a whiteboard nearby...very clever.

Rodney and Cindy came back from their trip last week, and it's great to have them back. The ideas they bring with them are exciting and a source of inspiration and hope. Looking ahead, our days will be filled with tutoring, visiting people, hopefully taking Spanish classes and getting ready for the next team. I've been put in charge of creating assessments for groups that come to work, and will be helping with organization of our tutoring classes. The difference that an involved parent makes is incredible. We've had a few no- shows for sessions, but have been consistently tutoring Jorge, Andres, Natali and Alison. They are all at different levels but seem to catch on quickly and want to learn.

I was supposed to tutor Winston today at 10 a.m., and was excited about having my first one-one-one session by myself. This would have been his second session. Unfortunately he didn't show up. There are many possible reasons for this since he has a family, a full-time job and other responsibilities. He seems eager to learn, and I hope that we will be able to connect with him and encourage him to come next week...

Next week we're going on a mini-retreat in the mountains to be in the presence of each other and God, and to take time out to listen. It seems like a great idea to get away and rest, think and be inspired. Excited about what will come this month.